Elsa Watson: Stories of Resilience on Palm Island

Elsa Watson, a Cultural Advisor from the Palm Island Aboriginal Community, shared her family's poignant history and her own experiences growing up on Palm Island. Her journey is one of resilience and connection, deeply rooted in the stories passed down from her family. Elsa's mother, Doreen Morton, was sent to Palm Island as a child, along with her parents, amidst the forced relocations of Aboriginal people from the Tablelands area. "Lucky for mum, she came down with their parents," Elsa reflected, acknowledging the trauma of many children who were separated from their families.

Though her mother was deaf and taught Elsa and her siblings sign language, the family’s history was largely communicated through Elsa's uncle, John, who filled in the gaps about their origins. Elsa described her understanding of Palm Island's history as a place where different tribes were sent for various reasons, including minor infractions or simply residing on their ancestral lands. "There was different tribes that were sent to Palm Island for any little reasons," she explained.

Growing up, Elsa learned about the island's past as a leprosy settlement. She recalled how her auntie's partner's family had ties to Fantome Island, a place that housed those affected by leprosy until the 1970s. "They used to come over by the boat and every Sunday was their day," Elsa reminisced.

Her memories of school life include walking to the old school by the airport, escorted by police. "We used to line up there under a tree... and walk right around to the case man at the end of the airport," she recounted, painting a vivid picture of her childhood.

Elsa's story is a testament to the resilience of the Palm Island community, the importance of family, and the enduring legacy of cultural identity.