ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the emergence and development of one part-Aboriginal community in southeastern Australia in the nineteenth century, the Cape Barren islanders of the Furneaux Group in Bass Strait. It focuses upon their relations with the ‘authorities’ and ‘outsiders’ who made periodic attempts to change their identity and economy. The geographical remoteness of the islander community proved an attraction to the Anglican Church in Tasmania. In contrast to the inhabitants of the Aboriginal Station at Oyster Cove, the islanders in their comparative isolation appeared sober and industrious, sheltered from the ‘pernicious influences’ of the ‘lower orders’ of white society. By the end of 1872 seven islander families consisting of 32 adults and 52 children had settled on Cape Barren Island. To the outside world the islanders were now a separate community whose lifestyle placed them beyond government assistance. If they were to achieve recognition, it would only take place through the ‘protectionist-development’ policies of the Anglican Church.
