National Inaugural First Nations Dingo Forum

Honorary Ranger Jules, our resident dingo expert, was an invited delegate to this groundbreaking forum in Cairns organised by the Girringun Aboriginal Corporation.

Following two days of presentations and discussions, First Nations representatives from across Australia signed a declaration to government, asserting their right as traditional custodians to be involved in legislation and management of dingoes.

It is hoped that the declaration will lead to the formation of a First Nations National Steering Committee to develop best practice and ‘bring dingoes back to country’.

Not only are dingoes, as our largest land-based predator, crucial to healthy ecosystems, but they are “a cultural icon representing a vital connection to country”.

A recent genetic study by Dr Kylie Cairns and others showed that most dingoes in the wild are 100% dingo not dingo-dog hybrids. They are a native species, yet they are culled in large numbers mainly by poison baits.

Our own dingo Allira is an important ambassador for her species. During daily walkabouts families get to know her and learn why they should care about conservation of this important Australian icon.

Our thanks to Ranger Jules for her passion for dingoes and her attendance at this important forum.