Senator the Hon Marise Payne
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The Hon Christopher Pyne MP
24 Aug 18
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Related ministers and contacts
Senator the Hon Marise Payne
Minister for Defence
Media contact
- Henry Budd (Minister Payne’s office) 0429 531 143
- Defence Media (02) 6127 1999
Release content
11 July 2018
We join with the people of Thailand in celebrating the rescue of all 12 boys and their coach who have been safely evacuated from the flooded cave in Chiang Rai, Thailand.
The Thai authorities have demonstrated outstanding leadership throughout the rescue operation, working tirelessly to bring the team to safety.
The rescue mission was made possible by a remarkable example of international cooperation. Under the leadership of the Royal Thai Navy Seals, rescue crews from Australia, China, the United Kingdom and the United States have worked in close partnership to ensure the safe return of the boys and their coach.
The dangers of the mission were underscored by the tragic death of the former Royal Thai Navy SEAL, Petty Officer 1st Class Saman Kunan. The Australian Government sends its condolences to his family.
Australia has played an integral role in this unprecedented operation. We congratulate all of those involved, including Dr Richard Harris and his dive partner Craig Challen, as well as our Australian Federal Police divers and personnel from the Australian Defence Force and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade who provided logistics and planning expertise.
Australia has been proud to work with Thailand and other countries to achieve this extraordinary outcome.