What is the Coming of the Light festival?
The Coming of the Light is an important annual celebration in the Torres Strait, held on 1 July. It marks the arrival of the London Missionary Society on Erub, also called Darnley Island, in 1871.
On 1 July 1871, missionaries landed at Kemus beach on Erub. Torres Strait Islanders consider this event the beginning of Christianity in their islands.
Christianity became deeply woven into Torres Strait Islander culture, combining with traditional customs. Church life remains central to many communities today.
Celebrations
Celebrations include church services, reenactments of the missionaries' landing, traditional dance, singing and feasting. Communities throughout the Torres Strait and on the mainland take part.
The day is a public holiday in the Torres Strait region. Islanders living in cities such as Cairns, Townsville and Brisbane also hold events to mark the occasion.
The Coming of the Light is a time for families to gather, share food and celebrate their culture and faith. It is one of the most significant days in the Torres Strait Islander calendar, alongside other cultural celebrations such as Mabo Day.
Did You Know?
The Torres Strait Islander flag features a dhari, a traditional headdress, and a white star.