
The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) celebrated female artists and cultural practitioners with a special women’s gathering on International Women’s Day in March.
The event was facilitated by the TSRA’s Culture Arts and Heritage program at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre. It united women across the Kaiwalagal region, honouring their contributions to the Torres Strait’s thriving arts sector.
TSRA Acting Chairperson Horace Baira said it was important to acknowledge the intrinsic value that Torres Strait women offer in ensuring sustainability and prosperity in the region.
“Our women not only share cultural knowledge through art, but their artistic practices also support the preservation of our distinct languages and dialects,” Mr Baira said.
“It is through their perseverance, strength and wisdom that we see female empowerment across our communities.”
TSRA Chief Executive Officer Vonda Malone joined the celebrations and addressed the gathering.
“We are proud to help support our female artists, cultural practitioners and custodians, and invest in their career development,” Ms Malone said.
“Art offers our women an opportunity to attain economic independence in a sector that has been heavily male dominated.
“Our female artists have always been actively producing amazing art, across a range of mediums.
“While equality is the goal, equity is the means to achieve it.”
The gathering attracted more than 50 girls and women who enjoyed networking, sharing stories, and participating in workshops hosted by artists and cultural practitioners including Nancy Nona, Aunty Rose Tomsana, Margaret Gabey, Elma Kris and Flora Warria.