Fishing facts and phishing fictions on K'gari (Fraser Island): Archaeological discourse in a post‐truth world

Abstract

As a discipline, archaeology must explore ways to present Indigenous and scientific interpretations of the past, employing mechanisms that are effective and relevant to contemporary Indigenous people, and which communicate values for the future that are shared by Indigenous and non‐Indigenous peoples alike. Inclusive archaeological discourse and cultural heritage management can amplify First Nations voices and contribute to the public debate on the contemporary understanding of Australia's past. In developing new ways to explore archaeological relevance to First Nations people, but also working to prevent the loss of intellectual property, archaeologists in partnership with First Nations people can forge new ways to research and communicate ideas and scientific data. The contemporary story of K'gari (Fraser Island, south‐east Queensland) and the effective harnessing by Butchulla people of modern media strategies to assert their ongoing custodial and cultural rights and diminish colonial constructs imposed upon them is a powerful example of innovative resilience and positive social change.