An Australian television reporter has described the terror of watching a man nearly drown after he helped rescue the driver of a car caught in floodwater. Will Murray, a journalist with the public broadcaster the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, spoke on Friday about the incident, which happened the previous day in Queensland.
Murray said it was terrifying to watch someone almost drown, but added that “there are few better feelings” than saving a person’s life.
Driver pulled from car moments before it sank
Murray was reporting on flooding north of Brisbane on Thursday when a man drove a four-wheel drive through floodwater. The vehicle stalled and began to sink. Murray and bystander Daniel Hainey swam out to the car and pulled the driver out, moments before it was completely submerged.
Murray said he could understand why some people freeze in such situations, describing it as horrifying to watch someone in distress.
Hundreds of distress calls across south-east Queensland
Murray did not get the survivor’s name or number, but said he hoped the man was doing well. He recalled sharing a big hug after the rescue, calling it one of the best moments of his life.
Emergency services in south-east Queensland responded to hundreds of distress calls on Thursday and Friday. More than 200 mm (7.9 inches) of rain caused flash flooding that closed roads and schools.
