Fantome Island Lock Hospital And Lazaret Sites

Fantome Island Lock Hospital and Lazaret Sites are historically significant locations situated in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, Queensland, Australia. These sites were operational during the 20th century and served as a lock hospital and lazaret (leprosarium) for the treatment and isolation of patients suffering from sexually transmitted diseases and leprosy respectively.

History

The Fantome Island Lock Hospital was established in 1928 by the Queensland Government as a segregated institution for the treatment of Indigenous Australians diagnosed with sexually transmitted diseases. The hospital was in operation until 1945, during which time it treated hundreds of patients, primarily from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

The Fantome Island Lazaret Site was established in 1939, following the closure of the Peel Island Lazaret. It functioned as a leprosarium for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous patients until its closure in 1973. The site is significant as it represents the government's approach to public health and racial segregation policies during the period.

Facilities

Both the lock hospital and lazaret were equipped with basic medical facilities. The lock hospital consisted of separate wards for male and female patients, a dispensary, and staff quarters. The lazaret site included patient and staff accommodation, a kitchen, laundry, and recreation hall.

Legacy

The Fantome Island Lock Hospital and Lazaret Sites are a poignant reminder of the historical treatment of Indigenous Australians and the stigma associated with disease. They are significant for their association with the broader social and political history of Australia, particularly in relation to Indigenous health and welfare policies.

See also

• History of hospitals
• History of medicine
• History of leprosy
• Public health in Australia