The 54-year-old ranger, Craig Dickmann, reportedly escaped the jaws of the crocodile by stabbing it in the eye before driving an hour back to the Heathlands Ranger Station for help.

He suffered serious injuries to his thigh, hand and arm and was airlifted to Cairns via the Royal Flying Doctor Service, where he is recovering in hospital.

DES said any crocodiles that pose a threat to human safety are targeted for removal under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan.

At this time of the year, with the Wet Season approaching, larger estuarine crocodiles tend to move around and become aggressive with each other as they search for mates and breeding territories.

Members of the public are encouraged to report crocodile sightings as soon as possible, by calling 1300 130 372. DES investigates all reports it receives.

Captain Billy’s Landing is known Croc Country and the DES are reminding people in the area to always be Crocwise.

In particular:

• Expect crocodiles in ALL far northern Queensland waterways even if there is no warning sign
• Obey all warning signs – they are there to keep you safe
• Be aware crocs also swim in the ocean and be extra cautious around water at night
• Stay well away from croc traps – that includes fishing and boating
• The smaller the vessel the greater the risk, so avoid using canoes and kayaks
• Stand back from the water’s edge when fishing and don’t wade in to retrieve a lure
• Camp at least 50 metres from the edge of the water
• Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near water, camp site or boat ramp
• Never provoke, harass or feed crocs
• Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead
• Remember, you are responsible for your own safety in Croc Country
• Report all croc sightings to DES by calling 1300 130 372.

View further Crocwise information here.

Have an opinion or point of view on one of our stories or a community issue? Please submit a Letter to the Editor here.

* Readers are encouraged to use their full details to ensure letter legitimacy. Letters are the opinions of readers and do not represent the views of Newsport or its staff. Letters containing unlawful, obscene, defamatory, personal or abusive material will not be published.

Got a great news tip or video? We'd love to see it. Send news tips to editor@newsport.com.au

Comments are the opinions of readers and do not represent the views of Newsport or its staff.
Reader comments on this site are moderated before publication to promote valuable, civil, and healthy community debate. Our moderation takes into consideration these guidelines and rules before comments are approved for publication.