… meet “Bronto” … the NEW ‘Big Boy’ at Marineland Melanesia on Green Island, Great Barrier Reef … 4.7 metres of croc attitude !
I made this image … very carefully … of “Bronto”, during a recent days work documenting the family owned croc park and reef tourism venture on Green Island, Great Barrier Reef.
“Bronto”, raised by the late croc icon George Craig from a hatchling 55 years ago, has long lived in the shadow of infamous record holding “Cassius”, who lived at the park until his sad death just over a year ago at age estimated over 110. “Cassius” had for many years held the title of the World’s largest captive crocodile at 5 48metres.
“Bronto” now steps into the starring role and snappy attraction …
This week also marks the return of “Cassius” (in an inanimate form) to the island park, following a magnificent job of taxidermy. “Cassius” now shares his own brand new room at Marineland Melanesia with memorabilia of his life and achievements … and details of the wonderful relationship that he shared with George over several decades.
In a poignant twist both “Cassius” and George passed away within a just a couple of weeks of each other in November 2024. The new exhibit at Marineland pays tribute to both the wonderful characters who shared an incredible connection. Well worth a visit …
I’ve been fortunate over the decades to have often photographed “Cassius” and George at Marineland. George was always a fascinating gentleman and “Cassius” a willing partner. I was there in 2011 when the ‘Guinness Book of Records’ acknowledged the World record for “Cassius” … and I was there to document the last time that George hand fed his massive mate back in 2023. On that last visit I also made a portrait of George, sitting quietly in his favourite chair amongst his amazing massive collection of Papua New Guinea art works … one of my favourite images.
Now is the time for “Bronto” and his saurian mates at the park to take over the mantle …
Image © Brian Cassey
