A dingo has been stabbed after it bit a nine-year-old boy on K’Gari, Queensland, prompting concerns about tourist safety. The incident occurred at Yidney Rocks, where a bystander intervened after witnessing the bite. Following the attack, marine rescue teams transported the injured boy to the mainland, where he is currently in stable condition at a hospital.
This recent incident has sparked a warning from local authorities as the island continues to attract visitors. Almost two years prior, a 23-year-old woman was airlifted to hospital after being attacked by a group of dingoes, who attempted to drag her into the water, though she was rescued by a passerby.
The chilling memory of the last fatal dingo attack in 2001 still lingers, when a nine-year-old boy lost his life and his seven-year-old brother sustained serious injuries. In response to rising concerns, dingo sticks have been distributed to help protect visitors from potential attacks.
Fraser Coast Deputy Mayor Sara Faraj has urged tourists to stay alert while exploring the island, emphasising the presence of wildlife and the need for a responsible balance between enjoying nature and ensuring safety. “We have dingoes and a rich variety of wildlife among the stunning nature of K’Gari Fraser Island,” she stated, underscoring the importance of preserving this environment while allowing visitors to experience it safely.
It is crucial to note that dingoes are a protected species, and killing them is illegal. For instance, a man was penalised with a $5000 fine and 240 hours of community service last year for using a spear gun to shoot a dingo. The local authorities continue to encourage respectful interaction with this unique wildlife to maintain safety for both visitors and the native animal population.