When the Fraser Island Defenders Organisation (FIDO) was formed in 1971, I was working on Fraser Island (K’gari) as a yardman at the Orchid Beach Resort.
A Watchdog for K’gari
FIDO has been at the forefront in saving K’gari from sand-mining, logging and unregulated visitation since its inception in 1971. We work for K’gari through biosecurity, education and advocacy in partnership with Queensland Parks and Wildlife, Butchulla traditional custodians, researchers, tourism operators and local residents.
fido.org.au
Larry Anthony, the brother of Doug Anthony, who was then Deputy Prime Minister, had an involvement with the resort and its owner, Sir Reginald Barham.
My job as a yardman involved attending to the airstrip and making sure it was watered. I cleaned windows, did odd jobs around the resort and washed up in the kitchen.
I also helped take tourists around the island, and I saw for myself its incredible beauty.
At the same time, logging and sand mining were taking place on the island.
I remember the experience for other reasons as well. My friend, who was the cook at the resort, was sacked, and I went out in solidarity with him.
But what has stayed with me is the island itself. It is a place of extraordinary beauty, and I don’t think it should be interfered with.
There are some places in this world that should simply be left alone.
K’gari — is one of them.
Ian Curr