We know that Gynburra has been a key calendar event for many Narungga and wider community members for over a decade, so we understand the importance of our decision to all that are involved and partake over the weekend.

Our decision to postpone Gynburra 2026 has been difficult and delayed due to gathering all the information needed to ascertain the best interest of the community.

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The uncertainty and the very real possibility of the algal bloom spreading to our western shores and how very little is known of the algae called Karenia cristata a potent toxin behind South Australia’s devastating algal bloom has furthered the comfort of our decision.

The identification that this algae species has neurotoxins also puts our community at risk, especially elderly and those with respiratory and other ailments that may and potentially cause real harm. We definitely know and have seen a diverse range of marine species and tens of thousands succumb to its effects including Gynburra (butterfish), the impact it has had on our culturally important species is unknown at this stage and sustainability, only time will tell.

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We also want to be very clear that we are not discouraging nor prohibiting people of any traditional or recreational beach activities, this will be individuals own decisions, however we have responsibility to those we that we host during that weekend that all risks we own are for the protection of those that attend and our management team.

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The recent state government announcement to reduce and even ban commercial and recreational fishing in both St Vincents and Spencer Gulfs is on the best science available to us.

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In light of this received information and the risks it will put community members its with our sincere apologies our decision may have on your plans.

The silver lining is we are in talks with government and our loyal sponsors about a bigger and better Gynburra 2027.

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We will continue to update you all on our Facebook page and website.

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Gynburra Management