An off-duty police officer leapt to the rescue of two swimmers in trouble off Rosebud Pier on Sunday afternoon.
A 31-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy from Traralgon were on a family outing when they decided to enter the water at about 4.10pm.
The teenager had little to no swimming experience and quickly got into trouble.
As the adult attempted to help, both began swallowing water and drifting away from the pier.
Enter Senior Constable Frank Ferreria, who was enjoying a walk with his family along the pier prior to commencing his overnight shift.
Senior Constable Ferreria identified that the pair were in a dire situation and jumped into the water fully clothed.
An experienced swimmer, Senior Constable Ferreria managed to pull both people to safety, returning them to the pier where they were treated by responding paramedics.
The ambulance officers in attendance said that without the off-duty member’s intervention, they fear both swimmers may have lost their lives.
After a heartfelt thank you from the family of the pair, Frank returned home and was back on the road by 10.30pm, undertaking his usual duties patrolling the Glen Waverly area.
“It certainly wasn’t how I expected to get ready for work but I’m happy to have been able to assist,” Senior Constable Ferreria said.
“I don’t think I did anything overly heroic.
“I saw some people in trouble, and it’s just instinct to dive in there and try to help.”
While Frank may have been a little embarrassed by the attention stemming from this incident, senior police officers were incredibly proud of his actions.
“He’s incredibly humble and has turned up to work this evening like nothing has happened, going about his regular duties to keep the community safe,” Senior Sergeant Rachel Jones said.
“It just goes to show that our members join the police because they want to help people, and that mindset doesn’t stop when they’re not at work.”
While police celebrate Senior Constable Ferreria’s actions, this is also a timely water safety reminder.
Never overestimate your abilities.
Never underestimate the risks.
