Torres Strait: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Minister Desley Boyle has today announced three new signs in the language of the Traditional Owners, the Kaurareg people, would be erected at Horn Island airport this year.
(Media-Newswire.com) - Torres Strait: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Minister Desley Boyle has today announced three new signs in the language of the Traditional Owners, the Kaurareg people, would be erected at Horn Island airport this year.
Ms Boyle made the announcement during a visit to the Torres Strait to inspect facilities and importantly discuss local issues with the region’s Elders, councillors, business leaders and residents.
“These signs will give the Traditional Owners of Horn Island a new opportunity to reaffirm their ties to the land, while extending a warm greeting to visitors and guests,” she said.
“The culturally-appropriate signs will promote reconciliation and acknowledge the inherent rights of the Kaurareg people as the Traditional Owners of the land.
“This a symbolic part of the reconciliation process with the Traditional Owners.
“The signs will welcome and farewell all visitors to Horn Island airport – the principal airport in the Torres Strait.
“I have had the opportunity to meet the Kaurareg Traditional Owners and talk to them about the new signs and how important they will be.”
The Bligh Government has provided $5000 to fully fund the signage, with consultation ongoing about the wording and final presentation.
Ms Boyle said the Bligh Government was working with Traditional Owner groups to acknowledge their land and history as part of reconciliation process.
“We recognise that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are the traditional owners and that Indigenous cultures have unique cultural relationships to the land, sea and waterways,” Ms Boyle said.
“Part of the reconciliation process is understanding and acknowledging the links Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have to the land, and signs like these help raise awareness of these connections.”
Horn Island, traditionally known as Ngurupai, is 15 kilometres off Queensland's coast and has a population of approximately 650 people.
Media Contact: Minister Boyle’s Office 3227 8819
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