Rio Tinto diverted a bulk carrier to Weipa instead of Amrun so the cook on a bulk carrier could receive medical attention. Picture: File Image
A FILIPINO cook on a bulk carrier bound for Amrun can thank Rio Tinto for going above and beyond to ensure he received urgent medical care.
The 57-year-old suffered a suspected stroke on board the vessel Maizuru Kichijo as it was transiting between China and Australia.
The ship’s captain tried to get him treatment while steaming past Indonesia, but it was deemed that Weipa would be the best place for him to receive care.
Federal authorities made the arrangements with Rio Tinto, which organised the ship to be sent into the Port of Weipa, rather than Amrun.
“Lorim Point was identified as the quickest available option to allow for the safe disembarkation of the crew member into medical care, with the assistance of local emergency services, and the vessel was redirected there,” a Rio Tinto spokesperson said.
“The crew member was transferred to Weipa Hospital by ambulance and then to Cairns the next day via RFDS.
“We thank QAS and RFDS for their quick action.”
The man was in a stable condition at the time of writing.
