A brave 13-year-old boy swam several miles to shore in rough waters last week after his family got swept out to sea while vacationing in Quindalup off the southwestern coast of Australia, authorities said.
Austin Appelbee, his mother, Joanne Appelbee, 47, and his two siblings—12-year-old brother Beau and 8-year-old sister Grace—were kayaking and paddleboarding in the Geographe Bay on Jan. 30 when they were pulled away by strong currents.
"He paddled a short distance before his kayak took on water and swam approximately four kilometres (about two nautical miles) before reaching land," officials said.
A multi-agency search and rescue operation was subsequently launched by the Water Police Coordination Centre in North Fremantle, just up the coast, with support from surrounding police stations and volunteer marine rescue teams.
A rescue helicopter aiding in the rescue spotted Joanne Appelbee and her two younger children clinging to a paddleboard at about 8:30 p.m.
"A volunteer marine rescue vessel was directed to their location and all three were successfully rescued and returned to shore," officials said.
The family, who live in Perth, was seen by local paramedics before being transported to Busselton Health Campus for further evaluation.
Although Austin had to abandon his sinking kayak as well as his life jacket to tread water more easily, the young teen said he managed to stay calm during his harrowing swim back to shore.
"The waves are massive and I have no life jacket on ... I just kept thinking 'just keep swimming, just keep swimming,'" he said on Tuesday. "And then I finally made it to shore, and I hit the bottom of the beach, and I just collapsed."
James Bradley, an inspector with the force's South West District Office, praised rescue crews for their efforts and commended Austin for his bravery.
"WA Police thank all emergency first responders and volunteers for their swift response, teamwork, and professionalism, which led to a successful outcome. This incident is a reminder that ocean conditions can change rapidly," Bradley said.
"Thankfully, all three people were wearing lifejackets, which contributed to their survival. The actions of the 13-year-old boy cannot be praised highly enough — his determination and courage ultimately saved the lives of his mother and siblings."