Documentary (1989) 50 minutes ~ Color
Torres Strait is a treacherous waterway between Cape York, the northern most tip of the Australian mainland and Papua New Guinea. The shallow strait is dotted with islands and coral outcrops.
From Possession Island at the southern extremity, Captain James Cook formally laid claim to the Australian colonies in the name of England. Later the Queensland Government moved to take control of the islands of the strait and their people.
Once the islanders’ currency of trade was human heads and headhunting raids between the islands and the mainland of Papua New Guinea was a part of life. But Christianity is now well entrenched throughout the island communities and headhunting days are over.
On this journey through the islands, Ted Egan meets up with some old friends, sees dugout canoes being built and meets the keeper of the legendary Drums of Mer.
Stars: Ted Egan
