Stinger season is November – May. Here’s how you can stay safe.
There are plenty of places to go diving and snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef. But watch out for the deadly little stingers that lurk amongst the waves…
The Great Barrier Reef is rich with diving and snorkelling spots.
All year round, you can see vibrant colours, pretty corals and gorgeous schools of marine life in the Great Barrier Reef.
But during the summer months, there are a few extra visitors in the Great Barrier Reef!
The Australian Box Jellyfish is one of the most venomous marine creatures in the ocean. Its sting can cause cardiac arrest, and it can be very painful.
While that may sound very unpleasant, there are still ways you can swim safely in the waters.
If you are in the Far North Queensland area during stinger season, there are some precautions that you can take.
Box Jellyfish are very small marine creatures that swim around the waters of Far North Queensland.
Their venom can be deadly. Here are our top tips for optimal stinger safety when you’re out in the water…
1. Follow beach safety signs
If the beach is closed, then don’t swim out! Follow the yellow beach signs and familiarise yourself with the nearest safety points.
The signs are hard to miss – as they are bright yellow with black font. They’ll be situated at most of the beaches in Far North Queensland and you’ll likely see them most places that you visit.
2. Take vinegar with you
When you’re packing a beach bag, a bottle of vinegar might not be the first thing you bring. But bringing vinegar could help in an emergency if the worst should happen.
3. Avoid stinger season…if you can!
It might be best to avoid going in the sea at all – it can be dangerous if there is no stinger net! If you can plan a trip to go during October – May then you’ll be a lot safer. If you do have to go out during this time – whether it’s for a planned snorkelling or diving trip, then follow the safety advice at the beach, and make sure you tell someone on the beach where you’re swimming.
4. Wearing protective clothing
Wearing Lycra stinger suits can protect you against painful stings. The more skin that you cover, the better! A lycra wetsuit not only protects against stingers but also sun damage.
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia
Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.