Stop the Culling of Dingoes on K’gari (Fraser Island) — Honour Piper James’ Memory

In January 2026, Piper James, a 19-year-old Canadian backpacker, tragically lost her life on K’gari (Fraser Island). This was a devastating loss for her family, friends, and the wider community.

Preliminary findings indicate that Piper’s cause of death was likely drowning, with dingo bite injuries occurring before or after death. Despite this uncertainty, authorities have moved to euthanise dingoes believed to be involved, framing the action as a public safety measure.

We believe this response is premature, ineffective, and unjust.

Why the Dingo Cull Must Stop

There is no confirmed evidence that dingoes caused Piper’s death. Killing wildlife before investigations are complete undermines science-based decision-making.
K’gari’s dingoes are a unique and protected population, vital to the island’s ecological balance. Culling can disrupt pack structures and increase risky behaviour.
Lethal control does not address the real causes of incidents, including high visitor numbers, poor food management, and inadequate education about living alongside wildlife.
Non-lethal management works better, including stronger visitor enforcement, reduced access during sensitive periods, and long-term coexistence strategies.

Most importantly, Piper’s own family have spoken out against the cull. Her father has said that she would not want the dingoes to be killed, recognising that they are wild animals in their natural home and that they were there first.

We call on the Queensland Government to:

Immediately halt the culling of dingoes on K’gari
Commit to transparent, evidence-based investigation outcomes
Adopt non-lethal, culturally informed wildlife management strategies
Honour Piper James’ memory with compassion, not punishment of native wildlife