A 40-year-old man from NSW was fishing on the banks of the Annan River in Cooktown with his wife and children about 2pm on Saturday when he slipped into the water.
He has not been seen since, and it is believed he was taken by a large crocodile that frequented the area.
It was humanely euthanised this afternoon after being found about 4km from where the man went missing and will be handed over to Queensland Police.
The incident comes after reports people have been feeding crocodiles in the area, which is an offence which can attract fines of more than $6000.
“DESI is aware of the video circulating on social media of potentially some individuals feeding crocodiles at a location which appears to be consistent with the location of interest here,” DESI’s Daniel Guymer said.
”It’s very, very concerning behaviour… it’s reckless.”
He said the department would be investigating the video.
The department has been working with police in the search for the missing man, which has also involved SES volunteers, drones and helicopters.
Guymer said “many crocodiles” had been detected where the man went missing.
“It is a timely reminder to always exercise croc-wise behaviour,” he said.
DESI has advised “the Cooktown region is well known Croc Country and people should always be Crocwise in that area”.
It advises anyone visiting the area:
- Expect crocodiles in ALL waterways even if there is no warning sign
- Obey all warning signs
- 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.
Acting Chief Superintendent Shane Holmes fronted media this afternoon before the crocodile was found.
“I would like to express the sympathies of the QPS and all other agencies that are involved in this search at the moment,” he said.
