Fishos rescued after long row
FIVE fishermen had to row for six hours in stormy weather after their boat broke down.
They were finally rescued by men using torches to signal through torrential rain.
The anglers were tired and wet but in good health after being brought ashore.
Water Police officer-in-charge Steve Martin said the men set off an Epirb.
He urged fishermen: "Always let people know where you're going and when you should be expected back."
TheDarwin men broke down in their hired tinny at Bynoe Harbour about 4am on Monday and set off their emergency beacon at 7.15pm.
They landed at Crab Craw Island Resort at 11.30pm.
Resort owner David Campbell and staffer Jacob Cartwright went out in a 4.5m fishing boat to rescue them.
"They had to signal with torches," resort manager Tammy Martland said.
Senior Sergeant Martin praised the rescuers for working in near-zero visibility.
"They put in a tremendous effort," he said.
A search helicopter took off from Darwin but had to turn back because of the bad weather.
Superintendent Rob Burgoyne said the boat hire company had failed to register the Epirb.
He said the men's families had been "quite concerned" for their safety when they failed to return.
The rescue followed two brothers being found safe and well after their boat ran out of fuel.
They set off for Melville Island on Friday Christmas Eve and were found at 1am on Sunday.
Superintendent Debra Smith said the men had gone fishing without properly preparing.
"Not only did they put their own lives at risk, but also the lives of rescuers as there were severe storms," she said.
"I urge anyone planning a journey by boat to meticulously plan ahead.
"This includes checking fuel, predicted weather conditions, tide times and be sure to have appropriate safety equipment including an Epirb should you get into trouble.
"Always be sure to tell people where you are heading and when you are likely to get there. This way the authorities can be notified should you not arrive."
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