Concerns raised for safety of young dingoes on K’gari

Drivers have been warned they could be fined more than $26,000 if they hit and kill a dingo on the heritage listed island, as five-month-old pups venture out onto the beaches ahead of school holiday influx.

A dingo having a feed of fish on the beach at K’gari. Motorists visiting the island have been warned to slow down as young dingoes on the beaches are at higher risk of being hit.

• K’gari’s dingo timeline

Motorists visiting K’gari have been warned to slow down as young dingoes on the beaches are at higher risk of being hit.

Rangers issued the warning a month after a young dingo and 22 shorebirds were killed in vehicle strikes on the island.

The dingo was struck and killed just outside a designated “Go Slow Zone” which is designed to protect people and animals frequenting the areas. It was left to die without the driver notifying authorities.

Five-month-old dingoes are currently frequenting the beaches of K’gari, particularly near the shoreline and campsites, to sniff out potential food, a statement from the Department of Environment and Science said.

With school holidays approaching, Queensland Parks and Wildlife and the Butchulla Aboriginal Corporation have reminded drivers that speed limits apply on the island, and to be mindful of wildlife sharing the beaches.

“Juvenile dingoes are still learning the ways of life and can therefore be unpredictable,” the statement said.

A dingo on K’gari.

“So, motorists are encouraged to be vigilant and cautious when driving on beach tracks,” Senior Ranger Linda Behrendorff said.

“Slow down when you see dingoes or other wildlife, give them space and time to pass, and please do not approach them.

“Drivers can be fined up to a maximum of $26,614 if it is decided an animal that was struck by a vehicle could have been reasonably avoided.

“K’gari is the home of the dingo – let’s protect and respect our native animals and preserve the delicate natural environment for future generations,” Butchulla spokeswoman Tessa Waia said.

“Beaches are frequented by both visitors and wildlife, particularly during times of high visitation and curtain seasons. Drive safely to protect all – from children building sandcastles to wildlife in their natural environment.”

Incidents involving dingoes can be reported to a ranger by phoning 07 4127 9150 or emailing [e-mail] as quickly as possible.

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