Soldiers save swimmers’ lives

Quick thinking by several Australian Army soldiers saved the life of an unconscious swimmer and four others in a Northern Territory waterhole on May 18.

CAPTION: Australian Amphibious Force members, Privates Jaguar Nibreda, Matthew Price, Jarrod Roughley, Jack Vaysset and Jack Thompson, rescued swimmers in distress at Berry Springs, NT. Story by Lieutenant Angela Faulkner.

The soldiers, posted to HMAS Adelaide, rescued the five adults from the water at the popular Berry Springs swimming hole 50km south of Darwin.

The soldiers involved quickly recognised the group was in distress.

Private Jack Thompson said that despite the swimming hole being busy, it was obvious something was wrong.

“We did not hesitate to quickly rescue the unconscious swimmer and, because there were a few of us, we were able to assist her partner and friends who were also in distress,” Private Thompson said.

“As Australian soldiers, we are trained in first aid and CPR, which ensured we could continue to assist the group on shore.

“We are all relieved that the group survived and that we were there to help.”

Executive Officer HMAS Adelaide Commander Nicholas Paterson praised the efforts of Privates Jack Thompson, Matthew Price, Jarod Roughley, Jaguar Nibreda and Jack Vaysset.

“The quick thinking and swift action of these soldiers was in keeping with the finest traditions of the Australian Defence Force,” Commander Paterson said.

“Serving members join the ADF to protect and serve the Australian community and the actions of these soldiers demonstrate that they are living their Defence values, even while off duty.”

The soldiers continued to provide first aid until emergency services arrived on the scene.

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