Saltwater crocodile shuts down swimming at Fitzroy Island resort
A 2-metre saltwater crocodile forced the closure of swimming at Fitzroy Island, a Queensland resort 29 kilometres off Cairns.
A 2-metre saltwater crocodile chased snorkellers out of the water. The sighting led resort staff to increase safety patrols at Fitzroy Island, one of Queensland's most popular tourist destinations.
The croc spent several hours close to shore on Monday before floating away. Fitzroy Island Resort said the sighting was rare.
The last known sighting was nearly two years ago. The resort stepped up safety procedures.
These included regular patrols and guest warnings. Queensland's environment department is looking into the area.
One Scottish tourist said the experience was surreal and a core memory. He and his girlfriend had to cancel their snorkelling plans.
- 2 metres
- Crocodile size
- 29 kilometres
- Distance from Cairns
- Nearly 2 years ago
- Last known sighting
Why it mattersVisitors to Far North Queensland's most-visited islands should remember this. Saltwater crocodiles are a real danger, but sightings near resort areas are still uncommon.
AustraliaFitzroy Island is a major tourist draw for Cairns visitors; the closure of water activities during peak season affects thousands of tourists and the local tourism economy.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
