The Westpac Rescue Helicopter medically evacuated a crew member from the P&O Australia cruise ship, Pacific Adventure, who was in urgent need of medical assistance on land. The rescue occurred approximately 20 nautical miles east of Newcastle, New South Wales.

"A man on the ship was suffering from a medical condition that required a NSW Ambulance critical care paramedic and an NSW Health doctor to be winched on board the vessel. The patient was stabilized before being winched into the helicopter and transported to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle," the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service said on social media.

The passengers and crew praised the aircrew and medical team for their role in ensuring the mission could be undertaken safely, allowing the patient to receive the necessary medical treatment.

Our prayers go out to that crew member, and we wish him a speedy recovery.