Four teenage surfers have received global attention after rescuing a grandmother and her grandson from treacherous conditions off Adelaide’s West Beach.
Kai Nixon, 14, was surfing when he noticed a 10-year-old boy struggling in a strong rip.
Hearing cries for help, Kai responded immediately. The grandmother of the boy, who was also caught in the current, was being swept further out to sea.
Kai managed to paddle the young boy to the relative safety of the rocks. At the same time, Cruz Campbell, Louis Kempster, and Riley Kellock, who were also surfing nearby, turned their attention to the grandmother.
“I just thought we’ve got to do something here because I don’t want her to drown on my hands,” Louis said.
The efforts of the four teenagers were crucial in bringing the grandmother back to shore.
“They didn’t know each other so they were two different groups of boys who were able to come together and just execute a really seamless plan,” Louis’ mother Dana said.
The boys are now gaining recognition on the other side of the world, with interview requests coming from the US.
There have also been some warm words from South Australia’s highest office.
“Nothing but the offer of the highest of praise to these young fellas who have shown extraordinary courage,” Premier Peter Malinauskas said.
“They demonstrate there’s a lot of good among young people.”