The chances of a shark attack are very low and there are some simple tips for safe swimming to help reduce the risk of incidents involving sharks and humans.

Always swim at a patrolled beach and between the flags.
Do not swim in canals or near a river mouth.
Leave the water immediately if a shark is sighted.
Never swim alone.
Never swim at dawn or dusk or at night.
Never swim in murky waters.
Do not swim near schools of fish.
Do not swim in canals or near a river mouth.
Do not swim near, or interfere with, shark control equipment.

Remember that sharks and other marine creatures are a natural part of the marine environment.

The Lifesaving Patrols (and the Shark Control Program where it is in place) are there for your safety, please swim only in patrolled locations.

For further information on the Shark Control Program please visit the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries website.

marine stingers

Marine Stingers

Tropical Queensland:
There are many species of jellyfish found in the oceans of the world. In Australia, two of these species - the Chironex Box Jellyfish and Irukandji - are classified as dangerous tropical jellyfish (marine stingers).

The beaches and oceans of Tropical Queensland are an important part of the natural attractions of the region, and no doubt, your experience of them will be both memorable and enjoyable.

During the warmer months, however, dangerous jellyfish (Marine Stingers) may be present in tropical waters. While the risk of a severe marine sting is comparatively low, by following some simple risk management strategies the risk can be further reduced.

We recommend that you follow these simple tips for safe swimming:

Look for, and observe, warning signs.
Wear protective clothing (wet suit or lycra stinger resistant suit).
Enter water slowly (Chironex Box Jellyfish will often swim away from people, if given the opportunity and time).
Symptoms from Irukandji stings may take 20 - 40 minutes to develop. If in doubt, seek medical aid.

When on beaches:
Lifesavers and Lifeguards patrol the beaches for your safety and enjoyment. Please swim only at patrolled beaches and between the red and yellow flags.

Where provided, swim in stinger resistant enclosures.
Do not interfere with stinger-resistant enclosures (nets), or sit on floating pontoons.
Stinger resistant enclosures afford a high degree of protection, however, they are 'stinger resistant' and not 'stinger proof'. To avoid Irukandji stings, check with your local lifeguard or lifesaver.
Don't swim when beaches are closed.

Click here to view the video "Dangerous Tropical Jellyfish" (41.6MB)

For further information on marine stingers please visit www.marinestingers.com

crocodile

Crocodiles

Estuarine or saltwater crocodiles are an important part of north and central Queensland's wetlands, freshwater and marine areas. They are often the largest predator in these areas and help to maintain the overall health and balance of these ecosystems. Estuarine crocodiles live mainly in tidal reaches of rivers, as well as in fresh water sections of lagoons, swamps and waterways to hundreds of kilometers from the sea. They can even occur along some beaches and around offshore islands. Estuarine crocodiles are most active at night.

Crocodiles are potentially dangerous. Never take unneccessary risks in crocodile habitat, you are responsibile for your own safety, so please follow these guidelines:

Obey crocodiles warning signs - they are there for your safety and protection.
Never swim in water where crocodiles may live even if there is no warning sign present
When fishing, stand at least a few metres back from the water's edge - never stand on logs or branches overhanging the water.
Never clean or discard fish scraps near the water's edge, around campsites, or at boat ramps.
Never dangle your arms or legs over the side of a boat. If you fall out of a boat, get out of the water as quickly as possible.
Stay well back from any crocodile or mud-slide marks. Crocodiles sometimes approach people and boats.
Never provoke or interfere with crocodiles, even small ones.
Never feed crocodiles - it is illegal and dangerous.
Camp at least 2m above high water mark and at least 50m from the water's edge. Avoid places where native animals and domestic stock drink.
Never leave food scraps, fish frames or bait at your campsite. Always check that previous campers have not left these behind
Never prepare food, wash dishes, or pursue any other activities near the water's edge or adjacent sloping banks.
Be more aware during breeding season, September to April.

For more information on crocodiles, visit the Queensland Government Enviromental Protection Agency: Queensland parks and Wildlife Service

For further information on Crocodiles you can visit the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Website.

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