Medals for Oz rescuers

NINE Australians involved in the Thai cave rescue will receive medals from GovernorGeneral Sir Peter Cosgrove to honour their efforts.

Those to be acknowledged at a ceremony today include Dr Richard “Harry” Harris, Craig Challen and Chief Petty Officer Troy Eather.

The medals will be presented at a reception at Government House in Canberra, also involving Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Opposition Leader Bill Shorten.

It will be the first time the rescuers have been reunited since returning to Australia on July 13.

Mr Turnbull has previously described the effort to rescue 12 boys and their 25-year-old soccer coach as one of the most extraordinary acts of heroism, professionalism, discipline and teamwork.

Adelaide anaesthetist Dr Harris and his dive partner, retired Perth vet Mr Challen, were among an international team of experts who freed the boys and their soccer coach.

Also heavily involved was Chief Petty Officer Eather, a Royal Australian Navy clearance diving team specialist liaison officer.

Thailand’s ambassador to Australia, Australia’s ambassador to Thailand, the acting Chief of the Defence Force, acting Australian Federal Police Commissioner and other government representatives will be attending.