Rosebud, Victoria — An off-duty police officer has been hailed a hero after rescuing two people struggling in the water at Rosebud Pier on Sunday afternoon.
Senior Constable Frank Ferreria, who was walking with his family around 4:10pm, noticed a 15-year-old boy in distress in the water. The teenager, from Traralgon, had little to no swimming experience and had entered the water with a 31-year-old man, also from Traralgon, who attempted to assist him.
As both began to drift and swallow water, Senior Constable Ferreria—an experienced swimmer—reacted immediately. Fully clothed, he jumped from the pier and swam out to reach the pair. He successfully pulled both individuals back to the pier, where they were assessed by Ambulance Victoria paramedics.
Emergency responders said that without Ferreria’s quick intervention, the outcome could have been fatal.
After the incident, Ferreria quietly returned home to prepare for his regular overnight shift patrolling the Glen Waverley area.
“I saw some people in trouble and it’s just instinct to dive in there and try to help,” he said.
Senior Sergeant Rachel Jones praised Ferreria’s actions and humility:
“He’s incredibly humble and has turned up to work this evening like nothing has happened, going about his regular duties to keep the community safe.”
Victoria Police has used the incident to remind the public of the importance of water safety, urging people to be aware of their swimming abilities and local conditions when entering open water.
