Why is Fraser Island called K’gari?

Fraser Island is a beautiful paradise island that holds a lot of fascinating history.

Fraser Island is off the coast of Queensland and is the largest sand island in the world. The name K’gari is the original name for Fraser Island which means ‘paradise’ in the Butchulla language. The Butchulla people are the traditional owners of K’gari and have lived there for more than 5000 years. K’gari is from a Butchulla Dreaming story. The Dreaming is about a goddess named K’gari who loved the earth and didn’t want to leave.

Boorangoora/Lake McKenzie

Boorangoora, also known as Lake McKenzie, is a perched lake on K’gari. The water in the lake only comes from the rain. Boorangoora is beautiful to swim in and has soft sand to walk along when you’re in the water. It’s so peaceful to just be in the area and enjoy a few hours of relaxing.

Lake Wabby

Lake Wabby is the deepest lake on K’gari. The water at Lake Wabby is a deep green, but it’s still beautiful. You can go for a swim with some of the 12 species of fish who call the lake their home. There are a few walks to Lake Wabby, one being the Lake Wabby lookout walk. On the lookout, it gives you a view from above the trees near the lake. You’ll be able to see the lake and the white sand from the platform.

Maheno Shipwreck

The Maheno Shipwreck is one of the most popular attractions on K’gari. The ship has been there since 1935 when the tow chain broke when the S.S. Maheno was being taken to Japan. You can find the shipwreck on Maheno Beach.

Indian Head

Indian Head is a volcanic rock from millions of years ago. At Indian Head, you can spot some turtles, dolphins, and whales in the turquoise water. The lookout point from Indian Head gives you beautiful views of the island and water. It’s one of the best lookout points in Australia.

75 Mile Beach

Seventy Five Mile Beach is the most popular beach at K’gari. When driving on the beach, it can take about two hours to get from one end to the other. People love to go walking or fishing along the beach. On the beach, you’ll be able to get to Maheno Shipwreck, Eli Creek, and Indian Head. And there’s no guessing how long this beach is!

There are many beautiful attractions in K’gari to see. You can spend a day or a couple of days exploring the stunning island. The best way to discover the island is by doing a tour. Some tours even offer self-4W driving. Believe us, you won’t regret it!

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.