Lake Argyle Swim Continues After Freshwater Crocodile Bite

On Friday 1 May 2026 a man in his 60s was bitten by a suspected freshwater crocodile while swimming at the Hicks Passage area of Lake Argyle, about 3,000 km north of Perth. Three other swimmers were also bitten while assisting; all injuries were non-life-threatening and the man was air-lifted to Royal Perth Hospital. The following day, Saturday 2 May, the First National Lake Argyle Swim—offering 10 km and 20 km open-water races—proceeded as planned after organisers altered the 20 km route to avoid the incident zone. No participant withdrew.

ABC News AustraliaLake Argyle’s biggest swim to date draws crowds despite rare croc incident hours before race

Lake Argyle is home to an estimated 35,000 freshwater crocodiles, a species considered less aggressive than saltwater crocodiles but capable of attacking when provoked. Recent local incidents include a family dog narrowly escaping an attack and a swimmer sustaining serious leg injuries in 2022.

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More than 400 swimmers entered the competition, attracting over 750 visitors to the East Kimberley. Residents comprised 13 % of entrants, the lowest local turnout on record. A new three-person team category sold out quickly.

Lake Argyle’s biggest swim to date draws crowds despite rare croc incident hours before race

Glenn Taylor said safety was “paramount” and that teams were promptly notified of the revised 20 km course. The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) confirmed ongoing lake monitoring and announced additional patrols for the week. Valerie Smith praised the organisers’ swift response, noting that familiarity with “freshies” may have even motivated swimmers to go faster.

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Wildlife experts warned that freshwater crocodile encounters remain a risk, citing the 2022 leg injury and the recent dog attack. They called for heightened vigilance and possible restrictions on open-water events in crocodile-dense areas.

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Andrew Donaldson described the water as “unreal” and praised the “glass-like” conditions. Ben Broadwith said he “grew up in Lake Argyle” and feels comfortable swimming there. Jackie Sjogren called the day “really, really fun” with “beautiful conditions.”

Lake Argyle’s biggest swim to date draws crowds despite rare croc incident hours before race

Sources label the animal a “suspected freshwater crocodile” without confirming species. Details beyond the four known bite victims and the crocodile’s identity were not provided.

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• “We sprung into action straight away because the safety of our swimmers is paramount,” — Glenn Taylor, Event Manager

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• “It's always there in some corner of your mind, " he said.” — Andrew Donaldson, Marathon Swimmer

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• “we don't have a pool at the moment so we train in Lake Argyle," he said.” — Ben “Broady” Broadwith, Local Swimmer

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• “Really, really fun. It was beautiful conditions, which was gorgeous. By the end, I was very tired, though,” — Jackie Sjogren, Solo Swimmer

Lake Argyle’s biggest swim to date draws crowds despite rare croc incident hours before race

The DBCA will maintain regular patrols around the race area this week and continue assessing crocodile activity. Organisers intend to keep the revised course for future swims while reviewing safety protocols with wildlife authorities.

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