cHRISTMAS iSLAND STORIES
Where the tapestry of cultures, nature, and history weave together to tell the enchanting tale of a harmonious island paradise
CHRISTMAS ISLAND STORIES
Discover the Heart of Christmas Island: A Journey Through Its Stories
Welcome to Christmas Island Stories, a unique initiative that celebrates the vibrant tapestry of life on one of Australia's most enchanting islands. Christmas Island Stories is an incorporated association made up of Christmas Island locals and people who have a close connection to the Island, to preserve, share, and honor the authentic narratives that define the spirit of Christmas Island.
Watch the captivating videos and embark on a journey to explore the rich mosaic of cultures and stories that make Christmas Island a treasure trove of cultural harmony. Unlike any other location in Australia, Christmas Island is a place where Malay, Chinese, Australian, and European communities coexist peacefully, celebrating and embracing each other's traditions and festivities.
Delve into the depths of the island’s heritage, bringing to light the personal tales and collective experiences that have shaped the island's evolution. These stories are not just accounts of the past; they are the living heartbeat of the community, reflecting the profound impact Christmas Island has had on Australia and the South-East Asia region.
Christmas Island’s narrative is enriched by the Christmas Island Archives, a treasure chest of memories that chronicles the life and times of those who have called this island home. The lush natural landscapes, the thriving local industries, and the unique wildlife are characters in their own right, playing pivotal roles in shaping the vibrant Christmas Island we know today.
For travelers seeking more than just a destination, Christmas Island Stories offers a gateway to a deeper understanding and connection. Discover the essence of our island - a place where the past is always present, and the future is an adventurous opportunity to grow with the values of our amazing community.
Let the stories of Christmas Island enrich your visit, transforming it from a mere holiday to an unforgettable experience that connects you to the soul of this extraordinary place. Welcome to Christmas Island, where every story is an invitation to explore, understand, and fall in love with our island paradise.
VIEW SOME OF CHRISTMAS ISLAND STORIES BELOW OR VISIT THE CI STORIES WEBSITE TO SEE ALL PRODUCTIONS
“When I first arrived, it was like a cowboy town, we were out in the bush.”
Jude De Cruz came to the Island looking for work and was won over by everything else it has to offer. But, like his peers, Jude’s story is equally worth remembering and celebrating as an enduring part of a community that has endured a constant rollercoaster since he first arrived in the 1970s. Jude settled into the role that many still remember him for – working on the Island’s trains. Although long gone now, Christmas Island was once home to a standard 1435mm gauge industrial railway between Flying Fish Cove and South Point.
jUDE dE cRUZ
And while they’ve both lived a vibrant life, filled with travel and rock ‘roll’, Ron still remembers the community spirit in Christmas Island, saying that was one of the reasons why they chose the island for their home and to raise their family.
Ron, who is originally from London, said the whole family fell in love with Christmas Island’s culture.
“We loved everything,” he said. “We really like it here, we live here and the children were brought up here.”
RON & BRIGITTE LINES
Nor is on the Island’s Islamic council, which ensures the beautiful culture and traditions on Christmas Island carry on through generations. The mother of three, who was born on the Island, met her husband while studying in Perth. The pair chose the Island as one of their honeymoon destinations but never left. Nor says the religion on Island is strong, which keeps her community strong. She hopes the Christmas Island Ramadan and Hari Raya traditions will continue to be passed down and celebrated through the generations for many, many years to come.
Norazian Abdul-Halim
When Ian Francis first decided to move to Christmas Island in 2004, he only ever imagined it would be for a short stint. Seventeen years later and the father of four is now the Island’s longest standing high school principal.
“I arrived with my wife, Sharon, and two very young girls, Olivia and Michaela, with the intent to probably only stay three years. Almost two decades on and we are still here, so we must love something about it,” Ian says.
When your drive to work consists of friendly waves, no traffic and a picturesque view, it is easy to understand just what Ian loves about Christmas Island.
ian francis
Her goal is to give the next generation the same vibrant childhood she had on the Island and encourage enough young people to stay and preserve her beloved community.
“My grandparents and parents migrated here from Malaysia in the 1970s to work at the phosphate mine, and my parents actually met and married here on the Island,” she says.
“When I was born in 1988, they were in Perth, but we moved back here not long after and I’ve lived here pretty much my whole life. I call this Island home, and I call it my family.”
SUZANE CHAN
“The first mining lease was for only 10 years and no one in their wildest dreams could have imagined we would still be going after 30 years. Since 1990, we have exported over 15 million tonnes of phosphate, created hundreds of jobs on Christmas Island and paid hundreds of millions in taxes, royalties and dividends. We are already looking into opportunities in tourism and infrastructure and whatever else comes our way,” says Lai.
“We want to continue to create opportunities for the younger generation and future generations of Christmas Islanders, so they can live, work and bring up their families in the place we call home.”
LAI AH HONG
WHILE YOU’RE HERE
Now that you’ve experienced Christmas Island Stories, it’s time to explore further with Christmas Island Tours