In September 2024, the Burnett Mary Regional Group (BMRG) collaborated with Butchulla Traditional Owners to conduct cool burns on K’gari as part of the Galangoor Gira (Good Fire) project. These burns took place on one of their Aboriginal Freehold Land blocks, known as Oysterman’s Lease.
Conducted during the cooler parts of the year, these burns benefit from lower overnight temperatures, which help prevent the fires from getting out of control. The night-time dew point plays a crucial role in smothering the fire and embers, ensuring the burns remain manageable.
Conducting cultural burns at Oysterman’s Lease on K’gari (Photos BMRG). 
Conducting cultural burns at Oysterman’s Lease on K’gari (Photos BMRG). 
White smoke – good fire (Photos BMRG). 
Conducting cultural burns at Oysterman’s Lease on K’gari (Photos BMRG). 
Conway Burns sets the fire (Photo: BMRG) 
Conducting cultural burns at Oysterman’s Lease on K’gari (Photos BMRG). 
Using traditional tools to set the fire (Photo: BMRG)
With a hot summer predicted and the wildfire season approaching, these cool burns are essential for protecting assets and the environment from potential summer fires. During the burns, various measurements such as temperature, rate of spread, and flame height were recorded, along with general fire behaviour observations.
These burns are a vital part of ‘Caring for Country’ for the Butchulla people, reflecting their deep connection to the land and their commitment to its stewardship.
The Galangoor Gira project is funded by the Minderoo Foundation, delivered by BMRG, and supported by the Butchulla Aboriginal Corporation – BAC.
Article contributed by Burnett Mary Regional Group for NRM
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