Praise for inspirational boy who saved family from drowning

A 13-year-old boy who swam for hours to get help for his family after they were swept out to sea in Australia has met Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin.

The Taoiseach said on X that it was an honour to meet the young man.

"He is a remarkable young man who showed extraordinary courage when his family needed it most," Martin said.

"Austin's story is a vital reminder of water safety, and his bravery is an inspiration to us all."

On Friday 30 January, Austin and his family were swept out to sea off Australia's West Coast while paddleboarding.

It was a 10-hour ordeal where his mother Joanne, who is originally from County Monaghan, had asked him to go back to the shoreline to get help.

While he had a Kayak, it capsized, and he had to swim the last 4km (2.49mi).

Speaking to BBC at the time, he said it was a moment he would never forget.

"I didn't think I was a hero - I just did what I did," he said.

"I was thinking about mum, Beau and Grace. I was also thinking about my friends and my girlfriend - I have a really good bunch of friends."

The family flew back home two weeks ago for a surprise family reunion, appearing on RTÉ's The Late Late Show.

"Every bad thought you have in your head as a mum went through my mind," Austin's mother Joanne told the show.

"It's every mother's nightmare."

Austin received a civic reception from the Monaghan County Council earlier this month.

The Cathaoirleach (chairman) Cllr PJ O'Hanlon said the council was "deeply honoured" to recognise the "incredible courage" shown.

"Austin's actions were nothing short of heroic and his bravery serves as an inspiration to us all."

Irish President Catherine Connolly sent a letter of commendation to the 13-year old, praising him for his "immense bravery".

In the letter, she said: "The story of your courage has spread around the world and has been an inspiration as well as a source of pride to Irish people who have heard of your heroism."