Thursday Island, Australia

Thursday Island (TI) is just off the northernmost tip of Australia in the Torres Strait. Also known as Waiben by the indigenous Kaurareg people, TI is only 1.4 square miles in area and has a population of 3500. There is one grocery store, one pharmacy, a hospital and a few hotels and shops. The island was once home to a thriving pearl fishing industry, and divers came from Japan and India to harvest the stone from oysters. Since our visit is on Sunday, both the Catholic and Anglican churches are having services and several of the businesses and government offices are closed.

After tendering to TI, we were welcomed by island residents with a speech and dancing in the ANZAC park.  We walked up to Green Hill Fort at the top of the Island, which was built in 1890 and used during World War II as a wireless station. There was a small bunker museum at the fort which had artifacts from the island and photos of the islanders during WW II. 

Large statue near the dock, showcasing the
unusual headpiece worn by the indigenous Kaurareg.

Women dancing in ANZAC park to entertain us

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Canons at Green Hill Fort

Looking to the bay from Green Hill Fort

suit once used by pearl divers

Bird on Thursday Island