Torres Strait Islander Women and the Pacific War

Between 1942 and 1945, Torres Strait Islander women experienced the fears and uncertainties of living virtually on Australia's front line during the Pacific War. Some were forcibly evacuated with their children to the mainland, where they found themselves still restricted as to where and how they could live. Others were left on their tiny islands, deserted in the end by government and church, despite the constant threat of Japanese advance through the Torres Strait. Many of the women remember here that traumatic time: hiding from the bombers and watching the dogfights overhead, struggling to feed and clothe their families, and praying continually for the safe return of their men-folk and for peace again in their beloved island homes.