Saibai

Saibai is an island located in the Torres Strait, Queensland, Australia. It is situated approximately 40 kilometers north of the Australian mainland and is the northernmost inhabited island in Queensland. The island is part of the Torres Strait Islands archipelago.

The traditional owners of Saibai are the Kala Lagaw Ya people, who have a long and deep connection to the island and its surrounding waters. Their culture and traditions are intricately linked to the sea, the land, and the ancestral stories passed down through generations. The community on Saibai maintains a strong sense of cultural identity.

Saibai experiences extreme tidal variations due to its low-lying topography. This can lead to significant flooding events during king tides and cyclones, impacting the island's infrastructure and daily life. The community has developed strategies and adaptations to cope with these environmental challenges.

The economy of Saibai is primarily based on traditional subsistence activities such as fishing and hunting, supplemented by government services and some small-scale commercial ventures. There is a focus on maintaining a sustainable lifestyle that respects the natural environment. The island's remoteness presents logistical challenges for accessing goods and services. Saibai is accessible by boat and aircraft, with regular services connecting it to other Torres Strait islands and the mainland.