A 17-year-old boy who survived six days lost in dense bushland has been brought to tears by the ultimate surprise – a personal video message from his football hero, Collingwood captain Darcy Moore.
“G’day William, it’s Darcy Moore here, mate. What an unbelievable, scary journey you’ve been on,” the Pies captain said in the video message sent to the teenager as he recovers in hospital.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Teen survivor receives message from football hero
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“And that just made him cry, because these guys here, these are his inspiration,” William’s mother Elizabeth Barkley said.
The teenager spent six days lost in dense bushland, most of them stranded on a rocky riverbed, before rescue crews found him alive.
His remarkable survival story has captured hearts not just in Australia, but around the world.
“I’m shocked with the international attention. I’m like, oh my God, it’s like, you know, you’ve got UK, even the New York Times,” Barkley said.
William was found after six days in Victoria’s high country. Credit: 7NEWSCollingwood captain Darcy Moore sent him a video. Credit: 7NEWS
But Will isn’t fazed by his newfound attention. After only eating two packets of chips for almost a week, he’s got other things on his mind.
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“He was dying for some lollies and chocolates. So I said, you can get what you want at the moment, milk it up,” his mother said.
It’s not quite home time yet for Will. After spending six days out in the elements, doctors want to keep him under observation for the rest of the weekend.
His mum says he broke down in tears over Moore’s video. Credit: 7NEWSWilliam has also been craving some sweets. Credit: 7NEWS
But when he does get the all clear, there’ll be no shortage of hugs from family and friends eagerly waiting his return.
“He just can’t wait to get back to the footy club. See all his mates there. Because footy is his passion. It’s his love. Go Pies,” Barkley said.
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