The Northern Territory Police have rescued a man after a search and rescue operation near the mouth of Tommy Cut Creek this morning.
On Monday 7 August 2023, the 31-year-old man left Buffalo Creek Boat Ramp in a 5 metre vessel, heading for Wurrumiyanga Community on Bathurst Island.
Yesterday morning, police received reports that the man had failed to arrive at Wurrumiyanga.
Water Police Section conducted an extensive land and sea search with the assistance of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, Wurrumiyanga Police, Northern Territory Police Airwing, Nautilus Aviation and a commercial fishing vessel.
Yesterday afternoon, another recreational fishermen located the man in his vessel, on the mud near the mouth of Tommy Cut Creek after a marine safety flare was deployed. Police were notified that he was located; however, it was established that he could not be rescued due to the low tide.
This morning, the Water Police Section and a Nautilus Aviation Helicopter attended the location and rescued the man.
He was flown to Darwin and taken by St John Ambulance to Royal Darwin Hospital for observation with mild exposure and a snake bite that he obtained while searching for food in the mangroves the second night.
Officer in Charge Jakson Evans said “This was a fantastic result but also a timely reminder for those who intend to go out on Territory waterways to remember:
• All vessels should be sea worthy and comply with all water safety laws.
• Each vessel should have a registered EPIRB that is up to date
• Appropriate safety gear must be on board and in good condition.
• All vessels should have adequate water and food supplies in case of an emergency.
• Let your family and friends know where you are going and when you plan on coming back.
