A 13-Year-Old Boy's 'Superhuman' Swim Saves His Family from Drowning

Tue Feb 03 2026 22:15:15 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Austin Appelbee swam over 14 km off the Australian coast to save his family from being swept away into the sea, showcasing extraordinary courage and determination.

In a dramatic rescue, 13-year-old Austin Appelbee braved treacherous waters off the coast of Western Australia, swimming hours to reach help for his mother and siblings stranded at sea. Despite the harrowing ordeal, he humbly dismisses the title of 'hero,' insisting he simply did what any loving son would. His family's narrow escape has garnered widespread admiration for Austin's bravery.

Austin Appelbee, a 13-year-old boy from Australia, has garnered national attention after he swam for hours in a desperate bid to rescue his family, who were swept out to sea. I didn't think I was a hero - I just did what I did, he told the BBC, reflecting on a rescue that many are calling 'superhuman.'

His ordeal began when he, his mother Joanne, and siblings Beau and Grace were having fun with paddleboards off the coast of Quindalup beach. The conditions quickly turned dangerous when the wind picked up, leading the family to drift far away from the shore. Joanne, realizing they could not return alone, made the agonizing decision to send Austin back for help.

Taking a damaged kayak, Austin faced significant obstacles as he attempted to return. Battling the waves, he flipped the kayak and eventually began to swim the remaining distance over four kilometers back to safety. Clinging to his determination, thoughts of his family and friends encouraged him to keep going, even as exhaustion set in.

After four hours, Austin finally reached the shore and called for assistance, which initiated a rescue operation. Meanwhile, his family, who had drifted almost 14 km offshore, was growing increasingly fearful for his safety.

Fortunately, the rescue team located Joanne and the children as they clung on to their paddleboards, and they were all brought to safety. Despite the ordeal, Austin displayed humility regarding his actions, but rescue officials hailed his determination and courage as pivotal in saving his family.

The family has since been released from the hospital with minor injuries and is coping with the emotional impact of their experience. Austin has returned to school on crutches due to sore legs but continues to inspire others with his incredible story.