08/03/2026
If it’s flooded. Forget it.
The Northern Territory Police Force has led a team effort involving members of the community to rescue a man in floodwaters in Beswick on Saturday following major flash flooding of the Waterhouse River.
Around 2pm, a 40-year-old male reportedly ignored emergency warnings amid mandatory evacuations at Bottom Camp and walked into the floodwaters, allegedly after being curious about the depth.
The male quickly became fatigued trying to swim in the fast-flowing water. He gripped onto a partially submerged gum tree, keeping only his head above the waterline and began yelling for assistance.
A member of the community heard the shouting and alerted local police who were able to source a boat from locals.
A/Sgt McDonald maintained observation while Constable Laumatia boated out to the male and was able to grab hold of him and haul him safely into the boat.
The male was physically exhausted after the ordeal but appeared to have not suffered any injuries.
Superintendent, Central Division, Virginia Read said “The Northern Territory Police Force strongly urge people to stay out of flood waters. The risk of injury, sickness and death are too high – if it’s flooded, forget it.”
"Thank you to all those people in Beswick who have worked together and assisted police with relocating people to drier ground.”
