Search and Rescue – East Arnhem

Northern Territory Police have praised the actions taken by a family after their vehicle became bogged in a remote part of East Arnhem Land over the Easter break.

The two adults and five children aged between 5 and 15 years, were scheduled to arrive from Gapuwiyak to a homeland community near Blue Mud Bay on Wednesday 31 March. The family had advised community members of their travel plans and their intention to confirm when they had arrived at their destination. They failed to make contact and police were alerted early on Friday 2 April.

A ground search commenced, however, due to poor road conditions the search was postponed until first light on Saturday when aircraft could be deployed. Using a chartered helicopter from Jabiru, the family was found safe and well late on Saturday morning. They had camped next to their bogged vehicle, waiting for rescue.

Superintendent Brendan Muldoon said, “The family has done the right thing by informing the community of their travel plans, staying by their vehicle and traveling with adequate food and water supplies. I commend all parties involved in the search and rescue and am always pleased when these dangerous situations end with a positive result.”

PFES Media
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