Destination Profile - Horn Island, Torres Strait Islands
In 1942, very few people had heard of Horn Island in the Torres Strait. By the end of 1945, it was well known to many Allied troops and airmen and they recognised the importance of this island base. Horn Island was the first and most frequently attacked target in Queensland and was the most-northerly Allied airbase in Australia. As such, it was utilised by thousands of aircraft, both American and Australian. Many aircraft required the facilities of the base, and the defence of the Army, as they travelled north on bombing raids against Japanese positions.
Conditions for Australian and American troops and airmen were harsh, in the tropical heat, with poor food, water rationing, air raids, diseases prevalent to the area and an island to defend with inadequate numbers. Few Australians knew of this service on this 'Forgotten Isle', and sadly few know of it now. The men and women who served on Horn Island remember the base, the conditions, those who gave the ultimate sacrifice and the camaraderie of those who shared their privations.
Vanessa and Liberty Seekee live on Horn Island and are well-placed to research the World War Two sites. Their resort contains a museum where all available material is kept, so that the service of Australian and Americans is not forgotten. When veterans of the Torres Strait Defences return to visit, their old camp and work sites, Vanessa is able to capture their memories for posterity.
This destination is part of the Cape York Outback Paradise Australian Adventure.
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