The grieving family of a Canadian teenager discovered deceased on a K'gari beach is preparing to travel to the Queensland island next week. Piper James, aged 19, was found lifeless near the Maheno Wreck on January 19, with dingoes present at the scene.
Parents to Honour Daughter with Traditional Ceremony
Piper's parents, Angela and Todd James, will participate in a smoking ceremony with Traditional Owners during their visit. This cultural ritual will occur before Piper's body is returned to Canada for funeral arrangements.
Autopsy Points to Drowning as Likely Cause
While the complete investigation into Piper's death continues, preliminary autopsy findings indicate evidence consistent with drowning. Authorities have noted that the dingo bite marks found on her body were unlikely to have caused her death.
"My little girl was strong, courageous, smart, loyal, and a really good friend to many," Todd James expressed emotionally on Thursday. "It is now time to go to Australia to be with Piper, be where she last walked, and try to feel the spirit of my baby girl in some way."
Family Plans to Bring Daughter Home
The James family intends to accompany Piper's remains back to Canada, where a funeral and celebration of life ceremony is scheduled for February 28 in British Columbia.
Todd James described experiencing overwhelming emotions, stating: "I am every emotion all the time. Fears I never imagined possible. I ache for her last breath." He added a heartfelt message to his daughter: "Piper you made us so proud. Love you so much. Not ready to say goodbye."
Piper's Connection to K'gari and Safety Concerns
Piper had been working as a tour guide on K'gari at the time of her death. Her father revealed they maintained daily phone contact, and he had previously cautioned her against swimming alone. "Unfortunately, I think she did let her guard down this time," Todd acknowledged to local media.
The family has expressed alignment with Traditional Owners' perspectives regarding dingo management on the island. Rather than supporting culling measures proposed by Queensland authorities, they advocate for alternative approaches.
Calls for Enhanced Safety Measures
Traditional Owners have recommended implementing visitor caps and periodic island closures as preventive measures. Todd James has voiced support for additional safety protocols, including:
- Improved training for island staff members
- Mandatory carrying of dingo deterrent sticks
- Potential restrictions on visitors under 13 years old
The upcoming visit by Piper's family represents both a personal pilgrimage and an opportunity to engage with local communities about safety improvements on K'gari.
