Pearling Elders

Black and white photos of 2 men. One is holding a large shell, the other a model of a boat.

This exhibition explores the Torres Strait pearling industry and centres the lived experiences of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and South Sea Islander seafarers whose stories have historically been overlooked.

From the late 19th to early 20th century, the Torres Strait was the global centre of the mother‑of‑pearl industry, supplying shell used in buttons, instruments, and luxury goods worldwide.

Through portraits, oral histories, and research led by Kuku Yalanji woman Nerelle Nicol, the exhibition honours the remaining Elders who worked on pearling luggers and preserves their stories for future generations.

"Queensland’s marine history isn’t just a chapter in the past, it’s a living testament to resilience, identity, hard labour and the spirit of the people who traversed its waters. Let’s celebrate these Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander seafarers not just for their hard work but for their courage, creativity, and indomitable spirit. The ocean may carry their echoes, but we hold the power to amplify them for generations to come."

Nerelle Nicol 2025, Monica Clare Research Fellow - State Library Queensland

Black and white photo of a man smiling at the camera.

Black an white photo of an older man, standing, and holding a ball shaped object in a rope net.

Black and white photo of an older man, smiling at the camera. He is holding 2 large shells and wearing a patterned shirt.

Black and white photo of a woman with curly hair. She is wearing glasses and a dress with flowers.

Exhibition made possible by the Sid Faithfull and Christine Sadler acquisition program and by Peter Dexter AM, through the ANMM Foundation, presented with the community of Far North Queensland and Zenadth Kes.

All photographs by Artist Wayne Quilliam
ANMM Collection Funded by the Sid Faithfull and Christine Sadler acquisition program and by Peter Dexter AM, through the ANMM Foundation, presented with the community of Far North Queensland and Zenadth Kes.