On Friday evening, a 13-year-old boy saved his mother and two younger siblings after they were swept out to sea in South West Western Australia. The family was on holiday in Quindalup, 250km south of Perth, when strong winds pushed their inflatable paddleboards and kayak offshore in Geographe Bay. The boy tried to kayak back to shore for help, but water filled the kayak. He then swam 4km back to shore and raised the alarm. Police received a report at 6pm and launched a rescue operation. It involved WA water police, local marine volunteers, and a rescue helicopter. At 8:30pm, the helicopter found the mother (47), a 12-year-old boy, and an 8-year-old girl clinging to a paddleboard about 14km offshore. A volunteer rescue boat reached them and brought them safely ashore. Paul Bresland, commander of Naturaliste Volunteer Marine Rescue, said the family had been treading water for hours in rough seas. The 13-year-old gave a clear description of the kayak and paddleboards, which helped search teams. Bresland added the boy swam two hours with his lifejacket on and then two hours without it. The family was checked by paramedics and taken to Busselton health campus for assessment. St John WA praised the rescue as "remarkable" and praised the boy for his bravery. South West police inspector James Bradley thanked rescuers and said it showed how fast ocean conditions can change. "Thankfully, all three people were wearing lifejackets, which contributed to their survival," he said. "The actions of the 13-year-old boy cannot be praised highly enough, his determination and courage ultimately saved the lives of his mother and siblings."