An unusual survey is currently underway asking the normally very relaxed Magnetic Island residents for information about the spread of Death Adders on the entrancing island.
One well known islander who had an encounter of the very close kind-to wit with one of his succulent toes - is the former editor of the Magnetic Island Times newspaper , George Hirst , seen here , his right foot bandaged like one of grandma's steamed Christmas puddings gone wrong , being transported on a ferry to the mainland , then taken by ambulance to Townsville Hospital after a cranky Death Adder sank its fangs into him .
Heavy footed Hirst had annoyed the sluggish snake by walking backwards and forwards to a shed , so it fanged him .
The attack took place at beautiful Bolger Bay where he once had a rustic residence , during which time he almost became a Death Adder Whisperer . He gave up counting adders after removing about 40 of them from the leafy surrounds.
Heavy footed Hirst had annoyed the sluggish snake by walking backwards and forwards to a shed , so it fanged him .
The attack took place at beautiful Bolger Bay where he once had a rustic residence , during which time he almost became a Death Adder Whisperer . He gave up counting adders after removing about 40 of them from the leafy surrounds.
On notice boards across the island are sheets headed Death Adder Project , asking for information about dispersal of the critters , the names of walking tracks where they have been seen lurking , the time of the day , and what additional information contributors would like to know , such as the potency of the venom .
Community minded Hirst, now a filmmaker with Penelope Sheridan , Cranky Curlew Productions , intends to contribute to the survey . After once climbing to the highest peak on Magnetic Island , Mount Cook, he flopped down , rested an arm on a rock... and there , enjoying the panoramic view, was a Death Adder!
(This post not proudly sponsored by the Queensland Government Tourist Bureau )
Community minded Hirst, now a filmmaker with Penelope Sheridan , Cranky Curlew Productions , intends to contribute to the survey . After once climbing to the highest peak on Magnetic Island , Mount Cook, he flopped down , rested an arm on a rock... and there , enjoying the panoramic view, was a Death Adder!
(This post not proudly sponsored by the Queensland Government Tourist Bureau )
