Dingo strategy panned

FRASER Island dingo advocate Jennifer Parkhurst has panned the Queensland Government’s new Dingo Conservation and Risk Management Strategy.

A disappointed Jennifer Parkhurst has expressed concern at the Queensland Government’s new Dingo Conservation and Risk Management Strategy, announced yesterday. Picture: Contributed

FRASER Island dingo advocate Jennifer Parkhurst has panned the Queensland Government's new Dingo Conservation and Risk Management Strategy.

The strategy was released yesterday in a joint statement by Minister for Environment and Heritage Protection, Andrew Powell, and Minister for National Parks, Sport and Racing, Steve Dickson.

Ms Parkhurst said the Newman Government strategy was "disappointing".

"They have changed the name to include conservation but this does not mean conservation is the main focus," she said.

Ms Parkhurst, who is heavily involved in the lobby group Save Fraser Island Dingoes, said the State Government was more focused on making the strategy appear different.

The strategy includes a $350,000 dingo fence at Cathedral Beach, increased public awareness and education, $50,000 to develop a science-based research project to ensure animal welfare decisions are based on scientific evidences and increased rangers on the island during peak visitation periods.

Moreover, the strategy boasts hazing practices have already stopped while $300,000 will be invested in a VHF radio network expansion to improve communication and response times.

Signage on the island is also to be overhauled, with $84,000 earmarked for renewed dingo safety signage, while a Friends of Parks pilot program will be launched involving campground hosts working and living on site to promote visitors' safety.

Ms Parkhurst said major promises made to the Save Fraser Island Dingoes group were not delivered, including an onsite vet and care facility.

"There's mention of potential for visits by vets and the possibility of establishing a wildlife care facility but no commitment," she said.

The passionate dingo advocate also questioned the merit of the VHF radio expansion, costing $300,000.

"What are they responding to?" Ms Parkhurst asked. "This money alone would fund the vet facility."

Ms Parkhurst was equally critical the State Government's education of the public as being fear-based.

The Newman Government, however, was standing by its new strategy.

"The Newman Government is determined to protect Fraser Island's dingo population while continuing to safeguard tourists," Mr Dickson said.