Thursday Island, Australia

Heroes of Horn Island

The Forgotten Men and Women of the Torres Strait Visit military sites and uncover the importance of Horn Island and the Torres Strait during World War II. Between 1940 and 1945, the island served as the base for more than 5,000 servicemen and women. Despite neighboring Thursday Island being spared, Horn Island suffered numerous airstrikes by the Japanese and was extensively bombed. After your short ferry ride, your guide will take you to key locations and tell stories of bravery as you take a look at the underground bunkers, slit trenches and gun emplacements. You will also visit the Torres Strait Heritage Museum and art gallery. Housing the documents, maps, photos and artifacts of more than 400 veterans, this privately funded exhibit has assisted many individuals with the procurement of information regarding their relatives’ military history and involvement in fighting for the Allied forces. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.