ABSTRACT
In the past, the Australian Aborigines triumphed over demanding physical environments. They also survived the advent of Europeans, although they were drastically reduced in number. They now face the most demanding challenge of all, alcohol. In what follows I examine the devastating effects that alcohol has had on one Aboriginal community, Mornington Island, in the Gulf of Carpentaria, Northern Queensland (see Map 1). Mornington is now home to several distinct peoples but traditionally belonged to the Lardil. On the surface, Mornington looks splendid with its hospital, health service, kindergarten, school, administration offices, council chambers, aged people's hostel, new houses, library and church. For years it was a model community as far as politicians and bureaucrats were concerned. Yet underneath there is an appalling social tragedy.
