"You Can’t Miss Him"

Saltwater Croc Spotted at Ocean Creek

By Chelsea Ravizza

A sizeable salty was recently spotted soaking up the long weekend at Ocean Creek Boat Ramp, with locals reminding others to stay alert when launching boats or checking crab pots.

Situated 13 kilometres north of Ayr, the popular state-owned boat ramp draws waves of locals and visitors alike, renowned for its fishing and crabbing opportunities, particularly barra, mangrove jack and mud crabs.

In a post published to a private community group, a resident warned the saltwater crocodile had been spotted, once again, lurking around the main stretch just beyond the boat ramp, recounting initially sighting the reptile earlier in the week.

Multiple locals chimed in online to say they’d also seen the large reptile, describing the “big fella” as far from shy and a nuisance when hauling in crab pots. Others recalled the crocodile seemed unfazed by nearby boats or people, unlike the more cautious behaviour typically seen.

It’s believed the crocodile has been living in the area for years and has been sighted to be around four meters in length.

While residents of the shire are no strangers to spotting crocodiles in local creeks and waterways, concern has been raised in this instance amid reports the reptile may be becoming aggressive toward boaties, with claims it has been stalking people as they retrieve crab pots.

Burdekin Shire Council continues to remind locals to be aware around any natural waterway in croc country, advising residents to report all sightings to the Queensland Government’s Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) via calling 1300 130 372 or through the QWildlife mobile application.

“Crocodiles are highly mobile and the longer you take to report a sighting, the less likely it is that the crocodile will be located,” advises DETSI.

“We encourage you to report any crocodile you have concerns about, even if it’s deceased.”

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Residents are becoming increasingly concerned about the behaviors of a large croc at Ocean Creek. Photo credit: Geri Milne

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