Former 2GB radio host and fishing enthusiast Roman Butchaski was tragically confirmed to have been killed by a crocodile while fishing in the remote waters of North Queensland. This revelation comes nearly two years after his mysterious disappearance on November 12, 2023, near the Olive River, 600 kilometers north of Cairns.
Butchaski, who was 76 at the time, was last seen heading out from Bramwell Station, where he had been visiting friends, to fish at Olive Crossing. Despite an extensive search operation, which included the deployment of Rescue Helicopter 700 (Torres Strait Rescue), no trace of Butchaski was found, apart from his vehicle, a fishing rod, and some personal items.
Coroner’s Findings
Coroner Christine Roney delivered her findings on July 30, confirming the Ukrainian-born radio host had likely fallen victim to a crocodile attack. Describing Butchaski as a “happy-go-lucky type of bloke and happiest when he was fishing,” Roney noted his familiarity with North Queensland’s fishing territories, though he was not acquainted with the specific area around Olive River.
Roney explained to a Brisbane court that the absence of any sign of Butchaski despite a thorough search led her to suspect he had entered the water and been consumed by a crocodile. The Department of Environment and Science’s surveys in the area observed two crocodiles, one estimated at 2.5 to 3 meters in length, close to Butchaski’s last known position.
‘The fact that no sign of (Butchaski) was located during the extensive and thorough search leads me to suspect (he) has entered the water and has been consumed by a crocodile,’ Coroner Roney said.
Potential Scenarios and Health Concerns
Coroner Roney outlined three potential scenarios that could have led to Butchaski entering the water: an attack by a saltwater crocodile, a loss of balance while navigating snags, or a medical episode linked to his age and health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. The extreme temperatures in the area at the time may have also played a role.
Despite the department’s inability to find a crocodile “displaying signs of taking a human,” Roney asserted it was highly probable given the presence of large crocodiles in the region. She concluded that Butchaski was likely taken and killed by a saltwater crocodile.
‘Once in the water I believe (Butchaski) has been taken and killed, and likely consumed, by a large saltwater crocodile inhabiting the upper reaches of the Olive River,’ she said.
The Remote and Treacherous Olive River
The Olive River, a 70-kilometer stretch of water at the very top of Australia’s northern mainland, is known for its uninhabited, crocodile-infested estuarine wetlands. Starting in the Richardson Range, it winds through 43 square kilometers of wilderness before reaching the Coral Sea at Temple Bay.
In the wake of Butchaski’s disappearance, 2GB radio host Ben Fordham expressed the station’s condolences, stating, “The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the radio station were with Butchaski and his family.”
‘Obviously, we’re thinking of everyone who knew and loved Butch and we’re hoping that he is out there somewhere,’ Fordham added.
Implications and Safety Considerations
This tragic incident highlights the dangers of fishing in remote, crocodile-inhabited waters. It underscores the need for heightened awareness and safety measures for those venturing into such territories. The coroner’s recommendation to consider Butchaski deceased due to a crocodile attack serves as a sobering reminder of the risks posed by Australia’s wildlife.
As authorities continue to monitor and manage crocodile populations in these areas, the story of Roman Butchaski will remain a poignant chapter in the annals of Australia’s interaction with its natural environment.
