We believe the deep meaning behind K’gari is a perfect reflection of the rich Australian culture and the diverse and unique ecosystem of this beautiful island. To maintain our long-standing connection and respect for the land and its people, we look to the future and embrace the return of the traditional name.
The Butchulla People
The Butchulla People have cared for the land, sea, flora and fauna of K’gari for an estimated 20,000 years and their connection to the island and her creation story has been passed down for generations.
The name K'gari, (pronounced 'GUR-rie' or 'Gurri') is part of the story that explains the name of a beautiful white spirit that was sent down from the sky by the god Beiral, to help his messenger Yindingie create land for the people. While helping, K’gari fell in love with the land they’d created and decided to rest there forever.
The lakes on the land were created so K’gari can look up to the heavens, thick flora was made to clothe her, and animals were born to keep her company. To the Butchulla People, K’gari is beautiful – “She is our Mother.” “She provides food, water, and shelter and in return we protect and preserve her, as per the 3 lores that Yindingie gave us.”
The Three Lores
The Butchulla cultural connection with K’gari is guided by 3 lores.
1. What is good for the land must come first.
Historically, hunters only took what was necessary for food, aware that animals found on the island could die out if hunted excessively. Even today, scarce resources are protected, often using the totem system which can forbid the use of certain items.
2. Do not take or touch anything that does not belong to you.
Respect for the rights of others has always been integral to the Butchulla way of life and this respect extends to the plants and animals that provide for the people.
3. If you have plenty you must share
Each winter, as certain fish (particularly tailor and mullet) arrived in waters around the island, people from other language groups trod established pathways looking to share this bounty. They sought permission from Elders, or were invited by them, to cross the Great Sandy Strait and enter Butchulla land on the western side of the island. Numbers would swell from around 400 people to a couple of thousand throughout the season. Visitors were always made welcome, as sharing was a way of life.
K’gari Pronunciation
K’gari
Returning the name of the world’s largest sand island represents a profound shift towards recognising and honouring the enduring connection the Traditional Owners of K’gari, the Butchulla People, have with country.
This important chapter in the island’s 750,000-year history has been a long time coming for the Butchulla People, who in 2021 made a successful bid to change the World Heritage Area name from Fraser Island World Heritage Area to K’gari (Fraser Island) World Heritage Area.
Throughout 2022, the Department of Resources (the lead agency responsible for place naming) consulted with First Nations People and Traditional Owners, local governments and emergency and postal services. Nearly 6,000 submissions were received during this public consultation, making it the largest place name consultation undertaken in Queensland.
On 7 June 2023, a ceremony was held on the island to celebrate the official name change to K’gari from Fraser Island.