Lake Argyle crocodile bite sends 67-year-old to Royal Perth Hospital

A 67-year-old man was bitten by a suspected freshwater crocodile while swimming near a houseboat on lake argyle in the Hicks Passage area, then taken to Kununurra Hospital and transferred to Royal Perth Hospital on Sunday.

He remains in a stable condition while undergoing treatment for multiple injuries. Three people who tried to help him were also bitten and were treated at the scene.

Royal Perth Hospital transfer

The transfer to Royal Perth Hospital came after the attack during swimming near the houseboat. Lake Argyle is home to a large population of freshwater crocodiles, and the department described attacks like this as very rare because the species is less aggressive toward people.

A Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions spokesperson said: "Lake Argyle is home to a large population of freshwater crocodiles which, while not usually considered dangerous animals, have the potential to inflict serious injuries."

DBCA patrols at Lake Argyle

DBCA is continuing to monitor the situation and will conduct patrols in the area early next week. Lake Argyle is not managed by DBCA, but staff may remove a freshwater crocodile from the area if it is identified as actively presenting a threat to humans.

The spokesperson also said: "Anyone who encounters a freshwater crocodile that is interacting with people swimming, fishing, camping or boating is encouraged to report it to their local Parks and Wildlife Service office, along with a photo of the crocodile and GPS location if safe to do so."

Lake Argyle Swim open

The annual Lake Argyle Swim open went ahead on Saturday on a modified course, with 400 swimmers entering the water despite the scare. The event continued while the injured man was being treated and the department monitored conditions at the lake.