“PORTY” is one of the lucky ones.

The juvenile green sea turtle is among the newest residents of Reef HQ Aquarium’s Turtle Hospital as he fights to overcome bacterial pneumonia and kidney complications.

Both afflictions are common among marine turtle species seen at the hospital.

Porty was found struggling in waters off the Port of Townsville’s Berth 1 in August.

But luckily for the plucky turtle, Port maintenance staff worked quickly to collect him from the ocean and he was rushed to Reef HQ Aquarium for treatment.

Turtle Hospital staff said Porty would have likely died within weeks had he not been rescued.

But after some TLC and a series of antibiotics, the estimated 10-year-old’s future now looks bright.

Port of Townsville Limited environment manager Peter Smith said staff had been buoyed by Porty’s recovery.

He added the Port had donated $1250 to Reef HQ’s Turtle Hospital program to help current and future patients.

“His positive prognosis is wonderful news,” Mr Smith said.

“When Porty was first rescued the outcome seemed fairly touch-and-go.

“But we’re now looking forward to seeing his return into the wild.”

Mr Smith said it was encouraging workers had responded so quickly to Porty’s distress.

“Townsville has a very diverse ecosystem and one the Port is dedicated to protecting and managing,” he said.

“While it is unfortunate Porty required assistance, it is encouraging that his need was recognised quickly and that staff are working under our environmental policies to actively pursue environmental benefits.

“Port of Townsville Limited has been here for more than 114 years and we see the management of the environment as a key aspect as we grow and move forward sustainably.”

Reef HQ Aquarium director Fred Nucifora said Porty was recovering well.

“Although we can’t be sure what caused the pneumonia, we will be monitoring Porty over the next few months to ensure he recovers fully,” he said.

Mr Nucifora stressed corporate support, like that given by Port of Townsville Limited, was vital to the hospital’s future.

“The provision of care and rehabilitation to sick and injured marine turtles is very resource intensive and the funding that the Turtle Hospital receives from the community and corporate partners such as Port of Townsville Limited is vitally important to the ongoing running of the facility,” he said.