Roman Butchaski, a beloved former radio host and fishing enthusiast, was declared dead after a coroner ruled he was killed by a crocodile in far North Queensland. The ruling comes nearly two years after Butchaski vanished while fishing in the crocodile-infested waters of the Olive River, 600 kilometers north of Cairns, at the northern tip of Cape York.
The 76-year-old Ukrainian-born radio personality disappeared on November 12, 2023, leaving behind his vehicle, one of his fishing rods, and some personal belongings. Despite an extensive search, no trace of Butchaski was found until the recent coroner’s ruling.
Coroner’s Findings and Investigation
Coroner Christine Roney delivered her findings on July 30, describing Butchaski as a “happy-go-lucky type of bloke and happiest when he was fishing.” She noted that while Butchaski was familiar with North Queensland’s fishing territories, he was not acquainted with the Olive River area.
According to Roney, Butchaski had visited friends at Bramwell Station on November 9 and traveled daily to Olive Crossing to fish. On November 12, the day before his planned return to Sydney, he left Bramwell Station at 8 a.m. and was never seen again.
‘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.
The Department of Environment and Science conducted surveys in the area, observing two crocodiles near where Butchaski was last known to be. One crocodile was estimated to be 2.5 to 3 meters long and was sighted approximately 15 meters from Butchaski’s last known position.
Possible Scenarios and Expert Opinions
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 fishing, or a medical episode related to his age and health conditions, including type 2 diabetes and hypertension.
‘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.
Despite the lack of a crocodile displaying signs of having taken a human, Roney emphasized the high probability of a crocodile attack given the presence of large crocodiles in the area.
The Remote and Dangerous Olive River
The Olive River, a remote waterway running 70 kilometers through uninhabited estuarine wetlands, is known for its crocodile population. It begins in the Richardson Range and flows through pristine landscapes before reaching the Coral Sea at Temple Bay.
In November 2023, Ben Fordham, a 2GB radio host, expressed the station’s condolences, stating, “The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the radio station were with Butchaski and his family.” He added, “Obviously, we’re thinking of everyone who knew Butch and we’re hoping that he is out there somewhere.”
Implications and Recommendations
The coroner’s report serves as a somber reminder of the dangers posed by the region’s wildlife and the need for caution in such environments. Roney recommended acknowledging Butchaski’s death as a result of a saltwater crocodile attack, underscoring the risks associated with fishing in remote areas.
As the community mourns the loss of a cherished figure, the incident highlights the unpredictable nature of Australia’s wilderness and the importance of safety measures for those venturing into such territories.
