A heroic teenager who undertook an extraordinary 6km journey by swimming, kayaking, and running to save his stranded family has been awarded the Australian Army Cadets' highest honour. Austin Appelbee, aged 13, has been recognised for his immense act of bravery after his family was swept out to sea off the Western Australian coast last month.
Perilous Situation in Geographe Bay
The incident occurred on January 30 in Geographe Bay, near Quindalup, approximately 250km south of Perth. Austin, an Army Cadet who parades with the 50 Army Cadet Unit in Perth's east, was kayaking and paddleboarding with his mother, Joanne, and his younger siblings, eight-year-old Beau and 12-year-old Grace. The group set off at 11am but quickly ran into trouble when the sea suddenly turned rough, with large waves sweeping them 4km from shore.
A Mother's Difficult Decision
Facing dangerous conditions, Joanne made the difficult decision to allow Austin to swim back for help. The determined teenager abandoned his kayak, which was taking on water, and spent four gruelling hours battling rough seas before he finally reached the shore. Once on land, he immediately ran 2km to a nearby hotel to phone emergency services.
In his call to the triple-zero operator, Austin calmly stated, 'Hello, my name's Austin. I have two siblings, Beau and Grace. We went out on a kayak and paddle board trip and we got took out to sea and got lost out there.' His composure under pressure was noted as a key factor in the successful rescue operation.
Rescue and Recognition
Austin's heroic efforts led authorities to locate and rescue his mother and siblings, who had drifted more than 14km from shore by the time they were found. Within an hour of the search being launched, the family was discovered treading water, safe but exhausted.
In recognition of his bravery, Austin was presented with the Australian Army Cadets Gold Commendation this week. This prestigious award is given to cadets who demonstrate superior achievement, judgement, or dedication to duty, and who have made a positive impact on the Australian Army Cadets.
Praise from Military and Police
Australian Army Cadets Commander David McCammon praised Austin's actions, stating that he had 'displayed determination and courage expected of individuals far older than his years.' Brigadier McCammon added, 'His ability to overcome fear and fatigue and focus on his singular objective – to save his family – was, to say the least, exceptional. I know I speak for every member of the Cadets and probably the Australian Army and greater Defence Force when I say you and your actions exemplify the values which we hold dear.'
An Australian Army spokesman remarked that the teenager's bravery 'inspires us all.' Meanwhile, Police Forward Commander Acting Sergeant Andrew McDonnell highlighted Austin's calm demeanor, saying, 'What Austin did was nothing short of extraordinary. His bravery and courage in those conditions were remarkable, and his actions were pivotal in bringing about a successful outcome.'
Future Prospects
WA Police also expressed interest in Austin joining the force when he comes of age, noting that his composure and ability to make critical decisions in an emergency situation reflect the qualities they seek in future recruits. The agency stated, 'The WA Police Force hopes to join forces with him in the future.'
Austin's story serves as a powerful testament to the training and values instilled in young cadets, showcasing how quick thinking and resilience can lead to life-saving outcomes in the most challenging circumstances.
