Emergency call released of boy who swam for hours to save family

BBC News - WorldEN 1 min read 100% complete February 11, 2026 at 12:54 PM

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In February, a 13-year-old Australian boy, Austin Appelbee, swam for hours to seek help after his mother and two siblings were swept out to sea. Emergency services released audio of Austin's call, where he expressed fear for his family's condition and described his extreme exhaustion. He reported his brother, sister, and mother were still in the water. After making the call, Austin lost consciousness and was hospitalized. He later learned that his family had been rescued alive and well approximately 14km offshore. Austin's actions were crucial in ensuring their survival.