Croc necropsy forms part of search for missing fisher

Nick Gibbs | May 2, 2023

Authorities plan to perform a necropsy on two large crocodiles found upstream from where a fisherman went missing in far north Queensland.

The search for 65-year-old Laura man Kevin Darmody continued on Tuesday after he disappeared while fishing along the Kennedy River at Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park on Saturday.

Bystanders described the fisherman in distress after a splash in the water near the Kennedy Bend campsite northwest of Cape Tribulation, the Queensland Ambulance Service said.

Crews including the police dive squad have so far failed to find Mr Darmody, but wildlife officers located and euthanised two crocodiles upstream from where he was last seen. 

Authorities plan to conduct a necropsy on the two reptiles measuring 4.1 metres and 2.8 metres on Tuesday afternoon, after which police will prepare a report for the coroner. 

Problem crocodiles are removed from the wild under Queensland’s management plan.

The suspected attack has already prompted calls for changes to how Queensland manages the reptiles. 

Katter’s Australian Party leader Robbie Katter believes the animals are spreading to waterways previously believed to be crocodile-free. 

“Lake Placid in Cairns is just one example of a waterway we used to enjoy, but any talk of culling is offensive to the people who don’t live in croc territory, yet those who do strongly support it,” the state MP said on Monday.