He may be the West Coast’s hero, but Harley Reid was humbled by 13-year-old Austin Appelbee as the Eagles star paid tribute to his lifesaving efforts.

Appelbee captured headlines around the world after he swam more than two hours and 4km to shore to alert authorities and save his mother and two siblings after they were swept out to sea on a paddleboard in WA’s south west.

Invited to Channel Seven’s AFL Origin countdown event, Appelbee said he still isn’t quite sure how he pulled off the miracle.

“It was more like oh my gosh, how was I on the beach right now? ‘ It was such a tough swim. I’m there, and then I have a decision to hit the ground running,” he said.

“Look, it’s been an awesome couple of weeks after, but it was hard recovering, obviously, I was in the crutches for a couple of days and in the wheelchair.”

Austin’s mother, Joanne, 12-year-old brother Beau and eight-year-old sister Grace were saved about 10 hours after they entered the water.

His father, Justin, said he couldn’t be prouder of his entire family.

“There are no words to describe how proud I am of him and all the family because they were all in a very tough situation, and they all hung in there and saw the job through,” he said.

An avid West Coast fan, Appelbee was given a signed jumper from Reid, who said his efforts have been inspiring for the Eagles players.

“All the boys are super proud of you and your efforts; it’s incredible to do that,” he said.

“It’s incredible, it’s the talk of the town and talk of the world, so you should be very proud of yourself and the sacrifice you made for family.

“I can’t swim in the club pool, so you’ve done an incredible job.”

Reid also invited Appelbee to tour the club facilities and meet with more of his Eagles fans.

Australians are being urged to nominate Austin Appelbee for a bravery medal after listening to the teenager’s emergency call that saved his mother and siblings.