Leeton resident Ian "Scotty" Ryan will be honoured posthumously with an Australian Bravery Medal after he died saving the life of a seven-year-old girl.

Mr Ryan was with friends at Horn Beach on the Murrumbidgee River near Leeton on October 19, 2008 when he saw three people, including the young girl, struggling to keep afloat in the water.

Despite his lack of swimming ability, Mr Ryan didn't hesitate to jump in and reach the girl, who was panicking in the strong current.

He managed to reach her and swim her to a partially submerged tree on the opposite bank.

The other swimmers got to safety, but Mr Ryan disappeared under the water.

His body was found the following day by rescue services.

He was the father of three children, but also helped to raise his partner's two children as well.

His brother Rodney Ryan said his bravery would never be forgotten.

"It's a sad, but very proud moment," he said.

"I nominated him for this award as something his children could grab hold of and have as a keepsake.

"We received a letter to say it would be going ahead and that the Governor-General had approved it.

"As sad as it is, we're glad he saved that little girl, who would be a teenager now.

"I know that if he had of stood back and done nothing he wouldn't have been able to live with himself.

"It could have been both of them that died.

"We know it's a small consolation, but we're very proud of him."

Australian Bravery Awards recognise acts of bravery by members of the community, who selflessly put themselves in jeopardy to protect the lives or property of others.

A ceremony will be held at a later date to honour Mr Ryan and other recipients.

"I know if Scotty was here he wouldn't like to be labelled as a hero or anything like that because he would have just seen it as doing the right thing," Rodney said.

"Unfortunately he paid the ultimate sacrifice, but as I've said we are always going to be proud of him.

"I think the award is a good way of honouring his memory."