Fraser Island History

Fraser Island Aboriginal History

Fraser Island was called K'gari by its Aboriginal inhabitants, it means paradise.

The island shows evidence of Aboriginal occupation of least 5000 years, although it is possible that further archaeological work may reveal evidence of earlier occupation.

Early European reports indicated that Fraser Island was heavily populated by Aboriginal people, but subsequent research suggests that there was a small permanent population of 400 - 600 which swelled seasonally to perhaps 2 000 - 3 000 in the winter months, when seafood resources were particularly abundant.

The last Aborigines - Butchulla tribe - left the island in 1904 when the Aboriginal mission at Bogimbah was closed. They were transported to Yarrabah near Cairns and Durundur near Caboolture.

Fraser Island contains many sites of archaeological, social and spiritual significance. Middens, artifact scatters, fish traps, scarred trees and campsites bear witness to the lives of the original inhabitants.