Canadian backpacker Piper James’ family to visit K’gari following tragic death

The parents of Canadian backpacker Piper James have made a heartwrenching announcement about their next move after the 19-year-old was found dead on K’gari.

Todd James and his daughter Piper shared a close bond, speaking on the phone daily while she worked as a tour guide on K’gari. Picture: Supplied by family
Piper’s funeral and celebration of life are scheduled for February 28 in British Columbia.

Her father also described the emotional toll of their loss.

“I am every emotion all the time. Fears I never imagined possible. I ache for her last breath. Piper you made us so proud. Love you so much. Not ready to say goodbye,” Mr James said.

The young traveller had been in Australia since late October, finding work as a tour guide on K’gari.

Her father told the Vancouver Sun the couple spoke daily, and that he had previously cautioned her against swimming alone. “Unfortunately, I think she did let her guard down this time,” he said.

Piper’s mother described her daughter’s love of the island’s mornings.

“She just loved to start her day in the ocean watching the sun come up … because she just felt so free there,” Ms James said.

“She said it was the most amazing thing.”

On her last day, Piper had left the hostel at about 5am, telling friends she was going for a swim.

Piper’s parents plan to travel from British Columbia, Canada, to K’gari next week to attend a smoking ceremony with traditional owners before her remains are returned home. Picture: Supplied by family
The Butchulla Aboriginal Corporation, representing K’gari’s traditional owners, has invited the family to a smoking ceremony to ensure Piper’s spirit has a safe passage home.

The ceremony will take place before the family returns to Canada for the funeral and celebration of life.

The tragedy has also prompted Queensland rangers to euthanase at least six dingoes from the pack involved in Piper’s death, citing public safety concerns.

Environment Minister Andrew Powell confirmed more may be put down.

“Public safety is our top priority, and this decision is informed and in the public interest,” a Department of Environment spokesperson said.

Queensland authorities have euthanased at least six dingoes from the pack involved in Piper’s death, citing public safety concerns. Picture: Liam Kidston
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli supported the decision, acknowledging the rangers acted independently.

“Imagine what would happen if they … hadn’t acted, and then there was a tragedy,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“I certainly won’t be criticising them for that; they’ve taken an independent decision and I think they took the right decision.”

However, Mr James said that Piper would have supported traditional owners’ calls for stronger protections on the island, rather than culling dingoes.

He has also advocated for enhanced safety measures, including better staff training, mandatory carrying of dingo sticks, and a ban on children under 13 visiting K’gari.