Man attacked by 'large crocodile' at popular camping spot north of Broome

Tuesday, 21 April 2026 16:06

It's understood the man, aged in his 20s, was asleep when the attack occurred in the early hours of the morning.

A man is recovering in hospital after he was attacked by a large crocodile at a popular camping spot north of Broome over the weekend.

The man was reportedly bitten on a beach next to Hidden Creek, north of the Coulomb Point Nature Reserve in the Kimberley on April 18.

It is understood the man, aged in his 20s, was asleep when the attack occurred in the early hours of the morning.

He was taken to Broome Hospital in a stable condition, according to WA's Country Health Service and was later flown to Jandakot in Perth by the Royal Flying Doctor Service yesterday afternoon.

From there, he was taken by ambulance to Royal Perth Hospital in a stable condition, where he is currently undergoing surgery for his injuries.

Western Australia's Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) confirmed it was notified yesterday about the attack involving "a large crocodile" about 50km north of Broome.

"Parks and Wildlife Service staff have already spoken with a relative of the man who was attacked and intend to discuss the incident further with those involved," a DBCA spokesperson said.

The attack has sparked a warning from the department to be vigilant when camping in "Croc Country".

The croc-infested Fitzroy River in Rockhampton will host Brisbane 2032 rowing.

"Saltwater crocodiles occur throughout the Kimberley and are active year round," DBCA's Parks and Wildlife Service WA said.

"Please take extra care when choosing where to camp and spend time near the water.

"Visitors are advised to camp at least 50 metres from the water's edge and keep children and pets well away from the shoreline."

DBCA said it would undertake a site visit as part of the investigation.

"Crocodiles are common in the Kimberley and people should always BE CROCWISE anywhere along the Kimberley Coast and all water bodies across northern Australia including estuaries, tidal rivers, river pools and the waters around offshore islands," the spokesperson said.

"Your safety is your responsibility."

The department urged the community to contact their nearest Parks and Wildlife Service office to report crocodiles that pose a risk to public safety by being aggressive or approaching people.

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