FORMER Saints forward Sia Soliola had to be rescued from the water during a pre-season surfing session in Australia.

The New Zealand-born player endured a moment of panic as he got lost in the water on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland while on a pre-season camp with NRL club Canberra Raiders.

Sia and his teammates were taking in a mock competition against local 'nippers' (Surf Lifesavers).

However, things took a dramatic turn as the ex-Saints man lost his bearings in the water.

With his teammates not aware of how serious his situation was, the former Kiwi and Samoan international had to be rescued.

Sia took to Instagram after his ordeal to thank his rescuer.

"So heroes like this legend here, can save silly rocks like me," he posted. "All smiles now. But if the water didn’t kill me. My mum definitely will now".

Sia became a firm fans favourite in his five seasons at Saints and scored a try against Wigan in his farewell appearance in the 2014 Super League Grand Final win.