'Croc Country': Man Mauled by Crocodile Near Ingham

A man in his 20s is recovering in hospital after being attacked by a crocodile in north Queensland, prompting renewed warnings for residents to remain vigilant in known crocodile habitats.

Emergency services were called shortly before 9am to Ingham Forrest Beach Road at Victoria Plantation, within the Shire of Hinchinbrook, following reports of an animal-related incident.

A spokesperson for the Queensland Ambulance Service said the man sustained puncture wounds to his back, legs and one hand. He was taken to Ingham Hospital in a stable condition and is being transferred to Townsville University Hospital for further treatment. No other injuries were reported.

The Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation, which oversees crocodile management in Queensland, is investigating the incident.

Palm Creek, which runs near the site of the attack, is well known locally as crocodile territory. Ramon Jayo, Mayor of Hinchinbrook Shire Council, described the attack as concerning and praised the swift response of bystanders and emergency crews.

"This incident is a timely reminder that we live in croc country and everyone needs to remain croc-wise," he said. "We've even seen a six-foot crocodile wandering through Lucinda recently after sheltering in local stormwater drains."

The attack comes amid a Queensland Government push for increased crocodile removals in the state's north, including active removal programs and ranger patrols around Tyto Wetlands in Ingham.

While supporting stronger management measures, Mr Jayo warned against complacency. "The bottom line is to stay out of the water and away from the water's edge. We need to remember we're living in croc country."