Wellesley Islands Islands

The Wellesley Islands are an archipelago in the Gulf of Carpentaria off the northwestern coast of Queensland, Australia. The group includes the large inhabited Mornington Island and several smaller islands with strong Indigenous connections.

Mornington Island is the region’s principal settlement and service centre, while the smaller islands are important for cultural heritage, seabird colonies and fisheries. The islands support communities, small-scale industries and traditional activities.

These islands are the traditional lands of Lardil, Kaiadilt and other Indigenous peoples and have remained important for cultural practice and local governance. European contact, pastoral leases and later government administration altered land use but many communities retain customary ties to sea country.

Geographically the Wellesley Islands lie in the southern Gulf of Carpentaria off northern Queensland; they are separated from the mainland by shallow coastal waters and are accessed by air or by sea from mainland coastal towns.

• Access and permits: Many islands are Aboriginal-owned or subject to traditional owner rights; permits or permission may be required to visit some locations.

What to See#

• Mornington Island: The largest and only major permanently inhabited island in the group, hosting the main community, an airstrip and local services.
• Bentinck Island: A smaller island in the archipelago with historical connections to the Kaiadilt people and significant bird and marine life.

• Visit in the dry season (roughly May-September) to avoid tropical wet-season access problems and get the best conditions for boat transfers between islands.
• Book transport and any community-based tours well in advance - the islands are remote and services (flights/charters and guided visits) operate on limited schedules.
• Respect local access rules: several islands have Indigenous communities and controlled entry, so confirm permits/visitor protocols before you travel.