07/04/2005 - On Tuesday
night [5 April 2005] at approximately 8.30
pm a fisher from Jabiru was attacked by a
4 metre crocodile while fishing with two other
men on the East Alligator River near the junction
of Magela Creek in Kakadu National Park.
I have asked for and already received an immediate
investigation and report into the incident.
The three fishers were in a 5.3 metre boat
and were not fishing at the time. The attack
was unprovoked.
The injured man sustained only minor injuries
including lacerations to the upper arm and
head.
Kakadu National Park staff were notified
of the incident on Wednesday.
Following notification, Kakadu National Park
Crocodile Management staff interviewed the
injured fisher as part of an investigation
into the incident.
A search for the offending crocodile was
undertaken last night in the precise location
of the incident.
A crocodile matching the description of the
offending crocodile and demonstrating similar
aggressive behaviour was identified. The animal
was subsequently destroyed.
I commend the prompt action by Kakadu National
Park staff in response to this incident.
Kakadu National Park is in crocodile country.
All fishermen should be particularly aware
that there are many crocodiles around at this
time of the year and to be extremely careful
and take necessary precautions.
