Them days: Life on an Aboriginal Reserve 1892–1960

Abstract

The Yarrabah Aboriginal reserve in northern Queensland was a mission run by the Anglican church from its founding in 1892 until it was taken over by the government in 1960. During that period, recruits from among the native Australian people lived there in a social structure dominated by Europeans and designed to convert the natives and isolate them from whites. Escapees from the poor conditions and paternalism were forcibly returned. Gradually, the Aborigines became aware of better opportunities elsewhere, especially during World War II, when many were employed off the mission. During the 1950's their better articulation of their rights and interests, and problems with the mission's administration, combined to force the church to abandon the project.