The Northern Territory Police Force can report that the 59-year-old man who went missing near Tarntipi Bush Camp on Bathurst Island earlier this week has been located safe and well.

Around 3pm on Tuesday, police received reports that the man went missing near Tarntipi Bush Camp. He was travelling with a group who were collecting wood for carving at a local art centre in Wurrumiyanga and did not return.

An extensive search operation was launched with 22 community and family members and 15 police and Aboriginal Liaison Officers from Wurrumiynaga, Milikapiti, Pirlingimpi and The Specialist Response Division, including the Search and Rescue Section and the Territory Response Group.

Northern Territory Emergency Service volunteers also remained on standby.

Search teams deployed as both ground and aerial teams, with the 59-year-old located within the 85sqkm search radius earlier today.

He was airlifted back to Wurrumiyanga and is currently receiving treatment at the local clinic for exposure.

Superintendent Jak Evans said “This is a fantastic result that highlights the incredible collaboration between the community and police over the past 2 days.

“The search area consisted predominantly of light to dense scrubland with pandanis, gum tress and 20m tall thick grassy areas. Not only that, the area is populated by an array of dangerous animals including crocodiles and snakes.

“Police conducted detailed briefings with the community, whose extensive knowledge of the area and the coordinated search effort has allowed us to effectively cover a large area, which has resulted in this terrific outcome.

“I would like to commend everyone involved in this search, your tireless work has bought Barry back home safely.”