Hero North Steyne surf lifesaver Yao Xen Tan awarded for rescue of woman at Manly

JUST five years ago Yao Xen Tan had never seen an Australian Beach. Now the Malaysian-born surf lifesaver is set to recieve a national award for a dramatic rescue.

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JUST five years ago Yao Xen Tan had never seen an Australian Beach. Now the North Steyne Surf Life Saving Club member is set to be the recipient of a national award, following a heroic rescue last month.

North Steyne surf lifesaver Yao Xen involved in a heroic rescue last month.

Mr Tan, 18, showed incredible skill and composure to help save the life of a middle-aged woman, who had been struggling in the surf just south of North Steyne SLSC.

After two surfers brought the woman ashore, Mr Tan — who is originally from Malaysia and moved to Australia when he was 13 — put the woman on her side and commenced CPR.

Mr Tan was assisted by a nurse to help the woman, who was frothing at the mouth.

The rescue occured at North Steyne Beach Pic: Annika Enderborg

Mr Tan was soon joined by two Manly Life Saving Club members — Nigel Kassulke and Michele Kay — who also assisted with CPR.

The humble-mannered young clubbie said he was just doing what was “necessary”.

“I’m happy I was able to help but I wouldn't say I was proud — for me it was really doing what was necessary,” he said.

“I wasn’t calm for the first two minutes, I was freaking out because I didn’t want her to die on me ... but I knew I had to start CPR.”

Mr Tan grew up in Kuala Lumpur, which is a long way from Australia’s iconic surf beaches.

Mr Tan — who was introduced to surf lifesaving through a program at his Cremorne-based school, Redlands — praised his club for their support.

The three lifesavers will be presented with a national surf lifesaving rescue award in June.