Code of Conduct

• Ask permission to enter Aboriginal land and tidal waters, and obtain a permit from Northern Land Council.
• Recognise and respect the natural, cultural, spiritual, social and economic values of the land to Traditional Owners.
• Do not enter any part of the land and waters containing sacred sites unless specifically permitted to do so.
• Respect Aboriginal culture and ceremonies. This may mean that a particular area is temporarily closed to access.
• Take care when driving and boating to avoid damaging sensitive areas.
• Be courteous to local Aboriginal people when visiting the Region.
• Respect the role of Thamarrurr Rangers in managing land and sea country, including fisheries compliance.
• Report any suspicious activities, injured marine animals and ghost nets to the Thamarrurr Rangers.

Respect the Natural Environment and Wildlife

• Keep our Country clean and dispose of rubbish correctly.
• Do not release any engine fluids or other pollutants onto land or into waterways.
• Do not take or interfere with wildlife unless you have specific permission to do so.
• Respect the movement and protection of all species and any sensitive habitat.
• Do not speed through dugong and turtle nesting and feeding grounds when boating.
• Do not anchor on seagrass or reef beds.
• If you see turtles, dolphins, dugongs or whales please stay well clear, and if possible inform Thamarrurr Rangers of any sightings.

• Observe rules and safety standards on the water.
• Slow down if there is poor visibility e.g. night time, rain, mist, glare.Potential hazards may not be lit or easily seen.
• Slow down on busy waterways, when you are near moored or anchored vessels, and around working vessels or larger vessels which may have difficulties turning.
• Slow down in shallow areas and if you aren’t familiar with the waterway. Not all hazards will be marked or lit, and water depth can change quickly.
• Slow down in bad weather. Wind, waves and currents can affect the ability of boats to manoeuvre safely.
• Understand and observe all fishing regulations – keep up to date with new rules.
• Take no more than your immediate needs and carefully return excess or unwanted fish into the water using best practice catch and release methods.
• Be courteous to other water users.
• Discard any fish remains in open waters.
• Report any suspicious fishing activity to the Thamarrurr Rangers or Water Police. Fishwatch Hotline 1800 891 136.

Be Crocwise

• Saltwater crocodiles inhabit the area and are dangerous to humans. Do not swim in any water or approach the edge of waterways. Clean fish away from the water’s edge. For more information: https://nt.gov.au/emergency/community-safety/crocodile-safety-be-crocwise

Click the link to download a copy of the Code of Conduct document