Child bitten by dingo, Yidney Beachfront, K’gari
Issued: 3 Apr 2024
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) is investigating an incident on K’gari (formerly known as Fraser Island) after a girl was bitten on the leg by a dingo at Yidney beachfront this afternoon (3 April 2024).
Initial information suggests that about 4.30pm, the nine-year-old girl was wading in shallow water with adults when a dingo approached and bit her on the leg as she crouched down.
It’s understood that nearby witnesses created a distraction and provided assistance.
The girl was transported to the Happy Valley ambulance station where she received first aid for minor wounds and arrangements were made to transport her to the mainland for further medical assessment.
QPWS rangers are investigating the incident, including speaking to witnesses and confirming the identity of the dingo involved to determine the next steps.
Visitors to K’gari 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 and carry a stick
- Never feed dingoes
- Camp in fenced areas where possible
- Do not run. Running or jogging can trigger a negative dingo interaction
- 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.
To help boost public safety on K’gari, the Queensland Government is investing an additional $2 million in funding this financial year and an additional $3 million annually ongoing.
QPWS has also expanded proactive Be dingo-safe! messaging to help educate tourists when they purchase camping permits, and at strategic locations on the island.
For more information go to K’gari dingoes.