Search and Rescue – Marine in Darwin

At approximately 10:00pm last night, Police were made aware of a small sailing vessel which failed to return to shore after setting sail from the Darwin Sailing Club approximately 11:00am yesterday morning.

Police with the assistance of the CareFlight helicopter, commenced a search operation late last night utilising Night Vision equipment which continued until this morning.

Just before 8:00am this morning, a passing livestock carrier reported they lad located two people in the water clinging to a vessel near the Darwin Harbour outer limits.

A police vessel was dispatched from Cullen Bay and has located a 49yo male, 15yo male and the capsized vessel. At this time it is not believed these persons have suffered any injuries.

Sergeant John Pini from the Water Police Section said; “While these two boaties have been very lucky, it could have had a tragic outcome. Having an appropriate form of communication while out on the water is vital to ensure that if prevailing conditions change, you can seek assistance where required “

/Public Release. View in full here.