CROC AND LOAD
LNP TO DECLARE WAR ON KILLERS
CROCODILES would be shot on the spot by rangers under a management plan proposed by the LNP.
In a “common sense” proposal to be released by the State Opposition today, Department of Environment and Heritage Protection officers would be permitted to shoot “problem” crocs.
The LNP’s plan would also regulate the harvesting of eggs in areas where populations were rising to help build a viable commercial industry for crocodile meat and skins.
CROCODILES would be shot on the spot by qualified rangers in North Queensland under a management plan proposed by the LNP.
In a “common sense” proposal to be released by the State Opposition today, Environment and Heritage Protection officers would be permitted to shoot “problem” crocodiles on a case- by- case basis.
It would also regulate the harvesting of eggs in areas where populations were rising to help build a viable commercial industry for crocodile meat and skins.
Egg harvesting is currently not permitted in Queensland.
The policy would not discriminate between sizes and would be authorised where “quick capture” was unavailable. Areas such as boat ramps, marinas and popular swimming spots would be targeted.
LNP Environment and Heritage Protection spokesman Christian Rowan said the proposal reflected a need for public safety and ensuring long- term sustainability.
“We are announcing a North Queensland solution for a North Qu e e n s l a n d problem,” he said. “This is a common sense, practical and proactive management plan.”
Since April 9, there have been six confirmed sightings of crocodiles in the Hinchinbrook Shire and Townsville.
Two of these were in the Ross River.
Mr Rowan said it was not an invitation to cull or start hosting crocodile safaris.
“We would be hopeful that over time, plus with the implementation of crocodile egg harvesting, that it will manage the overall population,” he said.
“We’re talking about a three - zone system.
“It’s very important that we protect those areas, particularly around boat ramps and marinas.
“We’re talking about ensuring that there are legislative amendments to allow the registered and regulated harvesting of crocodile eggs to provide for a viable commercial industry in Queensland with respect to skins and meat.”
Mr Rowan said the LNP reserved the right to protect North Queenslanders and communities.
“Our EHP officers will be able to take strong action by being able to euthanise where quick capture isn’t an option,” he said.
“If that means we have to shoot a crocodile on a case- bycase basis to ensure the safety of North Queensland, we will take that action.
“We trust our EHP to make that determination if they believe capture and relocation is not an option.
“We’re not saying that’s the only solution to all of this but were certainly reserving the right to act.”
Various stakeholders were consulted across North Queensland before today’s announcement, Mr Rowan said.
“I have also had conversations with various representatives from councils, tourist operators and Townsville Enterprise,” he said.
“If you look at it from the Labor Party’s perspective there has been a failed management of crocodiles.
“We have put this plan together based on the feedback we’ve received right across various North Queensland communities.”