Exploring Fantome Island | The Hidden History and Stunning Reefs of a Former Leper Colony

The Fantome Island Lazaret, in the Palm Island Group off the coast of Townsville, was established for the detention and treatment of non-European suffers from Hansen's Disease, more commonly known as leprosy. Run by the Queensland government, it opened in 1939 and closed in 1973. After its closure, the remnants are still scattered throughout the island painting a picture of what it was like many years ago. With such an ugly history, the surrounding reefs were surprisingly spectacular. Places: Fantome Island, Island in Palm Island, North Queensland Follow us: ?INSTAGRAM: @onceuponareef & @wheres.poppy ?PATREON ? https://www.patreon.com/onceuponareef Poppy's YouTube Channel ? https://www.youtube.com/wherespoppy ? BUSINESS INQUIRIES - onceuponareef@protonmail.com Hey there, we're Ryan and Poppy, a couple of adventure junkie sailors out to explore the most amazing reefs and islands in the world. We hope by documenting everything this lifestyle encompasses, we will inspire, raise awareness and support on going research to do our part in protecting these natural life systems. Subscribe if you're on board! #sailingvlog #fantomeisland #onceuponareef