American Expat Rescued from Rip Current at Australian Beach

An American expat was rescued from a rip current at a popular Australian beach after nearly drowning. Natalie Reese was swimming with a friend on the Gold Coast when the incident occurred.

Reese, 23, who recently moved to Queensland, stated she is a strong swimmer but acknowledges the dangers of rip currents, which are a common hazard on Australian beaches.

Caught in the Current

Near Surfers Paradise, Reese and her friend entered the water between the flags. She reported feeling the ocean's pull, and the sandbars were uneven, leading to her being knocked off her feet and submerged.

She noted she was pulled outside the flagged area by waves.

Reese attempted to swim back to shore but was unsuccessful. She communicated to her friend, Kon, that she was struggling, and he indicated he was also experiencing difficulties.

"They were caught in a rip current."

Lifeguards to the Rescue

Two lifeguards observed their situation and provided assistance, helping Reese get back to shore. Another individual assisted Kon.

Reese estimated she was approximately 30 seconds to a minute away from drowning. She attributed her survival to the lifeguards' intervention.

A Warning to Others

Following the incident, Reese advised other tourists and expats to always swim between the flags, seek help if feeling unsafe, and educate themselves on surf safety.

She emphasized that the ocean's power surpasses human strength.

Statistics indicate 357 drownings were reported in Australia between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2023.