Austin Appelbee

Austin Appelbee is a 13-year-old boy from Australia who recently made headlines for his extraordinary act of bravery. While on holiday with his mother, Joanne, and two younger siblings, Beau (12) and Grace (8), the family was swept out to sea. Realizing the severity of the situation, Joanne made the difficult decision to ask Austin, whom she believed to be the strongest swimmer, to swim for help. Austin swam approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) in rough ocean conditions to reach the shore and alert emergency services. He then ran an additional 2km to find help. His emergency call revealed his fear for his family's safety. Authorities credit Austin's courage and determination with saving his family, who spent up to 10 hours in the water. Austin himself downplays his heroism, stating he simply did what he had to do. His mother described asking him to swim as one of the hardest decisions she has ever made.