Potter Mania: Saved after braving icy lake for stub

SYDNEY - An avid Harry Potter fan had to be rescued from the frigid waters of Canberra's Lake Burley Griffin after dropping a pre-purchase receipt for the new book into the water.

The 21-year-old dived into the water after dropping the receipt, which provides proof that he - like many other fans wanting to ensure they were one of the first to read the book - had ordered a copy.

A security guard helped him from the lake when he was found splashing around searching for his receipt.

ACT Emergency Services agency manager Darren Cutrupi said paramedics arrived at the lake to find the man shivering in a distressed state without his receipt.

"He was stabilised on scene suffering from suspected mild hypothermia."

The man was taken to hospital and it is believed a doctor made contact with the book store that issued the voucher and arranged for a replacement in time for Saturday morning's release.

- AAP