Watermans Bay resident Derek Watts.
Camera IconWatermans Bay resident Derek Watts. Credit: Supplied/Marcus Whisson

Derek’s wave of appreciation

Staff ReporterStirling Times

The 85-year-old was snorkelling in a small cove when a wave flung him on to an underwater rock dislodging his mask and snorkel.

Mr Watts said he was grateful for a group of surfers who saw him in distress and came to his rescue.

‘Some young surfers came to my assistance and saved me from Davy Jones’ Locker,’ he said.

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‘They brought me ashore on their surfboards and treated me with the greatest kindest.’

Mr Watts said he often heard of stories about younger people mistreating the elderly and wanted the group’s kindness on record.

‘They handed me over to Kevin, one of the beach inspectors, and then the ambulance crew,’ he said.

‘They retrieved my bicycle for me.

‘An old codger like me would like to thank those young people for their care and compassion but apart from Kevin ” I don’t know their names.’

Mr Watts hoped speaking out about his experience would enable someone to come forward with information about the incident so that he could thank his rescuers in person.

‘They were all extremely helpful and so kind and that’s the whole point of the exercise, to if possible, pass on thanks to the people who contributed to my rescue,’ he said.

‘If any of them read this I would be glad to thank them properly.’

Did you see the incident on March 3?

Do you know the people who helped Mr Watts?

Email belindac@communitynews.com.au