Fantome Island

Palm Islands context map en

Fantome Island is an island located in the Great Palm Island group off the coast of North Queensland, Australia. It is part of the traditional lands of the Manbarra people and has a complex history, serving various purposes over the years, including as a quarantine station, a leprosarium, and a lock hospital for Indigenous Australians.

History

Fantome Island's history as a facility for medical isolation began in the early 20th century. In 1928, it was established as a leprosarium by the Queensland Government, in response to the perceived need to isolate individuals suffering from leprosy (now more commonly referred to as Hansen's disease) from the mainland population. This was a common practice worldwide, as leprosy was highly stigmatized and misunderstood at the time.

The island served as a place of segregation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who were forcibly removed from their families and communities across Queensland and the northern parts of Australia. The establishment of the leprosarium was part of broader policies of the time that aimed to control and manage Indigenous populations under the guise of public health and safety.

Life on Fantome Island

Life on Fantome Island was challenging for its inhabitants. The facilities were basic and often inadequate, and the residents were subjected to strict control and surveillance. Despite these conditions, the community on Fantome Island developed a strong bond, creating their own social structures and support networks. They also maintained cultural practices and connections to their heritage, despite the efforts to assimilate and isolate them from their traditional lands and customs.

Closure and Legacy

The leprosarium on Fantome Island was closed in 1973, as medical advancements made the isolation of patients unnecessary. Following its closure, the buildings and infrastructure were largely abandoned and have since deteriorated. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the island's dark history and its impact on Indigenous communities. Efforts have been made to document and acknowledge the experiences of those who lived on Fantome Island, including oral histories and memorial projects.

Today, Fantome Island serves as a reminder of the injustices faced by Indigenous Australians under past government policies. It is a site of historical significance, reflecting the broader story of segregation, displacement, and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia.

See Also

• Leprosy in Australia
• Indigenous Australians
• Public health in Australia