Coast Guard Medevac of Crew Member from Pacific Adventure: Incident on 21 April 2024

On 21 April 2024, a critical medical evacuation was performed for a male crew member aboard the cruise vessel Pacific Adventure, approximately 23 miles east of Newcastle, NSW, shortly after the ship's departure from Sydney. The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service responded swiftly, airlifting the patient to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle for emergency care.

The evacuation occurred at the start of a scheduled 4-day Tasmania cruise itinerary. The rapid coordination between ship staff, the rescue helicopter service, and NSW Health ensured the crew member received prompt medical attention.

The medevac was initiated due to a severe medical condition experienced by the crew member. The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, operating from Lake Macquarie Airport in Newcastle, responded immediately. A critical care paramedic from NSW Ambulance and a doctor from NSW Health were deployed aboard the helicopter. The medical team stabilized the patient before airlifting him to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle for further treatment.

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• 1 crew member with severe medical condition requiring emergency evacuation.

Rescued

• 1 crew member airlifted to John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, based at Lake Macquarie Airport, deployed a critical care paramedic from NSW Ambulance and a doctor from NSW Health. The patient was stabilized by the medical team and airlifted to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle. The coordination between cruise ship staff, the rescue helicopter service, and local health services ensured rapid response and appropriate medical care.

The crew member was transported to John Hunter Hospital for emergency treatment. The Pacific Adventure continued its scheduled 4-day Tasmania cruise itinerary following the evacuation.