The Queensland Government today announced the official name change of one of the State’s most treasured and culturally significant destinations to its Traditional name ‘K’gari’ (formerly Fraser Island). The announcement formally recognises the Butchulla People’s connection to the island and the creation story that has been passed down for generations.

In traditional Butchulla culture, the island holds immense history in its lakes, waterways, coastline, skies and rainforest. Gaining UNESCO World Heritage Area status in 1992, it was formed from sand accumulation over 750,000 years – becoming the world’s largest sand island. The Butchulla People have understood its significance for an estimated 20,000 years, forging an incredible connection with the land, sea, flora and fauna that live harmoniously.
In the lead up to the reinstatement of the original name, Dr Rose Barrowcliffe, a Post Doctoral Research Fellow and Butchulla Woman explained the importance of returning the original place name to Butchulla People.
“K’gari is one of those places that is incredibly well known, not just nationally but internationally. We have a huge amount of international visitors that come to see K’gari every year. So, what we are doing when we are respecting Indigenous place names, is we are respecting Indigenous culture,” Dr Barrowcliffe said.
“Australia has the oldest continuously living cultures in the world. It’s the most unique thing about us as a continent and a destination. So, by honouring Indigenous cultures and using place names, we are raising up the culture and saying we are proud of it. And we are showcasing a unique part of our offering to the world.”
Located just 300km north of the Queensland capital, Brisbane, K’gari is and will continue to be a popular destination for both domestic and international visitors. In 2022, more than 800,000 visitors…
Read Full Article Source