Australian Thirteen-Year-Old Swims Miles to Save Family at Sea
Posted on 2026-02-03 19:49:13
A thirteen-year-old boy is being hailed as a hero in Australia after an incredible four-hour swim to save his family.
Young Austin Appelbee was with his mother and two siblings on Friday when they were swept more than two miles out to sea.
Realizing they were in trouble, Austin first tried to paddle for help on an inflatable kayak—but when that failed, he dove into the rough surf and swam nearly four kilometers back to shore.
His solo mission allowed rescue teams to launch a search and locate his family clinging to a paddleboard just as night fell.
Police praised Austin's determination and courage for ultimately saving their lives.
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