Authorities in Queensland have shut down multiple campsites on the popular tourist island of K'gari, formerly known as Fraser Island, following the tragic death of a Canadian woman. Police are investigating whether a dingo attack was the cause.
Investigation Underway on World Heritage Site
The body of the woman, a 29-year-old tourist from Canada, was discovered on the morning of Sunday, 19 January 2026. The discovery was made near the Lake McKenzie walking track, a scenic route on the World Heritage-listed island. Queensland Police were quickly alerted and have launched a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.
While the exact cause is yet to be formally determined, early indications have led police to treat the incident as a possible dingo attack. A specialist forensic officers from the Brisbane-based Scientific Section were dispatched to the island to examine the scene. The Queensland Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) is assisting police with the ongoing probe.
Precautionary Closures and Public Warnings
In response to the incident, the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) has taken immediate action. As a safety precaution, they have closed several campsites in the vicinity. The closed sites include:
- Lake McKenzie camping zone
- Lake McKenzie day-use area
- Central Station camping area
- Dilli Village camping area
A spokesperson for the department stated that these closures would remain in effect while the investigation continues and until further assessments are completed. Visitors with bookings have been contacted and are being offered refunds or alternative arrangements.
Authorities have also reinforced existing safety warnings for all visitors to K'gari. Key advice includes:
- Always walking in groups, especially children.
- Never feeding dingoes under any circumstances.
- Securing all food and rubbish in locked containers.
- Remaining vigilant and calm if approached by a dingo.
A History of Human-Wildlife Conflict
This tragic event has brought the complex relationship between humans and the native wildlife on K'gari back into sharp focus. The island is home to a genetically distinct and protected population of dingoes, estimated to number around 200. While attacks are rare, they have occurred in the past.
The most infamous incident was the 2001 death of nine-year-old Clinton Gage, who was killed by two dingoes. That tragedy led to a major review of safety management practices on the island. Since then, authorities have implemented rigorous education campaigns and enforcement measures, including fines for feeding the animals.
Conservationists emphasise that dingoes are wild animals and apex predators, not domesticated pets. The balance between protecting this iconic species and ensuring public safety remains a continuous challenge for park managers. This latest incident is likely to prompt further scrutiny of the current management strategies in place on K'gari.
The investigation by Queensland Police continues, with a report being prepared for the coroner. The identity of the Canadian woman has not yet been formally released, pending notification of her next of kin.
