23 June 2026

Swift emergency response saves four-year-old at Cannington Leisureplex

On a quiet Sunday afternoon at Cannington Leisureplex, a four-year-old boy was seen to get into difficulty in the water and began to drown.

Lifeguard Ashton Cridge immediately recognised the emergency and radioed a Code Blue (medical emergency) as he sprinted over to the child.

“As soon as I processed what was happening, my instincts and training took over,” said Ashton. “My mind was just replaying my training over and over which helped me to really focus on every aspect of the rescue.”

Tahlia Cappeluti recalls the moment she and fellow Duty Officer Caity Smith responded to Ashton’s radio call.

“At the time, everything happened so quickly that I didn’t have much time to think – it was mostly instinct and training kicking in. As soon as I heard Ashton’s radio call and realised it was a Code Blue, I knew exactly what I needed to do.

“I focused on getting the defib and oxygen straight away because I knew those were critical in a situation like this. When I arrived, Ashton had already begun CPR. After about 20 compressions, the child regained signs of life.”

Caity had radioed reception to call an ambulance, and she helped Ashton move the boy into the recovery position as he was convulsing and foaming at the mouth. She and Tahlia then worked to set up and apply the oxygen and monitor the boy until paramedics arrived.

Meanwhile, staff member Melissa Ellis and senior swim teacher Ethan Hunter worked to ensure the safety of the pool area, clear the pools and set up privacy screens.

The boy regained consciousness and was taken to hospital where he was released the following morning. The actions of the staff involved exemplify vigilance and lifesaving teamwork, and they were each honoured with Royal Life Saving Bravery Awards for their efforts.

“I was extremely proud of our response as a team and relieved with the positive outcome,” said Caity. “I’m honoured to be receiving the award and proud of the team and our efforts. Situations such as this can happen at any time or anywhere, even in more controlled environments such as the Leisureplex.”

And the team’s advice to others?

“Follow your training and instincts with your best effort,” says Ashton. “If you are going to do something you have to commit and put your all into it.”

“Trust your training and stay as calm as you can,” advises Tahlia. “In a high-pressure situation like this, it’s easy to panic but staying focused and taking it step by step really helps. Rely on your team, communicate clearly, and don’t be afraid to take action.”

L-R: Caity Smith, Ashton Cridge, Melissa Ellis, Tahlia Cappeluti (absent: Ethan Hunter)