Croc spotters fly in to shore up public safety

An eye in the sky will help the Bligh Government ensure the safety of people in the Great Sandy Marine Park following recent crocodile sightings.

Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation Minister and Member for Hervey Andrew McNamara said that EPA crocodile spotters will be conducting aerial surveys of the area today.

"The risk to the public is minimal, but I've asked the EPA to investigate and they will be conducting boat and helicopter," Mr McNamara said.

"Sightings south of Bundaberg are very unusual, but they cannot be discounted.

"I want to assure the community that I am taking these recent reports seriously and we are pulling out all stops to ensure the safety of people in the Wide Bay and Discovery Coast regions," he said.

Helicopter-based surveys are regularly conducted in north Queensland and greatly increase the chances of locating crocodiles.

Mr McNamara said the aerial survey would include Deep Creek, Turkey Island, Round Island and the Great Sandy Strait.

"A spotlight survey will also be conducted next week.

"The EPA is doing everything they can to assess the situation, and spotters will be hard at work."

The survey follows reported sightings of a 2.5m crocodile at Baffle Creek and a 3.5m crocodile at Deep Creek. A survey of Baffle Creek early this week did not locate any sign of crocodiles.

Media contact: Emma Parnell 3336 8002