‘All too common’: Dingo killed by vehicle on Fraser Island

A dingo has died after being struck by a vehicle on Fraser Island, prompting rangers to issue a plea to drivers as they reveal the full extent of the problem at the popular location.

The dingo (wongari) was discovered by rangers on Eurong beach near a 40km/hour sign.

Drivers are being urged to slow down and take care on Fraser Island after a dingo was struck and killed by a vehicle on March 16.

The dingo (wongari) was discovered by rangers on Eurong beach near a 40km/hour sign.

Ranger Dan Novak said the incident was being investigated but without public assistance, it was difficult to determine the circumstances that result in a vehicle strike.

The dingo (wongari) was discovered by rangers on Eurong beach near a 40km/hour sign.

“Sadly, accidents involving wongari and vehicles are all too common and it is estimated that up to 70 wongari have been fatally struck by vehicles since 2000,” Mr Novak said.

“This includes 38 wongari fatally struck by vehicles since 2009, and these incidents can have devastating consequences for the wongari population on the island.

“Wongari play a vital role in the ecosystem and retrieving deceased wongari distresses QPWS rangers and Butchulla Traditional Owners.

The dingo (wongari) was discovered by rangers on Eurong beach near a 40km/hour sign.

“Drivers on K’gari’s beaches must observe the island’s speed limits for personal safety reasons, and they must keep a close watch for wongari.

“Adhering to the speed limits reduces the risk of accidents but also gives drivers more time to react if they encounter a dingo on the road or beach.

“Dingoes are unpredictable and may suddenly appear on the road or beach so drivers must be alert and be prepared to slow down or stop if necessary.”

A dingo on Fraser Island.

There have been instances where dingoes were allegedly deliberately struck by vehicles on the island.

In 2020, a man in a silver Landcruiser allegedly “sped up and swerved into the defenceless animal”.

Mr Novak said anyone with information about the deceased wongari is encouraged to contact the Department of Environment and Science by emailing [e-mail] or by calling [phone].

“K’gari is the wongari’s place so we need to give them space, and rangers have installed new signage to remind drivers to be dingo-aware,” he said.

“If drivers see a dingo on the road or beach, slow down to give them ample space to move away and use your hazard lights to warn other drivers.

“We need drivers to help protect dingoes on K‘gari and prevent accidents that could harm both the animals and visitors.

“Anyone who is involved in an accident with a wongari should report it to the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.

“This information is crucial for understanding dingo behaviour on the island and implementing measures to protect them.”