Croc ‘ control’ is crucial

I AM writing in response to the story “Crucial to keep reaction in check” ( Page 5, TB, 13/ 10/ 17).

The claim that crocodile numbers have not increased is pure rubbish and not supported by official government data.

Figures from the Queensland Environment Department show a 38 per cent increase in crocodile sightings so far this year ( January 1- September 30) and a significant jump from 345 in 2015 to 477 in 2017 over the same period.

As part of KAP’s public consultation on the issue we received feedback from tourism operators, business owners and Surf Life Saving Queensland who all reported heightened concerns due to increasing crocodile numbers.

Palm Cove, Port Douglas and Lake Placid were all hugely popular camping and swimming spots for families when I visited as a child.

Now there are regular sightings of crocs in these areas and all have crocodile warning signs telling people to stay away from the water.

There is no longer a balance between these natural predators and humans.

As part of the KAP’s Safer Waterways Bill we held public meetings along the coast where we heard from parents who were pulling kids out of rowing clubs as crocs were stalking the boats on the Johnstone River and surf lifesaving clubs struggling for numbers as parents don’t want to put their kids in danger, especially in the Cairns area.

The Government’s response is to put up warning signs and commission a $ 2.7 million, three- year study to count the crocodiles.

Meanwhile, the tourism industry is in danger, operators in Port Douglas are already feeling the effects and are fearful for the viability of the industry if immediate action is not taken. Last week we heard of another tragic loss of life due to a crocodile attack.

Putting up warning signs tells the rest of the world we have crocs everywhere and it’s not a safe place to holiday. The attraction of the North is our natural untouched beauty, beaches, swimming places, water sports, fishing, islands and resorts. These businesses play a critical role creating jobs and income for the region. The KAP does not want to wipe out all crocodiles, we wish to see a balance restored and a lessening of the impact to businesses, communities and the quality of life of our constituents.

We also want to create a new industry to stimulate Far North economies and provide opportunities for indigenous communities to benefit from croc farming and egg harvesting.

Both major parties have so far been unwilling to support KAP’s proposed legislation and they are entitled to their opinion. However, it is clear there is a problem and without providing an alternative solution the major parties appear to be more interested in shouting down the KAP Bill than working collaboratively to improve public safety.

ROBBIE KATTER, Member for Mount Isa.