TSRA acting chief executive officer Charlie Kaddy, Badu Island artist Aiona Gaidan and TSRA chairperson Pedro Stephen inspect one of the ranger vessels. Photo: Supplied.
As part of its 30th anniversary celebrations, the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) is rolling out local artwork across its fleet of Indigenous ranger vessels for the first time.
An eye-catching piece “Zugubaw Baydham” by Badu artist Aiona Gaidan has been launched on three TSRA ranger vessels based out of Badu, Mabuyag and Mer Islands following a scheduled full refurbishment.
The stunning work is the artist’s biggest piece and represents the star constellation used by ancestors to navigate the sea, and is inspired by the popular and distinct black and white lino cut technique used across the islands.
TSRA chairperson Pedro Stephen said the new initiative would provide exposure for local artists on a total of nine existing TSRA ranger vessels.
“Torres Strait Islanders are seafaring people, so what better way to celebrate our art and culture than at sea,” Mr Stephen said.
“To witness artwork by our people out on the water as part of TSRA ranger operations is an achievement our staff and communities can take pride in.
“Art is part of our identity and connection, the new-look vessels are a visual reminder that culture is always at the heart of our work caring for land and sea.”
TSRA marine co-ordinator Koeygab Pabai said the artwork was already making big waves around the region.
“Bala Aiona could not stop smiling when he saw the artwork in person for the first time,” Mr Pabai said.
“The artwork has had instant impact; business owners who have seen the TSRA ranger vessel in transit in Cairns have already approached Aiona to create artwork for them – he can’t believe the interest from everyone.”
The artwork will be applied across the full TSRA fleet as vessels go in for scheduled maintenance.
