Wildlife officers observe crocs in Fitzroy River

Issued: 18 Jan 2019

Department of Environment and Science (DES) wildlife officers have set traps for a 3-metre crocodile they observed in the Fitzroy River, near Rockhampton.

The crocodile was seen approximately 10 kilometres upstream from The Barrage, in a freshwater section of the river (near the Pink Lily Sands facility) that is a popular recreational-use area.

Recent crocodile sighting warning signs have being installed at the location.

Under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan, this location is within Zone C (Targeted Management Zone).

This means that any crocodile that is two metres or greater in length, or any crocodile displaying dangerous behaviour, is targeted for removal.

Wildlife officers are continuing to patrol the area as they observed a second crocodile in the area. While its length could not be determined, if it is captured, it will be removed.

While the crocodiles were not displaying dangerous behaviour, the size of the 3-metre animal means it is automatically targeted for removal.

Members of the public are urged to avoid this area, for their own safety and to maximise the chances of DES being able to trap the animals.

Tampering with crocodile traps is an offence, and is extremely dangerous.

The Fitzroy River is within known croc-country and the public is urged to observe Crocwise behaviour at all times, in particular:

  • expect crocodiles in all central Queensland waterways even if there is no warning sign
  • obey all warning signs—they are there to keep you safe
  • be aware crocs also swim in the ocean and be extra cautious around water at night
  • stay well away from croc traps—that includes fishing and boating
  • the smaller the vessel the greater the risk, so avoid using canoes and kayaks
  • stand back from the water’s edge when fishing and don’t wade in to retrieve a lure
  • camp at least 50 metres from the edge of the water
  • never leave food, fish scraps or bait near water, camp site or boat ramp
  • never provoke, harass or feed crocs
  • always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead
  • remember, you are responsible for your own safety in croc country.

Crocodile sightings can be reported to DES on 1300 130 372 and the department investigates all crocodile reports it receives.

Further information is available on being CrocWise.