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Mauled Dreamworld tiger handler recovering in hospital identified as Melissa Reynolds

The woman who was mauled by a tiger at Dreamworld has been identified, as new information emerges about the attack.

Tiger handler mauled by big cat at Dreamworld

The woman who was mauled by a tiger at Dreamworld had worked with the animals for more than a decade and had previously appeared on TV promoting the park.

Veteran handler Melissa Reynolds was attacked just an hour before the park opened to visitors on Monday morning.

Ms Reynolds, who has worked at Dreamworld for over 12 years, was walking an 180kg tiger alongside another trainer when the animal unexpectedly bit and scratched her.

The attack left the 47-year-old with serious injuries to her forearm and shoulder, including multiple deep cuts and lacerations.

Melissa Reynolds, 47. Picture: Nine
Melissa Reynolds, 47. Picture: Nine

Dreamworld is home to several tigers, including three five-year-olds — Khan, Javi, and Zakari — but it’s still unknown which of the tigers was involved in the attack.

Ms Reynolds, a familiar face at the park, has been featured in local publications posing with the tigers, and even appeared on Channel 9’s Today Show back in 2012.

During her appearance, she spoke fondly of her job: “It is amazing, you get the opportunity to spend time with them, feed them and play with them.”

After the attack, Ms Reynolds was rushed to the hospital, where she remains in stable condition.

A woman has been mauled by a tiger at Dreamworld this morning. Picture: Nigel Hallett
A woman has been mauled by a tiger at Dreamworld this morning. Picture: Nigel Hallett
Dreamworld handler Melissa Reynolds seen at the park.
Dreamworld handler Melissa Reynolds seen at the park.

Justin Payne, the acting district director of the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS), praised the first responders for their quick action. “The biggest risk to the injuries Ms Reynolds sustained was the likelihood of her wounds becoming infected,” Payne explained. He added, “Thankfully, on (the paramedics’) arrival, the bleeding had been managed very well by first aid providers there at Dreamworld, which was excellent to see.”

Payne also credited Ms Reynolds’ training and the support from her colleagues at the scene.

“We believe she was well-trained, and it’s good to see that she was able to be looked after by other support staff there,” he said.

The woman was attacked on Monday (stock image). Picture: David Caird
The woman was attacked on Monday (stock image). Picture: David Caird

Dreamworld is providing full support to Ms. Reynolds during her recovery.

In a statement, a spokesman described the incident as “isolated and rare” and confirmed that a thorough review will be conducted.

The park has reiterated its commitment to safety, and admitted the unexpected event put their preparedness to the test.

Original URL: https://www.news.com.au/travel/travel-updates/incidents/mauled-dreamworld-tiger-handler-recovering-in-hospital-identified-as-melissa-reynolds/news-story/5dadf50df69cdc5a3bf1614ea9e92fad