Crocodile Sighting at Mosquito Creek Sparks Safety Reminder

Burdekin Shire residents are being urged to remain vigilant around local waterways after a recent crocodile sighting at Mosquito Creek raised fresh safety concerns.

The sighting was reported by a young fisherman who said the crocodile appeared to head directly towards him while he was fishing from the creek bank, prompting renewed reminders for locals to stay “crocwise”.

Several residents responding to the report online said crocodiles have been seen regularly in the broader Groper Creek area, a popular fishing spot and home to a well-frequented caravan park.

One local said crocodiles had been present in the waterway for decades.

“Me and a mate camped right on the creek in swags a few years ago and there was a couple stalking us at night. We just sat at the fire watching it – it never came out of the water at us but was within 10 metres,” the resident wrote.

Another person said they had also recently spotted a crocodile in the area.

“Seen this one there last weekend on the sounder. Been there for at least 40 years.”

With local waterways rising and forecasts predicting continued rainfall across the region, residents are being reminded to take extra care around creeks, rivers and coastal areas where saltwater crocodiles may be present.

The Queensland Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation urges people living and visiting Queensland’s Croc Country to follow safety guidelines and remain alert near the water.

Queensland law makes it illegal to feed or interact with crocodiles, with penalties ranging from $483 to more than $26,000 depending on the offence.

In 2024, the Queensland Government introduced tougher penalties and additional offences aimed at improving public safety. These include prohibitions on discarding food near public areas such as boat ramps, jetties, pontoons and camping grounds, as well as knowingly remaining close to crocodiles on land.

The rules complement existing laws that prevent people from approaching or disturbing crocodiles within 10 metres.

Conservation officers also have the authority to direct people to move away from crocodiles if necessary to prevent potentially dangerous interactions.

Leanne Linard, Queensland’s Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, said the measures were designed to reduce risks associated with people deliberately interacting with crocodiles.

“People may think feeding crocs or interacting with them is fun or harmless, but experience shows that doing so increases the risk to public safety,” Minister Linard said.

“The government is investing more than $4.9 million in crocodile management, and we will continue to work with experts and the community to manage our crocodile population safely and effectively.”

Authorities are reminding residents and visitors to always remain alert near waterways, keep a safe distance from the water’s edge and report crocodile sightings to the relevant authorities.

Large Saltwater Crocodile Resting Her Mouth Stock Photo 2155865611 | Shutterstock

CAPTION: Queensland law makes it illegal to feed or interact with crocodiles, with penalties ranging from $483 to more than $26,000 depending on the offence. Photo source: Shutterstock

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