EPA searches for crocodile reported at Magnetic Island

An extensive search by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rangers has not confirmed a reported sighting of a two to three metre crocodile at Geoffrey Bay, Magnetic Island on Sunday night.

Minister for Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation, Andrew McNamara said the EPA were taking the reported sighting very seriously and had carried out surveys by land and sea overnight, and by helicopter this morning.

“There was no sign of any crocodile although many other marine animals including fish, turtles and stingrays were seen in the clear conditions,” Mr McNamara said.

Two youths who were about to take a late night swim at Geoffrey Bay reported seeing a crocodile, and restated their account of the sighting when they spoke to Environmental Protection Agency officers late yesterday.

“Signs warning of a ‘recent crocodile sighting’ have been erected at Geoffrey Bay.

“Lifesavers, local businesses including commercial water based operators are being informed of the reported sighting by the EPA,” Mr McNamara said.

“EPA rangers will continue to monitor the area by boat today and plan to carry out a further survey by sea tonight.

"Naturally, if a crocodile is located it will be caught and removed to a crocodile farm or zoo and not released into the wild."

“North Queensland is very much croc country, and at this time of the year crocodiles are on the move and may be seen more often,” he said.

The EPA strongly urges everyone to be aware of the possibility of crocodiles in rivers and open water, and in the interests of public safety to report sightings to the EPA as soon as possible.

The contact number to report sightings is 1300 130 372.

Media contact: Wendy Nye 3336 8004