Trio awarded for trying to save children in river tragedy

New Year’s Eve 2023 is a day that will forever haunt Lesley McCarthy, Russell McCarthy, and James Dean.

Lesley and Russell were enjoying a walk along the Burswood foreshore that afternoon when they spotted two children floating face-up in the water. They immediately alerted those around them and entered the water to retrieve the children.

James, who was also by the river, saw the commotion as the children were pulled from the water. He rushed to assist and joined the efforts to provide first aid to the children.

Through the chaos and distress of the family members, the three of them administered CPR to the two children for around 15 minutes until paramedics arrived.

Despite their heroic actions, the children – a six-year-old boy and a four-year-old girl – tragically did not survive.

The courageous and selfless response of Lesley, Russell and James in this dire situation reflects the highest standards of compassion and commitment to saving lives. They were each awarded a Royal Life Saving Gold Medallion Bravery Award for their actions.

James, who is a senior officer with the Department of Justice and has advanced first aid training, is regularly involved in first aid situations in his line of work but has never encountered an incident involving young children.

“It’s a strange feeling,” he says. “Whilst I am extremely humbled and proud to be nominated for the award, it’s heartbreaking the children did not pull through. I would give anything to be able to bring those children back.”

“It was pure instinct that we sprang into action,” said Russell. “Everything happened so fast and there was no time to think other than doing everything we can to help the kids.”

Lesley agreed, saying, “there was no thinking involved; it was an automatic response based on the circumstances.” As a primary school teacher, Lesley has undergone first aid training and says it’s important to always try to help.

“I feel proud of Russell and myself for trying our hardest to bring these children back,” she said. “I think it is always important to try and assist. It may not change the outcome, but it might. Also, knowing that you have tried to do everything you can is important.”