The 13-year-old Australian boy who swam for hours to get help for his family after they were swept out to sea has told the BBC, 'I didn't think I was a hero - I just did what I did.' Austin Appelbee didn't know if his mother Joanne, brother Beau, and sister Grace were still alive when he finally reached the shore four hours after he left them clinging to paddleboards.
Miles out to sea off Australia's west coast, the waves were growing larger, and light was fading. His mother feared he, too, had not made it. Only hours later, after spotting a rescue boat, did she discover Austin was safe.
Earlier that day, the family had been enjoying their holiday when they drifted out too far into the rough sea. As panic set in, Austin was sent back to get help. Although he struggled in a damaged kayak, he ultimately took to swimming the last 4 kilometers.
Driven by thoughts of his family, friends, and prayers, Austin battled against the tide, unaware if he would rejoin his family. His incredible strength and determination led to a successful call for rescue just moments after he collapsed from exhaustion.
The family was eventually located safely, and despite Austin's physical struggles, his spirit remains undiminished as he expresses gratitude for the rescue teams. Many deem his efforts 'superhuman', but he continues to identify as an ordinary boy who made a choice in a moment of crisis.
Miles out to sea off Australia's west coast, the waves were growing larger, and light was fading. His mother feared he, too, had not made it. Only hours later, after spotting a rescue boat, did she discover Austin was safe.
Earlier that day, the family had been enjoying their holiday when they drifted out too far into the rough sea. As panic set in, Austin was sent back to get help. Although he struggled in a damaged kayak, he ultimately took to swimming the last 4 kilometers.
Driven by thoughts of his family, friends, and prayers, Austin battled against the tide, unaware if he would rejoin his family. His incredible strength and determination led to a successful call for rescue just moments after he collapsed from exhaustion.
The family was eventually located safely, and despite Austin's physical struggles, his spirit remains undiminished as he expresses gratitude for the rescue teams. Many deem his efforts 'superhuman', but he continues to identify as an ordinary boy who made a choice in a moment of crisis.
