Snake Bites On The Rise Across Mackay

Emergency doctors have issued a warning following an increase in snake bite presentations across the Mackay region.

Mackay Hospital and Health Service facilities recorded a 33 per cent rise in cases over summer, with 133 snake bite presentations since July 2025, which is 36 more than the same period the previous year.

Since January, 23 bites have been treated at Mackay Base Hospital, nine at Proserpine, seven in Bowen, three in Clermont, two in Sarina and one each in Collinsville and Moranbah.

On the first day of autumn, 1 March, two snake bite presentations were recorded – one at Proserpine Hospital and one at Mackay Base Hospital.

There was a total of 24 snake bite presentations at Mackay HHS facilities in February, with 20 recorded in both January and December, 24 in November and 23 in October 2025.

Mackay Base Hospital Emergency Department Senior Medical Officer Dr Nirindu Weerakoon said all snake bites should be treated as a medical emergency, regardless of whether you think the snake is venomous or not.

People who are bitten can often feel very well with little to no symptoms, Dr Weerakoon said.

“Some potential symptoms that you might get are headaches, bleeding from the bite site, double vision, sometimes difficulty with breathing or stroke-like symptoms,” he said.

“The worst-case scenario is cardiac arrest. Knowing snake bite first aid is critical and can save a life.”

Dr Weerakoon said the most important thing to do in the event of a snake bite was to apply a pressure immobilisation bandage as soon as possible.

“Always call 000 or get someone else to go for help. As long as you are not in danger of being bitten again, remain where you are,” he said.

“Venom travels through your lymphatic system so the more you move the faster it is pumped around your body.”

‍