K’gari: Dingo bites boy in latest attack on holiday island

A dingo has attacked a 10-year-old boy in the 10th incident of this kind in as many months on K’gari, formerly Fraser Island.

Wildlife officers said two boys were washing off in Awinya Creek on the western side of the island when a dingo ran at them.

The boys screamed and ran towards their parents.

“The dingo bit the 10-year-old on the back of his leg, leaving minor injuries including a scratch and bruising to his lower right calf muscle,” a Department of Environment, Science and Innovation statement said.

The parents treated the injury and the boy did not require further medical assistance.

The incident occurred on April 23 but rangers were not advised until Monday due to phone reception issues on the island.

“Rangers believe they have identified the dingo, and patrols have been increased in the area,” the department statement said.

Wildlife officers have reminded people to be vigilant following what was the 10th dingo incident on the island in a matter of months.

At one stage there were six incidents in as many weeks.

The most recent attack occurred on April 17 when a child was bitten at Eli Creek, sustaining minor injuries.

Visitors and residents on K’gari are reminded to keep children at arm’s length, never walk alone and carry a stick at all times.

“Parents and carers should expect dingoes anywhere on the island and must be aware that they are fast, dangerous and children and young teenagers are more vulnerable,” the department said.

Dingo incidents should be reported to rangers.