Dingo incident on K’gari (Fraser Island)

Issued: 9 Feb 2021

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service rangers are investigating an incident whereby a junvenile dingo nipped a resident on K’gari (Fraser Island).

A resident was at her home on Orchid Beach earlier this month when a wongari entered the property, approached her and nipped her on the knee.

The incident has prompted rangers to remind residents to ensure their property is secure with fences and gates closed and locked at all times.

This time of year, rangers tend to see juvenile wongari testing their dominance skills which may cause them to become more brazen and opportunistic ahead of breeding season (March to April).

People are reminded to be dingo safe and not to feed or interact with the wongari, as this may contribute to their habituation and may have consequences.

Wongari that lose their natural wariness of people and become habituated may become aggressive while seeking food.

People are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any negative dingo encounters to a QPWS ranger or to phone 07 4127 9150 or email dingo.ranger@des.qld.gov.au as soon as possible.

Visitors to Fraser Island are reminded to be dingo safe at all times:

  • Always stay close (within arm’s reach) of children and young teenagers
  • Always walk in groups
  • Camp in fenced areas where possible
  • Do not run. Running or jogging can trigger a negative dingo interaction
  • Never feed dingoes
  • Lock up food stores and iceboxes (even on a boat)
  • Never store food or food containers in tents, and
  • Secure all rubbish, fish and bait.

For more information go to Fraser Island dingoes.