How do the sea and waterways support Torres Strait Islander culture?

The sea and waterways are fundamental to the culture, spirituality, and survival of Torres Strait Islander peoples. As traditional seafarers, they have relied on these environments for thousands of years for sustenance, trade, and the development of their distinct social structures.1

Sustenance and Economy

The surrounding waters provide diverse marine ecosystems that serve as a primary food source. Communities have historically engaged in fishing and the cultivation of gardens, with specific island groups developing unique survival strategies based on their geography. For example, the Central Islands are known for abundant fishing, while the Top Western Islands utilize mangrove habitats for hunting. Historically, the sea facilitated trade with other islands and the coast of Papua New Guinea, involving the exchange of goods such as turtle shells, pearl shells, and canoes.1

Spirituality and Knowledge

Torres Strait Islander spirituality is deeply connected to the natural world. Their beliefs, laws, and customs are shaped by stories of ancestral beings, including the spirit being Tagai. Knowledge of the stars and the sea is essential for navigating, determining seasonal changes, and timing activities like gardening and hunting for dugong and turtles.1