MAN'S LIFE SAVED.

Auckland Star, Volume LXIV, Issue 74, 29 March 1933, Page 5

MAN'S LIFE SAVED.

TAKAPUNA RESCUE

CAPSIZE OF DINGHY.

BYSTANDER'S PROMPT ACTION.

A thrilling rescue from drowning was effected this afternoon at Takapuna by Mr. H. J. McCaffery, a member of the Takapuna Surf Club, and Mr. W. Armitage. Mr. Bert Raines, well known in the licensing business, was taken from the water near Hotel Mon Desir in an unconscious condition after the dinghy in which he was rowing had capsized.

Mr. Raines went alone for a row in the dinghy about 12.30 p.m. At the time there was a fairly choppy sea and a strong easterly blowing. Some time later Mr. McCaffery, who had seen the solitary oarsman rowing out from the beach, noticed that the boat had disappeared. He broke into the life-saving station on the beach and obtained a telescope, through which he saw the boat capsized and the occupant struggling in the water. He considered that Mr. Raines was nearly a mile out from the shore. With the assistance of two ladies Mr. McCaffery and Mr. Armitage launched a boat belonging to the Surf Club and pulled in the direction of the drowning man. They had difficulty in locating him, but a spectator on the beach obtained the telescope and directed the I rescuers.

Mr. Raines was picked up in an unconscious condition and was taken to the Hotel Mon Desir, where it was thought that he was dead. However, Mr. McCaffery and Constable Maloney and a nurse, who happened to be staying at the hotel, applied artificial respiration until Dr. McKnight arrived. Mr. Raines was put to bed and shortly afterwards he regained consciousness. Late this afternoon it was stated that, although out of danger, Mr. Raines will be confined to bed for a day or so. The promptitude displayed by Mr. McCaffery and Mr. Armitagc undoubtedly resulted in Mr. Raine's life being saved.