04.02.2026 11:30
In the southwest coast of Australia, 13-year-old Austin Appelbee received praise for his extraordinary bravery after his family was swept out to sea. Swimming 4 kilometers to call for help to rescue his family, who had lost control in the water, Austin saved the lives of his mother and two younger siblings. Authorities stated that Austin's composure and determination prevented a potential tragedy.
Thirteen-year-old Austin Appelbee has received praise for his extraordinary bravery after his family was swept out to sea off the coast of Australia. After hours of challenging swimming, the boy reached the shore and saved his mother and two younger siblings.
FAMILY TRAPPED AT SEA
According to police, the incident occurred on Friday off the southwestern coast of Australia. Joanne Appelbee (47) was swept away by strong winds after setting out to sea with her children Beau Appelbee (12) and Grace Appelbee (8).
The family, from the state capital Perth, was on vacation and had set out to sea in a canoe and on paddleboards rented from their hotel in the afternoon. However, rough sea and wind conditions began to sweep them out to sea.
SWAM 4 KILOMETERS TO CALL FOR HELP
After the family lost control at sea, the oldest child, Austin Appelbee, decided to swim to shore to call for help. As the canoe began to take on water and conditions worsened, Austin entered the water and swam approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) in open water.
HOURS OF STRUGGLE FOR SURVIVAL
After a grueling swim lasting about four hours, Austin Appelbee managed to reach the shore and immediately reported the situation to the authorities. Following this report, a large-scale search and rescue operation was launched in the area.
MOTHER AND TWO CHILDREN RESCUED SAFE AND SOUND
As a result of the efforts by rescue teams, Joanne Appelbee along with Beau and Grace Appelbee were located at sea and safely brought to shore. The family, who underwent health checks, was reported to be in good condition.
Authorities emphasized that Austin Appelbee's composure and determination prevented a potential tragedy, warning citizens that weather conditions at sea can change rapidly.