Palm Island & Our People
Palm Island & Our People
This exhibition is in the past.
22 September 2018 - 22 April 2019
kuril dhagun
The inspiring history of Palm Island is celebrated in a fascinating showcase of images, memorabilia and digital stories.
The showcase provides an opportunity to commemorate the past 100 years and to celebrate a new future for the Palm Island people, focussing on the themes past, present and future.
State Library acknowledges the significant contribution of the Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council and the Bwgcolman Indigenous Knowledge Centre in the development of this exhibition.
Palm Island & Our People digital story
In 2018, the Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council celebrates 100 years of island occupation. This digital story was produced as part of the 2018 State Library of Queensland exhibition 'Palm Island & Our People', and explores the origins of Bwgcolman, how Palm Island has evolved since it became a government reserve, how the community reflects diverse cultural identities, how it has commemorated its centenary and its hopes for the future.
MMS ID 99183606317802061
About the showcase
The showcase is both a commemoration and celebration, with the 2018 centenary providing a unique opportunity to reflect on the past through retelling and sharing stories of endurance, resilience and self-determination. The showcase and associated public programs allows Palm Island stories and truths to be shared with the broader Queensland community and visitors from far and wide. Journeys through the difficult and complex history from the establishment of the Palm Island Reserve under the ‘Protection Act’, the opening of Fantome Island as a lazaret, the establishment of the dormitories, and the strike of 1957.
Read more about Community History, Queensland Legislation and the Protection Act
Explore the importance of keeping culture alive to the Bwgcolman people, through dance, language and how football, boxing and netball have become extremely popular sports and a source of community connectedness. Contemporary Palm Island culture is highlighted, focusing on the community events held throughout 2018, including the Deadly Didge ‘n Dance Festival. Tributes and acknowledgement are paid to important Palm Island figures who have contributed significantly to improving life and conditions on the island, including Alf Palmer, Iris Clay and Harry Johnson.
Community launch
The exhibition opened on 22 September 2018 to record crowds which was the icing on the cake of an action packed visit from Palm Island Elders, dignitaries and dancers.
Watch the official launch on the kuril dhagun Facebook page or read more on Indigenous voices blog.
Nunukul Yuggera Dancers, Palm Island and Our People exhibition launch, 22 September 2018. Photo: Joe Ruckli
Showcase information
- Dates
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22 Sep 2018 – 22 Apr 2019
- Venue
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kuril dhagun, level 1, State Library, Stanley Place, South Bank
- Cost
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Free
- Contact us
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kuril dhagun
Video tour of the Palm Island and Our People Exhibition
Additional resources
Learning notes
To support exhibitions and events, State Library creates learning notes with teaching and learning activities linked directly to the Australian Curriculum. These notes are designed to enhance your onsite experience.
Palm Island Voice
The Palm Island Voice informs the local community of local, council and organisations news and activities together with social events which are taking place on Palm Island.
Digitised and available online State Library.