Thirteen-year-old Austin Appelbee has received the highest internal award from the Australian Army Cadets for his bravery after he swam 4km to save his mother and two siblings from being swept out to sea near Dunsborough. The Gidgegannup family was on holiday when they were caught in a dangerous situation, prompting Austin to seek help. His actions led to their miraculous rescue, and he was awarded the Gold Commendation for his extraordinary courage. Brigadier David McCammon praised Austin for displaying remarkable determination and composure in a life-threatening scenario.
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