Croc spotted near Dumbleton Weir to be relocated by Department of the Environment

Traps have been set up to remove a large crocodile spotted at a popular swimming and fishing spot near Mackay.

Mackay Rowing Club was forced to train indoors and online thanks to a crocodile spotting at Dumbleton Weir. Photo: Contributed

A large crocodile spotted in a popular swimming and fishing spot on the Pioneer River will be trapped and removed out of caution.

The Queensland Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation has issued a warning after the reptile was spotted in freshwater above the Dumbleton Weir.

On February 15, a member of the pubic reported the croc, and wildlife officers found a crocodile slide area on the north bank on February 18.

Wildlife management will be searching the river with the intent to locate, trap, and remove the crocodile.

Senior Wildlife officer, Jane Burns, said recent crocodile sighting signs have been installed in the area, and a baited trap set.

Mackay. Senior Wildlife Officer in Mackay Jane Burns warns the public a croc has been spotted in the Pioneer River past the Dumbleton Weir. Photo: Fergus Gregg

“Because we haven’t confirmed an actual size our estimate is based on a slide that our wildlife officers have seen about two days ago,” Ms Burns said.

“I would estimate we’re looking at an animal possibly around three metres.

“This particular area is used for recreational swimming, rowing and people tend to come here quite a bit.”

“I would like to thank the person who reported the crocodile to the department, and I can assure the community that the animal will be targeted for removal from the wild.”

She warned that crocodiles are highly mobile, and can get around built structures like the Dumbleton Weir.

“We believe this animal moved into the area above the weir during the recent weather event.

“Avoid swimming above the Dumbleton Weir while the trap is in the water.”

Mackay Rowing Club were forced to train indoors and online thanks to a crocodile spotting at Dumbleton Weir. Photo: Contributed

Ms Burns said a floating trap has been used, with a foetal pig leg on a trigger line.

“That scent of the pig is a natural food source for a large crocodile so it will recognise that smell, it’s going to be a stinky smell,” she said.

“It will hopefully go and investigate and it pulls the trigger line and the trap door comes down behind it.”

The crocodile could have been going from fresh to saltwater quite often, she added, and said the trap could take 24 hours or even a week to get results.

Earlier, Mackay Rowing Club posted on their Facebook warning members to stay off the river, adding that their early morning sessions would be virtual and indoors until it was safe to get back on the river.

Crocodile sightings can be reported by using the QWildlife app, completing a crocodile sighting report on the DETSI website, or by calling 1300 130 372.

Crocwise tips:

• Expect crocodiles in ALL northern and far northern Queensland waterways even if there is no warning sign
• Obey all warning signs – they are there to keep you safe
• Be aware crocs also swim in the ocean and be extra cautious around water at night
• Stay well away from croc traps – that includes fishing and boating
• The smaller the vessel the greater the risk, so avoid using canoes and kayaks
• Stand back from the water’s edge when fishing and don’t wade in to retrieve a lure
• Camp as far back from the water’s edge as possible
• Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near the water, camp sites or boat ramps
• Never provoke, harass or feed crocs
• Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead

Originally published as Croc spotted near Dumbleton Weir to be relocated by Department of the Environment