Vanessa Barby, Stirling MHR Michael Keenan, Darren Mills and Mike Deephouse.
Camera IconVanessa Barby, Stirling MHR Michael Keenan, Darren Mills and Mike Deephouse. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Trigg Surf Life Saving Club members recognised for efforts to rescue fellow swimmer

Laura PondStirling Times

A GROUP of Trigg lifesavers has received national recognition for resuscitating a fellow swimmer.

Trigg Surf Life Saving Club members Mike Deephouse, Vanessa Barby and Darren Mills attended Parliament House this month to be awarded a Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) National Rescue of the Month award.

The trio, along with Mike Cook, Peter Taylor, Mark Barlow and John Hardbattle, helped fellow Blue Hole winter swimming group member Les Lindsay after he collapsed on the beach in August.

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Mr Deephouse immediately placed Mr Lindsay into the recovery position while Mr Cook obtained oxygen resuscitation equipment and Ms Barby communicated their situation to an emergency services phone operator.

Mr Hardbatttle, Mr Barlow and Mr Mills were involved in chest compressions and Mr Taylor administered the defibrillator.

“Everyone just fell into line,” Mr Deephouse said.

“Everyone just sort of snapped into gear.

“It was a bit unreal.”

When the ambulance arrived Mr Lindsay was unconscious but breathing.

He recovered three days later, apart from broken ribs, and was given the all clear from doctors thanks to the team’s efforts.

“He was back at the beach the next week,” Mr Deephouse said.

He said it was great recognition for the club.

“I can’t say enough that these guys are needed,” he said.

SLSA president Graham Ford said the awards recognised incredible and courageous acts of service in saving lives.

“Tragically, an increase in drowning deaths have occurred at unpatrolled locations this season,” he said.

“It is critical that we continue to educate beachgoers about water safety and the importance of swimming at a patrolled beach and between the red and yellow flags so we can continue to keep them safe.”

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