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= David Island = From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

For the island in New Rochelle, see David's Island

David Island is located in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 500km south of Rapa Iti: the second most southern landmass within French Polynesia. Under the jurisdiction of Australia, the island is currently uninhabitable due to ecosystem collapse, following extensive strip mining of phosphate and subsequent logging and pollution between 1886 and 1962.

Geography
With an area of approximately 151km², David Island is located at 27°24'57.2"S 155°18'13.3"W. It is roughly shaped like a question mark (?), with a well-protected central bay connected to the ocean through a tight inlet on the west side of the island, which is otherwise surrounded by high cliffs and inaccessible beaches. A smaller rocky island to the south constitutes the 'dot' of the question mark. David Island was likely formed through undersea volcanic action approximately 6 million years ago. There are no current human settlements, although the abandoned mining village of 'Williamsville' still remains, albeit in extensive disrepair.

History
Much of the islands history pre-European contact is unknown, as records were not taken of the local population. The island was first discovered by Captain Sir William David, during his expedition on the SS.Century between 1882 and 1889, during which he stopped off at the island to replenish supplies of fresh water and fruit. It was quickly discovered that the island held large reserves of phosphate, which Sir David claimed for the Australian government. Subsequent logging commenced to prepare the island for strip mining, and workers were imported from China to help begin the process of extraction. Mining continued from 1886 to 1962, until extraction rates became too unprofitable to warrant further investment. By this time, most of the island had been affected by toxic runoff and piles of waste ore tailings, desiccating the soil.

Climate
The climate of David Island is classified under 'oceanic/humid subtropical'. Due to low temperatures during winter (which can drop below 9 °C (48 °F) at night.), the island is devoid of the usual coconut varieties. Summer is usually mild, never breaching 30°C (86°F). In general terms, David Island is characteristic of the oceanic and subtropical climate evident on many southern Polynesian islands. It receives approximately 3,100 mm of annual rainfall.

Administration
Owned by the Australian Government, David Island falls under the Coral Sea jurisdiction territory, and is remotely managed by the Queensland state government. As next to no official travel to the island is permitted, there is no human presence on the island: special travel permits must be obtained through the Queensland government, and a specific boat must be taken to reach the island.