A USC-led symposium is aiming to develop a research strategy to help ‘future-proof’ K’gari, the world’s largest sand island, over the next three decades.

The K'gari Research Symposium: Towards 2050 will bring together the island’s traditional custodians, the Butchulla people, with researchers, students, environmental groups and other stakeholders at USC’s Fraser Coast campus on Friday 26 November.

Coordinator Dr Kim Walker said the symposium, presented by USC with the support of the Butchulla Aboriginal Corporation, will identify key research opportunities, partnerships and collaborations to inform the future management of K’gari (previously known as Fraser Island).

“We welcome all those who have an interest in protecting and enhancing K’gari to contribute to developing a vitally important research strategy for the island as we move towards 2050,” she said.

“The program is designed to be collaborative: emphasising knowledge sharing and learning by the participants, with a focus on the island’s outstanding geological evolution, ecology, biology and Butchulla culture.

“An important aim is to identify ways to continue to build local, national and global recognition of the island’s cultural heritage and natural values to ensure they are treasured and protected.”

The symposium will feature a range of speakers who will share their international and national insights and expertise on topics including environmental education and cultural heritage.

The keynote speakers are Chair of the Butchulla Aboriginal Corporation Jade Gould, Professor Emeritus of Environmental Studies and Environmental Education at Florida Gulf Coast University Dr Peter Blaze Corcoran, and founding member and Chair of the International Indigenous Peoples’ Forum on World Heritage Chrissy Grant.

Registrations are essential and close on Friday 19 November. Register here.