The island, near Warrnambool Breakwater, is home to shearwater birds, a penguin colony and Maremma dogs and is closed to the public.

Warrnambool Coastcare Landcare Network’s Melanie Wells has noticed an increase in reports across the past fortnight. Miss Wells said people continued to access the island despite warnings the area is off limits. Fines of up to $500 can apply. 

The working dogs were introduced in 2006 to protect the penguins after a sharp decline in numbers.

They later rose to fame through the movie, Oddball.

“Access is definitely restricted and the reason for it is for the good of the penguins,” Miss Wells said.

“The island’s still very sensitive and the penguin population is very much recovering. We need all of the efforts we can employ.

“We can control the foxes but it would be a shame to have people disturb it.”

It is peak breeding season for penguins and the shearwater birds whose nests, if walked on, could collapse.

She said people could also interfere with the dogs who took their job seriously.

“These dogs are trained to protect the island and its inhabitants from any threats not naturally on the island,” she said. ““(Getting attacked) is a very real possibility.”

Miss Wells said people could book a guided tour of the island via Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre. 

People can report sightings to the Warrnambool police on 5560 1333.