[ 24/09/2008 ]
Surveillance of the Northern Territory coastline in the Gulf of Carpentaria region will be bolstered by the addition of a new boat for the Numbulwar Marine Rangers.
The Department of Regional Development, Primary Industry, Fisheries and Resources has this week gifted a 4.2 metre aluminium boat, trailer and outboard motor to the Numbulwar Marine Rangers.
“Marine Rangers are our eyes and ears along much of the Territory’s remote coastline and they play an important role in protecting north Australia’s borders from illegal foreign fishing activity, exotic pest or disease incursions, people and drug smugglers,” Manager of Indigenous Liaison and Economic Development, Paul Seden, said.
“They are also called upon for their knowledge of local waterways to assist in search and rescue operations.
“The Numbulwar Marine Ranger Unit is one of the newest ranger groups supported by the Territory government and the support we provide to them demonstrates our commitment to having Indigenous people involved in the coastal management of remote areas.
“Last month the Marine Rangers’ skills were on display when they discovered a fisher allegedly operating without a licence near Maningrida. That person was later charged by Northern Territory police.
“The Northern Territory Government supports the Marine Ranger program through funding allocations, training and the provision of equipment.
“Their commitment to protecting their country brings benefits to us all and it should be reassuring for all Territorians to know that a keen set of eyes are keeping a close watch on our coast,” Mr Seden said.