Alyangula Police conducted a search for four fishermen yesterday afternoon after an EPIRB was activated in the Gulf of Carpentaria.

The four men were fishing in the Walker River, approximately 65km West-North-West of Alyangula, Groote Eylandt or about 200km South of Nhulunbuy when they experienced motor problems at about 8:00 am.

An EPIRB activated by the men at 1:30 pm alerted the Rescue Coordination Centre in Canberra.

Members from Alyangula utilised Police Vessel Finniss and located the men in good health and with no injuries shortly after 3:00 pm.

The 6.35 metre boat was towed back to Alyangula where the occupants live.

Acting Senior Sergeant Shane Arnison from the Alyangula Police Station said the men had done everything right, including having an EPIRB on board.

“After every effort was made to get the motor started, the fishermen set off flares to gain attention and called for assistance over the radio. The 406 EPIRB was used as a last resort after all other avenues failed.

“It was a swift response and a success story which reinforces the important partnership that exists between the Rescue Coordination Centre in Canberra and the NT Police. 

“This incident really does highlight the importance of having the new 406 EPIRB and it was great to see the men were equipped with the required safety equipment,” he said.

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