Saltwater Crocodile Attack WA: Calls for Kimberley Awareness & Safety

A man is recovering in hospital after a saltwater crocodile attack in Western Australia’s remote Kimberley region, prompting renewed calls for increased public awareness and safety measures. The incident, which occurred last month near the La Djardarr Bay community, underscores the growing challenges of human-wildlife interaction in a region where crocodile populations are reportedly increasing.

The man, who has not been publicly identified, sustained lacerations to his body during the attack by a three-metre saltwater crocodile. He reportedly drove for over two hours to reach Broome Hospital for medical attention, highlighting the logistical difficulties of accessing healthcare in the sparsely populated area. The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) confirmed it is investigating the incident, reiterating the importance of caution around waterways inhabited by crocodiles.

“Crocodiles are common in the Kimberley and people should always be crocwise around fresh and saltwater waterways,” a DBCA spokesperson stated. “Your safety is your responsibility.”

The attack has brought into sharp focus the risks faced by those living and working in the Kimberley, particularly those engaged in traditional activities such as hunting and fishing. Phillip “Bibido” McCarthy, coordinator of the Bardi Jawi Rangers, spoke of the increasing frequency of crocodile sightings and the potential for further incidents. His own brother was attacked by a similar-sized crocodile in 2024 while spearfishing near One Arm Point, but was fortunate to receive immediate medical care at a local clinic.

“My brother was more fortunate [because] we have a clinic out at One Arm Point, but when you look at the recent [attack], he had to drive certain kilometres to get to emergency service,” McCarthy said. “It’s quite terrifying when you have to drive that distance.”

McCarthy believes the latest attack occurred further inland than usual, suggesting crocodiles are expanding their range. He attributes this to a growing crocodile population and their ability to travel considerable distances in search of food. “They can walk miles and find a place to wait for food; they’re an animal that stalks and plans,” he explained. “We get sightings every year, you see them where our guys are swimming, where our children are swimming, where our family members are hunting and gathering – not just here in One Arm but all along the coast. We definitely are seeing more.”

The increasing number of encounters has led to calls for enhanced safety measures, including more prominent warning signage and increased surveillance. McCarthy specifically advocated for the installation of crocodile warning signs on major roads, at visitor centres, and along waterways. “We definitely need some big croc signs, whether on main roads, in the visitor centre, even on the highway coming into One Arm Point,” he said. “Here you probably need one on the entrance to major communities and even down on boat ramps.”

The need for vigilance extends to the younger generation, McCarthy emphasized, noting that children often forget the dangers when enjoying the water. “They’re doing what our ancestors were doing for hundreds of years, they love spearfishing, they love swimming,” he said. “When you’re in the water as a young fella you forget about your surroundings, you’re in a joyful mood because you grew up in the ocean.”

The Kimberley, the northernmost region of Western Australia, is known for its rugged landscapes and rich biodiversity, but also for its significant crocodile population. Saltwater crocodiles, the largest living reptile, are apex predators and pose a serious threat to humans. While fatal attacks are rare, they do occur, with the last recorded fatality in Western Australia taking place over a decade ago when a 15-year-old boy was killed in the Kimberley.

McCarthy also highlighted the need for more comprehensive surveillance work, suggesting a collaborative effort between the DBCA and the Kimberley Land Council to assess crocodile numbers and distribution. A recent exercise conducted by the two organizations reportedly resulted in the capture of four crocodiles in a single night. “It’s one of the most terrifying animals, you wouldn’t want to have anyone being attacked by a crocodile, so we need to get awareness out,” he said.

The situation underscores the complex challenges of balancing conservation efforts with the safety of local communities in a region where humans and crocodiles increasingly share the same environment. The DBCA conducted a survey in 2024 which found saltwater crocodile numbers were rising in the East Kimberley, and the recent inland sighting suggests a potential expansion of their territory, raising concerns about the need for a broader, more proactive approach to crocodile management in the region.