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'Some moments of significant fear': Aussie doctor speaks of Thai cave rescue

Aussie hero diver Dr Richard Harris has spoken about moments of fear and elation during the epic three-day operation to free the 12 boys and their coach from the Thailand cave.

Our new national hero Dr Harris summed up his extraordinary mission for the first time from his home in Adelaide, saying the unprecedented rescue mission at Chiang Rai was a rollercoaster of emotions.

“Some moments of significant fear, I have to say, and then a great result and some really joyous moments to finish,” he said.

Australian Dr Richard Harris has returned home to Adelaide following the Thai cave rescue. Source AAP
Australian Dr Richard Harris has returned home to Adelaide following the Thai cave rescue. Source AAP

After playing a key role in helping the 12 trapped boys and their soccer coach, Dr Harris then had to cope with news his father had died back home.

“[That] was a bit of a bittersweet moment, and that’s why I’ve been grateful for everyone respecting my privacy,” he said.

“So I’m hoping to get back to work and go through the funeral and celebrate dad’s life and get back to normal as absolutely quickly as possible.”

Dr Richard Harris says he experienced moments of fear during Thai cave rescue. Source: 7 News
Dr Richard Harris says he experienced moments of fear during Thai cave rescue. Source: 7 News

Dr Harris is now favourite for Australian of the Year, while both he and diving mate Craig Challen could be eligible for our highest civilian honour, the Cross of Valour.

Also hoping to get back to normal are the rescued boys and their coach, who have also spoken today and thanked their rescue team.

Dr Richard Harris and his diving partner Craig Challen. Source: 7 News
Dr Richard Harris and his diving partner Craig Challen. Source: 7 News

Adul Sam, a Myanmar refugee, is the only boy who can speak English. He was first to communicate with British divers.

“I’m Adul. Now I am very fine and thank you so very help me,” he said.

“Thank you so much.”

Adul Sam-on, one of the 12 boys rescued from the flooded cave, thanks rescuers from his hospital room at Chiang Rai Prachanukroh Hospital. Source: Chiang Rai Prachanukroh Hospital via AP
Adul Sam-on, one of the 12 boys rescued from the flooded cave, thanks rescuers from his hospital room at Chiang Rai Prachanukroh Hospital. Source: Chiang Rai Prachanukroh Hospital via AP

The soccer team have also shown off drawings, made while recovering in isolation and still cut off from the world.

On Saturday, 4000 locals turned up to help clean around the cave site where it all began.

The site was the epicentre where the international team ran its operation. The locals say helping clean it up is a way to say “thank you” and be involved in the world event that took over their town.

They have plenty of praise for the Aussie effort, with one man in particular.

“We love Dr Harry,” one man told the 7 News camera.

A local woman added: “He is a hero.”