The Mid West Ports Authority have performed a textbook recovery of a man found in distress near Point Moore and Pages Beach late yesterday.

While piloting the ship Ocean Glory out to sea at about 5.30pm, a VHF radio call was raised by Geraldton Sea Rescue for any boats in the area to assist with reports of a man on a surf ski in distress.

Realizing the winds would soon increase, seas would rise and darkness was not far away, the Ocean Glory pilot contacted the crew aboard the Pilot Boat Glengary to see if they could assist.

Glengary called Geraldton Sea Rescue and informed them they would conduct a search, when a sharp-eyed engineer on the tug boat Wajarri noticed a person on a surf ski well away from the search area.

The pilot boat went to investigate and discovered the missing man, who was so exhausted he could no longer paddle.

Marine Pilot Ross Halsall said the man was at the mercy of the wind and waves.

“The Pilot Boat crew of Greg Normington and Travis Keeffe effected a text book recovery, using the man overboard recovery platform on the stern of the boat, while maneuvering with the remote-control system from the back of the boat,” he said.

“The very lucky man was returned to the Port where he was met by Wharf Supervisor Phil Patience and a security officer who provided him with towels, warm cloths and water.

“Without a radio, lights or flares, increasing winds and night approaching, had he not been found when he was, his situation could have been very bad.”

“Congratulations to all from Mid West Ports, who’s professionalism was simply outstanding.”

The port also coordinated with Geraldton Police, who first received the report and notified sea rescue.