NORTH Stradbroke Island is steadily transitioning to its traditional name, Minjerribah, with cultural leaders and locals embracing the change as part of a broader movement to revive and celebrate Aboriginal language and heritage.
Cameron Costello, Chair of the Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC), said the use of the island’s traditional name was already becoming second nature for many Queenslanders and visitors alike.
“People are already starting to call it Minjerribah out of respect – and that’s its original name,” he said.
“Just like Uluru and K’gari, there’s a natural progression happening.
“These changes take time, but they also reflect our shared journey as a nation in recognising and restoring Aboriginal culture.”
North Stradbroke Island has long been affectionately known as “Straddie” – and Mr Costello said there was no issue with people still using that name, especially where it holds personal or historical meaning.
“It’s such a special place with special memories for people,” he said.
“Some will always say Straddie – and that’s totally fine by me.
“But formally, over time, I expect we’ll see Minjerribah become the norm.
“That’s the goal – to honour the original name and bring cultural recognition into everyday use.”
The name Minjerribah comes from the Jandai language, spoken by the Quandamooka people.
Its revival is part of a broader push to reclaim and reinstate First Nations languages across Australia – many of which were suppressed through colonisation and government policies that forbade their use.
“There was a time when our people were punished for speaking Jandai,” Mr Costello said.
“Reclaiming our language is vital.
“It’s not just about the name – it’s about our identity, our connection to Country, and sharing that with everyone.”
The Queensland Government officially recognised the dual naming of North Stradbroke Island/Minjerribah in 2011.
Since then, signage, tourism campaigns, and community groups have increasingly adopted the traditional name, with many businesses and residents following suit.
Mr Costello said he hoped to see Minjerribah become a regional welcome word, much like “Aloha” in Hawaii or “Kia ora” in New Zealand.
“It should be taught in our schools and used proudly,” he said. “It’s our point of difference. It’s who we are.”
While no specific date has been set for a full switch to the sole use of “Minjerribah”, QYAC believes the change will continue organically over coming generations – supported by education, tourism and community pride.
“We’ve seen it happen with Uluru, with K’gari,” Mr Costello said.
“No one’s stopped visiting, and no one’s lost anything.
“What we’ve gained is a deeper respect and a stronger sense of who we are as Australians.”
