As the Biosecurity Officer for Badu Island, Solomon found himself in the middle of a war in 2024 when there was a significant invasion of the exotic Oriental Fruit Fly from Papua New Guinea. Previous detections in Torres Strait had rarely been this far south, and in 2024 they took up residence on Badu Island in high numbers.
The incursion caused huge concern for scientists, agriculturists, and all levels of the Australian and Queensland Governments as the flies are a serious threat to traditional gardening and cultural practices in Torres Strait and could wipe out entire crops impacting wider Australia’s – agriculture, economy, export trade and the environment. An entire year was taken up with trying to bring the outbreak under control. Now that mango (a key fruit fly host) season is over, Solomon is still – on behalf of all Australians – “paying attention” to make sure that the fruit flies don’t continue to make Badu their home.
This work – from Solomon’s first series of monoprints – are unique in that they tell a contemporary story from Badu Island that makes clear the importance of protecting Torres Strait and the Australian mainland”.
Solomon Ahmat
2025
Medium: Monoprint
Artwork Size: 805 x 1200 x 1200cm
Catalogue No: 25-140
