Reviving Korrawinga: Restoring Great Sandy Strait’s Ecological and Cultural Heritage

The Healing Korrawinga project is a significant initiative aimed at restoring both the ecological and cultural integrity of ten priority islands within the Great Sandy Strait Ramsar Site. This project focuses on addressing the degradation caused by invasive species, which threaten critical habitats for endangered and vulnerable shorebirds, migratory birds, wetland birds, and waterbirds. By monitoring pest species, assessing cultural heritage, and implementing traditional cool burning techniques, the project seeks to rejuvenate native vegetation and habitats. Pest animal and weed control are essential steps in protecting the area’s biodiversity and supporting the Butchulla people’s connection to their land. The project is supported by partnerships that ensure alignment with conservation strategies and involve Traditional Owner communities in preserving and enhancing the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

The Healing Korrawinga Project recently commenced with an island reconnaissance trip on the 5th and 6th of September. Over the next four years, the Burnett Mary Regional Group (BMRG) will collaborate closely with the Butchulla Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (BNTAC) to deliver this project. During the initial trip, BNTAC Land and Sea Rangers Tilly, Kaile, and Mitch, along with BMRG staff Dave and Keira, assessed which islands would be suitable for upcoming work. They evaluated cultural and ecological values and identified sites most threatened by pest weed and animal species. The Great Sandy Strait, also known as Korrawinga, is a Ramsar-listed wetland of international importance located between K’gari and the mainland. It provides crucial habitat for several endangered species, including migratory shorebirds. During the reconnaissance trip, the team observed critically endangered shorebirds, heard the songs of migrating whales, and even rescued a milbi (green sea turtle).

This project is funded by the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust and delivered by Burnett Mary Regional Group (BMRG), a member of the Commonwealth Regional Delivery Partners panel.