Crocs threat to way of life

IT’S a daunting situation when parents are stopping their youngsters from becoming Nippers because of the threat of crocodiles.

But that is the reality in the Far North as Nipper numbers are dwindling because of the possibility of a crocodile attack.

There has been a 13 per cent fall in children aged 5-13 joining Nippers.

In a surf lifesaving survey nearly 40 per cent of parents said they had taken their children out of the junior lifesaving program because they did not feel it was safe for their children in the water because of crocodiles.

Nippers are an intrinsic part of the Australian way of life. It teaches them swimming and survival skills and, critically, how to save the lives of others who get into trouble.

Since January 1 last year, beaches have been closed 26 times in the Far North as a result of crocodiles.

Surf Life Saving Queensland is deeply concerned and fear a shortage of lifesavers patrolling beaches in the near future.

The organisation wants more croc-spotting drones which were successfully trialled at Palm Cove late last year.

But, as we all know, prevention is better than cure.

The Queensland Government’s crocodile management program does not go far enough.

There are too many crocodiles lurking about our popular beaches and waterholes.

They are increasing in numbers and sightings are increasingly common.

It’s time to get tougher on crocodiles.

Does it take a child being killed by a crocodile for the government to act forcefully? Nick Dalton Deputy editor