Dramatic Christmas rescue as woman and her stepson saved after drifting 6 miles at sea | World | News

A woman and her stepson have been dramatically rescued after an ordinary paddle quickly turned into a life-threatening ordeal in Portarlington. The 51-year-old woman and the 17-year-old boy set off on their stand-up paddleboards from the dock at Portarlington caravan park at around 3pm to enjoy a short Christmas Day trip.

But things quickly turned scary after they moved away from shore due to strong winds. The rescue operation was quickly launched after another family member became worried when the duo did not return after 17:00. Victoria Police Air Wing, Life Saving Victoria and Queenscliff Coastguard quickly waved through the waters before a rescue helicopter spotted the pair. Herald Sun.

The pair were lying flat on paddle boards and waving for help when emergency services spotted them, according to footage shared by Victoria Police.

They were not wearing life jackets and were adrift for more than 10 km (6.2 mi) before being pulled from the water at Wyndham Harbor.

Family members thanked the authorities for the quick response. They said: “We are so grateful for the outcome but still struggling to come to terms with how quickly a lovely, carefree afternoon turned into near tragedy.

“We are exhausted, very shaken, and feel very lucky to have stayed together.

“We appreciate the efforts of all agencies involved. Decisive and rapid action not only enabled us to save, but also ensure our survival.”