Zayde Taylor – QLD

On 11 April 2021 at Peregian Beach on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, three young surfers saw two men caught in a strong rip current beyond the breakers and calling for help. Carter Bourke paddled towards the man in distress and used his surfboard as a flotation aid to support him in the water. Zayde Taylor joined him, helping to stabilise and guide the man through the rip towards the beach.

Meanwhile, Jai Taylor remained further out to signal for lifeguard assistance, then ran to alert the lifesavers and directed them to the scene. All three boys then returned to assist lifesavers with the search for a second man who had disappeared beneath the surface.

The rescue took place in unpatrolled surf with a strong rip that had already proved fatal to an adult swimmer. Acting without adult direction or safety equipment, the boys entered the water in hazardous conditions and displayed exceptional composure, teamwork and preparedness beyond their years. Their actions ensured one life was saved and enabled an immediate emergency response for the second victim.

For bravery in hazardous surf conditions involving a significant degree of personal risk, The Royal Humane Society of Australasia awards Zayde Taylor the Bronze Medal.

In addition, Zayde Taylor will also receive the Rupert Wilks Trophy, awarded to a child aged twelve years or under at the time of the incident. This annual award, established in 1952 by the Wilks family in honour of their son Rupert, continues to recognise young Australians whose courage and presence of mind inspire others.