ABOUT US
ABOUT US
Liberty and Vanessa Seekee are part of a 5th generation Torres Strait Family, with Liberty’s family being merchants, Sea Captains and Pearl Divers. Vanessa has been in the Torres Strait since 1994, when she arrived in the area as a teacher, they married in 1999, and have two children. They designed the tours and museum under the patronage of the late Arthur Richard Seekee and Fay Seekee, and founded Torres Strait Heritage.
When not doing tours the couple are dedicated to assisting the veteran and civilian community. They assist with research for new memorials, plaques, exhibitions, and act as advocates for veterans. In 2001, their work saw the 1939-1945 Star Medal finally awarded to Torres Strait veterans after 60 years, while their efforts to have the Service Pension granted Torres Strait veterans continues. They organise annual veteran reunions to Torres Strait and conduct specialised history tours to places of interest. Their largest current project is the WW2 Torres Strait Conservation Project, which will see WW2 sites in the area sensitively conserved so that generations to come will enjoy and learn from them.
They have written two books, ‘Horn Island, In Their Steps, 1939-1945’ is available through this website, while ‘Discover Thursday and Horn Islands’, co-written with Gordon Grimwade, is currently out of print. Vanessa’s Masters Thesis ‘Horn Island and the 1939-1945 Star Medal’ is available through the Central Qld University.
TESTIMONIALS AND COMMENTS
“We have done a lot of tours around Australia, but yours is the best by far we have ever experienced.” RR NSW June 2009.
“This is a living experience of the development and evolution of Torres Strait, from its indigenous history and culture, its myths and legends, the arrival of Christianity, the people’s involvement in WW2, the pearling and immensely rich culture of the area. The tours showcase the very essence of Torres Strait, with entertaining and humorous anecdotes that add to the appeal. The extensive museum is a living history of the past. All together outstanding!” Queensland Tourism Industry Council, January 2010.
“We have recently enjoyed a third trip with you. It was good to view new material in the museum. You have made the history of your area visible and interesting, introducing the history of Torres Strait to us all.” JS, Port Douglas, May 2009.
“On July 27 my wife and I made a trip to Horn Island with Cape York Air. We had the good fortune to have you as our guide on the bus tour. I’m writing this to again thankyou you and congratulate you on your excellent tour and your commentary was of the highest standard and one of which you can be very proud.” AC, Victoria, July 2008.
“Thank you so much for the absolutely spectacular day. The tour and your wonderful explanations of the events, people and your preservation efforts made all the difference. The museum is spectacular; you have ensured that those who served and sacrificed to defend our freedom will receive the respect and admirations of future generations.” Consulate General of USA, Ms Judith Fergin, November 2008.
“Nice to find somewhere to learn all about Torres Strait. AM, Qld, May 2009.
“Your passion and enthusiasm shine through!” Cole, Victoria 3437, August 2008.
“I have come to admire what you have done to preserve so much of the heritage of the Torres Strait islands. We were very impressed in what we saw on tour augmented by the photos and descriptions in your splendid print material and in the heritage museum itself.” MT, Brisbane, August 2008.
“Your knowledge amazed us, and as the trip went on, we were most impressed by your efforts to preserve and record our nation’s history – keep up your good work.” Ian, Buderim, August 2008.
“These tours are not only a tribute to the past, but a beacon of goodwill to all who believe in racial and cultural harmony.” PL, Victoria September 2008.
RECENT AWARDS
2007 : National Heritage Trust – Gold award for ‘Torres Strait WW2 Conservation Plan.’
2008 : Winner – Queensland Premier’s Reconciliation Award.
2009 : Winner – Tropical North Queensland Tourism Awards – Tour and Transport category.
2009 : Finalist and Judges Commendation – Indigenous Category. Queensland Tourism Awards.
2009 : Torres Shire Council – Outstanding Achievement in Tourism.
CONTACT US
We would love to hear from you if you have any questions, suggestions or would like to make a booking.
Liberty and Vanessa Seekee
PO Box 10
Horn Island QLD 4875
Email : intheirsteps@bigpond.com
Fax : (07) 40 903366
Phone: (07) 40 903333
