Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services are praising the behaviour of the 10,000 plus people who attended the Finke Desert Race in Central Australia during the long weekend.
It is estimated 3000 people made their way to the start/finish line each day, and upwards of 10,000 people opted to camp within the area during the off-road event.
“Firstly I want to acknowledge the tragic circumstances of the weekend in which a spectator lost his life,” said Commander of the Southern Command, Craig Laidler.
“Our thoughts are with the man’s family and friends during this difficult time, and with the other people who were injured in the incident yesterday.”
“I want to commend the police officers and first responders who I worked alongside, in difficult circumstances, for their dedication and professionalism.”
“Each year members of the Police, Fire and Emergency Services work tirelessly with other dedicated front line services to ensure the safety of not just the local community, but of the thousands of visitors who travel to Alice Springs to attend the event. This year was no different.”
“Fire crews ensured there was a dedicated Rapid Response vehicle to respond to any incidents alongside the track. Emergency Services maintained a presence at Deep Well, police breath tested more than 1200 people during the three days and disappointingly we detected eight drink drivers and five people driving under the influence of drugs,” said Cmdr Laidler
The challenging return of 406 motorbike competitors from Finke back to Alice Springs was undertaken yesterday after the bike leg of the race was cancelled following the fatal crash.
