Bystander borrows bodyboard to rescue two kids stuck in a rip at Blackmans Bay

A quick-thinking ‘heroic’ bystander borrowed a bodyboard and jumped in the water to rescue two kids swept away in a rip at Blackmans Bay. Here’s what happened.

The rocky shoreline at the northern end of Blackmans Bay Beach.

A bystander who jumped into action and rescued two children on a borrowed bodyboard has been praised for his “heroic” deed.

Surf Life Saving Tasmania general manager Alison Stubbs said they were alerted to the “near-miss” by Tasmania Police.

The incident occurred at Blackmans Bay on Wednesday afternoon, when a group of children swimming near the rocks were caught in a strong rip current.

Ms Stubbs said she understands the “heroic” bystander was in the carpark at the time and borrowed a bodyboard to swim out to assist when he noticed the incident.

The man then used his experience as a surfer to swim out and rescue the two children who were “shaken but thankfully unharmed”.

Surf Lifesaving Saving Tasmania said it was a timely reminder to stay safe and be prepared at the beach ahead of the long weekend.

“This heroic rescue is a timely reminder to be prepared, ahead of the long weekend,” SLS Tasmania posted on Facebook.

The post encouraged people to know the risks in the water including how to spot a rip and what to do if caught, watch children and discuss with them what to do if they or a friend is in trouble, and help safely — only enter the water to assist if you are experienced and take flotation with you.