A new crocodile management plan introduced to the Queensland parliament on Tuesday has divided opinion in far north Queensland, with some welcoming increased removal zones and others warning it could increase attack risks. The plan expands areas where problem crocodiles can be removed, including Tyto Wetlands in Ingham, three high-use waterholes on the Mulgrave River, and the Barron River and Southedge Dam near Mareeba.
Mareeba cane farmer George Adil, who has pushed for changes after repeated saltwater crocodile sightings near his property, welcomed the plan. 'Hopefully it's going to get rid of them all because they never were here [in the past],' he said, adding that past notifications to parks and wildlife often resulted in delays. Locals believe the crocodiles may have escaped from a farm years ago, though this has never been confirmed.
However, Amanda French, co-founder of Community Representation of Crocodiles, criticized the plan for ignoring expert advice that human behavior is the greatest risk factor. 'Crocodile removals do not make it safer — In fact, it leads to a false sense of security,' she said, arguing that widening zones could lead to unnecessary killing and that the government is failing in public safety messaging.
Rinyirru (Lakefield) Aboriginal Corporation Chairperson Alwyn Lyall called for more community education and proper consultation with traditional owners, which the government promised but he doubts will occur. He cited the recent removal of a totem crocodile, Old Faithful, from his country in the Daintree without explanation. Lyall proposed using local rangers and awareness videos, but said the government rejected these ideas.
Hinchinbrook Shire Mayor Ramon Jayo welcomed proactive patrols at Tyto Wetlands, where a 3.4-metre crocodile was removed in May near a children's playground. He noted the area is a popular tourist attraction but warned against complacency, stating the risk from apex predators will always exist.
