Source: Tasmania Police
Issued: 9 Apr 2025
Visitors to K’gari during the Easter school holidays are urged to prioritise safety and have an incident-free trip by following the Be dingo-safe! advice.
People are reminded to always carry a dingo safety stick, avoid walking alone, refrain from running and ensure that children are always close.
Ranger in Charge Dr Linda Behrendorff said dingoes could be anywhere at any time and people can’t be complacent.
“Holiday periods are always busy on K’gari, and residents and visitors should be thinking about our safety messages at all times, Dr Behrendorff said.
“There have been 28 high risk incidents on the island this year, and we want to get through this holiday period without any further interactions.
“Dingoes should never be fed or approached for photos, and if they’re lingering around camping areas they should be deterred through making assertive and loud noises.
“Fishers should never let dingoes get access to discarded bait, and fish frames should be buried at half a metre deep.
“Throwing one piece of bait or unwanted sausage can instantly change the behaviour of a dingo, and that can lead to changes in behaviour of a dingo pack.
“Human intervention through deliberate or inadvertent feeding of dingoes or by approaching them for selfies is unlawful and can lead to negative interactions.
“To stay safe and protect the unique wildlife, we’re asking all visitors to remain vigilant, secure food and rubbish properly, and Be dingo-safe!”
Visitors to K’gari are reminded to be dingo safe at all times:
- Always stay close (within arm’s reach) of children and young teenagers
- Always walk in groups
- Always carry a stick when walking
- Camp in fenced areas where possible
- Do not run. Running or jogging can trigger a negative dingo interaction
- Never feed dingoes
- Lock up food stores and iceboxes (even on a boat)
- Never store food or food containers in tents, and
- Secure all rubbish, fish and bait.