Western Australian cops who fatally shot rampaging stabber recognised for their bravery

Two police officers who shot dead a FIFO worker on a stabbing rampage in Western Australia have been recognised for their bravery.

Ashley Fildes, 34, had a knife and was attacking bystanders at the South Hedland Square shopping centre in South Hedland, in the state's north-west, in May.

Sergeants Mike Little and Michelle Cornwall fatally shot Mr Fildes, stopping his rampage.

READ MORE: South Hedland stabber's family blame system for senseless attack

"It was really hard, mentally and physically," Sergeant Cornwall said.

"Your body does react to that as well."

Sergeant Little said the officers had feared for their safety and the safety of the people in the shopping centre.

Among those wounded were mum Kimberley Abbot, who was stabbed in the back as she shielded her baby daughter.

Truck driver Konrad Frost was slashed in the neck, and Esther Brooks was sliced through her t-shirt.

READ MORE: Wounded truckie distracted stabber from mum, baby

Mr Fildes' family said that leading up to the rampage he had stopped taking his mental health medication, and they have never blamed police for their actions.

"They are trained to do a job and that's the job they did," Mr Fildes' mother said.

"There is no blame at all, no anger."

Six months on, the officers will be awarded with a Cross for Bravery at a police graduation ceremony tonight.

Sergeant Cornwall offered her sympathy to Mr Fildes' family.

"It was an unfortunate and tragic event, and I can only imagine their loss that they're feeling," she said.

Sergeant Little said the award offered an opportunity for people to reflect on the dangerous job police did every day.