Two Townsville beaches closed after a 3-4m croc was spotted
People looking to beat the summer heat with a swim were left disappointed after a hefty croc shut down two Townsville beaches.
Townsville
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Visitors to the Strand hoping to beat the heat with a swim were left disappointed after a large crocodile forced the closure of two beaches on Sunday.
The alarm was raised by a volunteer lifesaver who spotted the passing crocodile offshore from the Picnic Bay Surf Club.
The croc was estimated to be between three and four metres long.
Surf Lifesaving Queensland services supervisor Kye Yeabsley said the sighting forced them to close the beaches at Strand North and Strand Park, before reopened them again at midday.
“During summer it is a crocodile breeding season. So we do tend to see crocodiles more often travelling between different creeks than we would in winter,” Mr Yeabsley said.
“Typically, what we do see with most crocodile sightings is they are just passing through, usually within a few weeks.
“Fortunately, the crocodile didn’t hang around or bother any of the bathing public.”
While there had been less than five sightings so far this Summer, he said lifesavers remained very vigilant, conducting regular roving patrols of the murky water.
A Department of Environment and Science (DES) spokesman said they were investigating two reports of a crocodile sighted in the ocean near the Strand.
“Two members of the public reported seeing a crocodile swimming in the ocean about 50-100 metres offshore,” the spokesman said.
“DES wildlife officers have placed temporary recent crocodile sighting warning signs in the area.
“Crocodiles are highly mobile animals and often use the ocean to move between river systems or find new territory.”
He warned that Townsville was “croc country”, where everyone was responsible for their own safety.
All crocodile sightings can be reported by using the free QWildlife app or by calling 1300 130 372.
Tips for being Crocwise
• Expect crocodiles in all north 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 at least 50 metres from the edge of the water
• Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near water, camp site or boat ramp
• Never provoke, harass or feed crocs
• Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead
Originally published as Two Townsville beaches closed after a 3-4m croc was spotted
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