Overview
- Richmond Shire Mayor John Wharton said a dog was taken Monday night at the Bottom Crossing on the Flinders River after it entered the water while chasing pigs with its owner.
- The council issued urgent safety warnings asking people to avoid the river, closely supervise children and pets, and report any sightings to a provided contact number.
- The species has not been confirmed and investigators are treating the animal as a suspected saltwater crocodile while keeping an open mind about large freshwater crocodiles.
- Zoologist Grahame Webb and others said recent high river levels and floodwater can allow saltwater crocodiles to move long distances inland but such upstream sightings are uncommon.
- DETSI is investigating the report and may install warning signs and monitor the area, a move that could change how locals use the popular swimming and camping spot until the inquiry is complete.