Crocs must be dealt with now

ROSS and Locke used to be a favourite swimming hole for families. Not any more.

The Mulgrave River recreation spot off the Gillies Highway at Little Mulgrave was popular.

Kids used to swing off ropes tied to overhanging trees into the pristine waters while others floated downstream on lilos or inner tubes.

There were sandy areas that formed mini beaches.

But croc sightings have put paid to swimming and deterred lawabiding citizens.

No longer are barbecues and family outings part of the serenity.

Today it is a cesspit, where fourwheel-drive cowboys have taken over.

There are at least two burnt-out cars and rubbish is strewn everywhere.

Unless the Queensland Government toughens its stand on crocodiles, and the waterway is rid of the killers, nothing is likely to change at Ross and Locke.

It’s not the only free and easy swimming hole which is being held to ransom by crocodiles.

Lake Placid at Caravonica and Babinda Creek are others.

Crocodiles are encroaching on areas where they have never been seen before but the Labor government is pandering to green voters in crucial city seats in the southeast corner where the dangerous predators are pretty pictures on walls.

Crocodiles in popular freshwater areas must be dealt with swiftly, not just by erecting warning signs, then monitoring the area and finally installing traps which may or may not be successful. Crocs are killers and must be treated as such.

It’s time to reclaim Ross and Locke for families and children.