A World War II unexploded ordnance was found near Manton Dam

A local historian has weighed in on the background and dangers of an explosive found in the Darwin rural area. See the pictures.

An unexploded World War II explosive has been found in the Darwin rural area.

A man found the unexploded ordnance near Manton Dam and took it back to his property in Berry Springs.

Police were called to inspect the item which was later identified as a 25-pound high explosive artillery round.

An explosive was detonated at a property in Berry Springs. Picture: NTPFES

They cordoned off a nearby block of land while the device was detonated.

NT Museum and Art Gallery historian Jared Archibald said these types of explosives were quite common to find around the Top End.

“During the war there were all sorts of different artillery up here,” he said.

“And Manton Dam is an area that was commonly used for firing exercises.

“For whatever reason it has bounced off something and not exploded.”

The World War II item was found at Manton Dam. Picture: NTPFES

Mr Archibald said the man who found the item was extremely lucky to not have been hurt.

“If it went off it could annihilate a lot of people,” he said.

“It wouldn’t be good — they’re designed to kill or destroy.”

He said people finding items such as this would likely continue.

“They’re not uncommon but they’re getting less and less common,” he said.

“We might see more found as people move out into the rural area or go pig hunting.

“It’s a reminder of our military history in the Top End.”

Superintendent Shaun Gill said the item was deemed unsafe to travel and reminded the public to not move any items they believed may be of military heritage.

“Instead of moving the device, mark the exact location and contact authorities who will attend and safely remove the item,” he said.

It comes after a similar item was found and detonated in Darwin Harbour late last month.

Originally published as A World War II unexploded ordnance was found near Manton Dam