Entertainment
5 October, 2025
PNG display marks 50th
THE Papua New Guinea community in Cairns has helped bring new life to a collection of more than 160 artefacts dating from the 19th and 20th centuries, now on display at Cairns Museum.
‘Han Mak Belong Tumbuna: Made by the Hands of the Ancestors’ reconnects objects with the stories, memories and knowledge that shaped them and started the journey to re-gift these treasures to their homeland.
From finely-decorated arrows never intended to fly, to kina shells once used as currency, each piece carries layered meanings of use, ritual and status. Displays are presented in both Tok Pisin and English, ensuring multiple voices and perspectives are heard. “This exhibition is the result of genuine collaboration with Cairns’ PNG community,” said Cairns Historical Society executive officer Dr Sandi Robb.
“Their knowledge and cultural memory have helped us reconnect these artefacts with their meanings, ensuring they are presented with respect and authenticity,” she said.
The exhibition also takes place in the same year that Papua New Guinea celebrates 50 years of independence, a reminder of the country’s proud history and enduring cultural heritage.
It builds on the call made by Sir Michael Somare in 1979 for cultural treasures to return home, beginning with a re-gifting process that acknowledges provenance and cultural authority.
Society president Clive Skarrot said the exhibition was also a story of community initiative.
“I’m especially proud of how this exhibition came together. It started with one of our volunteers suggesting we reach out to Cairns’ PNG community and from there the collaboration just grew,” he said.
“Community members played such an important role in identifying, interpreting and shaping the way these objects are presented.
“For me, that’s the real strength of this project – it shows what can be achieved when we work together.
“And as president, I’m proud that we’re committed to ensuring these treasures will one day be re-gifted to their place of origin.”
Han Mak Belong Tumbuna: Made by the Hands of the Ancestors is now on display at Cairns Museum, Lake Street, and runs until 6 January 2026.
