Thursday Island

Thursday Island, known traditionally as Waiben, is the administrative and commercial centre of the Torres Strait Islands in far north Queensland, Australia. Located about 39 kilometres north of Cape York Peninsula, the small island town serves as the hub for the Shire of Torres. Notable for its pearling history, World War II heritage including Green Hill Fort, and vibrant Torres Strait Islander culture showcased at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre, it offers a compact, walkable island experience.

Visitors can expect a small, hilly tropical island town with a compact centre that is walkable. The island features historic buildings, the Green Hill Fort with panoramic views over Torres Strait, the Gab Titui Cultural Centre showcasing Torres Strait Islander art and artefacts, the Thursday Island Cemetery with Japanese pearl diver graves, and waterfront areas with ferry connections. The setting is surrounded by clear waters with views to neighbouring islands such as Horn Island and Prince of Wales Island. Facilities include shops, cafes, accommodation and a visitor information centre.

Thursday Island was established in 1877 as the administrative centre for Torres Strait after the Queensland Government moved the settlement from Somerset on Cape York. It became the centre of the lucrative pearling industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting Japanese, Malay, Filipino and European divers. Green Hill Fort was constructed between 1892 and 1893 to defend the strategic Torres Strait. The island served as a major Australian military base during World War II.

Thursday Island is the administrative and cultural heart of the Torres Strait Islands and home to a vibrant Torres Strait Islander community. The traditional name is Waiben, part of the Kaurareg people's traditional lands. The Gab Titui Cultural Centre preserves and presents the art, history and living culture of Torres Strait Islander peoples, reflecting the region's distinct Ailan Kastom (Island Custom).