Izzy, a 60-year-old Flatback Turtle has swum back into the sunset off Port Douglas after an incredible rescue and rehabilitation mission.

Rescued by Wavelength Reef Cruises after Jon and Sue Marsden found her 3 miles offshore from  Port Douglas unable to dive and in distress, Izzy has overcome the odds thanks to the team at the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre.

Wavelength Master Reef Guide Tahn Miller has shared the story of the amazing rescue and rehabilitation efforts and on social media, the Wavelength Reef Cruises and Cairns Turtle Rehab pages.

WATCH THE VIDEO

“That’s the first flatback turtle I have ever seen in 15 years of working in these waters,’’ Tahn said.

“We actually saw two or three in those couple of days but to help one of those turtles is just something else.’’

It was a case of great teamwork from the Wavelength crew from the outset when Jon Marsden and his wife Sue, who captured the bulk of the footage used in the post, found the distressed turtle while on a private boat outing. Jon called his fellow Wavelength skipper John Edmonson for assistance, knowing the Wavelength Reef Cruise vessel was a better option for success in rescuing Izzy.

“Her journey was tough – six long weeks before she even ate due to a gut blockage!’’ Jon said in the video.

“But thanks to the phenomenal effort, loving care, and persistence of Jenny Gilbert and the entire team, Izzy slowly regained her strength.

“Four months later, after a hearty breakfast of 50 squid, she was ready for her grand return.

“Wavelength once again helped transport her back to Low Isles, and watching her literally swim off into the sunset was an absolutely beautiful and unforgettable moment.’’