Expert calls for review of Be Crocwise campaign

THE Territory’s foremost croc expert is calling for more transparency from the NT Government about its Be Crocwise campaign to determine if it’s actually effective

A supplied picture of a crocodile from NT Parks, Wildlife and Heritage

THE Territory’s foremost croc expert is calling for more transparency from the NT Government about its Be Crocwise campaign to determine if it’s actually effective.

It’s been nine years since the Be Crocwise campaign was launched in the Northern Territory but Professor Graham Webb said he remains unsure if it’s making an impact.

Sixteen people have been killed by crocodiles in the NT since 2005, including the recent death of a female wildlife ranger in Arnhem Land earlier this month.

“In the past they changed the program so croc education is concentrated around the Territory Wildlife Parks, but not that many people go out there anyway,” Mr Graham said.

“Over the years I know it’s been waxed and waned because the Government changes hands and politicians are always trying to balance their budgets.

“I get that’s just how the system works but the public’s got a right to know what exactly is being funded and whether you are prioritising croc safety or not. End of story.”

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A spokeswoman from the Department of Tourism and Culture said while she could not provide the exact funding the Be Crocwise campaign had received in recent years, they had a “holistic approach” to crocodile management and safety ranging from education and awareness to physically catching crocodiles.

Professor Graham Webb. Picture: Keri Megelus

Senior ranger with NT Parks and Wildlife’s crocodile management unit, Tom Nichols said public education was critical to eliminating the risk of crocodile attacks in Territory.

“The Be Crocwise campaign aims to educate the community about how to coexist in an environment with crocodiles,” he said.

“Campaign materials and talks by community engagement staff teach Top End parents, teachers, students and the broader community about crocodile safety in the Northern Territory.”

After photos emerged of a fisho casting a line chest-deep in croc-infested waters at Shoal Bay last week, a spokesman from Amateur Fishermen’s Association NT said the Be Crocwise message was obviously not getting through to everyone.

“The behaviour of some individuals in the community with regards to croc safety is certainly quite alarming … people that choose to ignore the dangers are risking their life,” he said.

“There are many dangers in our water ways, with crocodiles being but one. No fish is worth your life!”

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Mr Nichols said crocodiles sightings are more common this time of year as the breeding season starts and crocs will be out looking to establish new territory and mates.

“When it comes to the danger posed by crocodiles, the NT Government takes your safety seriously, but ultimately how you behave around crocodile habitats is your responsibility,” he said. “You live in croc country. Crocodile danger is real. Don’t risk your life.”

“Most Territorians understand and respect the environment in which we live, fish and enjoy. Crocodiles are an ever-present danger that we must always keep in the front our minds when fishing or enjoying our water ways.”

While crocodiles are a natural part of the NT ecosystem, you should report crocodiles that are near swimming or residential areas. Anyone who sights a crocodile near Darwin beaches should call 0419 822 859 to report it to the Parks and Wildlife Crocodile Management Unit.