Murray Island

Murray Island, also known as Mer Island, is a volcanic island in the eastern Torres Strait, Queensland, Australia. Home to approximately 450 residents, the island is predominantly inhabited by the Melanesian Meriam people, who speak Torres Strait Creole and Meriam. The community is organized into eight Meriam tribes, each with its own traditional laws of boundary and ownership. The island's fertile red soil and dense vegetation support a rich cultural heritage. Murray Island is accessible by fixed-wing aircraft, helicopter, or boat, with goods transported via sea and air freight. The island's most notable resident was Eddie Mabo, whose landmark legal case led to the High Court of Australia's recognition of native title rights.