Australia is renowned globally for two distinct exports: its vibrant original music scene and its formidable wildlife. Bridging these worlds, South East Queensland act “The Amanda Emblem Experiment” is set to release their latest single and music video, “Ancient Dingo,” on Australia Day, January 26, 2026. This release aims to spark a conversation about one of the continent’s most misunderstood apex predators, blending a cautionary tale with deep respect for the land’s Indigenous history.
Q: “The Amanda Emblem Experiment” is known for tackling unique subjects. What sparked the inspiration for your new single, “Ancient Dingo”?
The Amanda Emblem Experiment: Kelly King and I got together three years ago one night for the purpose of writing some new tunes. I have a particular method of teasing out unique lyrics in co-written situations. She came up with the title. I had also recently been on a camping trip to neighbouring Island K’Gari and encountered Dingos in the wild for the first time while we were there, so I had first hand experiences to draw upon for additional lyrics. So subconsciously we came together. Kelly is a passionate Dingo lover, her enthusiasm has driven the release and video.
Q: The Dingo holds a complicated place in Australian culture—simultaneously an icon and a pest. How does your song address this “coloured reputation,” especially in contrast to popular portrayals like Bluey?
The Amanda Emblem Experiment: Complicated is an understatement. Unfortunately the very recent death of a Canadian backpacker on K’Gari hasn’t helped their reputation, with six Dingos culled this weekend, without any consultation with Traditional owners. So controversy is at an all time high on Australia Day 2026, which is such a tragedy for all involved.
Dingos have an important place in our ecosystem, and have every right to their place in our culture. Most people are unaware of the history and don’t associate the Dingo as a native, despite their 5000 year history, unique genetic make up and role as an apex predator. Then came the colonisation of Australia, and an ongoing attempt to domesticate the Dingo, which led it to breeding it with other dogs species. This is where the Australian cattledog (Bluey) fits into the story. Cattle/Muster Dogs are well loved workers of our lands, celebrated on all levels, they have their own TV series (Muster Dogs) on our National broadcaster, and even compete in specific events at Royal Shows across the country. They are so very loved in comparison to the Dingo, which is hunted down, demonised due to its wild predatory nature. Outside national parks (where Dingoes are protected) wild dogs (some part Dingo) terrorise and kill domestic animals and as a result they are baited and hunted down. What a mess.
Q: You’ve mentioned that your recent trip to K’gari (Fraser Island) was a catalyst for this track. What specific observations about the interaction between tourists and Dingos led to the song’s creation?
The Amanda Emblem Experiment: Our camping experience was a little different to most. We packed our gear on boats, and travelled across the ocean from our local beach which looks across to the Island, at the South Western side (away from the popular tourist spots on the East Coast). We stayed three days and nights and encountered lots of Dingos. Lucky for us no bad incidents, but… we were lucky. We had no clue about them really. Total ignorance. We did what most tourists would do, went close, took pictures, and observed them unknowingly. I swam alone at times. We did follow the campsite instructions, followed the Rangers advice when he visited, and placed our food and rubbish in the cages provided. Upon returning and “googling” information we realised how vulnerable we were to an attack or incident.
We witnessed dingoes interacting. One night there was a massive fight we heard… very unsettling. Later in the year my friend (a marine biologist who accompanied us) started working on a resort on K’Gari. Obviously she soon learned a lot about Dingos and shared the facts with us. We all realised that our ignorance put us in danger on that camping trip. Every weekend there are 1600 people camping there all around the island, just like we did, (mostly with the same amount of ignorance). Whilst there is educational materials and warnings, incidents happen there all the time, the most recent, tragic.
Q: The song title references the “Ancient” nature of the animal. Can you explain the significance of the Dingo’s history with the Traditional Owners, the Butchulla people, and the distinction between Wat’dha and Wongari
The Amanda Emblem Experiment: Dingoes have approx 5000 years of history in Australia. Their unique genetics set them apart from other wild dogs. They are “related to Wolf and according to online sources were introduced by Asian travellers. The Butchella people are estimated to have coinhabited the Island with Dingos around 2000+ years ago. Their relationship to the Dingo is culturally significant, and the Dingo is very much a spiritual “totem” animal for them. The population of indigenous changed dramatically with the seasons. Up to 5000 would visit during winter due to the abundance of seafood available on the island. Upwards of 400 indigenous permanently inhabited K’Gari, before they were removed from the Island by the Australian Government, forcibly deported in 1904, rehoused on the mainland. The Dingoes remained however.
Before deportation of the Indigenous inhabitants there were two distinct types of Dingo, separated only by their nature. The wild Dingo (Wongari) and the camp Dingo (Wat’dha). The Camp Dingo was integral to their way of life, assisting with hunting and tracking, plus they very much a large part of their spiritual identity and dreamtime practices..
Once the Butchella People were removed the Wat’dha disappeared. Now Dingoes on the island are Wongari.
Q: You are releasing two distinct versions of the track. What can listeners expect musically from the “electric” versus the “acoustic” releases?
The Amanda Emblem Experiment: The acoustic version is true to the way it was written, on an acoustic guitar. It was striped back after the electric version, then enhanced with subtle instrumentation. It is the backbone of the track, musically meandering in the first verse, where the vocal storyline is defined, before the choral hooks are introduced. Powerful vocal harmonies, didgeridoo and clapsticks are introduced in the bridge. building to the intensity of the outro.
There is a natural gentleness to the acoustic version which is contrasted by the electric version which is harder hitting with a bouncing bassline. The acoustic guitar is replaced by electric guitars emphasizing a backbeat/reggae feel. The electric version feels quicker (but isn’t) due to its instrumentation, fitting into the indie rock genre, making it more contemporary and upbeat for live performances.
Q: Ultimately, what is the core message you hope “Ancient Dingo” conveys to both Australians and international visitors?
The Amanda Emblem Experiment:
The Australian Dingo is beautiful, unique and dangerous. Its place in our history and culture is significant. Be aware and respectful so we can continue enjoying our environment.
“Ancient Dingo” drops officially on January 26, 2026, via Wild Weather Records. The release features both an upbeat electric reggae version and a stripped-back acoustic rendition highlighting the didgeridoo. Listeners can find the track on all major streaming services, including Spotify and Apple Music, and view the music video upon release. For more information, visit amandaemblem.com.
