A record 56+ delegates from the Torres Strait proudly represented the region in Darwin at Australia’s leading languages event – the PULiiMA Indigenous Language and Technology Conference in August – thanks to support from the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) and the Torres Strait Traditional Languages Association.
Despite the Torres Strait’s two traditional languages and six dialects being recognised as severely and critically endangered, the delegation showcased powerful examples of language revival, innovation and cultural resilience.
TSRA Chairperson George Nona said TSRA was proud to champion language initiatives at home and beyond as part of global efforts for strong, supported and flourishing First Nations languages.
“The Torres Strait is unique and rich in language, culture and tradition used every day by our people, but languages can be lost in a generation,” Mr Nona said.
He said impacts including western influences could see some traditional Torres Strait languages become extinct within the next five years.
“There must be stronger efforts to support language programs in our communities, schools and workplaces,” he said.
“Adhapudhay koey mina za, ngalpa muyiw kuzika guuba puyayk a muykupal thuma thuma pathamukmik.
“It is important for us to continue to stoke the fires by breathing on the embers.
“It is vital that Torres Strait Islanders are not only present but heard at national and international forums that influence global policies, best practice and preservation efforts.
“TSRA proudly supported the region’s largest-ever representation at PULiiMA 2025 to ensure the Torres Strait remains firmly on the map for language and culture.”
The record-breaking delegation sponsored by TSRA and the Torres Strait Traditional Languages Association (TSTLA) included traditional language speakers, linguists, educators, community language advocates, performing artists, cultural leaders and TSRA Rangers as both participants and presenters.
TSRA and TSTLA support for Torres Strait Islander representation across the three-day event – including two days of gatherings leading up to the conference – included:
- Uncle Gabriel Bani served as Master of Ceremony, guiding proceedings with cultural authority and warmth.
- The Dhamuw-Koedal Cultural Group delivered powerful performances that celebrated ancestral traditions.
- Nine youth participants attended, bringing energy and future-focused perspectives.
- Educators from Tagai College presented on local teaching practices, while the Women in Language Gathering featured an inspiring opening performance by the Zenadth Kes Ladies Choir and a moving presentation of Kala Lagaw Ya learning songs by Leonora Adidi and Louise Manas.
- Further presentations by Lala Gutchen, Kapua Gutchen, Kahli Gele and Barrunah Pilot highlighted community-driven approaches to teaching and learning on Erub, showcasing the strength and innovation of grassroots language and cultural revitalisation.
A conference highlight included the TSRA Ranger presentation, Ranger Language Immersion Project, in partnership with 16 fluent language speakers across eight islands.
TSRA Ranger Supervisor Troy Laza said community members expressed their gratitude to TSRA’s Land and Sea Management Unit for recognising the importance of this initiative and committing resources to support.
“Communities deeply appreciated this initiative led by the Rangers, who are recognised as leaders and role models within their communities. Their leadership in this work has been both welcomed and impactful,” Mr Laza said.
“The Rangers are enthusiastic about learning local languages from community speakers and have helped open this opportunity to others, responding to strong interest and a clear need.”
TSRA’s support for language projects and initiatives spans from last year’s Zenadth Kes Language Symposium on Waiben (Thursday Island) and ongoing community-led language efforts, to establishment of the region’s dedicated Torres Strait Traditional Languages Association and active participation in national and international language forums.
About languages in the Torres Strait
The Torres Strait region is the home of two traditional languages and six dialects:
- Meriam Mir – Mer dialect and Erub dialect
- Kala Lagaw Ya – Kulkalgau Ya, Kalaw Kawaw Ya, Kawrareg dialect and Mabuyag dialect
These are all recognised as severely and critically endangered languages by UNESCO, the Australian Government and Torres Strait communities.