Representations of the dingo: contextualising iconicity

Dingoes on K’gari (Fraser Island) serve as both a symbol of cultural significance and a source of contention, embodying multiple human values—ranging from conservation to tourism—while also being perceived as pests. This study reveals that the dingo’s iconic status is shaped by diverse disciplinary perspectives, including scientific, anthropological, and tourism-related analyses, each with its own divisions. The research highlights how the dingo remains a liminal figure in human perception, often viewed through an anthropocentric lens. By synthesizing these disparate viewpoints, the study underscores the need for future research to explore reciprocal perceptions, such as how dingoes might perceive humans.

Archer-Lean, C., Wardell-Johnson, A., Conroy, G., & Carter, J. (2015). Representations of the dingo: contextualising iconicity. Australasian Journal of Environmental Management, 22(2), 181–196. https://doi.org/10.1080/14486563.2014.985268