We are proud to share our refreshed logo – a visual identity grounded in culture, story and purpose. Originally painted by Torres Strait Islander artist George Gabey, the design features a young coconut palm sapling sprouting from a mature coconut. This powerful image captures the essence of our work –nurturing growth, resilience and healing from deep cultural roots.
The design draws inspiration from “The Coconut Palm Tree: A Metaphor for Island Family Life” (Mam, Elu, Trevallion, Reid, 1993). The coconut palm symbolises Torres Strait Islander family life, with the roots representing heritage, the trunk representing tradition, and the leaves and coconuts representing culture.
For Wakai Waian Healing, the fallen coconut represents a new generation – carrying forward the legacy of knowledge, ceremony and cultural strength. It symbolises continuity, resourcefulness, and survival, much like the communities we walk alongside.
Having a Torres Strait Islander artist lead the design was essential. It ensures the story embedded in our identity remains culturally accurate, guided by the worldview that inspired the name “Wakai Waian,” which means “straightening yarn” in the Masigalgal language (Kalaw Lagaw Ya). There is no direct translation for psychologist or counsellor – instead, the phrase reflects the process of listening deeply, restoring clarity and finding one’s path.
Our refreshed logo marks a new look and a continued commitment to healing through culture, connection, and community. Thank you for walking with us.
The Wakai Waian Healing Team
