It was confirmed yesterday that the President of the United States of America, the Honourable Barack Obama, will visit the USS Peary memorial when he visits Darwin next week as a guest of the Australian Government.
NT Police Operation Coordinator, Assistant Commissioner Grahame Kelly, said the NT Police welcome the opportunity to be working with the White House, the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet and the Northern Territory Government to facilitate this event.
“This is a significant event for Darwin and as such, the community can expect some interruption and inconvenience for a short time.
“Police and NT Government officials are working with the event organisers and are very mindful of minimising any community inconvenience while maximising the visit and security arrangements.
“However, there will be some impact on traffic and access to some locations in the city for short periods of time in the lead up to and on the day.
“Where possible, such information will be provided to the public, however exact details may not be known until much closer to the day of the visit.
“We have a professional, well trained team of Territory Police Officers working on the preparations.
“Contingency plans are being put into place including support provided by interstate Police Forces.
“We often call on our interstate counterparts for support in major events and likewise Territory Police often assist interstate when needed.
“In fact, last month Territory Police were working alongside their interstate counterparts to deliver a first class security operation for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Perth.
“The NT Police ask for the cooperation of the Darwin Community in appreciating that advance notice and specific details may be minimal.” Assistant Commissioner Kelly said.
The White House has confirmed that the US President, Barack Obama is expected to arrive in Darwin at approximately 4pm on Thursday 17 November as a guest of the Australian Prime Minster, Julia Gillard.
Media Contact
Katie Fowden
0401 116 540
