Croc attack twins visit crocodile conservation project

When Georgia Laurie saved her twin sister Melissa’s life by punching a crocodile in the face, it was surely unlikely either would have wanted to see another one again.

But five years on, the pair are visiting a crocodile conservation project in Central America.

“We were just hoping that the very thing that put us into survival mode for so long was going to be the thing that took us out of survival mode. It’s been a difficult five years,” Melissa said.

The 33-year-olds from Sandhurst, Berkshire, were swimming in Mexico when Melissa was dragged underwater by the crocodile in June 2021. She contracted sepsis after wounds to her stomach and legs became infected.

They are visiting a Crocodile Research Coalition project in Belize, run by the non-profit organisation which seeks to promote the conservation of crocodiles and their habitats in the Caribbean and Central America.

“It’s such a weird feeling. I can’t believe that we are here now,” Georgia told BBC Breakfast.

“We have come so far in our healing journey. [Trauma is] a very difficult thing for anyone to go through.

“If you are going through it, please know there is a light at the end of the tunnel and that you can do these positive things after that.”

Georgia attended a special investiture at Buckingham Palace with Melissa to collect a bravery medal from the King in December 2024.

She was one of those recognised in his first Civilian Gallantry List which rewarded people’s exemplary bravery.

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