Australia: Handler Injured by Tiger at Dreamworld: Investigation Underway!

IA tiger handler working in a theme park in Queensland, Australia has been hospitalized after being injured by a tiger . The woman, in her 40s, suffered cuts and scratches during the incident, which happened on Monday morning. She is now in stable condition at the Gold Coast University Hospital.

Dreamworld released a statement saying the attack was a rare occurrence and that they would conduct a thorough investigation. The park, which attracts nearly two million visitors each year, is home to nine Sumatran and Bengal tigers.

Paramedics responded to the call shortly after 9 AM local time. According to a Queensland Ambulance Service official, the handler was pale and feeling unwell, but overall, she was stable enough for transport. He noted that she is one of the more experienced handlers at the park and received assistance from other staff members following the incident.

Dreamworld’s Tiger Island, which has been operating for nearly 30 years, is one of the few places in the world where visitors can interact with tigers. The attraction features two shows daily, where guests can watch the tigers swim and eat.

Local media reports indicate that there have been several incidents in the tiger enclosure over the years, including a notable incident in 2011 when a Bengal tiger named Kato bit two handlers. A spokesperson for Dreamworld emphasized that their priority is to support the injured employee.