Teen's Heroic Swim Saves Family After Ocean Ordeal in Western Australia
Authorities have released the audio of an emergency call made by a 13-year-old boy who swam for hours to save his family after they were swept out to sea in Western Australia. Austin Appelbee, from Perth, demonstrated remarkable bravery during the life-threatening incident.
Family's Kayaking Trip Turns Perilous
Austin, along with his mother Joanne Appelbee, 47, brother Beau, 12, and sister Grace, eight, were on an inflatable kayak and paddleboards when they encountered difficulties off the west coast of Western Australia. The family was swept out to sea, leading to a desperate situation.
In a calm and composed manner, Austin can be heard on the released audio explaining the crisis to emergency services. "Hello, my name is Austin and I'm outside [the] beach," he says, before detailing that they got lost during their trip. "We went out on a kayak trip and a paddleboard trip, and we got took out to sea and we got lost out there," he continues.
Austin's Extraordinary Efforts to Get Help
Following his mother's instructions, Austin swam approximately 4 kilometers to shore, battling strong currents. Upon reaching land, he ran an additional 2 kilometers to find a phone and call for help. During the call, he expressed his fears and physical exhaustion.
"I'm sitting on the beach right now, and I have to explain, I think I need an ambulance because I think I have hypothermia," Austin adds. He admits to being "really scared" and describes how his kayak began to sink, forcing him to ditch it and swim without a life jacket. "I had to swim around about four kilometres facing the current. And like I'm really, I'm extremely tired. I think I have heatstroke and I feel like I'm about to pass out. I'm very dizzy," he explains.
Successful Multi-Agency Rescue Operation
After Austin's call, a coordinated search and rescue response was launched. His family members were located clinging to a paddleboard at about 8:30 PM local time, nearly 10 hours after they entered the water. They were safely brought back to shore by a volunteer marine rescue vessel.
The Western Australia Police Force has praised Austin for his composure and critical decision-making. Forward Commander Acting Sergeant Andrew McDonnell stated, "What Austin did was nothing short of extraordinary. His bravery and courage in those conditions were remarkable, and his actions were pivotal in bringing about a successful outcome."
This incident highlights the dangers of ocean activities and the importance of emergency preparedness. Austin's quick thinking and physical endurance ultimately saved his family from a potentially tragic situation.
