The community of Mount Isa is rallying together to support the family of Lukas Orda, who remains missing off the coast of Japan.
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Lukas Orda had recently landed a job as a veterinarian in the live export sector, and was onboard the Gulf Livestock 1 ship that capsized in Typhoon Maysak on Wednesday September 2.
Lukas Orda's parents reside in Mount Isa, and work at the North West Hospital and Health Service.
NWHHS acting chief executive officer Dr Karen Murphy said their thoughts and prayers were with Uli, Sabine and their family.
"It is with a heavy heart that I hear the news that the young vet missing at sea as a result of the sinking of a cattle transporter ship off the coast of Japan is the son of much loved North West Hospital and Health Service staff members, Dr Uli and Sabine Orda," Dr Murphy said.
"The North West Hospital and Health Service join them in holding on to hope he will be found."
KAP leader and Traeger MP Robbie Katter also expressed his support to the Orda family.
"Lukas is a very high-achieving and well-regarded person, and he was an excellent student during his time growing up in Mount Isa," Mr Katter said.
"I am mindful of respecting the position his family and loved ones are in right now. We are all praying and hoping for good news."
The North West Star contacted the Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk for an update.
"We are aware of the tragic reports of two Australians missing off the capsized live cattle carrier in the South China Sea," Ms Palaszczuk senior media advisor said.
"I am advised that the Australian Government's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance to the families of the two Australian crew members."
A second crew member of the Gulf Livestock 1, has been rescued by the coastguard 120 km north-northwest of Amami Oshima island.
A life jacket and cattle carcass were also collected from the same area, as the search continues for 41 other crew members who remain missing.
Three vessels, one aeroplane and two divers were taking part in the search for the Gulf Livestock 1.
READ MORE: Second crew member of capsized ship found.
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Samantha Campbell
Samantha Campbell (nee Walton) has worked for regional and rural publications across New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory. She is currently writing for the North Queensland Register based in North West Queensland. Email: samantha.campbell@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Samantha Campbell (nee Walton) has worked for regional and rural publications across New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory. She is currently writing for the North Queensland Register based in North West Queensland. Email: samantha.campbell@austcommunitymedia.com.au
