A popular croc-spotting site in Far North Queensland will be monitored after multiple reports of “reckless” interactions with the reptiles.
The Russell River at Babinda, 40 minutes from Cairns, is home to many crocodiles including a 4.5-metre reptile affectionately known by locals as Clyde.
Last week footage of two men taunting Clyde on the riverbank was reported to authorities.
In 2024 an influencer was charged after feeding him a rotisserie chicken.
This week the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) installed signs on the riverbank warning that the area was being monitored for illegal crocodile feeding.
“Feeding crocodiles – intentional or not – teaches them to associate humans with food and puts subsequent visitors to the area at risk of attack,” the sign said.
Community Representation of Crocodiles (CROC) co-founder Matt Cornish said he had spent “months” pushing the department to take action.
“We need to make sure we do police the area properly and prosecutions commence against people recklessly interacting with crocodiles,” he said.
Mr Cornish has called for the installation of CCTV and full-time rangers in the area, harsher penalties and timely prosecution for those breaking the law.
Under state legislation anyone found to be feeding or deliberately disturbing crocodiles could be fined more than $26,000.
A crocodile that attacks a human will be removed or culled.
Part of the family
Gunggandji man and traditional owner Warren Martens feared human behaviour in the area could be detrimental to Clyde.
“It’ll be another death in our family if Clyde is removed or euthanised,” Mr Martens said.
He said permanent signage explaining the significance of crocodiles in Aboriginal culture should be installed.
Aside from being a Babinda local for decades, Clyde was also “like family” for the coastal Aboriginal peoples whose totem was the crocodile, Mr Martens said.
The Queensland Crocodile Management Plan and does not specifically provide for Indigenous consultation.
Mr Martens said more Aboriginal voices were needed and that First Nations people should patrol the area.
“Aboriginal people need to be part of that solution … the government needs to have consultation around Clyde and his future existence around human activity,” he said.
A DETSI spokesperson said “covert and overt” monitoring methods were being used after “reports of people behaving inappropriately”.
The department did not confirm if the sign would be permanent.
Anyone with information about crocodile-related offences can call 1300 130 372.