Yarrabah
- Location:
- Far north Queensland, 41km southeast of Cairns.
- Area:
- 159.4 square km, of which 150 hectares are occupied by the community.
- Population:
- 2,599
- Language:
- The traditional language is that of the traditional owners, Gujangii.
History of settlement
The Township of Yarrabah is for the most part located adjacent to Mission Bay. European influence began with the establishment of an Anglican Mission in1892. Over the years, the state government forcibly relocated Aboriginal and some South Sea Islander peoples to Yarrabah. As a consequence, most local residents can claim both traditional and historical ties to the area.
In 1957 the people of Yarrabah staged a strike to protest poor working conditions, inadequate food, health problems and harsh administration. The church expelled the ringleaders and many others left voluntarily, never to return. In 1965 an Aboriginal Council was established which allowed Aboriginal people to give "advice" to the Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, however the State Government continued to control all aspects of the people's lives. In 1979 a man joined the Union in an attempt to win award wages. When his case was won, 11 others also joined. All Union members were immediately stood down. As a result of a petition to the Federal Government a Deed of Grant in Trust (DOGIT) to establish self-management was implemented in 1986.
Yarrabah based community services include: health clinic, school to Year 10, child care centre, QGAP. Law and order is supported by a police presence of 8 – 10 officers and two police liaison officers. State Government funding also supports drug and alcohol programs, youth leadership and development, family support, child care and school holiday programs, domestic violence prevention and a women’s refuge.
Yarrabah artists exhibit their work in Cairns galleries.
Last updated: 15 July 2008.