A Port Controller at the Port of Lautoka has been commended for his effort and exemplary performance that saved four people who were stranded near Lautoka Port (at sea) last month.

Apenisa Dawai received special recognition from the management of Fiji Ports Corporation Limited (FPCL) after they learned of his spirited act from a letter of appreciation received from Mr James Alagappan, a Course Director at the Fulton Adventist University College in Sabeto.

Mr Alagappan and his wife were accompanied by two others when the engine of the vessel they were travelling in failed on Sunday, April 21.

Mr Dawai was on duty on the night when he received the call over the radio.

“His constant reassurance gave us hope and encouraged us to keep paddling to shore. Due to his tireless efforts, we were rescued that night,” Mr Alagappan stated in the letter.

“Upon our arrival at the Vuda Marina, Ben (Mr Dawai) also travelled from Lautoka Port to Vuda Marina to check on our status and to ensure that we were taken care of. We very much appreciate his care and concern for our well-being.”

FPCL chief executive officer Vajira Piyasena said Mr Dawai performed extremely well beyond his role as a Port Controller in going the extra mile in ensuring that those he had assisted were alright.

“We are proud of your courageous, spirited act and the sacrifices you made to ensure they received the much-needed help,” Mr Piyasena told Mr Dawai.

Mr Dawai has been with FPCL for almost seven years after joining the organisation in 2012 as a Wharf Attendant before moving across to the Harbour Master’s Office as the Port Controller.

A Port Controller is also known as a vessel traffic controller and is responsible for the coordination of ships within the port or harbour. He ensures collisions or incidents are avoided by managing movements from the port control centre.