Large crocodile spotted at Airlie Beach tourist hotspots

Wildlife officers have moved in on the Whitsundays offering tips on staying Crocwise after multiple sightings of a large crocodile hanging around a popular swimming spot.

A member of the public submitted this photo of a crocodile at Airlie Beach to the Department of Environment and Science. Picture: Contributed

A large crocodile is getting a bit too friendly in the Whitsundays with multiple sightings reported across Airlie Beach.

A Department of Environment and Science spokeswoman said they had received four reports of the reptile swimming close to enclosures, marinas, and the foreshore.

“Another sighting report was received on Friday of a large crocodile in the Shute Harbour area,” the DES spokeswoman said.

Tourists and locals are asked to stay vigilant while DES wildlife officers do land and vessel surveys to determine whether the crocodile was hanging around.

Warning signs have also been installed.

DES received four separate sighting reports yesterday at different locations across Airlie Beach of a crocodile swimming close to enclosures, marinas and the popular foreshore

Senior Wildlife Officer Jane Burns said they hopped the crocodile would move on to a more secluded area.

Airlie Beach is considered a Zone E under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan which means if the crocodile displays dangerous behaviour, it will be targeted for removal.

“However, based on images provided to us, this crocodile appears to be in poor condition and may be injured or unwell which could change its behaviour and movements,” Ms Burns said.

A member of the public submitted this photo of a crocodile at Airlie Beach to the Department of Environment and Science. Picture: Contributed

“It is really important for anyone who sees a crocodile in the area to report it to us quickly, so we can respond as fast as possible.”

DES officers are in Airlie Beach providing on-the-spot Crocwise education and are asking anyone who has seen a crocodile to report it immediately via the QWildlife app, online or by phoning the department on 1300 372 372.

This is not the first time crocodiles have been spotted at Airlie Beach with a carcass between 2.5m and 3m long found in late 2015. Authorities believed it was killed in a brawl with another crocodile.

The public is reminded to make Crocwise choices at all times in Croc country. In particular: 

• Expect crocodiles in Central Queensland waterways even if there is no warning sign
• Stand back from the water’s edge when in crocodile habitat, or keep an object between yourself and the water at all times
• Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near the water, at campsites or boat ramps
• Do not provoke, harass or feed crocodiles, regardless of size
• Report crocodile sightings through the QWildlife mobile app or by phoning 1300 130 372
• Be aware the crocodiles can also be found in the ocean and freshwater habitats
• Be extra cautious at dawn, dusk and at night
• Avoid using canoes and kayaks in croc country – the smaller the vessel the greater the risk
• Camp at least 50m from the edge of the water
• Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead
• Obey all warning signs