The Yidiny people named the island "Gabar", meaning "lower arm", because of how it was partially submerged.

[3][10] The island was used for a considerable time as a significant Chinese quarantine station for the Queensland goldfields.

[10] Subsequently, it was used as a mission school and, during World War II, as a coast watch station.

There has been both a giant clam farm at Welcome Bay, and there is now a tourist resort and day visitor centre.

[13] The island is home to a 99-room resort with a restaurant, pool, swim up bar as well as a dive / activity centre.