A Far North Queensland man is lucky to be alive after a terrifying crocodile attack that left him with serious injuries to his arm and leg. Dexter Barelds, 29, was fishing in the South Johnstone River near Innisfail when the predator struck without warning.
The Attack That Changed Everything
What began as a routine fishing trip on Saturday afternoon turned into a fight for survival when a crocodile estimated to be between three and four metres long launched from the water. The attack occurred around 4:30 PM on March 16 while Barelds was standing in the river, completely unaware of the danger lurking beneath the surface.
"It happened so fast I barely had time to react," the survivor recounted. "One moment I was casting my line, the next I was being dragged through the water." The crocodile clamped down on Barelds' arm and leg, initiating a violent struggle that would test his will to live.
Miraculous Escape and Rescue
Through sheer determination and fighting spirit, Barelds managed to break free from the crocodile's powerful jaws. He then faced the challenging task of getting to safety while bleeding heavily from his injuries. Fortunately, emergency services responded quickly to the scene.
Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics treated Barelds at the location before transporting him to Innisfail Hospital. Medical staff described his injuries as serious but non-life-threatening, a remarkable outcome given the circumstances. He received treatment for deep lacerations and puncture wounds consistent with a crocodile bite.
Ongoing Crocodile Management
This incident has reignited discussions about crocodile safety in Far North Queensland waterways. The Department of Environment and Science has been notified and is investigating the attack. The South Johnstone River is known crocodile habitat, with warning signs prominently displayed in the area.
Local authorities remind residents and visitors to remain vigilant in North Queensland waterways. "Crocodiles can be present in any waterway in Far North Queensland, even if there are no signs," a department spokesperson emphasized. Safety recommendations include:
- Never swim in water where crocodiles may live
- Stand back from the water's edge when fishing
- Never clean fish or discard food scraps near the water
- Camp at least 50 metres from the water's edge
- Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near your camp
As Dexter Barelds recovers from his traumatic experience, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the wild nature of Australia's northern waterways and the importance of respecting the territory of these ancient predators.
