A young man was asleep in his swag when he was attacked by a three-metre saltwater crocodile at a remote camping location in WA’s north.
The man, in his 20s, remarkably survived being mauled at a beach beyond the Coulomb Point Nature Reserve, beside Hidden Creek, about 50km north of Broome.
He was taken to Broome Hospital after the early morning attack on Saturday before being flown by the Royal Flying Doctor Service to Perth on Sunday, where it is understood he has since undergone surgery at Royal Perth Hospital.
His injuries are described as significant but not life threatening.
The man, who opted to conceal his identity, said he wants to focus on his recovery rather than the details of the attack.
I would like to take this opportunity take this opportunity to thank everyone for their messages of concern over the past few days,” he said in a statement.
“I am grateful for the well wishes as I recover from my injuries.
“I would like to give particular thanks to my friends and family who were there to help and support me when I needed it most.
“I would also like to offer my sincere gratitude to the staff at Broome Hospital and the Royal Flying Doctor Service for the treatment and care they provided while preparing me for my journey to Royal Perth Hospital.”
He added he would be concentrating on his recovery and return to regular life.
It’s understood people nearby may have witnessed the attack which unfolded near a remote stretch of the unsealed Manari Road on the Dampier Peninsula, about 2000km north of Perth.
The spot is well known among residents and visitors for its long, untouched beaches, tidal creeks and pindan vegetation that can survive in the red, sandy plains.
The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) is investigating the crocodile attack and intend to visit the site, as well as speak with the injured survivor.
However tidal conditions in the Kimberley have made the beach temporarily inaccessible.
It is the second reported crocodile attack in the region this year.
In January, a man suffered lacerations after an encounter with a three-metre saltwater crocodile near the remote La Djardarr Bay Community.
Another man was attacked in 2024 by a three-metre saltwater crocodile while spearfishing off the coast of nearby One Arm Point.
Saltwater crocodiles are common along the Kimberley coastline and are known to inhabit beaches, creeks and tidal waterways.
They are the world’s largest living reptile and are responsible for most crocodile attacks in northern Australia.
The DBCA has warned people to be vigilant along the Kimberley Coast and all water bodies across northern Australia including estuaries, tidal rivers, river pools and the waters near offshore islands.
Parks and Wildlife should be contacted if a crocodile makes an approach, shows aggressive behaviour, poses a risk to public safety, or in if people are seen interfering or interacting with crocodiles.
