Erub (Darnley) Island is an island formed by volcanic action and situated in the eastern section of the Torres Strait, near the Great Barrier Reef and just south of the Bligh entrance.
There is a single grocery store, school and health centre. Accommodation is available through the Guest House and demountable dongas near the airport.
The effective community language is Brokan (Torres Strait Creole), though many people still speak the traditional language, Meriam Mir.
Christianity was first introduced to Darnley and the Torres Strait region by the London Missionary Society on 1 July 1871. Before this, pearlers and beche-de-mer gatherers visited the island.
These industries attracted an influx of sea men from the Pacific Islands, the Philippines and Malaya over many years. Many of these men married local women and settled on the island.
Early in the twentieth century, the Queensland Government installed various facilities such as a school, medical aid, post office and an Island Industries Board store.
Monday to Friday, 9am – 12noon; 1pm - 4pm
Contact: Mr John Armitage
Email: john.armitage@tsirc.qld.gov.au
Phone: 07 4083 2300 / 07 4083 2311
Contact: TSIRC Office
Miss Ethel Charlie / Ms Mary Waigana
Phone: 07 4083 2300
Contact: Mrs Norah Saylor
Phone: 07 4069 4032
Accommodation keys are to be collected and dropped off at the council office prior to departure from Erub Community.
All approved visiting guests are required to sign the Council’s visitor book to document the visit for record purposes.
Bookings can be made by contacting Erub Office.