Facing a Croc Attack? This Dangerous Act Could Cost You $12,900 - Find Out What NOT To Do!
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Australia is a land of natural wonders, and among its diverse wildlife, the crocodile is one of the most awe-inspiring yet fearsome creatures. However, the respect these ancient reptiles command has been undermined by reckless human behavior, leading to tragic consequences. The recent death of a New South Wales father of three, David Hogbin, in a crocodile attack near Cooktown, Queensland, has sparked a serious conversation about the dangers of feeding crocodiles and the need for stiffer penalties to deter such actions.
Currently, the Queensland Government is under pressure to increase fines for feeding crocodiles to $12,900, aligning with the penalties for feeding dingoes on K’gari (Fraser Island). This push for harsher consequences comes after distressing footage emerged showing the crocodile responsible for Mr Hogbin's fatal attack being fed an esky full of fish. This act of feeding not only endangers humans but also disrupts the natural behaviour of crocodiles, leading to increased aggression and a loss of their innate fear of humans.
The Environmental Defenders Office (EDO), along with advocacy group Community Representation of Crocodiles (CROC) and Traditional Owners, has been advocating for over a year for the government to toughen penalties for those who engage in behaviour that puts both human and animal lives at risk. Kristina Ward, the managing North Queensland lawyer for the EDO, emphasized the need for more resources and staff to protect the public, labelling it a 'whole of community issue.'
Feeding crocodiles is not just a reckless act; it's illegal. It can lead to large males becoming territorial and waiting in ambush, creating a perilous situation for unsuspecting tourists. The Department of Environment and Science (DESI) in Queensland has been made aware of claims that the crocodile that attacked Mr Hogbin had been fed by fishermen for years, which may have contributed to its aggressive behaviour.
In the wake of the tragedy, there have been discussions with DESI's head of policy, and there is a sense that the department is open to addressing the issue of reckless behavior around crocodiles. DESI has confirmed it is considering updating its regulations to further deter such activities. While the department has traditionally advocated for community education over harsh penalties, it acknowledges the frustration caused by the illegal behaviour surrounding crocodiles.
In addition to increased fines and monitoring, there is a call for the implementation of CCTV and fences in areas where crocodiles are known to be fed. Moreover, there is a strong argument for allowing Indigenous communities to participate in the management of crocodile populations on their land. Ward points out that simply culling large male crocodiles does not improve public safety, as it creates a power vacuum that can lead to more instability and aggression among younger males vying for dominance.
The community has rallied around Mr Hogbin's family, with a GoFundMe appeal raising over $90,000 to support them during this difficult time. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of respecting wildlife and adhering to safety guidelines, especially in areas known as Croc Country.
As members of the Seniors Discount Club, we cherish our unique Australian environment and the incredible creatures that inhabit it. However, we must also recognize the importance of coexisting responsibly with wildlife. Feeding crocodiles for social media attention or out of misguided kindness is not only dangerous but could soon hit your wallet hard if proposed fines are implemented. Let's spread the word about being Crocwise and ensure that our interactions with Australia's wildlife are safe and respectful.
We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences on this topic. Have you encountered crocodiles in the wild? What measures do you think should be taken to ensure public safety and the protection of our wildlife? Join the conversation below, and let's discuss how we can all contribute to a safer environment for both humans and crocodiles.
Currently, the Queensland Government is under pressure to increase fines for feeding crocodiles to $12,900, aligning with the penalties for feeding dingoes on K’gari (Fraser Island). This push for harsher consequences comes after distressing footage emerged showing the crocodile responsible for Mr Hogbin's fatal attack being fed an esky full of fish. This act of feeding not only endangers humans but also disrupts the natural behaviour of crocodiles, leading to increased aggression and a loss of their innate fear of humans.
The Environmental Defenders Office (EDO), along with advocacy group Community Representation of Crocodiles (CROC) and Traditional Owners, has been advocating for over a year for the government to toughen penalties for those who engage in behaviour that puts both human and animal lives at risk. Kristina Ward, the managing North Queensland lawyer for the EDO, emphasized the need for more resources and staff to protect the public, labelling it a 'whole of community issue.'
Discussions on crocodile feeding penalties intensified after a fatal attack. Credit: Shutterstock
Feeding crocodiles is not just a reckless act; it's illegal. It can lead to large males becoming territorial and waiting in ambush, creating a perilous situation for unsuspecting tourists. The Department of Environment and Science (DESI) in Queensland has been made aware of claims that the crocodile that attacked Mr Hogbin had been fed by fishermen for years, which may have contributed to its aggressive behaviour.
In the wake of the tragedy, there have been discussions with DESI's head of policy, and there is a sense that the department is open to addressing the issue of reckless behavior around crocodiles. DESI has confirmed it is considering updating its regulations to further deter such activities. While the department has traditionally advocated for community education over harsh penalties, it acknowledges the frustration caused by the illegal behaviour surrounding crocodiles.
In addition to increased fines and monitoring, there is a call for the implementation of CCTV and fences in areas where crocodiles are known to be fed. Moreover, there is a strong argument for allowing Indigenous communities to participate in the management of crocodile populations on their land. Ward points out that simply culling large male crocodiles does not improve public safety, as it creates a power vacuum that can lead to more instability and aggression among younger males vying for dominance.
The community has rallied around Mr Hogbin's family, with a GoFundMe appeal raising over $90,000 to support them during this difficult time. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of respecting wildlife and adhering to safety guidelines, especially in areas known as Croc Country.
As members of the Seniors Discount Club, we cherish our unique Australian environment and the incredible creatures that inhabit it. However, we must also recognize the importance of coexisting responsibly with wildlife. Feeding crocodiles for social media attention or out of misguided kindness is not only dangerous but could soon hit your wallet hard if proposed fines are implemented. Let's spread the word about being Crocwise and ensure that our interactions with Australia's wildlife are safe and respectful.
