A quick-thinking senior constable successfully rescued a man from drowning in Princetown yesterday.
The officer was on patrol along the Great Ocean Road when he responded to reports of two people in trouble in the water near Gibson Steps about 6.50pm.
The senior constable from the Port Campbell area was first on scene, and observed one person near the shore, and two others further out in need of assistance.
Spotting one of the males supporting a man who appeared to be non-responsive, the officer quickly entered the water.
With the assistance of the first male, the officer took hold of the unconscious male and swam back to the safety of the shore.
A 53-year-old Dutch National man was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries.
The two other males, a 19-year-old and 15-year-old, also both Dutch Nationals, were taken to hospital for observation.
Quotes attributable to Sgt Craig Jenkins - Station Commander, Cobden Police Station:
"As locals we know that this area is not an advisable swimming area due to the fact there are no patrols, potentially treacherous conditions, large waves, strong currents and rips, deep troughs and shifting sandbars".
It is a major tourist attraction due to the stunning landscape and photo opportunities but presents significant risks to those entering the water.
"We ask people to remember how the ocean appears on top does not always reflect what is happening with currents and rips underneath.
Non patrolled beaches present significant risks to those who enter the water without training, experience or the ability to manage themselves safely in that type of environment.
They were extremely lucky to have had him so close by and that he was prepared to go above and beyond the call of duty and he bravely entered the challenging water conditions to safely retrieve and aid people in distress".
