On Saturday afternoon Police were alerted to a vessel in trouble by the Rescue Coordination Centre in Canberra.

An EPIRB activation was detected in the area surrounding Dundee Beach at about 1:00pm and a Careflight Helicopter was subsequently tasked to locate the vessel.

A small dinghy was located with two adults and one child onboard. It appears their boat experienced mechanical trouble.

A passing vessel assisted by way of towing the dinghy safely back to Dundee Beach.

Senior Sergeant Steve Martin praised the efforts of all concerned in this Search and Rescue Operation.

"I would like praise those members of the public that assisted authorities in securing the safe return of the stranded party" he said.

Senior Sergeant Martin went on to stress that this matter was resolved safely & quickly due to the fact that the vessel carried a registered 406 MHz EPIRB.

"All members of the public enjoying our waterways need to take their own safety seriously. Currently the most effective way to do this is by always carrying all required safety equipment & ensuring your 406 MHz EPIRB is registered & the details kept accurate & current on the Australian Maritime Safety Authority website".

The number of search and rescues in the Roper / McArthur region of the Gulf of Carpentaria around Easter, in the wake of ex-tropical cyclone 'Paul' highlighted the need for people on the water to plan, prepare and stay safe.

Senior Sergeant Martin said, "The response to these search and rescue operations was unprecedented in recent history and the cost to the community was high in terms of personnel and physical resources".

"The efforts of the Water Police and local Police members, the Rescue Coordination Centre in Canberra, pilots, and local civilian volunteers were ultimately successful and all missing persons were located and rescued".

"I strongly urge all mariners to ensure their vessels and motors are in good working order and that they carry sufficient fuel, water and the right safety equipment. Skippers also need to know the weather forecast and be aware of the environment at all times".

Please enjoy your experience and stay safe on the water.

Media Contact:
Rickie Scoot
8922 3185