Torres Strait Island artist Toby Cedar’s crafted canoe has been suspended from a ceiling in Cairns Airport. Pictured: (standing) Cairns Airport CEO Richard Barker, Diane Ambrym, artist Toby Cedar, Kathy Lakatos, Florince Williams, Alfred Gray, architect Angela Spillane; (front) Andre Duffin, Farron Duffin, Georgina Hobbler, Andrew Duffin, Richard Bing. Photo: Bang Media.
A large, eye-catching canoe crafted by renowned Torres Strait Island artist Toby Cedar has been suspended from a mirrored ceiling in the remodelled departures lounge at Cairns Airport. It now showcases the region’s rich culture to visitors as they embark on their travel.
A significant ceremony at the airport on Wednesday (19 November) unveiled the key feature of the $55 million international terminal overhaul, as the major development nears completion.
Cairns Airport chief executive officer Richard Barker selected the piece at the 2023 Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF).
Mr Cedar attended a celebration in the terminal as local Djabugay Nation members welcomed the artwork on Country.
He said his artwork was originally made to be instructional and was clearly impressed by how it was being displayed.
“I initially created this work for educational purposes, to demonstrate how my ancestors used to travel for trading and hunting,” Mr Cedar said.
“The way it has been displayed at Cairns Airport has blown me away. Looking into the mirror above, you can see the inside and bottom of the piece, so many different angles.
“Everyone who visits Cairns can become part of the journey.”
A proud Torres Strait Island, Mr Cedar hails from the Peiudu tribe Erub (Darnley Island) with his lubabat (totem) being Wada (frigate bird), Op Nor Beizam (tiger shark), Deumer (Torres Strait pigeon) and wind identity, Koki (north west).
He enjoys creating traditional and contemporary works, all heavily influenced by his Torres Strait culture, totems, father’s stories of childhood and early adulthood on the islands – hunting, fishing, gardening, dance and family life.
The artist works with many materials but especially bamboo, coconut shell, feathers, pearl shell, resin and wood, creating three-dimensional totemic animals crafted into headdresses, weaving and wood carvings.
Torres Strait Island artist Toby Cedar is congratulated and thanked by Cairns Airport CEO Richard Barker. Photo: Bang Media.
Mr Barker said the prominent installation would enhance customers’ airport experience.
“Our region’s rich culture and history are key drawcards for international visitors,” he said.
“The art looks exceptional and creates a stunning sense of place. But we have also provided an opportunity for travellers to further immerse themselves in our unique local culture while visiting Cairns Airport.
“We see Toby’s creation as a symbol of voyage and adventure for all.”
It comes as the extensive terminal overhaul nears completion, after starting in April 2023.
Construction is due for completion at the end of November; new retail and dining offerings and additional art enhancements will follow in 2026.
Mr Barker said completion of the terminal’s construction phase was timed ideally ahead of the festive season.
“We are heading into a busy period, with more than 120,000 passengers expected to travel through the international terminal during December and January,” he said.
“Passengers will be welcomed to a dynamic, contemporary terminal with key infrastructure improvements to streamline their journey.”
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A significant ceremony marks the occasion as local Djabugay Nation members welcome the artwork on Country. Photo: Bang Media.
