The Bishop of South Sydney Robert Forsyth is in a satisfactory condition in hospital on Norfolk Island after suffering a heart attack during a week long visit.

The island, which is covered by the South Sydney region, is about 1600 kilometres east north east of Sydney.

The Bishop, who was on an official visit, was out walking on Friday when he felt faint and sat down to rest.

A passer-by stopped to ask whether Bishop Forsyth was alright.

The man turned out to be the Island’s ambulance officer and he drove the Bishop to hospital immediately.

It’s believed he suffered an attack while on the way to the medical centre.

Speaking to sydneyanglicans.net from his hospital bed, Bishop Forsyth said he didn’t lose consciousness and was in hospital within 10 minutes.

“I’m very thankful that he came along, I shudder to think what might have happened if there had been no-one there.”

Bishop Forsyth, who’ll be 60 next year, says he’s grateful for the many people who’ve been praying for his health.

“I’m a little embarrased to cause all this trouble. People here have been very kind and I’m getting the best of care. I hope to be back in Sydney as soon as I’m given a clearance to travel.”

It may be at least a week until Bishop Forsyth returns to the mainland.