Jane Creek crocodile investigation
Issued: 8 Jan 2024
Wildlife Officers have conducted a thorough investigation following a report of a large crocodile leaping from the water and into a fisher’s tinnie in Jane Creek near Mackay on 31 December 2023.
Senior Wildlife Officer Jane Burns said the investigation included an interview with the fisher who confirmed the incident occurred close to the northern side of a small island slightly upstream of Jane Creek.
“A vessel-based site assessment of Jane Creek and the surrounding bay was conducted, and wildlife officers confirmed the presence of two crocodiles,” Ms Burns said.
“One crocodile was estimated to be around two metres in length, and the other was estimated to be less than one metre in length.
“Neither animal exhibited any dangerous behaviour, and they are not considered to be the target animal.
“During our thorough search of Jane Creek, we found no evidence such as slides or tracks or eye shine to indicate that a large crocodile had recently been at the location.
“Crocodiles are highly mobile, and they do use small creeks to rest while moving between river systems to find new territory.
“Although we didn’t confirm the presence of a large crocodile, there are crocodiles in Jane Creek and people in the area should be extremely vigilant at all times.
“Wildlife officers will continue to monitor for any further reports in the area.
“The greater Mackay region is known Croc Country, and people should report all crocodile sightings in a timely manner to the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation.
“Wildlife officers investigate every report we receive, and estuarine crocodiles that pose a threat to human safety are targeted for removal under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan.
“Remember, you are responsible for your own safety in Croc Country, and Mackay is known Croc Country and people must be Crocwise while near the water.”
Crocwise tips for people in Mackay:
- expect crocodiles in all northern and far northern 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 the water, camp sites or boat ramps
- never provoke, harass or feed crocs
- always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead.
Further information on being Crocwise see Be Crocwise in Croc Country.