People of the Torres Strait

Torres Strait Islanders live on 17 island communities. Thursday Island is the 'Administrative Centre’ of Torres Strait. Economic and social opportunities have not kept pace with mainland Australia and today Torres Strait Islanders continue to seek access to the lifestyle enjoyed on the mainland.

Ailan Kastom

Ailan Kastom (Island Custom) is the link between land, sea, environment and Torres Strait Islander culture. It is strong and enduring and is fundamental to the way of life of the people of the Torres Strait. Many Torres Strait Islander people still live in their traditional homeland and are dependant on the sea. This has led to a variety of island cultures.

Language

Torres Strait Creole - language commonly used by all Torres Strait Islanders
Meriam – language of the Eastern Torres Strait Islands
Kala Kaiwau Ya – language of the Top Western Islands
Kala Lugaw Ya – language of the Lower Western Islands

Climate

SAGER (pronounced Sar-gerr): South-east trade winds which blow from May until December.
ZAY (pronounced Jay): Southerly winds which blow randomly throughout the year.
NAI GAI (pronounced Nai-guy): Northerly winds which blow from October until December. The season when heat and humidity peak.
KOOKI (pronounced Cook-e): North-west winds which blow from January until April.