CAIRNS CROCODILE CATCHERS WELCOME OFFERS OF EXTRA FUNDING

CAIRNS’ crocodile catchers say more financial support would allow them to improve their services to the city.

Rangers from the Dawul Wuru Aboriginal Corporation (DWAC) last week captured a 2.3m croc in a creek at Kewarra Beach. The croc had been dubbed “Snappy” by locals.

It had reportedly attacked three pet dogs, and was regularly spotted lurking at the beach in the past 12 months.

Division 9 Councillor Brett Olds said it had taken the rangers far too long to catch Snappy, and days after the predator had been removed, another appeared to have already moved into the area.

“I think more needs to be done,” he said.

“This has taken way too long and it’s not good enough.

“They need to keep their focus up, and they need to be doing more hours.”

Environment Minister Steven Miles last Thursday announced that DWAC’s contract to capture crocs in Cairns’ waterways had been extended until June 2017.

DWAC spokesman Gavin Singleton said the corporation’s four staff had worked within their capacity, with limited funds.

Right to Information documents showed the corporation’s initial contract, awarded in 2013, was worth $230,813.

Details of the new contract are regarded commercial-inconfidence.

Mr Singleton said the renewal of the contract showed the government was happy with their progress.

“We’ve met our milestones, in fact we’ve over-met our milestones and delivered our program, which is quite good for the funds we’ve got,” he said.

They would greatly welcome any additional funding, particularly from Cairns Regional Council.

“If Councillor Olds wants to support our program he can, and that would be appreciated.

“We’re quite open and welcome any support.

“We will definitely work alongside the community – anyone that is interested in the program – and working with the State Government, making sure it’s all done in the most effective and efficient way.”

Last month, AAB Group managing director Adrean Boyd pledged up to $1 million a year to fund croc relocation away from popular tourist areas, saying the government was not taking the issue in the Far North seriously.

Mr Singleton said the corporation would be willing to speak to Mr Boyd about his offer.

At least 41 crocodiles have been removed from the wild this year in Queensland.