THE captain and crew of Goundar Shipping Limited’s Lomaiviti Princess 12 (LP12) have been honoured for their swift response in rescuing six medical personnel from Lakeba last week, with both the Fiji Government and the company recognising the operation as a testament to their courage.
A traditional presentation was held to acknowledge the captain and crew, attended by Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Mosese Bulitavu, Minister for Health and Medical Services Atonio Lalabalavu and staff from the Office of the Commissioner Eastern Division.
In a statement, the Fiji Government said the ceremony recognised “the courage, professionalism and selfless service demonstrated by the captain and crew, whose timely response ensured the safe return of the medical team”.
The Government said the rescue also underscored the importance of strong partnerships between Government agencies and the private sector.
“It demonstrated that by working together, agencies are better able to respond to emergencies, overcome logistical challenges and ensure critical services continue to reach rural and maritime communities when they are needed most,” the statement said.
Goundar Shipping Limited thanked the public for the support shown to the captain and crew following the rescue.
“We would like to sincerely thank everyone for the overwhelming support, kind words, prayers, and messages of appreciation shown to the captain and crew of Lomaiviti Princess 12. Your encouragement and recognition are deeply appreciated,” the company said.
The company also praised the medical team for their “courage, strength, determination and commitment” despite the rough sea conditions, while urging the public to continue praying for the survivors’ recovery.
Goundar Shipping said the captain and crew had “played only a small part” in the rescue, adding that it believed “our Great Lord Almighty… guided the vessel, protected everyone involved, and made this rescue possible.”
