The dingo reportedly charged at the girl and her 12-year-old sibling while they were playing in shallow waters at Lake McKenzie on Thursday, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) said.

The dingo bit the girl on the left shoulder, leaving some minor cuts.

The girl’s mother picked her up, and her dad reportedly yelled at the dingo and chased it away.

QPWS said the dingo continued to loiter near the family.

“Dingoes are apex predators, and they will have a go and hunt if they feel someone has strayed from the pack,” Senior Ranger Doctor Linda Behrendorff said.

“This unfortunate incident highlights the importance of carrying a dingo stick which works as a deterrent.

“Always keep your children within arm’s reach, and consider staying in the fenced camping areas of K’gari.”

The incident comes after a three-year-old girl was bitten on the back of the leg by a dingo on the island last Saturday.