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The recent opening of a new interpretation centre on K’gari (Fraser Island), is part of aims to enhance environmental awareness and conservation efforts on the world’s largest sand island.

Located within Kingfisher Bay Resort and free to access for all visitors to the island, the K’gari World Heritage Discovery Centre, officially opened on 1st March.

Funded by the University of the Sunshine Coast and SeaLink Fraser Island, the Centre has cultural endorsement from the Butchulla Aboriginal Corporation and Fraser Coast Council.

Commenting on the new facility, SeaLink Fraser Island Group General Manager, David Hay stated “we took it upon ourselves to develop this Centre, ensuring visitors could have a greater understanding of Fraser Island’s profound environmental significance, and in turn, encouraging those to champion its preservation.

“We have a long-standing relationship with USC, as the majority of our Resort Rangers are graduates of the university; therefore, this project presents opportunities for further research.”

The Discovery Centre comprises a series of informative panels were designed and curated by USC staff and students, detailing the complex ecosystems of this natural phenomena, that led to the island’s World Heritage listing back in 1992.

Visitors can learn about the vegetation, such as rainforests growing from sand and pristine freshwater lakes, paired with the unique wildlife that inhabit this diverse landscape.

The Centre comprises content sourced from USC’s Research Archives, as well as imagery from the island’s resident photographer and tour guide, Peter Meyer.

Following a challenging year for the island destination, the opening marks the completion of Phase One of the Discovery Centre, with an additional four-step expansion planned.

Hay said the team are actively seeking funding to further develop the facility, with features including a range of interactive and immersive digital displays.

Not only will the Discovery Centre provide high quality interpretation for guests, it will offer an educational resource and versatile space for visiting schools or leisure groups.

Images: Kingfisher Bay Resort (top) and the the K’gari World Heritage Discovery Centre (below). Credit: Kingfisher Bay Resort.

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