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Canadian Woman Found Dead on K'gari Beach; Dingoes Present, Campsites Closed

The GuardianTuesday, January 20, 2026
Canadian Woman Found Dead on K'gari Beach; Dingoes Present, Campsites Closed

Authorities on K'gari, the Queensland island also known as Fraser Island, have closed two campsites and increased ranger patrols following the death of a 19-year-old Canadian woman. Her body was discovered on a beach early Monday morning, with a pack of dingoes nearby.

Two men driving along the eastern beaches made the discovery around 6:15 a.m. The woman had left the backpacker hostel where she worked just 75 minutes earlier, telling friends she was going to the beach.

Queensland Police are investigating the circumstances. While noting a recent rise in aggressive dingo encounters on the island, they have not drawn a conclusion. It remains unclear whether the woman drowned or was attacked by the animals. A post-mortem examination will be conducted.

The incident has renewed focus on human-wildlife safety on the popular tourist destination. Park authorities have acted swiftly, restricting access to the Orchid Beach and Waddy Point camping areas as the investigation proceeds.

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