Australian South Sea Islander research discovery workshop

In anticipation of next year's 150th anniversary of the first Australian South Sea Islanders to arrive in Queensland, the State Library of Queensland held a special Australian South Sea Islander research discovery workshop on 23 November 2012. The workshop was attended by a number of community members, as well as individuals interested in discovering more about the history of Australian South Sea Islander people in Queensland. Some attendees came from as far away as Rockhampton to attend.

A vast array of historical material relating to the Australian South Sea Islanders was displayed including photographs, diaries, letters and books. Experienced Queensland Memory staff (Ruth Gardiner, Chrissi Theodosiou, Catherine Cottle and Myles Sinnamon) were on hand to assist with questions.  

Many of the attendees were interested in family history research. Cassie Ham Boyd is hoping to trace her Obah descendants and organise a family reunion next year.

 The State Library of Queensland has digitised a number of historical images related to Australian South Sea Islanders in Queensland. These images can be perused online through our One Search catalogue.