The University of the Sunshine Coast has a long-standing interest in Fraser Island and has an ongoing research program active on the island including a research station.

USC has conducted research mapping the fire history of the island using remote sensing techniques and studied many threatened species on the island especially in relation to fire.

USC was proactive in the initial establishment of FINIA hosting a preliminary workshop where the concept was launched.

USC employed a Fraser Island Weeds Management officer for several years and this enabled a neutral position focussed on a specific issue to bring together all the stakeholders of FINIA. The project resulted in a whole of Island weed management plan and was successful in bringing together FINIA as a working team along with considerable on ground weed management for the Island. The trust built during this process then enabled FINIA to expand into a greater diversity of management issues.

In February 2016, USC started offering programs from the Fraser Coast Campus located in Hervey Bay.  Courses on offer include full degree programs in animal ecology, business, commerce, human services, sport science, nursing and education.

USC has also developed the K’gari-Fraser Island App a free guide for anyone planning a trip to World Heritage-listed Fraser Island. The app provides important information on what you need to know before you go, getting to the island and what to do when on the island.

Website www.usc.edu.au