Entertainment
18 April, 2025
Get ready for the catwalk
THE Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) is on the lookout for the next First Nations models to take the spotlight and showcase up to 100 designs in the highly anticipated fashion performances this July.
This year CIAF is bringing two fashion performances instead of one under the theme ‘Look & Listen’ which draws inspiration from the fair’s overall theme ‘Pay Attention’ that aims to enhance the voices and experiences of First Nations artists.
‘Look & Listen’ will be presented over four shows at Tanks Arts Centre on Thursday, July 10 and Friday, July 11 and models will get to wear up to 100 designs across 12 wearable art and designer collections.
The CIAF fashion performances have also been known for catapulting the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander models. like Kagara Maling from Sydney, who hasn’t looked back since his appearance in last year’s performance ‘Light the fire’.
After responding to CIAF’s call for models ahead of the 2024 event, Mr Maling travelled from his home in Gadigal/Sydney to Gimuy/Cairns, reuniting with family and finding himself under the bright lights.
Following a two-week rehearsal phase, he was ready and confidently walked before a captivated audience, showcasing a series of stunning designs by Queensland’s First Nations fashion designers.
“I never imagined that one runway show in Gimuy/Cairns would lead me to where I am now. It was more than just fashion – it was about cultural pride, confidence and embracing opportunities,” he said.
Since his debut at the CIAF, Mr Maling has landed a range of roles, including a position as an extra on the iconic Australian television show ‘Home and Away’. His growing resume now includes modelling campaigns, music video appearances, and television roles that highlight his versatility as a performer.
His return to Gimuy/Cairns in 2025 will see him again in the Tanks Arts Centre ‘round’ spotlight as a featured performer in CIAF’s much-anticipated Look & Listen fashion performances.
“CIAF’s Fashion Performances aren’t just about wearing incredible designs – they’re about storytelling, movement, and showing the world who we are as First Nations people,” Mr Maling said. “If you’re thinking about putting yourself forward as a model this year, I say go for it, do it – you never know where it might take you,” he said.
To submit a fashion EOI, visit https://bit.ly/4bR8v8A
