BARTON SHOWS HEART IN RING
Jack Barton (right) shapes up with opponent Ethan Reynolds following the weigh-in at The Big Fights 38 in Toowoomba on Saturday. Turn to Page 18 to see what the Weipa boxer had to say after the bout.
Rodeo signing Country music star Weipa bound
The Weipa Rodeo’s 20th anniversary has been given an injection of star power with the announcement that James Blundell will get bauxite dust on his boots for the August event. See what the country music icon had to say about his Weipa trip on Page 19.
Cape York Folk Club Inc. AGM
2:30pm 22nd March 2025
Natures PowerHouse Cooktown
Executive and Wallaby Creek Festival
Team Leader positions available
Membership Drive - all welcome
Afternoon Tea plus live music by Cooktown Collective -- and just because we can --
3pm Botanical Fungi Forest Walk with Sandi Lloyd and Ori Albert-Mitchell
Need a reliable freight service to the Cape?
Chamber wants federal hopefuls ‘on the ground’
By LYNDON KEANE
CANDIDATES battling for Leichhardt need to be spending more time “on the ground” on western Cape York to fully grasp the challenges facing residents and businesses, according to the region’s chamber of commerce.
owned Sea Swift, which is the sole sea freight operator servicing the region, has come under fire in recent months over concerns about skyrocketing costs and unexplained delivery delays.
“Freight was the biggest talking point, and also what Weipa and western Cape looks like in the future,” Mr Christie said.
Sea Swift and the disaster that’s become. Warren did his piece last week about how he believes the government should hand Sea Swift back, which I’m a supporter of; it seemed to work better when it was in private hands, when they had a bit more passion for it,” he said.
Myall Creek and a second Laura River crossing – that has to be included in stage three.”
TUXWORTH & WOODS CARRIERS
Tuxworth & Woods have all your refrigerated, dry & heavy haulage needs covered – from 20 grams to 20 tonnes
WEIPA DEPOT
Iraci Ave, Evans Landing Mob: 0429 003 743
Ph: 4069 7183 Fax: 4069 7472
COOKTOWN DEPOT
Cnr of Endeavour Road and McMillan Streets, Cooktown Ph: 0419 759 892
CAIRNS OFFICE: Ph: 4035 4022 25 Redden St, Portsmith
Get carried away with Tuxworth & Woods Carriers
HAMBELL PLUMBING
As new runners continue to announce their candidacy ahead of the federal election, members of the Western Cape Chamber of Commerce (WCCC) met with outgoing MP Warren Entsch and Liberal National Party candidate Jeremy Neal in Weipa on 13 March to discuss the group’s priority issues and concerns.
WCCC president Jai Christie said freight – specifically wet season sea freight – had been number one on the agenda for the meeting.
The State Government-
“The main one was freight; because it’s a state-owned entity, the federal members don’t really have much of a say on how that’s run, but he’s (Warren Entsch) really pushing for the chamber to make a bit of a stance on it.”
Mr Neal described the meeting as productive and said the freight issue had become a constant theme across Cape York and the Torres Strait during his campaign.
“Their number one concern is
The LNP candidate said he was meeting with Sea Swift on 24 March to discuss the situation but said he believed it highlighted the criticality of completing the Peninsula Developmental Road (PDR) upgrade.
The $300 million third stage of the Cape York Region Package is waiting on $240m in funding support from the Federal Government to progress.
“Obviously, the long-term goal is the PDR,” Mr Neal said.
“I’m very supportive that is has to include a solution for
Mr Christie said it had been helpful to have one of the candidates vying for Leichhardt in Weipa to get a first-hand understanding of what the community needed to prosper, and what hurdles needed to be overcome.
“It makes it easier having the pollies here, and to talk to them face to face, they know the issues, and to really get them involved is good for the chamber and the whole community really,” he said.
“It’s a bit hard before the election, too, to get them all too involved in it when they haven’t been elected, but it was good to see Jeremy here on the ground with Warren.
“We (WCCC) haven’t seen any of the other candidates yet.”
RDA TN chair reappointed for second term
THE chair of Regional Development Australia (RDA) Tropical North will lead the advocacy body for another two years after being reappointed to its top job last week.
Federal Minister for Regional Development Kristy McBain announced on 10 March she had reappointed Professor Hurriyet Babacan for a second term after two successful years in the role.
