Play School films in Torres Strait for first time in its 59-year broadcast history

From teaching children how to speak English, to showcasing Islander language and culture, popular children’s show Play School has filmed a historic episode in the Torres Strait.

TSRA Ranger Nabako Laza and Play School presenter Teo Gebert with Noongar doll, Kiya, on Badu Island. Photo: Supplied.

From teaching children how to speak English, to showcasing Islander language and culture, popular children’s show Play School has filmed a historic episode in the Torres Strait.

For the first time since its initial broadcast in 1966, Play School has filmed an episode in Badu Island, in partnership with the Torres Strait Regional Authority Mura Badhulgau Rangers.

Play School presenter Teo Gebert, toys Jemima and Kiya, and an ABC production crew made the trip to the remote region, about 800km north of Cairns in Far North Queensland, to film episode three of the Play School My Place, My Home series.

TSRA chairman George Nona said the iconic children’s show provided more than just entertainment for his generation.

TSRA Chairperson George Nona and ABC producer Elizabeth Pearson with Play School’s iconic Jemima doll/ Photo: Supplied.

“Play School holds a special place in the hearts of Torres Strait Islanders, especially those of us from the islands who learnt to speak English by watching Play School,” Mr Nona said.

“In a full-circle moment, we are in return sharing words and language from the Torres Strait with Play School audiences across Australia.”

The father of seven said the episode represented a wholesome act of reconciliation.

“For Torres Strait Islander culture to be celebrated on Play School, cherished and embraced by households across Australia, is a proud moment for our people and region,” he said.

Play School's Kiya doll meets a frill-neck lizard on Badu Island. Photo: Supplied.

“Our children and families, including older generations who grew up watching and learning from Play School, can now see themselves reflected in the show.”

The Torres Strait region is the home of two traditional languages, Meriam Mer and Kala Lagaw Ya, along with six dialects.

Locals weave English and Torres Strait Creole with traditional languages of their islands.

TSRA ranger supervisor Laurie Nona said the episode, which premiered on June 11, was filmed on Badu Island and highlighted the island’s unique practices, landscapes and animals

On set: Play School presenter Teo Gebert and TSRA RangerSupervisor Laurie Nona with Kiya doll. Photo: Supplied.

“The filming showcased our island, culture and traditions through the eyes of our children, community and rangers,” Mr Nona said.

“It shared a look into the life of TSRA Rangers and our important work caring for flora and fauna, the animals of the land and sea.”

He said he hoped the show would inspire the next generation of Island filmmakers.

“Play School’s visit to the Torres Strait, what you see both on the screen and behind the scenes, has the power to inspire the next generation of rangers, producers and film makers in our communities.”

Play School series My Place, My Home, episode 3 Island Life is available to stream free, on-demand on ABC iview.

Originally published as Play School films in Torres Strait for first time in its 59-year broadcast history