NSW: Cronulla fire fighters help save drowning tourists

AAP General News (Australia)
04-27-2000
NSW: Cronulla fire fighters help save drowning tourists

A passing firefighter and a schoolboy have plunged into dangerous surf to save four
struggling swimmers caught in a rip at a Sydney beach.

Ex-lifeguard turned firefighter GRAHAM MCMILLAN spotted the four men in trouble off
Cronulla while driving his fire engine just before 1pm (AEST).

As the 41-year-old stripped off his uniform and dashed into the water, he was joined
by a 17-year-old schoolboy on work experience at the North Cronulla Surf Lifesaving club.

Two of the tourists managed to swim back to shore two others had to cling onto the
schoolboy's surfboard and were dragged out of the water by Mr MCMILLAN.

Three other Cronulla firefighters helped with first aid on one swimmer while the other
man was in shock.

A spokesman for North Cronulla Surf Lifesaving Club says there were no lifeguards on
duty because it's the end of the season.

Mr MCMILLAN, who was a professional life guard at Cronulla for 12 years, says the
school boy did an excellent job in helping with the rescue.

AAP RTV jx/sb/gmw/jn

KEYWORD: SAVE (SYDNEY)

2000 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.