Crocodile death, Deeral
Detectives have charged a 69-year-old man following an investigation into the alleged killing of a three-metre Crocodile at Deeral, south of Cairns last week.
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol officers discovered the deceased estuarine crocodile in Sorenson Creek on 18 January 2018.
The reptile was found attached to a trap, prompting staff from Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol to set-up surveillance of the area, at the request of Department of Environment and Science (DES) wildlife officers.
Police will allege vision from the area captures a 69-year-old man attending the creek and removing the crocodile carcass from the trap at 12.30pm on 18 January 2018.
Detectives executed a search warrant at a Deeral property yesterday (24 January, 2018) where they uncovered the carcass (pictured).
The 69-year-old man has been charged with one count of taking a protected animal and is due to appear in the Cairns Magistrates Court on 7 February 2018.
DES wildlife management Director Lindsay Delzoppo said it was an offence to take a crocodile in Queensland without authority.
“In Queensland, estuarine crocodiles are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and the maximum penalty for the unlawful killing of a crocodile is $28,383.75,” Mr Delzoppo said.
“DES wishes to thank the Queensland Police Service (QPS) for leading the investigation, and the Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol for providing surveillance video material.
“Crocodiles hold significant cultural and economic value for communities in northern and far north Queensland.
“They also play an important ecological role as a predator at the top of the food chain.
“DES takes wildlife offences like the unlawful taking of crocodiles seriously and members of the public are encouraged to report suspected incidents of wildlife-related crime to the department.”
This can be done by filling out a wildlife complaint form, which can be found at www.ehp.qld.gov.au/contactus/.
Reports can also be made to DES by ringing 1300 130 372 or through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
• Expect crocodiles in ALL northern and far northern Queensland waterways even if there is no warning sign
• Obey all warning signs – they are there to keep you safe
• Be aware crocs also swim in the ocean and be extra cautious around water at night
• Stay well away from croc traps – that includes fishing and boating
• The smaller the vessel the greater the risk, so avoid using canoes and kayaks
• Stand back from the water’s edge when fishing and don’t wade in to retrieve a lure
• Camp at least 50 metres from the edge of the water
• Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near water, camp site or boat ramp
• Never provoke, harass or feed crocs
• Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead
• Remember, you are responsible for your own safety in croc country
• Report all croc sightings to DES by calling 1300 130 372.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
