A man has suffered serious injuries and been rushed to hospital after a terrifying crocodile attack at a creek in North Queensland.
Emergency Response to Crocodile Attack
The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon, June 25, 2024, at a creek within the Hinchinbrook local government area. Emergency services were called to the scene following reports a man had been attacked by the reptile.
Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) confirmed they responded to the emergency call. A QAS spokesperson stated the man sustained significant injuries in the attack. Due to the severity of his condition and the remote location, the Rescue 700 helicopter was dispatched to the scene.
The helicopter crew performed a critical medical retrieval, airlifting the injured man to Townsville University Hospital for urgent treatment. His current condition has not been publicly disclosed.
Authorities Launch Investigation
The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) has been notified and is leading the investigation into the attack. Officers from the department are now assessing the area where the incident took place.
While specific details about the exact circumstances leading to the attack are still under investigation, it serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers in crocodile country. Crocodiles are a common and protected species in many Far North Queensland waterways, including creeks, rivers, and coastal estuaries.
Authorities routinely warn residents and visitors to be 'Crocwise' in these regions. This includes vital safety advice such as never swimming in water where crocodiles may live, staying well back from the water's edge, and never cleaning fish or discarding food scraps near the water.
A Stark Reminder for Crocodile Country
This serious attack highlights the ever-present risk posed by crocodiles in North Queensland's natural environment. It is the latest in a series of incidents that reinforce the need for constant vigilance.
The QPWS investigation will likely focus on identifying the specific crocodile involved, if possible, and evaluating the ongoing risk to public safety in the area. Management actions, which could include the targeted removal of the animal, will be considered based on the findings.
Local communities in the Hinchinbrook region and across North Queensland are being reminded to adhere strictly to all crocodile warning signs and to report any concerning crocodile sightings immediately to the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation.
