Torres Strait artist, Michael Nona, was selected to design the artwork following a search undertaken for AMSA by the Torres Strait Regional Authority.

His artwork is inspired by nature, the sea life around his island, and the stories of his Aka (grandmother) about Ailan Kastom (island custom).

Read about Baydham and learn how this striking design came to feature on our Challenger aircraft.

Alysha Menzel is a proud descendent of the Samsep people from Erub Island, Torres Strait Islands. The artwork provides a visual representation of our unwavering commitment to working towards a reconciled future with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culture, and Country.  

In Alysha's words:

‘The wider narrative emanates from the centre, weaving together threads of tradition, innovation, and collaboration. These oceanic threads highlight the vital partnerships between AMSA and First Nations peoples; and represent the commitment to a mutual exchange of knowledge and cultivation of progressive ideas, anchored by a strong maritime tradition.

Within the artwork, the deep emerald sea meets the iron-red coastline, symbolising the intrinsic connection between First Nations communities and the land and sea. This meeting also serves as a symbolic convergence of Australia’s rich maritime heritage and future aspirations of positive progress.

Lighthouses stand tall along the coast, their beacons guiding vessels to safety amidst the ever-shifting waves and tides. Filled with energy, movement, and life, the artwork visually represents AMSA’s reconciliation journey and partnership with First Nations peoples who they walk alongside to safeguard Sea Country.

Find out more about artist and designer, Alysha Menzel.

Watch Alysha Menzel reflect on ‘'Navigating Tides of Progress'.