David McMahon: Northern Australia tour guide takes video of huge crocodile approaching

A giant crocodile had his sights set on a Northern Australia tour guide and adventurer who used the opportunity to post a video warning people to be safe.

A giant crocodile had his sights set on Northern Australia tour guide and adventurer David McMahon, who used the sighting opportunity to post a message on social media advising people to stay croc wise in croc country.

“This water is crystal clear and very shallow, so I have the opportunity to see him,” he said.

“If this was a steeper river bank and muddy water, it would be all over before I knew what was going on.

“While I am crouched down like this I am potential prey, but I stand up and I go from potential prey to potential threat, and his behaviour instantly changes,” Mr McMahon said.

“It always pays to be really, really careful in croc country, stay back from the water, and don’t mess around with the big boys.”

Australian saltwater crocodiles are considered among the most dangerous predators in the world. Picture: File photo

There have been three known crocodile attacks in the Far North in 2023, including the fatal attack on 65-year-old Laura publican Kevin Darmody at North Kennedy River in Lakefield National Park on April 29.

Lakefield National Park is one of six crocodile conservation areas in the state.

A man was attacked while swimming near the Bloomfield River boat ramp on February 22.

In April, Manfred Van Eckeren, 65, was asleep at Newell Beach near Port Douglas when he said he was bitten on the feet by a crocodile

He took himself to hospital for treatment of puncture wounds on both feet.

Quinkan Hotel publican and keen barramundi fisherman Kevin Darmody was tragically snatched from the banks of the North Kennedy River in Lakefield National Park on April 29. Human remains were found in two crocodiles killed by authorities. Picture: Supplied

However, the Department of Environment and Science (DES) has not listed the incident as a croc attack with a spokesman saying there was no evidence the man was bitten by a crocodile.

In May 2021, DES captured a 4.5m crocodile at Newell Beach.

DES recommends reporting crocodile sightings using the QWildlife app or by calling 1300 130 372 (Option).

Its advice includes staying at least 5m from the Stay at least 5m from the water’s edge, being extra cautious at night, dusk and dawn when crocodiles are most active, not using kayaks, paddleboards and other small craft in crocodile habitat areas.

It says to watch out for crocodiles in unusual places after very high tides and heavy rains.

Originally published as David McMahon: Northern Australia tour guide takes video of huge crocodile approaching