Ariu Panipan

Ariu Panipan cultural group is a Torres Strait Island based community group widely renowned for their traditional costumes, craftsmanship, dance choreography, creativity, and dynamic performances.

Translating as the electrifying lightening that pierces the rain, and echoing thunder in the monsoon season, Ariu Panipan are strong cultural ambassadors for Torres Strait and Indigenous Australians.

The group was founded as a response to concerns of Torres Strait elders about erosion of culture, language and traditional practices.

The group's vision is;

"To strongly advocate the promotion, revitalisation and restoration of Torres Strait Islander culture regionally, nationally and internationally".

Torres Strait elders are the core of the Ariu Panipan. As traditional knowledge custodians they provide integral pastoral support, advice, guidance and cultural knowledge.

The Torres Strait-based dance group also reflects cultural diversity across the generations.

Ariu Panipan's attendance at the 2008 Festival of Pacific Arts has been supported by the Torres Strait Regional Authority.