War and peace

My key takeaway from today was the vast stretches of historical knowledge I gained in regard to Broome’s pearling industry and impact of WWII, throughout our engagement at the Broome Museum. It was particularly significant to evaluate the question ‘what we should believe when accounts of the same historical events are in conflict’ in regard to the Air Raid that occurred on Broome’s shores, known as the Arabian Nights. On 8 December 1941, Australia joined America in declaring war on the Japanese, and almost immediately, all pearling activity ceased in Broome. Men from Broome rushed to join the forces and the industry’s labour pool vanished overnight Japanese residents were interned in camps and as Broome’s pearling industry relied heavily on the skill and experience of the Japanese divers, this was an economic death toll for both Broome and the wider West Australian community. In January 1942, pearlers were informed that their luggers were to be purchased by the Australian Navy and any unseaworthy vessels destroyed as a provision against a Japanese landing. Meanwhile, women and children were evacuated from Broome under the threat of a Japanese attack or occupation. Broome resembled a ghost town with a small military garrison and some civilians. A month later in February 1942, Broome was used as the Australian end of an air shuttle service from Java. Military personnel and refugees were transported to Broome in Australian military aircraft.

At the Broome Historical Museum, Michael Lake delivered an in-depth analysis of the town’s history and its involvement in past conflicts. We gained knowledge of the town’s pearling industry and changing relationship dynamics among diverse ethnic groups within the community. We then visited the Heritage Centre of the Sisters of St John of God which provided a global view of the development of Broome in relation to the Irish sisters’ influence on the Aboriginal community. The stories shared by volunteers Kevin and Shirley also shaped my understanding of the influences of war, and the differing treatments that individuals received dependent on their race.

Artefacts from Broome Historical Museum

We were fortunate enough to visit Broome Historical Museum where Michael Lake discussed how Broome changed economically over time through its multicultural population. He also spoke passionately about the events of the bombing of Broome. His detailed recount of the events was helpful for me to gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of the cultural and economic significance it had on the town and its residents. Listening to Michael allowed me to comprehend the military importance of Broome during World War Two and why it was bombed by the Japanese. We also visited the Sisters of St John of God Heritage Centre where we heard from two locals about their family’s history and experiences at Beagle Bay. Hearing from local Broome residents made the events and impacts of the war seem more real and close to home. At Broome Senior High School we were lucky enough to receive a tour of the school from 2019 tour alumnus, Bree Potter. After an incredible day exploring Broome, we said goodbye as we hopped on our flight to Perth, ready for the coming days in the southern parts of the State.