A group of fishermen have been located safe and well after a search was launched this morning due to an EPIRB activation.

NT Water Police, a commercial vessel and customs all headed towards Purninga Point on Melville Island; after Australian Search and Rescue in Canberra notified local Police of the distress signal shortly after 4.00am.

“Police located two boats with about a dozen people on board about 7.00am this morning.” Said Water Police Acting Senior Sergeant Jamie O’Brien.

“Due to a large storm in the area at the time it made aerial observation difficult.   When located, the party were taking shelter on a beach.”

“It was later discovered the EPIRB had been accidently activated whilst travelling in rough seas.” Said Senior Sergeant O’Brien.

“On a positive note, the group made the right decision taking shelter in the bad weather and carrying a new 406 MHz EPIRB.”

“Unfortunately the EPIRB was not registered which made it difficult for Police to identify who they were looking for and what type of vessel they had, however the use of a modern 406 MHz EPIRB allowed for immediate detection of the beacon and a very accurate location.”

“Water Police encourage all recreational fishermen or boating enthusiasts to not only purchase a 406 MHz EPIRB but to ensure it is registered with all vessel details and up to four separate contacts in case of emergency.”