At 6:30am we board the Stradbroke Flyer, a pilgrimage of sorts, each visit deepening an understanding of a place where knowledge, strength, and discovery flow like the tides around the island.
The Caretaker
Shaun Fisher welcomes us with the warmth that comes from deep belonging. While he briefly leaves to take his twins to school, we sit in the quiet of Minjerribah and reflect on what this place holds — layers of conversation with Elders and community members, accumulated over visits.
When Shaun returns, he shows us a clearing near his oyster lease. He sees community gathering places, boat sheds, training facilities, and healing spaces: an integrated ecosystem linking economic prosperity with wellbeing and connection to Country.
The oyster leases from above — Moreton Bay, Quandamooka Country
History’s Shadows
Driving across the island, Shaun describes Elders directing the creation of skeleton effigies to protect sacred sites threatened by a proposed whale research centre. The layers of complexity here run deep: disease decimating seventy percent of the population centuries ago, sand mining destroying over half the island and dozens of sacred sites, and ongoing pressures from privileged encroachment.
Waters of Continuity
We pause at a natural stream Shaun has visited for decades and now shares with his children. It represents continuity and sustenance, a gathering place where generations have cooled themselves and harvested food. Some things endure despite everything.
Convergence on Salt Water
At the oyster farm, different streams converge. Shaun the local visionary, visitors carrying knowledge from other Country, facilitators weaving connection, and us as witnesses. Shaun demonstrates technique while discussing how the farm represents more than livelihood. It’s a platform for cultural continuity, family support, and community prosperity.
Tasting oysters together becomes something more than a meal. It becomes a ceremony of sharing wisdom, building connection, and continuing a story tens of thousands of years in the making.
Walking Together
As the day ends, Shaun supports an Elder as they walk back to the boat, a quiet image of care between knowledge holders. It says more than any business plan could.
Reflection
On the ferry home, questions surface. Does our storytelling matter? Do our efforts to witness and reflect make any real difference?
Perhaps the metrics of growth and resource accumulation matter less than showing up faithfully, ready to learn how to support young people and communities. Sometimes, walking alongside others in their journey is enough to begin with.
The farm represents more than livelihood. It’s a platform for cultural continuity, family support, and community prosperity.