DAILY MERCURY (Mackay, Australia) 06 February 06 Stolen sign causes alarm
The theft of a crocodile warning sign from the Glen Isla landing near Proserpine has sparked fears for public safety.
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) district wildlife ranger Peter Sykes said the familiar yellow warning signs were a key part of the service’s ‘‘croc-wise’’ public awareness strategy designed to help keep people safe when using the region’s waterways for recreational activities.
‘‘Soon after the Glen Isla sign disappeared two German tour- ists decided to go for a swim in the Proserpine River only metres from where it once stood and had no idea there were crocodiles nearby,’’ he said.
This situation really highlights how completely uncaring and irresponsible it is for someone to steal a sign that has been put up to save lives.
‘‘The signs are specially produced and not easy to replace.’’
Mr Sykes said there had not been a human fatality resulting from a croc attack in the Mackay/Whitsunday area since 1933.
‘‘The signs are erected in all high-use areas where people have a good chance of encountering crocodiles, such as boat ramps and parks.’’
‘‘Estuarine crocodiles are listed as a ‘vulnerable’ species and play an important role in keeping local ecosystems healthy.
‘‘If efforts to conserve them are going to be successful it is vitally important that we recognise their value and take a commonsense approach to human safety when visiting areas they inhabit.”
Mr Sykes said the matter had been handed over to the Proserpine police and anyone wanting to report information concerning stolen crocodile warning signs could contact the police on 4945 1333 or call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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