The Department of Environment and Science (DES) has closed the Waddy Point beachfront camping area on K’gari (Fraser Island) following recent increased dingo activity.
The unfenced Waddy Point Beachfront camping area will be closed between 1 March and 31 March 2023.
Alternative camping is available at the fenced Waddy Point Top camping area and Beach Camping Zone 8 (Marloo, Ocean Lake and Duling).
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) rangers advise a pack of dingoes are frequenting the area between Waddy Headland and Orchid Beach.
Rangers are taking this action in line with the Dingo Conservation and Risk Management Strategy to reduce the potential for further negative interactions and to minimise risks of increased habituation to help ensure the long-term viability of the dingo population on K’gari.
Rangers are closely monitoring the situation and will be conducting patrols and briefings to further educate visitors on dingo safety and awareness.
In order to keep the animals wild and to stay safe visitors, tour operators and residents are advised to Be dingo-safe! on K’gari. In particular:
- NEVER feed dingoes.
- Always stay within arm’s reach of children, even small teenagers.
- Walk in groups and carry a stick.
- Do not run. Running or jogging can trigger a negative dingo interaction.
- Camp in fenced areas when possible.
- Lock up food stores and iceboxes (even on a boat).
- Never store food or food containers in tents.
- Secure all rubbish, fish and bait.
All interactions should be reported to QPWS immediately.
