Quick thinking from an off-duty State Emergency Victoria [SES] member, Williamstown Police and passers-by saved an 11-year-old boy from drowning, after he became trapped in a storm floodwater drain in Altona Meadows on Thursday, October 27.
Police said the boy was riding his bike with his friend and was sucked underwater at about 4.40pm when he accidentally rode across a submerged drain on Merton Street.
He was washed about 10 metres under the road before managing to grab a metal grate on the other side, his bike helmet catching on the structure so he had time to take hold.
First Constable Peter Ivory pulled the boy to safety after an off-duty SES member removed bolts from the drain’s grate.
“This was an incredibly dynamic situation,” he said.
“The force of the water was extraordinary.”
Williamstown Police Sergeant Kristy Briffa said the actions of everyone involved were “truly amazing”.
“There is no doubt their quick thinking in the most dire of circumstances truly saved a life,” she said.
“We are so delighted this story has a happy ending.
“It just goes to show how treacherous and powerful floodwater can be.”
Upon his rescue, the boy said “I love you all”, and later asked about his missing shoes.
Paramedics treated the boy at the scene and he was taken to hospital.
