In a shocking incident, a female handler at Dreamworld on the Gold Coast was attacked by a tiger on Monday morning, leaving her with deep lacerations. The handler, who is in her 40s, was rushed to the Gold Coast University Hospital and is currently in a stable condition.
The Incident
The incident occurred around 9 am on Monday when the handler was working with the tiger. According to eyewitnesses, the handler sustained several deep cuts as a result of the attack. The Queensland Ambulance spokesman confirmed that the woman was taken to the hospital with lacerations to her arm.
The handler, who has not been named, is an experienced animal handler and has been trained in handling tigers. Dreamworld’s spokesperson emphasized that the handler was trained to handle the animals and that the incident was an “isolated and rare incident.”
Dreamworld’s Response
Dreamworld’s immediate focus is on supporting the team member, and the theme park has promised to conduct a thorough review of the incident. The spokesperson assured that the safety of the staff and visitors is of utmost importance, and the incident will not affect the park’s operations.
Tiger Island at Dreamworld
Dreamworld’s Tiger Island is a popular attraction, featuring nine Sumatran and Bengal tigers. Visitors can book “Get Up Close” experiences, which allow them to get mere centimeters from the tigers via viewing tunnels and large viewing areas. The theme park also offers a feed experience, where guests over the age of 13 can feed tigers with tongs for 15 minutes.
Previous Incidents
This is not the first time a handler has been attacked by a tiger at Dreamworld. In 2011, a nine-year-old male Bengal tiger, Kato, bit two separate handlers. The first incident occurred in May 2011, when a handler was taken to hospital with puncture wounds, which was described as a “love bite” at the time.
Four months later, a senior handler was taken to hospital after the same tiger bit them, causing a calf laceration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the handler okay?
Yes, she is in stable condition and receiving medical treatment.
Has this happened before at Dreamworld?
Yes, there were two incidents in 2011 involving a different tiger biting handlers.
Can visitors interact with the tigers?
Yes, Dreamworld offers “Get Up Close” experiences and tiger feeding sessions.
