Thursday, 2 June 2022
Stories and events of the Kaurareg homeland of Kaiwalagal, the Torres Strait homeland and Cape York homelands of the Anggamuthi, Atambaya, Wuthathi, Yadhaykenu and Gudang Peoples.
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“What may seem like a simple design to some people has given all Torres Strait Islanders an identity and a sense of pride as Indigenous Australians. I believe that every one of us is on a journey and are here for a purpose. My father, even though he was with us for a very short time, he has left an amazing legacy behind.” Bernard Namok Jnr.
TAKING A MOMENT: Bernard Namok Jnr looking on as Hans Ahwang pauses in reflection during a dance at the TRAWQ Hall celebrations. Pic supplied.
numbers expected across our region and the nation tomorrow when we celebrate 30 years since the High Court decision. The flag was designed by the late Bernard Namok Snr and was presented to the people of the Torres Strait at the 1992 Torres Strait Cultural Festival. On 14 July, 1995, the Australian Government recognised the Torres Strait Islander flag as an official Flag of Australia.
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Flag anniversary inspires reflection and celebration
This year’s Reconciliation Week recognises two major milestone events for the Torres Strait: the 30th anniversaries of the Torres Strait Flag and the Mabo Decision. In 1992, these two landmark events helped to shape the modern identity of all Torres Strait Islanders. More than 1000 people celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Torres Strait Flag last weekend on Waiben, with even bigger
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“The community paid its respects at the grave site of the late Bernard Namok Snr and then in procession arrived at TRAWQ Hall to join in a day of festivities,” Torres Shire Council CEO Dalassa Yorkston said. “It was beautiful to see all the families, community members and visitors gathered at the Hall under a massive Torres Strait Flag backdrop where they enjoyed awesome entertainment, including an electrifying
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Bamaga Dance Team performance lead by Mr Clifford Wasiu. “It was fitting that the Special Flag Dance was performed by the Bamaga Dance Team to commemorate the historic occasion. “The entertainment continued as the Kaziw Meta Dance Team turned up the volume with an array of Torres Strait dancing performances. “All the way from St. Paul, we were also blessed to have the
Wug Dance Team and local performance by Island Stars – Joey Laifoo and Family Dance Team. “Everyone who attended this very special occasion was treated to a smorgasbord of traditional foods, kup mari kaikai, sabi-sabi dishes and an array of local seafood, all proudly provided by the Torres Shire Council team and community volunteers. “Council is immensely proud, grateful and sincerely thankful for our staff, our
sponsors, and the community for attending these memorable and heart-felt celebrations that will never be forgotten. “Council would like to thank our staff and all the volunteers – to team Torres Shire, thank you for your outstanding efforts, your contribution, dedication and hard work from the Council, the community and all who attended.” See pages 8 – 13 for more