Crocodile safety urged in the north

Cairns residents and visitors have been reminded to heed Croc-Wise safety messages and use common sense when visiting the coastline and waterways to reduce the potential dangers of encountering crocodiles.

Environment Minister Dean Wells said that anyone visiting beaches, waterholes, creeks and rivers in north Queensland should be mindful of estuarine (saltwater) crocodiles.

"This is the peak risk period for crocodiles, as they are moving around searching for potential mates and nesting areas," Mr Wells said.

"I am advised by QPWS crocodile expert Mark Read that the number of crocodile incidents in north Queensland is on the rise,"

"Today I am announcing increased surveillance. We will train more rangers in crocodile management "

"Human safety is our number one priority."

Member for Barron River, Dr Lesley Clark welcomed the Ministers' announcement.

"On the week-end concerns were raised with me by various residents about lack of crocodile signage at Half Moon Creek," Dr Clark said.

"I am concerned that this a frequented fishing spot, used by locals and visitors alike"

Mr Wells said that increased signage would also be installed in and around Cairns, Mission Beach, Burdekin and Cardwell.

"We need accurate crocodile sightings reported to the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service so they can act immediately," Mr Wells said.

"Under the State Government policy, problem crocodiles are relocated to crocodile farms and they are not sent back to national parks."

"Locals and tourists need to be aware that north Queensland is crocodile country and they must take extra care."

"While Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service rangers are continuing to undertake crocodile management in north Queensland and actively promoting the key messages of the Croc Wise campaign during summer, people also need to ensure they do not put themselves or others at risk.

"This means anyone visiting beaches, boating or camping beside waterholes, creeks and rivers should exercise caution and follow some simple safety messages."

Basic Croc-Wise safety guidelines promoted by the QPWS include: o Camp at least 50m away from the water's edge. o Launch and retrieve boats without entering the water. o Dispose of fish frames and bait away from the water's edge, so you don't attract crocodiles. o Don't enter the water or swim in crocodile country.

Mr Wells said QPWS would continue to act on any information it received regarding crocodile sightings and was reinforcing messages from the Croc-Wise campaign to increase public awareness and safety.

"In the Cardwell area, seven rangers trained in crocodile management have been undertaking nightly surveys as part of crocodile management following a recent croc sighting near the foreshore.

"However, nightly surveys initiated last week have failed to locate any crocodiles along the beachfront adjacent to the township.

"Regardless, anyone sighting a crocodile near a public place in this or other areas of north Queensland should immediately contact the Crocodile Management Unit in Cairns on 4035 4625 or their local QPWS office."

More information on crocodiles and how to be croc-safe in croc country is available from local QPWS offices.

Media contact: Annastacia Palaszczuk Ph (07)32251819 or 0419 679 354