When the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair kicks off its 16th anniversary season next month, audiences can look forward to a new and vibrant presence on the ground — content creator, storyteller, cultural powerhouse, and 2025 ambassador program lead, Talicia Minniecon.
The proud First Nations and Pacifica woman will be front and centre across the four-day celebration of Queensland's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and culture.
Held July 10-13 in the city's vibrant cultural precinct and rainforest surrounds of Tanks Arts Centre, the fair is set to showcase a full program of events and activities. Armed with a microphone, camera, and her trademark warmth, Minniecon will conduct interviews throughout the fair, capturing stories, spirit, and spontaneous moments to share across CIAF's social platforms.
CIAF artistic director Teho Ropeyarn shared his excitement surrounding Minniecon joining the CIAF team.
"CIAF is about connection—with culture, community and creativity- and Talicia is the perfect person to reflect that and bring life to our thematic through line, Pay Attention," he said.
"We're excited to have her vibrant voice and energy amplifying the many faces and stories that make CIAF so special."
This year festival goers are encouraged to keep an eye out for Minniecon and have a yarn when they see her. In addition to her on-ground reporting, Minniecon will also lead CIAF's 2025 Ambassador Program, inviting young First Nations content creators to learn, connect and co-create with her throughout the Fair, with expressions of interest for the Ambassador Program now open.
Reflecting on her involvement at this year's CIAF 2025, Minniecon said CIAF is more than just a festival, it is a celebration of culture, creativity and a joyful meeting place of past, present and future.
"I'm beyond excited and deeply honoured to be part of CIAF 2025 — a space that celebrates the strength, brilliance and creative power of our First Nations people. This is more than a moment — it's a movement, and it's an honour for me to be here, amplifying our voices and empowering our communities from a grassroots level," she said.
"This is for our Elders, our young ones, and every First Nations storyteller who breaks cycles, empowers our communities, and reclaims space. I'm here to listen, connect and share. Every person has a story, and every yarn is a chance to honour culture and community."
A mother, educator, entrepreneur, and advocate, Minniecon is also the founder of Mob Made Media & Communications, a purpose-led agency that reclaim narrative sovereignty and elevates Indigenous excellence across platforms. Through this role and her popular fashion label TTPOPP, she inspires many with her bold storytelling, creative vision, and unwavering commitment to community.
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