K’gari campsite declared off-limits to reduce risk from roaming dingoes

A popular campsite on K’gari – also known as Fraser Island – has been closed due to heightened dingo activity.

The Department of Environment and Science has closed the unfenced Waddy Point beachfront camping area to the public until March 31 as a proactive measure after rangers observed a pack of dingoes frequenting the area between Waddy Headland and Orchid Beach.

Waddy Point on K’gari has been closed until at least the end of the month.Credit: Flickr

The department said in a statement on Wednesday rangers were closely monitoring the situation.

“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 wongari [dingo] population on K’gari,” it said.

“Rangers are closely monitoring the wongari situation and will be conducting patrols and briefings to further educate visitors on dingo safety and awareness.”

Tourists wanting to camp in the area have been advised to consider the fenced Waddy Point Top camping area and Beach Camping Zone 8.

There are about 200 dingoes on K’gari.

In 2001, nine-year-old Clinton Gage was attacked and killed by two dingoes near Waddy Point. His death prompted a dingo cull, then in 2013, a dingo management strategy was released.

One of the most recent incidents involving a dingo was in December, when a five-year-old boy was bitten on his arms and legs and was rushed to hospital.

Visitors, tour operators and residents are urged to never feed the dingoes, keep children within arm’s length, walk in groups while carrying a stick, and secure all rubbish.