Children from flood-affected families staying in Batchelor are taking part in crocodile safety sessions, with the NT government's Be Crocwise program helping to deliver lessons to kids across the Territory.
The children are among hundreds of people from Daly River and Palumpa who remain displaced after being evacuated due to major flooding inundating both communities.
Many of these families are currently residing at the Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education as they wait for conditions to improve back home.
The crocodile awareness sessions are designed to help children better understand crocodile behaviour and the dangers that can come with waterways in the Top End, especially during the Wet Season.
The sessions teach kids about where crocodiles live, how they behave, why it is important to obey warning signs before entering the water, and it also included practical demonstrations to keep children engaged.
Around ten children attended each session, where they were shown how big crocodiles can grow, what their skulls look like, and how strong their bite can be.
Department of Children and Families Evacuation Centre director at Batchelor Outdoor Education Centre Veronica Matipira said the sessions had provided both an educational benefit and some stability for children whose lives had been disrupted.
"These sessions were a great way to keep young people engaged while also equipping them with lifesaving knowledge about living safely in the Top End," Ms Matipira said.
"They also help create a sense of normality for children during a disruptive time, while reinforcing important safety messages they can carry with them when they return home."
NT Department of Tourism and Hospitality community engagement ranger Natasha Hoffman said the program delivered important messages for families living in crocodile country.
"Crocodiles are part of life in the Top End, and understanding how they behave can save lives," she said.
"The Be Crocwise program helps children and families recognise risks, follow warning signs and make safe decisions around water."
Be Crocwise is part of a Northern Territory government effort aimed at reducing the risk of crocodile attacks across the Top End.
The program combines public education with active crocodile management and delivers safety messages through school visits, community events, teaching resources, and advertising across television, print and radio.
