GEORGE NEWS - A routine summer swim at Herold's Bay turned into a life-saving mission for two teenagers last Wednesday at about 16:10.
It was the quick thinking and bravery of the friends, Luke Harwood (17) and Camdon Poppesqou (16), that saved the lives of two children, a brother (12) and sister (9) swept out by a rip current.
"When Luke got to the beach he saw how rough the water was and said to Camdon he thinks someone is going to get washed out," Luke's mother, Nikki Harwood, told George Herald.
Little did he know that his words would soon become a reality.
According to Harwood, the teenagers were standing hip-deep in the surf when they noticed the siblings struggling in a rip current about 10m away. Without hesitation, Luke sprang into action, reached the children and grabbed hold of them. Camdon quickly joined, and Luke handed the boy to him. Camdon swam sideways out of the current with the boy until a lifeguard reached them to complete the rescue.
Meanwhile, Luke stayed with the panicked girl, who clung to his back as the current swept them farther from shore. "I asked Luke how he managed to tread water for so long and he said, 'Mom, that's why I never miss leg day'," said Harwood.
According to Camdon, the boy was also very panicked, but he reassured him the lifeguards were on their way.
The situation drew a swift response from the George Municipal NSRI lifeguards and other emergency services.
Together with the teenagers' efforts, the children were safely brought back to shore.
In a further precautionary measure, one lifeguard went beyond the breakers to ensure that no additional swimmers were in danger.
He remained offshore, staying afloat while surveying the area until the NSRI rescue craft arrived to bring him safely back to land.
The rescue effort also saw a multi-agency response, including the Metro ambulance services, George Fire and Rescue Services, and the police.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the children, the teenagers, or the lifeguards involved.
"NSRI commends the two teenagers for their efforts that contributed to saving the lives of the two children, together with the lifeguards," said Wilderness NSRI station commander Jonothan Britton.
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