Annie Gela has a vision to revive and preserve the languages of the Torres Strait Islands, where languages are passed down from one generation to another by word of mouth.
Through her radio program on 4MUR in Mackay, Annie produced 20-hours of radio programs, launched to coincide with NAIDOC week focused on Our Languages Matter.
In her program, Annie conversed in Ailan Tok, a language spoken by most Torres Strait Islanders which is a mixture of traditional language, English and Pidgin English. Annie discussed grammar, vocabulary, usage and meaning.
In addition to Annie’s radio program, Ailan Tok was recorded, so her language, knowledge and insights can be preserved and shared with future generations.
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Image credit 4MUR.