Actions speak louder than words for Triabunna teenager Declan Draper

TRIABUNNA teenager Declan Draper is a man of few words, but his actions speak loud and clear.

Jayden Silver, left, and Declan Darper, right, with Ann and Jim McCreary after they helped rescue the 85-year-old man from his submerged car. Picture: SAM ROSEWARNE

TRIABUNNA teenager Declan Draper is a man of few words, but his actions speak loud and clear.

Declan and his mate Jayden Silver have been nominated for a Pride of Australia award for helping to save the life of 85-year-old Jim McCreary, who had accidentally driven off a Triabunna wharf in June.

Declan and Jayden jumped into action, helping Mr McCreary to break free from his Subaru wagon and escape the cold water.

It is the second time Declan has been nominated for the award — he earned a Pride of Australia Medal in 2013, after he saved a disability pensioner who had slipped and fallen into a freezing Lake Leake. Allan Fazackerly believed he could have died but for the actions of Declan that night.

The 16-year-old was happy to have been again nominated for News Corp’s annual community recognition awards.

“I’m pretty proud,” Declan said.

He is just like any other teenager — outside of saving stricken men from freak aquatic accidents. His hobbies include fishing and camping.

The possibility of earning a second Pride of Australia nomination was not a motivating factor when he saw Mr McCreary in trouble.

“It was the last thing [on my mind],” he said.

Do you know a local hero who deserves to be recognised? Nominate them now at prideofaustralia.com.au