ANXIOUS WAIT FOR MOVE ON PROBLEM CROC IN POPULAR SWIM SPOT

Floodwaters hinder problem saltie seizure

RANGERS will wait for floodwaters to recede before trying to capture a crocodile at a popular Cairns swimming spot.

The Department of Environment and Science has declared a 2.2m saltie a “problem” croc after it was spotted on the banks of the Mulgrave River at Ross and Locke on March 19.

A department spokesman said the animal was targeted for removal from the high-use recreation area after its presence was confirmed during a recent night-time patrol.

“Due to localised flooding and high stream flows in the Mulgrave River, wildlife officers have been unable to access the river at Ross and Locke, but will continue removal efforts once floodwaters recede,” he said.

“Recent crocodile sighting warning signs have been installed in the area.”

Division 1 Councillor Brett Moller said recent zonal changes to the Queensland Government’s crocodile management plan allowed for the medium-sized crocodile to be captured and removed.

“With the rain and floodwaters, we’ll see crocodiles in the Mulgrave River venture further and further upstream and residents need to be very cautious about their swimming holes,” he said. “Just down from Ross and Locke at Peet’s Bridge, crocodiles have also been seen in a big waterhole, about 300-400m downstream, including a 14-foot (4.2m) crocodile and an 8-foot (2.4m) female.

“There’s quite some big crocodiles in the upper reaches around Goldsborough Valley that residents have reported.” A 2m long crocodile was reported at Ross and Locke Reserve in 2017.

DES urges all members of the public to report crocodile sightings to the department by calling 1300 130 372.