The Gab Titui Cultural Centre welcomes visitors and community to its milestone 20th anniversary celebrations from Tuesday 16 April to Saturday 20 April 2024. The five-day program promises a vibrant array of events and activities with First Nations art and culture at the forefront.
What’s On:
Tuesday (16 April)
- Community celebration and cutting of the cake from 10am. Public Program activities to follow formalities.
- Grand opening of the Billy Missi’n Wakain Thamai Touring Exhibition from 6pm, including performances by the Maluiligal Dance Group.
Wednesday-Thursday (17-18 April)
- Zenadth Kes Creative Arts Forum (private event).
- Gab Titui Cultural Centre normal operations.
Friday (19 April)
- Public Program activities from 10am, facilitated by First Nations artists including weaving, beading, lino-printing and carving.
- Theatrical performance and movie night from 6pm.
Saturday (20 April)
- Public program activities, workshops and traditional island dancing performances from 10am.
TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said the event theme ‘keeping culture strong’ aligns with Gab Titui’s consistent efforts in arts and cultural sovereignty.
“Since its establishment in 2004, the Gab Titui Cultural Centre has been the region’s key advocate and representation for local First Nations artists, cultural practitioners and linguists,” Mr Stephen said.
“This year, we celebrate two decades of nurturing a thriving arts industry, here in the Torres Strait; one that was envisioned by our community, carefully executed by the Culture, Art and Heritage Program and guided by the Torres Strait Regional Authority Board representing 20 communities in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area.
“This milestone anniversary is a testament to the Centre’s enduring legacy and its invaluable contributions to our communities.”
The Centre’s week-long celebrations will be held exclusively at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre and is free for all to attend.
Complimentary ferry services for Ngurapai, Kirriri and Muralag residents will be available.
Fast facts:
- The Gab Titui Cultural Centre is located on the corner of Victoria Parade and Blackall Street, Thursday Island.
- The Centre is open Monday – Friday 10am to 3pm and Saturday 9:30am to 1pm (November to March) and Monday – Friday 9am – 4:30pm and Saturday 9:30am – 1pm (April to October).
- The Gab Titui Cultural Centre’s 20th anniversary is on 16 April 2024.
- The Gab Titui Cultural Centre shop will remain open while the Wabunaw Geth and Ephraim Bani Galleries are closed for exhibition installation from Thursday 8 April to Monday 15 April.