Thirteen-year-old Austin Appelbee has been formally recognised for his extraordinary bravery, receiving the highest internal honour from the Australian Army Cadets after his dramatic ocean rescue captured worldwide attention.
The Year 9 student shot to prominence after swimming four kilometres to shore when his mother, Joanne, and younger siblings Beau, 12, and Grace, 8, were swept out to sea near Dunsborough on January 30.
This week, Austin — a cadet with the 50 Army Cadet Unit Midland — was presented with the Australian Army Cadets Gold Commendation in recognition of what commanders described as an exceptional act of courage.
Australian Army Cadets Commander Brigadier David McCammon said the teenager’s actions were “outstanding”. “Austin displayed the determination and courage we expect of individuals far older than his years,” he said.
“His ability to overcome fear and fatigue and remain focused on saving his family was exceptional. His actions embody the values we hold dear.”
Calls are also mounting for Austin to receive a national bravery award. Senior WA Minister John Carey said the teenager “deserves a medal” for remaining calm under immense pressure.
The Gidgegannup family had been holidaying at Club Wyndham and were exploring the coastline on a hired kayak and two paddleboards when conditions changed rapidly. As they drifted further offshore, Joanne Appelbee made the agonising decision to send her eldest son to get help.
Austin battled rough seas for hours before reaching land, then ran a further two kilometres to raise the alarm. A major search was launched, and his family was later found about 14 kilometres offshore, clinging to a paddleboard.
“It’s extraordinary that in such a high-pressure situation he not only swam that distance but then made the call and spoke so clearly,” Mr Carey said.
“Anyone can nominate him, and I wouldn’t be surprised if many Australians do.”
WA Premier Roger Cook earlier echoed the praise, calling Austin’s rescue “an extraordinary effort,” while the family expressed immense pride in the teenager’s actions.
The incident also triggered a WorkSafe investigation into Club Wyndham. The resort has been issued compliance notices and is prohibited from hiring out aquatic equipment until regulatory requirements are met. The hotel has denied wrongdoing.
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