WE MUST BE SAFE RATHER THAN SORRY WITH CROCS

TOWNSVILLE is blessed with an array of natural wonders enjoyed by locals and visitors. They form an integral part of our lifestyle and give enjoyment to thousands of people every day of the week.

But the story of a local resident capturing footage of a crocodile in the freshwater reaches of the Aplins Weir is a reminder that people must be aware to maintain a healthy respect for our natural wonders.

There is a debate whether the crocodile is a ‘saltie’ or ‘freshie’, and while experts have all but confirmed the croc is a freshwater crocodile, the fact is crocodiles inhabit the weirs in Ross River and are part of the system’s natural ecosystem.

That is not to say saltwater crocodiles have never entered the weirs, and the resident who provided the picture to the of the crocodile in the river on Tuesday is adamant ‘salties’ could have entered the freshwater reaches following last year’s floods.

With that in mind, it is crucial that people contact authorities if they suspect they have seen a dangerous crocodile in our freshwater systems, no matter how silly it might seem.

It is far better to be safe than sorry when it comes to community safety.

Having a healthy respect for nature also means not inflicting unnecessary harm to our native wildlife, especially our protected species.

A shocking discovery was made at Cape Pallarenda yesterday when a dismembered dugong was found on the beach, and according to authorities it was killed the previous night and dismembered on site.

A number of dismembered sharks were also found nearby.

The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service is investigating the cruel acts, and one hopes the culprits will be caught and punished with the full force of the law.

These animals are what make our region special, and the health of the ecosystem depends on them.

No angler or outdoors person worth their salt would ever condone cruelty to native wildlife, let alone the wider community.

There is no excuse for this type of behaviour and the culprits should be ashamed of themselves.