Flare leads to rescue of man in boat stuck in mud
29/08/2023
Australia’s Northern Territory Police rescued a man in a boat stuck in the mud near Point Stuart after he fired a flare.
The police searched near the mouth of Tommy Cut Creek one morning in August after the 31-year-old man failed to arrive at Wurrumiyanga Community on Bathurst Island.
An extensive land and sea search was conducted with the assistance of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, Wurrumiyanga Police, Northern Territory Police Airwing, Nautilus Aviation and a commercial fishing vessel.
In the afternoon, another recreational fisherman located the man in his boat stuck in the mud after a marine safety flare was deployed. Police were notified, but he could not be immediately reached due to the low tide.
The Water Police Section and a Nautilus Aviation Helicopter subsequently 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 obtained while searching for food in the mangroves.
Officer in Charge Jakson Evans says, “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.”
Source and image: Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services
