Up here we’re Crocwiser campaign begins to keep people safe
Issued: 23 Dec 2024
The Queensland Government’s new Up here we’re Crocwiser campaign has snapped into action today, urging those living in Croc Country to be Crocwise to prevent croc attacks.
Research has found the most likely victims of croc attacks are men above the age of thirty who live in north Queensland, with most attacks happening while they’re fishing or boating.
It is an urban myth that interstate and international tourists are more likely to ignore Crocwise signs and messaging than locals.
Over time, some locals become complacent around the water because they haven’t seen a crocodile for a long time or have never seen a crocodile at a particular location.
But crocodiles could be present in any body of water in Croc Country, and the Up here we’re Crocwiser campaign encourages men living in north Queensland to adopt specific Crocwise behaviours to reduce the risk of a croc attack.
Crocwiser tips
- Leave the lure: If you’re snagged in Croc Country, cut the line and let it go. It’s not worth losing your life.
- Get behind a croc-blocker: In Croc Country, keep something solid like an esky between you and the water’s edge while fishing.
- Keep your body in the boat: In Croc Country, you gotta keep your whole body back from the edge of the boat. Arms, legs, head, the whole rig.
Director Northern Wildlife Operations Lindsay Delzoppo said the ongoing Be Crocwise program is one of the most recognisable and successful safety campaigns in Queensland.
“Crocodiles are a part of life in northern Queensland, and we want men living in the tropical north to understand and reduce the risks of croc attacks,” Mr Delzoppo said.
“The research is clear, and it is local men who are putting themselves at risk of an attack when they’re fishing or boating.
“We want the locals to remember three simple Crocwise tips so they can continue to enjoy the amazing fishing and boating opportunities in tropical north Queensland.
“Never wade into the water to retrieve a snagged lure, always use a croc-blocker while fishing from the river or beach and if you’re on the water, keep your entire body in the boat.
“If you love fishing, reduce your risk by being Crocwise not complacent, and make sure you remind your family and friends to do the same.”
People are responsible for their own safety in croc country, and we’re asking people to make sensible choices around the water. No water body in Croc Country can be considered free from crocodiles.
Residents and visitors in Croc Country are encouraged to report all crocodile sightings in a timely manner to the department.
Crocodile sightings can be reported by using the QWildlife app for iOS and Android, completing a crocodile sighting report on the DETSI website, or by calling 1300 130 372. The department investigates every crocodile sighting report received.
People in Croc Country are urged to be CrocWise, which includes:
- 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 crocodile traps – that includes when fishing and boating
- Stand back from the water’s edge when fishing and don’t wade in to retrieve a lure
- Camp as far back from the edge of the water as possible
- Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near the water, at camp sites or at boat ramps
- Never provoke, harass, or feed crocs
- Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead.