Fraser Island may follow the lead of Uluru and be officially renamed to its indigenous name K’gari.
The Queensland government has opened a two-month public consultation period to change the name of Queensland’s famous Fraser Island to K’gari (pronounced ‘GUR-rie’ or ‘Gurri’).
In 2021, the Fraser Island World Heritage Area was changed to K’gari (Fraser Island) World Heritage Area to acknowledge the Butchulla Peoples’ traditional name for the island.
The name K’gari comes from the creation story of the island, which has been passed down orally for generations between the traditional owners of the surrounding land and waters, the Butchulla People.
For Aunty Gayle Minniecon, chair of the Butchulla Aboriginal Corporation (BAC), the reinstatement of K’gari as the island’s name has been a long time coming.
“It means so much to the Butchulla People,” she says.
“For us it’s about respect for our people. It’s important for us to let our ancestors know that our culture is still strong and we continue to care for our country.”
Resources Minister Scott Stewart says the Palaszczuk government has actively worked with the Butchulla People to recognise the cultural significance of K’gari.
“We’ve listened to the Butchulla People who have maintained a strong commitment to reinstating the island’s traditional name,” Mr Stewart said.
“The island has been known as K’gari for thousands of years and I hope it will be formally known as K’gari for many more years to come.”
Community consultation is open for eight weeks until October 3.
To have your say visit here
Image: Land Queensland
