iStockphoto / Leamus
A crocodile attack in Queensland, Australia has triggered an investigation from the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) due to the extreme nature of the attack.
The incident occurred on 12/31 when an older man, a local, who has “fished in Jane Creek for decades” was attacked by what is described as a large crocodile. An account of the attack was shared with the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation and it sounds almost as if the man was being stalked. Furthermore, he is very fortunate the crocodile missed him after jumping into his boat.
In a press release, DESI breaks down the story:
This would have been a frightening incident for the fisherman who we are told is a long-term local who has fished in Jane Creek for decades. The man said he had been fishing around four hours and when he saw the large crocodile approaching the boat, he moved to the back of the vessel and started the engine.
The crocodile swum under the tinnie, then turned and launched itself up and into the vessel with its jaws wide open. The man then jumped the crocodile to get to the bow of the tinnie and retrieve the anchor, and the crocodile pivoted, over-balanced and fell into the water, bending the rails of the tinnie. The fisherman went to the boat ramp at Black Rock Creek. He told us he had never seen such a large crocodile behaving that way in the region before.
How to prevent Crocodile attacks
Consequently, an investigation has been launched to try and track down the nuisance crocodile. DESI said their team will search the area during daylight and if the massive crocodile isn’t found a nighttime search will ensue.
Furthermore, they are warning the public to exercise extreme caution in the area. The press release went on to say “If a crocodile is in the vicinity, we will assess its behaviour and the risks posed to public safety, and if it is assessed as a problem crocodile, it will be targeted for removal from the wild. People who are using Jane Creek or St Helens Beach should be extremely vigilant, because the Mackay region is Croc Country, and people should avoid complacency around waterways.”
It then goes on to list ‘Crocwise tips’ for anyone in the area. One of those tips drives home how many crocodiles are in that are of Queensland. It says “expect crocodiles in all northern and far northern Queensland waterways even if there is no warning sign.” If there’s water, there’s a croc in it.
Other tips include “the smaller the vessel the greater the risk, so avoid using canoes and kayaks” and “be aware crocs also swim in the ocean.” So basically, crocodiles are everywhere near Jane Creek in Queensland. Also, they’re huge so small vessels won’t protect anyone. Also, they’re in the ocean and just as much of a threat at night. Furthermore, they caution to never leave any food scraps out at all even when fishing so kiss any cut bait goodbye.
I’m a born-and-raised Floridian. I come across alligators on a daily basis. But that sounds like a unsettling amount of crocs to me. Crocs everywhere. At all times. Out to get the locals. That doesn’t sound like a particularly fun way to live.