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Why are the Central Torres Strait Islands called the fishing islands?
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Torres Strait Islander peoples
A Torres Strait Islander boy performing a traditional dance.
The Central Torres Strait Islands are referred to as the "fishing islands" because they consist of low sandy cays that are surrounded by coral reefs and are abundant with fish life. This environment has historically supported the traditional reliance of the Torres Strait Islander peoples on the sea for their sustenance and way of life.1