The Australian doctor who was the last man out of the Thai cave has praised the young footballers whose ordeal sparked the rescue.

Adelaide anaesthetist Dr Richard Harris is mourning the death of his father, after being informed of his death shortly after the daring rescue mission wrapped up last night.

Dr Harris was the man tasked with giving the medical all-clear for each evacuation and decided what order the boys would leave the cave in.

He was part of a team of 20 Australians involved in the Thai-led rescue effort and has been described as an integral part of the rescue.

But speaking to Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull via FaceTime, Dr Harris said the “big heroes” were the 12 children themselves, and the Thai Navy SEAL divers who looked after them in the cave.

more at abc.net.au