The eight children who lost their lives in the Keriba Omasker tragedy were commemorated in Cairns on Saturday with a traditional Torres Strait Islander ceremony known as a Tombstone Opening, or 'unveiling'.
Usually held years after a funeral, a Tombstone Opening brings family and community together to remember those who have passed – and to celebrate the joining of their spirits with their ancestors.
The practice has nothing to do with exhumation but refers to the traditional practice that involves the decorated headstone being unveiled for the first time.
Torres Shire Council Mayor Vonda Malone said the ceremony celebrated the "beauty" of the children's lives and hoped the service would unite the community.
"[It's about] looking at how we can work better together as communities, as Torres Strait Islanders – particularly here on the mainland around support services... because a lot of our family members are now living here in Cairns," Ms Malone told NITV News.
According to Torres Strait Islander beliefs, the children are now in "another place behind the sunset". Source: Wayne Quilliam
Share
