Benny Dau admits his only exposure to some sacred grounds on Boigu Island is through the stories and songs passed on by elders. That's because those cultural sites are now underwater.
The Traditional Owner says it's not only land being claimed by the sea on his home island, one of the northernmost in the Torres Strait.
Mr Dau has been involved in a federal court 'on-country' hearing this week into a landmark action by two Torres Strait residents against the federal government for failing to act on climate change.
"The sea is already at our doorstep," Mr Dau says.
"It's come to the point we need to take action... we don't have much time, our years are numbered.
"I would love to see my kids and my kid's kids still call Boigu home."
"We are trying to fight to keep our land, our homes for the future generations."