Thrillseeker dies in bridge fall

A thrillseeker has died in Australia's Northern Territory while trying to swing from a 40m-high bridge in a homemade harness at night.

Witnesses said the rope broke or became unhooked, the Northern Territory News reported.

A group of about 11 friends were swinging from a bridge over the Charles River, 5km north of Alice Springs, with a rope and a homemade harness when the tragedy happened on Saturday evening.

Police said the men were drinking but not excessively.

Several people had jumped from the bridge without mishap before the accident.

Police superintendent Rob Burgoyne told the NT News the death highlighted the dangers of bridge swinging.

"Abseiling from height is a dangerous activity at any time and must be conducted with a great deal of care, preferably with professional guidance," he said. "Correct safety precautions are essential, especially at night."