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When did the pearling industry begin in the Torres Strait region?
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Torres Strait Islander peoples
A Torres Strait Islander boy performing a traditional dance.
The pearling industry in the Torres Strait region began in 1870, following the discovery of large quantities of pearl shells by European Australians.1
This industry, alongside the harvesting of bĂȘche-de-mer, led to a significant influx of foreign workers. This period was marked by the exploitation of Torres Strait Islander peoples, who faced abuse from those involved in these commercial marine activities. In response to the resulting lawlessness, the colonial government of Queensland moved to annex the islands, beginning in 1872 and concluding in 1879.1