Rescue Stories

Survivor Reunites with his 'Angel' of the Surf
Chris Grubelich is lucky to be alive today to tell his story.

The 17 year old from Safety Bay in Western Australia was body boarding when his nightmare began. Patrol hours were over and the surf lifesavers on duty had finished packing up and were ready to head home after a busy day of 15 rescues. Only surfers remained in the water when Chris began to struggle against the pull of a strong rip. Drifting further out to sea, his friend paddled out to help him while another friend ran into the surf lifesaving club to alert surf lifesavers who took swift action to save Chris.

Dianne Bevan and Adam McPhail, both volunteer surf lifesavers, armed themselves with a rescue board and tube and launched themselves into the ocean. Dianne reached the two boys first, who were both in serious trouble by this stage. Chris was still breathing but barely conscious and extremely pale. When Adam arrived on the scene, Dianne returned Chris to shore where he was treated by other patrol members with oxygen therapy while Adam assisted the other patient to safety. Chris was lucky to be alive, saying after the rescue, "I thought I was a goner."

For the first time since the ordeal, Chris was recently reunited with Dianne to thank her for saving his life. Chris expressed how grateful he was to the surf lifesavers calling his rescuers 'heroes' and Dianne his 'angel'.

Chris admitted that he never thought he'd need the services of surf lifesavers because of his strong swimming abilities and years of experience in the surf. Chris now realises that it can happen to anyone and took the opportunity upon meeting his rescuer, to urge people of all levels of experience to take care in the surf and swim between the flags.

Chris is one of thousands of people who owe their lives to the bravery and dedication of our volunteer surf lifesavers. Chris is also mindful of the silent partners who assist in every rescue. Only with their financial support can our volunteer lifesavers perform their services on the beach for which Chris is truly grateful.

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