For the first time, the flags of the Australian First Nation and Torres Islands can be seen fluttering alongside the Australian national flag at the High Commission in Beach Street, Apia.

This is part of the National Aboriginals’ and Islanders’ Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) Week.

The Australian High Commission successfully launched the "Evolution" public exhibition, which added to the deeply ingrained relationship between cultures through the art of masks alongside the flags of the First Nation and Torres Strait islanders on Tuesday.

The public exhibition is part of the Australian High Commission’s activities to celebrate and recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Zenadh Kes (Torres Strait) is a network of islands located between Northern Australia and Papua New Guinea. The people of this area maintain vibrant artistic, spiritual, and cultural traditions.

The making and wearing of beautifully decorated masks is one of the region’s most distinctive traditions. While rooted in ancient protocols and spirituality, masks and mask-making are celebrated as expressions of artistic and cultural revival.

Australia's High Commissioner to Samoa  Will Robinson stressed in an interview with Samoa Observer that the designs highlight the collaboration of artists between Australia and Samoa through incorporating both Samoan and Indigenous motifs.

“This exhibition embodies the stories, the spirit, and the enduring connection of Torres Strait Islanders to their environment,” said His Excellency Mr Will Robinson.

“We share a little bit of Torres Strait Islander cultures with Samoa through this exhibition to demonstrate the threads of connection that runs deep across the Pacific – across this vibrant moana we share together.”

The public exhibition is a partnership between the Australian Government, the National Museum of Australia, and the Gab Titui Cultural Centre.

"The exhibition features the art of mask making from Australia’s Torres Strait Islanders, whose islands form a bridge between the northernmost tip of Australia and Papua New Guinea," said Mr. Robinson.

"These masks, steeped in ancient custom and spiritual significance, are vibrant declarations of identity and cultural resilience.

"They embody the stories, the spirit, and the enduring connection of the Torres Strait Islanders to their environment.

"And we share a little bit of Torres Strait cultures today to demonstrate the threads of connection that runs deep across the Blue Pacific – across this vibrant moana we share together."