Missing man – Kennedy Bend, Rinyirru
Issued: 30 Apr 2023
Department of Environment and Science (DES) officers are assisting Queensland Police Service (QPS) with investigations after a report of a missing man.
The man is believed to have gone missing near the Kennedy Bend campgrounds (approx. 145km north-west of Cooktown) at around 2.30pm yesterday (29 April 2023).
The information provided to DES by the missing man’s friend, who was nearby, indicates the man was fishing on the banks of the Kennedy River when there were splashing noises and he disappeared.
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service Rangers attended the site yesterday with Wildlife Officers from DES also being deployed to the site today to provide assistance to police.
The roads leading into the Kennedy Bend section of Rinyirru National Park have been closed.
It is important that ALL crocodile sightings are reported in a timely manner. DES investigates all crocodile sighting reports that it receives.
Crocodile sightings can be reported to DES by using the QWildlife app; accessing the sighting report online, or calling 1300 130 372.
Rinyirru National Park is known croc country.
It’s important everyone in Croc Country practices “Crocwise” behaviour, in particular:
- Expect crocodiles in all 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.