The Gab Titui Cultural Centre recently collaborated with local artists and esteemed cultural practitioners to offer a daily program of traditional activities, entertainment and workshops around the Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival 2023.

Held over three days (30 May – 1 June), the program presented traditional weaving workshops, a grassroots fashion show and a special island dance performance by the Iama Thaiwa Dance Team.

Weaving workshops were facilitated by Hans Ahwang, Nancy Nona, Flora Warria, Margaret Gabey and Angela Torenbeek, showcasing the unique weaving styles of Torres Strait Islanders using a diverse range of natural fibres and synthetic materials, from coconut fronds and pandanus leaves, to raffia and paper.

Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM commended the cultural program and said it not only complemented the festival, but also celebrated National Reconciliation Week.

“The program provided a space for our cultural practitioners to reconnect and share their knowledge and expertise with locals and visitors,” Mr Stephen said.

“It supported reconciliation and encouraged participants to engage with Torres Strait Islander culture and language through art.”

Mr Stephen also acknowledged the Iama Thaiwa Dance Team for their performance and applauded the Lagaw Rugaw Yakamay Fashion Show, which was independently organised by Ms Goeynaw Isua, Ms Marie Nona and featured works by First Nations textile designers.

“Both community initiatives were true displays of cultural pride,” he said.

“Our culture surpasses the gallery walls, it is living and thriving in everything we do as a people.

“From wearable garments and accessories to song and dance, our culture is practiced, celebrated and shared across generations,” he said.