The South Sea Islanders

In 1863 a group of 67 labourers arrived in Brisbane, the first of 62,000 people from 80 Melanesian islands who endured forced migration to provide cheap labour to Australia’s cotton and sugar industries.

This influx of people, which lasted until 1904, brought a new dynamic to the country, but many of the recent arrivals were deported by 1908 because of the policies that were in force at the time. Despite this the South Sea Islanders have contributed a unique and vibrant culture to Queensland.

An exhibition, on in the Queensland Museum until July 2025, explores the history and contribution that the Australian South Sea Islanders, now recognised as a distinct cultural group, have given to the country.

Thanks to a reader who visited the exhibition recently here is a selection of artworks and outfits from the show.