DROWNED FATHER'S COURAGE PRAISED

Chronicle (Levin), 14 January 1948, Page 3

DROWNED FATHER'S COURAGE PRAISED

WELLINGTON, Jan. 13. A tiibute to the eourage of Dr. A. B. F. Maekay who was drowned after rescuing his daughter Yalerie Mackay from the surf at Baumati South bn Sunday, was paid today by a- former Anstralian surf lifesaver who took part . in the iescue. The man, who- chose to remain anonymous, said: fDr. Mackay was a very brave man. He made no attempt to save kimself but tried to hold his daughter out of the water." He said he was dressed at the time and sitting on the beach when he saw Yalerie Maekay apparently in difficulties a long way out in tlie water. By the time he reached the girl Dr. Maekay, who was obviously tiring, was supporting her. The girl had her arms round her father 's neck and each time a wave swept over thein Dr. Mackay went under attempting to hold her up. The man said he took Yalerie Mackay and returned 'towards the beach with her. At the time there was a very heavy undertow and it took 10 minutes to reach the beach. As thejnan went out to help the girl 's father, Dr. Mackay disappeared from view. The man kimself was then tiring and he turned back towards the beach which he reached in an exhausted condition. The search for Dr. Mackay 's body eontinued today without suceess. It is believed the body was carried out to sea and may not be brougkt ashore for some time.