CANAIPA ISLAND?
What’s the chance of a name change for Russell Island to Canaipa Island? Apparently a pretty good chance. The name Russell is not regarded well historically for the island. You only have to google it to see the name has been tarnished on several fronts. It also relates back to a relatively minor English official back in the 1800’s. Canaipa is the aboriginal name for the island that is already used in many ways and by some island businesses and organisations. Member for Redlands, Kim Richards, believes there is a good chance of a name change, and likens the situation to the recent naming of Fraser Island to K’gari Island. Kim states in her column in this edition: “I’m currently about to get underway a survey of residents on the name of Russell Island and I’m very keen to get your opinion on whether we should rename it to ‘Canaipa Island’. We have an online survey, and we will be out talking to locals on this in coming weeks to provide feedback to the Minister for Resources. You can email my office with your thoughts at redlands@parliament.qld.gov.au We think it is a great idea and a pleasant-sounding name with strong connections. Get involved and have your say in the survey. To make it easy, just scan the image above.