Australian South Sea Islanders, joined by Pacific Islands dignitaries and political leaders, gathered at Queensland Parliament House on Thursday 18 September 2025 to commemorate 25 years since the community was formally recognised by the state.
Around 200 people travelled from across Australia for a moving ceremony on the Speaker’s Green, marking the milestone with pride and reflection.
The event mirrored the original ceremony on 7 September 2000, when Queensland’s Recognition Statement was first tabled and signed in Parliament to recognise Australian South Sea Islanders as a distinct cultural group. That historic document was on display again during the 25th anniversary proceedings.
Australian South Sea Islanders are the descendants of more than 50,000 men, women and children who were taken, many tricked or kidnapped, from about 80 Pacific Islands between 1863 and 1904. Forced into indentured labour, most worked in the sugar cane industry.
The practice, known as ‘Blackbirding’, was a story of struggle, yet built the foundations of resilient communities that continue to contribute to the shared cultures that shape Queensland.
For musician Robbie Mann, whose ancestors were brought from Vanuatu and New Caledonia, the 25th Anniversary was like coming “full circle”.
“Being here today and participating in today’s events, it’s an honour and privilege,” he said.
“It’s a time to reflect on how far we’ve come, and to think about how we build a future for the [next] generations.”
Robbie performed Kanaka Long Ago, a song written by his uncle, which speaks of the history, resilience, and journey ahead for Australian South Sea Islanders.
Butchulla, Gubbi Gubbi and South Sea Islander woman Georgina Baumann said the 25th Anniversary was an opportunity for Queenslanders to learn and share the lesser-known history of Australian South Sea Islanders.
A descendant of people Blackbirded from Tanna Island in Vanuatu, Georgina said the full story of Australian South Sea Islanders needs to be known.
“The world needs to know about this history and to recognise the contributions, but also the resilience, the strength, the happiness, the family, and the beauty of being South Sea Islander.”
To learn more about Australian South Sea Islanders in Queensland, visit qld.gov.au/assi.
Last reviewed:02 October 2025
Last modified:02 October 2025
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