A Victorian family stranded in the outback has arrived in Darwin thanks to a good Samaritan who embarked on a 2,000-kilometre round-trip rescue mission over the weekend.

Daryn Melrose, his wife and two daughters were driving from Gippsland to compete in the national minnow sailing championships when their car broke down at Tennant Creek.

Stranded on the side of the road with two small boats in tow, two disappointed daughters and nowhere to go, their week of driving and a year's training suddenly seemed like a waste.

"We were right in the middle of the Northern Territory," Mr Melrose said.

"We felt like we had no choice but to give up."

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But just under 1,000 kilometres away in Darwin, Rodney Sims was on his day off and scrolling through Facebook when he saw a post by ABC Darwin about the stranded family.

"About 30 years ago, strangely enough, I was in a similar situation with a broken-down car and someone helped me out ... this was my time to give back," Mr Sims said.

Saving strangers

Mr Sims left home in his four-wheel drive late Friday night, met up with the family at their motel in Tennant Creek, and had them in Darwin on Saturday evening.

Mr Melrose and his family said they were humbled by Mr Sims' offer.

"What a legend, what a fantastic effort," Mr Melrose said.

"He drove all the way down to us, hooked up the trailer, and drove us all the way back to Darwin.

"My daughters and I could not be more grateful for his efforts. They got here on time and are hoping for podium finishes after their competitions.

"Territory folk are incredibly special."

Mr Sims says he felt compelled to help after seeing the Facebook post. ( Supplied: Rodney Sims )

Mr Sims said helping the Melrose family came part and parcel with what Territorians did best.

"I have only been in the Top End for 12 months, but so far everyone I have met has gone over and above to help each other out — it was my turn to do the same."

And while the family arrived in time for the competition, their car was left behind.

"Hopefully the car will arrive in Darwin some time today and get taken to a mechanic," Mr Melrose said.

"It was more important to get the girls and the boats up here in time for their race, the car will have to wait.

"Here's hoping we fix the car and actually make it home."