Source: Government of Queensland
Issued: 8 Feb 2025
Wildlife officers, with the assistance of Queensland Police Service (QPS), have humanely euthanised a large crocodile as part of recovery efforts to locate a man who went missing from Aurukun on 1 February 2025.
The 4-metre crocodile was located by wildlife officers overnight near Watson River.
The animal was very distinguishable as it had dark skin colouration compared to other large crocodiles in the area.
Wildlife officers have handed the crocodile over to the Queensland Police Service.
The Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation expresses its sincere condolences to the family and friends of the missing man.
The Aurukun region is well known Croc Country and people should always be Crocwise in that area. In particular:
- Expect crocodiles in ALL 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 well back 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.