BATHERS RESCUED

Taranaki Daily News, 16 January 1934, Page 5

BATHERS RESCUED

TAXI-DRIVER SAVES GIRL. SWEPT THROUGH CULVERT. Whangarei, Jan. 14. The presence of mind and prompt action of a taxi-driver saved a girl from drowning. Mr. A. F. Baker, of Whangarei, was returning in his taxi from Onerahi, and when near what is known as Mackesy’s property he noticed a girl swimming in the Whangarei Harbour channel. She disappeared from view, and Mr. Baker realised she was in difficulties. Although he cannot swim, Mr. Baker dived into the water fully clothed. The tide was high, and at this spot a large culvert, the top of which is about two feet below high water mark, connects with an adjacent swamp. Within a few seconds both Mr. Baker and the girl were drawn in by the strong suction and carried through the culvert into less dangerous waters. By this time the girl was unconscious, but Mr. Baker had sufficient strength left to scramble ashore with her. He applied artificial respiration, and after a short period the girl regained consciousness. Mr. Baker had his clothes badly torn, and received bruises and minor injuries during his passage through the culvert. The girl received severe lacerations. Mr. Baker stated that he considered they were very fortunate that there was no blockage in the culvert. If there had been they would certainly have been drowned.