A teenager who swam 4km through treacherous waters to save his family after they were swept out to sea has received the Australian Army Cadet’s top honour.

Hero teen Austin Appelbee has been awarded the Australian Army Cadet’s highest honour for his incredible act of bravery to save his family, after they were swept out to sea off the Western Australian southwest coast.

Austin, 13, swam and kayaked 4km back to shore to alert authorities when his mother and siblings were blown out to sea in kayaks they rented from a Dunsborough hotel on January 30.

When Austin made it to shore, he overcame fear, fatigue and adrenaline to run another 2km to find a phone and contact emergency services.

Hero teen Austin Appelbee has been recognised with the Australian Army Cadets Gold Commendation after his extraordinary act of bravery to save his family. Image: Australian Army Cadets
Hero teen Austin Appelbee has been recognised with the Australian Army Cadets Gold Commendation after his extraordinary act of bravery to save his family. Image: Australian Army Cadets

Austin swam and kayaked through treacherous waters, overcoming fatigue to alert authorities about his family’s plight off the WA coast. Picture: ABC News
Austin swam and kayaked through treacherous waters, overcoming fatigue to alert authorities about his family’s plight off the WA coast. Picture: ABC News
His heroic efforts led to the rescue of his mother and siblings who had drifted more than 14km out in the Indian Ocean.

Austin is an Army Cadet who parades with 50 Army Cadet Unit (Midlands) in Perth’s east.

He was awarded an Australian Army Cadets Gold Commendation in recognition of his extraordinary act of bravery.

The award recognises a cadet for applying superior achievement or devotion in skills, judgment or dedication to duty and must demonstrate a significant positive impact on the Australian Army Cadets.

Australian Army Cadets Commander David McCammon said Austin’s efforts were astonishing and he joined the nation in acknowledging the monumental feat.

Hero teen Austin Appelbee pictured with his brother and father after being awarded the Australian Army Cadets Gold Commendation. Picture: Supplied
Hero teen Austin Appelbee pictured with his brother and father after being awarded the Australian Army Cadets Gold Commendation. Picture: Supplied
“Austin displayed the determination and courage we expect of individuals far older than his years,” Brigadier McCammon said.

“His ability to overcome fear and fatigue and focus on his singular objective – to save his family – was, to say the least, exceptional.

“I know I speak for every member of the Cadets and probably the Australian Army and greater Defence force when I say you and your actions exemplify the values which we hold dear, and commend you for your awe-inspiring act – outstanding.”

An Australian Army spokesman said it was a well deserved honour.

“Your bravery inspires us all,” a spokesman said.