Croc Festival was created in 1998 after the former Queensland Minister for Health, Mike Horan, asked the producers of the Rock Eisteddfod Challenge to find a way to get more indigenous students to attend school.
The inaugural Croc Festival in Weipa, Far North Queensland in July 1998 attracted 350 students from 17 schools in Cape York and Torres Strait.
According to research and reports by teachers, outcomes for students include improved self-esteem and teamwork, improved tolerance of other students, awareness of personal health issues such as nutrition and mental health, and knowledge of the dangers of drugs, alcohol and tobacco.
Further outcomes include increased rates of school attendance, improved literacy, numeracy and oratorical skills, and better goal setting for the future.
Students travel by road, air and sea to reach the venues, often camping in tents at Croc Village during the three-day festival.