Visitors and motorists are urged to slow down on K'gari (formerly Fraser Island) beaches to protect young dingoes (wongari) at risk of being hit by cars.
Five-month-old juvenile dingoes are frequenting the beaches – particularly near the shoreline and campsites – to sniff out potential food.
Recently, one of these young dingoes was struck and killed by a vehicle just outside a designated "Go Slow Zone" – designed to protect people and animals frequenting the areas – and left to die without the driver notifying authorities.
With school holidays around the corner and more visitors expected on the island, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) and the Butchulla Aboriginal Corporation (BAC) remind motorists that speed limits apply and are enforced, and to be mindful of wildlife sharing the beaches.
"Juvenile dingoes are still learning the ways of life and can therefore be unpredictable. So, motorists are encouraged to be vigilant and cautious when driving on beach tracks," Senior Ranger Linda Behrendorff says.
"Slow down when you see dingoes or other wildlife, give them space and time to pass, and please do not approach them.
"Drivers can be fined up to a maximum of $26,614 if it is decided an animal that was struck by a vehicle could have been reasonably avoided."
"K'gari is the home of the dingo - let's protect and respect our native animals and preserve the delicate natural environment for future generations," BAC Communications and Education Officer Tessa Waia says.
"Beaches are frequented by both visitors and wildlife, particularly during times of high visitation and curtain seasons. Drive safely to protect all – from children building sandcastles to wildlife in their natural environment."
