Campbell Andersen saves Tim Wilson from Buddina boat explosion on Sunshine Coast

A Sunshine Coast mechanic, who suffered serious burns after a fiery boat explosion, has been praised as a “true hero” for saving his mate’s life when his foot became stuck under the vessel during the inferno.

A Sunshine Coast mechanic, who suffered serious burns after a fiery boat explosion, has been praised as a “true hero” for saving his mate’s life when his foot became stuck under the vessel during the inferno.

Campbell Andersen, in his early 40s and from Brightwater, was working on a boat in the dry dock of Lawrie’s Boat Services with fellow mechanic, Tim Wilson, when there was an explosion.

Campbell Andersen (left) saved Tim Wilson from the Buddina boat explosion. Picture – GoFundMe.

Fire investigators ruled it an “accidental” fire caused by something to do with the boat engine.

Mr Andersen, who owns and runs CJS Marine, has been praised by Mr Wilson’s partner, Nicole Buckle, who called him a hero and the reason both men survived.

“Campbell saved Tim’s life,” Ms Buckle said.

“His foot was stuck and he pulled him out.

“Our family can’t thank Campbell enough.

“He’s our hero.”

Firefighters battle a boat blaze on a dry dock in Buddina, on the Sunshine Coast. Picture: Contributed

Mr Andersen’s wife, Shannon Andersen, said she’ll never forget the phone call that day when she first learnt about the explosion.

“A huge thanks to all the first responders and everyone else involved that assisted Cam on that day and has him back home to me and our girls,” she said on social media.

“We will be forever grateful … we have a few challenges ahead of us but know we can get through them together.”

Campbell Andersen and Shannon Andersen on their wedding day. Picture – Facebook.

Brightwater local Penny Adams said Mr Andersen was a “community hero” on social media following the explosion.

“Campbell Andersen has been a Brightwater local for many years, takes part in the park run almost every week, his girls attended Brightwater School, he has previously volunteered as a soccer coach for our local Buddina United Soccer Club and now coaches his daughters netball for Mountain Creek,” she said.

“A true community hero.”

Chad Blakeney started a GoFundMe campaign to support Mr Andersen.

“Campbell, not only a familiar and friendly face in the boat yard but also an avid marathon runner, has consistently inspired us with his determination and endurance,” Mr Blakeney said.

Campbell and Shannon Andersen with their daughters. Picture – Facebook.

“As a devoted family man, he brings that same dedication to his role as a loving father.

“What stands out even more is Campbell’s unwavering positive outlook, a beacon of light even in the face of adversity.

“His readiness to give, be it a smile or a helping hand, is a testament to the generous spirit we all admire. Campbell’s affection for his family is palpable, especially when he speaks about his wife.

Campbell and Shannon Andersen. Picture – Facebook.

“Even in the midst of the recent incident, he couldn’t help but introduce her to everyone around. His love for his wife shines through, highlighting the importance of family in Campbell’s life.”

You can support Mr Andersen here.

The Andersen family has been contacted for comment.