Symbols of Home: The Story of the Torres Strait Islander Flag

To mark NAIDOC week, MC Deb Lowah Clark guides a conversation with Bernard Namok Jnr and Lenka Vanderboom about the story of the Torres Strait Islander flag.

In 1992, the Island Coordinating Council organised a cultural revival workshop, which included a design competition for a flag. Uncle Bernard Namok’s iconic design won and became the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) recognised Torres Strait Islander Flag.

The Eureka Centre is honoured to welcome author Bernard Namok Jnr, son of Uncle Bernard Namok, who designed the Torres Strait Islander flag. Bernard will discuss the story behind the creation of the flag, its symbolism, and his efforts to carry the torch of his father’s legacy.

Bernard Namok Jr is a proud St. Paul, Badu and Erubian man from the Torres Strait living on Yidinji country. Bernard is an author, broadcaster and advocate for the First People’s Disability Network. His vibrant children’s book, ‘Our Flag, Our Story’ (2024) was shortlisted for the 2025 Young People’s History Prize.

Multi skilled local and event MC Deb Lowah Clark is a proud Meriam woman of the Torres Strait Islands, living on Wadawurrung Country. Deb has been a passionate educator for 27 years and contributes richly to Ballarat’s musical culture as a singer-songwriter.

Lenka Vanderboom is a Yawuru woman and board member of Magabala Books Indigenous publishing house. Lenka is also the City of Ballarat’s Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer.

Welcome to Country to be delivered by Wadawurrung Traditional Owner, Kellie Phillips.

This event includes the screening of a 28-minute documentary, ‘Carry the Flag’ (2017).

Image: Bernard Namok at St Pauls, Moa Island. ©Tamarind Tree Pictures