Torres Strait Islander flag

The late Mr Bernard Namok, from Thursday Island, designed the Torres Strait Islander flag in 1992 for a design competition held as part of a Cultural Revival Workshop.

The colours represent:

• green for the islands (land);
• black for the people;
• blue for the sea; and
• white for peace.

The Dhari (head-dress) is unique to the Torres Strait and is a symbol of Torres Strait Islander identity.

The five-pointed star represents the five Island clusters and also symbolises the navigational importance of stars to their seafaring culture.

The Torres Strait Islander Flag was recognised as an official 'Flag of Australia' in July 1995.