Wellesley Islands
QLD 4892 • Rest of QLD
About Wellesley Islands
The Wellesley Islands is a remote locality in the Gulf of Carpentaria, Far North Queensland, encompassing a group of over 20 islands within the Mornington Shire. With a population of 1,022 at the 2021 census, the community is predominantly located on Mornington Island in the township of Gununa. The islands are the traditional homeland of the Lardil, Kaiadilt, and Yangkaal Aboriginal peoples, who have inhabited this region for thousands of years.
Life on the Wellesley Islands is deeply connected to Aboriginal culture, with the community maintaining strong cultural traditions including fishing, art, and ceremony. Essential services including a school, health clinic, and council offices are located in Gununa. Access is primarily by air via Mornington Island Airport, with limited barge services for freight. The islands offer a unique and remote lifestyle centred around community and Country.
Wellesley Islands falls under postcode 4892 and is governed by Mornington Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Traeger electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Commute to Mount Isa
🛣️ Access by air only — regular flights from Mornington Island Airport to Mount Isa and Cairns. Barge services for freight.
The small township of Gununa is walkable for daily needs, with the school, health clinic, and store within walking distance. No formal public transport exists on the island.
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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Wuungkam Street
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Housing 2021 Census
171 state housing + 17 community housing dwellings (ABS 2021 Census)
Educational Institution Attending 2021 Census
School Sector Breakdown
Demographics
Population Growth
Gender Distribution (Census 2021)
Income Comparison
Country of Birth 2021 Census
Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)
- 1. New Zealand 8
- 2. England 4
- 3. Fiji 4
- 4. Papua New Guinea 4
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)