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Hammond Rock: A Torres Strait Jewel

Discover Hammond Rock in Torres Strait: stunning rock formations, rich Indigenous culture, and pristine marine life await in Queensland, Australia.

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Hammond Rock, located in the Torres Strait, Queensland, is a striking natural attraction featuring impressive rock formations rising from the sea. Known as Kirriri to the Kaurareg people, the island offers stunning views, cultural significance, and opportunities for marine exploration.

A brief summary to Hammond Rock

  • Torres Strait, Queensland, 4875, AU

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Bring snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life in the surrounding waters.
  • Respect the cultural significance of the site by learning about its Indigenous heritage.
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Getting There

  • Ferry

    The most common way to reach Hammond Rock is by ferry from Thursday Island. Several ferry services operate between Thursday Island and Hammond Island, with a typical journey time of around 15 minutes. Torres Strait Tours and Kaiwalagal Ferries & Charters are two companies that offer these services. A one-way ferry ticket typically costs around $10-$15. Check the latest ferry schedules and book in advance, especially during peak season.

  • Water Taxi

    Water taxis provide another option for reaching Hammond Rock from nearby islands such as Thursday Island and Horn Island. These services offer more flexibility and can be arranged on demand. Contact Kaiwalagal Ferries & Charters for water taxi services in the area. The cost of a water taxi varies depending on the distance and number of passengers but expect to pay around $50-$100 for a short trip.

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Discover more about Hammond Rock

Hammond Rock, or Kirriri as it is known to the Traditional Owners, the Kaurareg people, is a captivating landmark in the Torres Strait Islands. Located in Queensland, Australia, this remarkable rock formation rises dramatically from the crystal-clear waters, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The island itself, approximately 3km wide and 6km long, features a hilly terrain with basaltic rocks and a narrow coastal strip. Historically, Hammond Island has been a significant location within the Torres Strait. In the early 20th century, it briefly served as the headquarters for a pearling station before its relocation to Thursday Island. Gold mining also occurred on the island during this period, followed by the establishment of a cattle industry to supply Thursday Island. In 1929, a Catholic Mission was established to care for children of Filipino and Malay descent, whose ancestors were brought to the Torres Straits as indentured laborers. Today, Hammond Rock attracts visitors with its natural beauty and cultural importance. The vibrant colors of the ocean and the rugged textures of the rocks provide a stunning backdrop for photography and exploration. The surrounding waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and discovering diverse marine life. The island is also rich in Indigenous heritage, offering a chance to learn about the traditions and stories of the Kaurareg people. Visitors can explore the island's unique landscape, which includes mangroves, mudflats, granite hills, sandy beaches, and coral reefs. The Church of St. Joseph, built from rock with beer bottle windows by Father Dixon, showcases the island's history and ingenuity.

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