Image credit: Mornington Shire Council
Mornington Island is a very remote island in the Gulf of Carpentaria, North-West Queensland. The island is part of the Wellesley Island group of 23 islands, with Gununa, on the southern end of Mornington Island as its only permanently inhabited township. There are ~ 1100 people living in Gununa, with at least 80% local Aboriginal residents.
Mornington Island is the traditional land of the Lardil people, its primary Traditional Custodians. The Kaiadilt and Yangkaal peoples are Traditional owners of islands within the Wellesley Island group, and they share Lardil cultural heritage traditional ceremonies, and way of life.
Traditional practices, including fishing and hunting, cultural dancing, story-telling and funeral ceremonies remain an important part of community life and continue to be practiced by community residents. Other Gulf communities (Normanton, Burketown and Doomadgee) share family and cultural ties, and often come together for cultural ceremonies and funerals.
Key Industries
Mornington Island has a limited economy. Their main exports are art works produced by community members sold via Mirndiyan Gununa Aboriginal Corporation (MI Arts). This Internationally renowned art centre The Art Centre which showcases the rich cultural narratives of the Lardil and Kaiadilt peoples, draws international buyers who travel to the remote island on chartered planes for tailored art tours. Mirndiyan also attend art shows and festivals (including the Telstra Northern Territory Art awards, and Cairns Indigenous Art Fair CIAF).
Service industries based on Mornington Island are largely community-focused, such as Mornington Shire Council being the largest employer and essential government services (Police, School, health service, Australia Post) supporting the local population. Council is presently the largest employer, with over 150 employees.
Tourism
Tourism on Mornington Island is limited to fishing, cultural and art tours. Visitors to Mornington Island Art Centre can experience seeing close up the many vibrant art styles and if the opportunity arises, they may meet the artists and have a photo taken with them. Those participating in cultural tours will be offered insights into Traditional customs, stories, with connection to the land and sea. Nature lovers can enjoy the island’s diverse wildlife, including marine species (such as Whale sharks, crocodiles and jumping fish) and extensive birdlife.
Mornington Island’s blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage provided by the enduring traditions of its Traditional Custodians, provides a unique experience for those seeking an enriched cultural experience.
Projects in this region
GSD also works closely with other LGAs surrounding the Gulf Savannah region to leverage opportunities, strengthen our regional economic development approaches, and develop joint initiatives.
