Entertainment
12 September, 2026
Talent on show in NYC
GIMUY/CAIRNS-based fashion designer Nicole Enoch-Chatfield will take her work from Far North Queensland to New York after being selected to showcase at Indigenous New York Fashion Week (INYFW) in September.
The emerging designer behind the fashion label Goompi’s Girl will present her latest Saltwoven collection at the Indigenous-led event in New York City, running from 10-15 September 2026 during New York Fashion Week.
The opportunity follows Mrs Enoch-Chatfield’s participation in this year’s Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) fashion performance at The Mill, where her work was showcased alongside collections by Indigenous designers from Queensland and overseas.
INYFW founders Korina Emmerich and Liana Shewey of New York-based Relative Arts were among the international guests at CIAF, where they presented a 10-look collection featuring work by several New York-based designers.
A proud Yirrganydji and Nughi woman, Mrs Enoch-Chatfield was born and raised in Gimuy/Cairns and maintains close connections to Lockhart River, Musgrave Station and Quandamooka Country.
Her work blends culture and storytelling with a sustainable textile practice.
In 2025, she presented her Kanyarra collection at Indigenous Fashion Projects’ Country to Couture in Darwin, exploring identity, strength, cultural memory and connection to Country through upcycled garments and textile art.
“I am just so honoured to be considered for such an incredible opportunity and one I could never have imagined. I am going to embrace it with open arms and gratitude to CIAF for providing such a supportive and powerful platform,” said Mrs Enoch-Chatfield.
CIAF artistic director Teho Ropeyarn said the selection showed how relationships developed through CIAF could build career momentum beyond Cairns.
“Having Korina and Liana (Relative Arts) participate in CIAF’s Fashion Performance this year demonstrates the value of bringing Indigenous creatives together and creating genuine connections,” Mr Ropeyarn said.
The international opportunity also brings significant travel and participation costs, and a GoFundMe campaign has been established to support Mrs Enoch-Chatfield’s trip.
To support Nicole Enoch-Chatfield, visit the GoFundMe page at www.cnslocal.s.gy/3PTPVs
