In a world where the wild and the urban often collide, it's essential to remember that nature's rules are not ours to bend. This message was brought home with startling clarity recently when a group was spotted engaging in what can only be described as a 'shocking act' at the water's edge of Myall Creek at Cape Tribulation in northeast Queensland, an area notorious for its large population of saltwater crocodiles.

The local community is in an uproar, and rightly so, over this brazen display of disregard for personal safety and wildlife regulations. A local man, who witnessed the four individuals standing in and near the water 'for some time,' expressed his disbelief and concern. Just around the corner, a four-meter crocodile lay on a sandbank, a silent testament to the potential danger lurking beneath the surface. Despite clear signage warning of the risks, this group chose to frolic in the waters, seemingly oblivious to the peril.


This incident is not an isolated one. It comes on the heels of a series of fatal crocodile attacks in the state, including a tragic event where a 40-year-old father was taken while fishing with his family in Cooktown, just 100km north of the creek. The aftermath was grim: 'Human remains' were found inside a local crocodile, which was subsequently euthanized.


The local man who reported the latest incident took to Facebook to call for greater education on the dangers of crocodiles. 'It’s common sense that crocs are everywhere in the north of Australia,' he said. 'Humans have a brain. They can use them.' His frustration is echoed by crocodile expert Tommy Hayes, who has labeled those who ignore the warnings as 'arrogant' and 'entitled.'


Cape Tribulation, nestled in the Daintree Rainforest, is a habitat for many crocodiles. The local authority's website clearly advises visitors to 'always obey crocodile warning signs' and to maintain a safe distance from the water's edge. Yet, this advice was blatantly ignored by the group in question.

The size of the crocodiles in this region is no small matter. Mature male Daintree River crocodiles can grow up to six meters (20 feet), while females can reach around 3.5 meters (11.5 feet). These are wild, powerful creatures, and safety guidelines are in place for a reason: to prevent tragic encounters between humans and crocodiles.

Public sentiment is strong, with many agreeing that such reckless behavior is all too common in Queensland and other crocodile-dominant areas like northern WA and the NT. The frustration is palpable, with comments highlighting the potential consequences for both humans and crocodiles. 'Stupid is as stupid does,' one comment read, pointing out the abundance of warning signs that are too often ignored.


The Department of Environment and Science has reiterated its call for 'CrocWise behaviour,' which includes staying at least five meters from the water’s edge, properly disposing of food and fish scraps, keeping pets on a lead and away from the water, avoiding the use of kayaks and paddleboards, and steering clear of crocodile traps.
As we marvel at Australia's weird and wonderful environment, let's not forget that respect for nature's inhabitants and adherence to safety guidelines are paramount. The beauty of our landscapes comes with inherent risks, and it is our responsibility to navigate them wisely. To the group at Myall Creek, and to all who venture into crocodile territory, the message is clear: don't lose your minds, or you might just lose more.