Be ship-shape not ship-faced this weekend

Members from the Water Police Section are urging young Territorians to plan carefully ahead of this weekend’s Sandbar party.

Police were disappointed with the actions of those who attended the event last year, after the rising tide caught them unaware and they had to make an emergency evacuation.

With a limited number of vessels available there were serious concerns about overloading, which resulted in attending police calling for additional resources.

Acting Senior Sergeant Anthony Clarke said: “Our members will be out and about this weekend on the water and will be conducting marine safety compliance checks on all vessels heading to the event and out on Darwin Harbour.

“Vessels that are not compliant with the safety requirements may be directed off the water and the skippers of those vessels may be fined.

“Water Police would like to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all persons using our waterways and those who may be travelling to and attending the Sandbar party.

“Our wish is for everyone to have a fun day out, but to also to be mindful of their own safety and those around them.”

/Public Release. View in full here.