Mid Holocene maritime economy in the western Torres Strait

Abstract

Results from a new mid Holocene site in the central-western Torres Strait, north-eastern Australia are presented. AMS determinations from Dabangai on Mabuyag provide evidence for two settlement periods. Phase I (7180-4960 calEP) is associated with recurring/permanent occupation involving marine-based subsistence during the poorly documented period of marine transgression. Phase 2 (230BP-present) is a period of increased site use including an escalation of marine subsistence activities. Results provide the first direct evidence for marine settlement and subsistence practices on Torres Strait islands after their initial formation.