Torres Strait fishermen

Publisher Atkinson Photos

Date2 April 1905

Object number00000481

NamePostcard

MediumPhotographic image, Ink on paper

DimensionsOverall: 86 x 136 mm

ClassificationsPosters and postcards

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionA black and white postcard featuring two Torres Strait Islanders spear fishing from a canoe. Card produced by Atkinson Photos, Cairns, Queensland.HistoryThe outrigger craft from Cape York and Torres Strait are quite distinct and relatively complex, and show a close association with craft from Papua New Guinea and the Louisiade Archipelago at New Guinea's south east tip. The main hull is a hollowed-out log, while the double or single outriggers, their beams and connections are smaller logs or tree limbs, held together with rope made from fibres. The outriggers found in the islands in the Torres Strait are quite large. A number of them were decorated with carvings, feathers and paint. Some carried sails, and were capable of long passages on open water in the area.SignificanceTorres Strait Islander peoples have a strong relationship with the oceans or inland waterways that form part of their country. For saltwater communities, the sea is integral to many people’s concepts of country and identity.