Police from the Northern Region are concerned about the number of recent search and rescue operations in the area.
A full scale search and rescue was activated yesterday which included aircraft patrols in an attempt to find a boat reported missing in Carpentaria.
In this case the mariner managed to moor his boat and walk back to safety after his vessel began to take on water at the mouth of the Nicholson River.
Inspector Trevor Kidd Mt Isa Police District urges mariners to ensure their boats carry the correct safety equipment for the area of operation. An EPIRB is compulsory if travelling into a designated open water area however if you are in a remote location an EPIRB even if not compulsory, will help to alert rescuers that you are in trouble.
“It is also important for everybody on board to know where the safety equipment is stowed and how to use it correctly.”
The Queensland Police Service would like to remind boaties to tell someone where they go and the time they expect to return. Always remember to tell them you have returned safely so they don’t raise the alarm.
“We encourage people to stay safe and in areas which have volunteer marine rescue advise them about your trip and your expected return time,” Inspector Kidd said.
“When a large scale search is commenced it involves many agencies and resources and in some cases could be avoided with better planning by the boaty.”
Anyone with information which could assist police with their investigations should contact Crime Stoppers anonymously via 1800 333 000 or crimestoppers.com.au 24hrs a day.
Crime Stoppers is a charitable community volunteer organisation working in partnership with the Queensland Police Service.
