Progress on croc exit plan
A MOVE to rezone Babinda to allow immediate removal of crocodiles, in order to protect swimmers and kayakers, appears to be progressing well.
Wildlife officers from the Department of Environment and Science met early last week with Cairns Regional Council representatives to discuss management of the dangerous reptiles in Babinda’s waterways.
Locals want the creek where at least one large saltwater crocodile was spotted three months ago changed from a general to targeted management zone.
A DES spokeswoman said there had been “positive discussions” between representatives of both authorities.
“DES discussed with council what information would be required to consider rezoning this area, including the precise areas proposed for rezoning,” she said. “DES looks forward to further discussions.”
The meeting followed three crocodile sightings at Babinda since May, including one in May and two in June.
It is unclear whether the sightings are of the same reptile or different animals.
Division 1 councillor Brett Moller, who attended the meeting, said they discussed potential zone boundaries that would better suit locals, providig a more proactive response from wildlife officers.
“I thought the officers had responded to community concerns,” he said. “The issue is the proximity of the urban town of Babinda, and where the croc was spotted.
“So human interaction is a high risk there.”
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