BATTLE IN SEA.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVI, Issue 17, 18 December 1935, Page 11

BATTLE IN SEA.

GALLANT RESCUE. ex-schoolboF HONOURED. TVAIHI, Dec. 16. The presentation of the Royal Humane Society’s bronze medal to George Dunstan, aged 18, an ex-Waihi High School boy, for gallantry in rescuing his companion, Jack Mooney, aged 19 from drowing at Whiritoo, near Waihi was made by the Mayor (Mr W. M. Wallnutt), on Saturday evening at a function organised by the Waiui Surf Live-Saving Club in the King’s Hall. In making the presentation, Mr Wallnutt said that Dunstan and Mooney with two others, l'ry and Boxall, were spending the week-end in camp at Whiritoa, and on June J were fishing from the rocks. There was a fair sea running and heavy combers were dashing on the rocks. Mooney had hooked a fish which became entangled in the rocks and weeds, and he left his position to go down and free it, In doing so he was washed off the rocks by a big sea and was immediately in difficulties. Dunstan, in an effort to save him, tied a fishing line round his waist and swam out, Boxall paying out the line. The line, however, fouled the swimmer, becoming entangled round bis chest and neck and placing him in a most dangerous position. Despite that fact, he secured Mooney, who was rapidly becoming exhausted, and struggled with hiin to the rocks, being continuously buffeted by the sea. Ultimately, with the assistance of Fry and Boxall, both youths were hauled up to safety. In the course of the rescue, Dunstan suffered a severely sprained ankle and numerous bruises and cuts through contact with the rocks. The sprained ankle was caused by his slipping when rushing over the .rocks to the rescue, but in spite of the pain it must have caused him, he went on with the task and successfully got Mooney out. The Mayor added that Fry and Boxall must also be commended for their assistance. They did not spare themselves, and went into danger on account of their friends. Fry, who was a member of St. John Ambulance Brigade, rendered first aid, and Boxall went for assistance. The rocks at Whiritoa were particularly sharp and flinty, and the seas dashed straight in with great force. The rescue, therefore must be regarded as a most « lant one, and was well, worthy oMjhe distinction of the society medal.