Recovering athletes who had participated in a surf ironmen and ironwomen competition have sprung into action and saved 25 swimmers from a rip.
A group of 10 participants, coaches and competitors grabbed boards and rescue tubes when the swimmers were spotted struggling about 100 metres offshore and 300m from the competition area in Maroubra.
The swimmers were stabilised by the responding group before inflatable rescue boats arrived and escorted them safely to shore.
No injuries were reported.
The incident was an important reminder that conditions could change rapidly, Wayne Druery from Surf Lifesaving Australia said.
"Today, not only did these swimmers benefit from the great skills of patrolled lifesavers and lifeguards on the beach, but also our elite ironmen and ironwomen," he said.
"Our athletes didn't hesitate to put their lifesaving training into action and as a result, all swimmers in trouble were returned safely to their families."
