Torres Strait Flag Day

29 May

29 May is Torres Strait Flag Day. It marks the official presentation of the Torres Strait Islander Flag to the people of the Torres Strait at the sixth Torres Strait Cultural Festival on 29 May 1992.

The flag was designed by the late Bernard Namok Senior of Waiben (Thursday Island). His design was the winning entry in a competition organised by the Island Coordinating Council, which represented Community councils across the Torres Strait. The Council adopted the design at a meeting on 24 March 1992 before it was formally presented in May.

About the Torres Strait Islander Flag

The flag is a symbol of unity, identity and pride for Torres Strait Islander peoples. Green represents the land, blue represents the sea and black represents the people. The white dhari represents Torres Strait Islander culture. The five-pointed star represents the five island groups and the importance of navigation, while white represents peace.

The flag should be treated with respect and dignity. The Torres Strait Island Regional Council manages its copyright, although permission is not required simply to fly the flag.

Ways to mark the date

  • Learn about Bernard Namok Senior, the Island Coordinating Council’s design competition and the flag’s presentation in 1992.
  • Display or raise the Torres Strait Islander Flag respectfully in your school, workplace or community space.
  • Explore the meanings of the dhari, star and colours using Torres Strait Islander-led and authoritative resources.
  • Include Torres Strait Islander voices in planning, with appropriate permissions, local guidance and paid involvement.

Related flag products

Shop all Torres Strait Islander Flag products

Sources and further reading

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