THE teenage surfers who tried to save their friend after he was mauled by a shark have been nominated for a Pride of Australia bravery award.
Lindsy Isaac, 14, Kurt Gillan, 18, and Shayden Schrader, 15, paddled straight to the aid of Zac Young after he was attacked off Coffs Harbour.
“It was just so quick. We rushed towards him and Kurt Gillan brought him in while I paddled as quick as I could to shore to get help,” Lindsy said at the time. “It’s the scariest thing I’ve ever done.”
The three were nominated for an outstanding bravery medal by Channel 10 reporter Ellie Southwood.
“They were so far out, the paddle in took 15 minutes. The whole time, they knew a shark was lurking,” she said.
Zac, 19, a devout Christian from Port Macquarie, died from blood loss despite their valiant attempts to save him and was later farewelled at a celebration of his life that was attended by more than 1200 people.
The Pride of Australia Medal is a celebration of those who inspire us all and provides the chance to recognise someone who makes you proud.