The reappointment has been welcomed by community leaders across Cape York and the Torres Strait, and RDA Tropical North chief executive officer Sonja Johnson said the role had broadened under Professor Babacan’s remit over the past two years to better engage with Northern Australia and the Indo-Pacific region.
“Under Hurriyet’s leadership, the RDA
Tropical North team has delivered several initiatives to drive regional development solutions that will create jobs and grow Far North Queensland’s economy,” she said.
Professor Babacan said she was looking forward to the next two years, adding she hoped to further strengthen the Far North’s engagement with the Indo-Pacific region. Full story: www.capeyorkweekly.com.au.
RDA Tropical North Chair Professor Hurriyet Babacan has been reappointed to lead the organisation for another two years.
Police charge drink drivers in Cooktown
ing for alcohol and later returned a blood alcohol concentration reading of 0.124.
At about 11am on 1 March, police intercepted a vehicle on Charlotte Street and the driver of the vehicle, a 56-year-old male from Hope Vale, allegedly returned a positive roadside read-
The vehicle the man was driving was also unregistered and uninsured.
He was issued with an immediate licence suspension and a notice to appear at Cooktown Magistrates Court on 2 April, charged with drink driving and
driving an unregistered and uninsured vehicle.
On 2 March, at approximately 2pm, Cooktown police intercepted a vehicle on Endeavour Valley Road for the purpose of a breath test and licence check.
The driver, a 33-year-old Cooktown man, allegedly returned a positive reading for alcohol and later a blood alcohol
concentration reading of 0.113.
The man was issued with an immediate licence suspension and appeared in Cooktown Magistrates Court on 5 March.
Cooktown police, as well as those from neighbouring regions, are currently involved in a traffic operation targeting Cook Shire until the conclusion of the Easter school holidays.
CEO gone: NPARC begins the hunt for replacement
By LYNDON KEANE
NORTHERN Peninsula Area
Regional Council (NPARC) is on the hunt for a new operational leader after elected members voted to terminate the employment of its chief executive officer on 7 March.
Mayor Robert Poi Poi announced on 10 March the council had made the decision to remove Kate Gallaway from the CEO’s role and immediately begin recruiting for her replacement.
While minutes of the meeting are not yet publicly available, a senior council source told Cape York Weekly the decision was
made in a 3-2 vote, with Mayor Poi Poi recusing himself due to a conflict of interest regarding a family member’s personal relationship with Ms Gallaway.
The termination of Ms Gallaway comes on the back of a community-driven Charge. org petition in November 2024 which asked the council to sack the CEO, who was appointed permanently to the role in May 2023, on the basis she and her executive leadership team had eroded community trust over a “severe lack of transparency” and failing to adequately engage local stakeholders.
In mid-2024, the then-Department of Housing, Local
Government, Planning and Public Works appointed a financial controller and governance adviser in the wake of criticism and about NPARC’s strategic, operational and financial management, and a “real worry” about nepotism and the performance of senior staff.
In an email sent to all council staff and seen by Cape York Weekly, Mayor Poi Poi said Ms Gallaway’s “last official day will be … 21 March and she is on personal leave until that time”.
Lew Rojahn has been appointed as interim CEO while the council undertakes a search for Ms Gallaway’s replacement.
In the 10 March media re-
lease, Mayor Poi Poi, who is credited with leading the push for substantial change within the organisation following last year’s Queensland local government elections, acknowledged the contribution of Ms Gallaway.
“Kate has supported both the previous council and also the new council, which was elected in 2024,” he said.
“We certainly wish her well in her future endeavours.
“We would like to have a new CEO selected and in place as soon as possible; we are fortunate to have Lew Rojahn agree to step into the interim CEO role to keep us on track in this transition period.”
Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council chief executive officer Kate Gallaway (second from right), pictured at this month’s community cabinet in Cairns with Mayor Robert Poi Poi, Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls, Councillor Kitty Gebadi and Deputy Mayor Mary Yoelu, has been removed from the organisation’s top job following a council vote on 7 March. Photo: Facebook (Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council).
Warren ENTSCH MP
Federal Member for Leichhardt
Dear Leichhardt Community,
For over 26 years, it has been the greatest privilege of my life to serve as your Federal Member for Leichhardt. From Cairns to the Cape and across the Torres Strait, I have dedicated myself to fighting for our region, securing record levels of investment, and delivering real results for our communities.
Throughout my tenure, I have worked tirelessly to ensure Far North Queensland receives the funding and infrastructure it deserves. I am proud to say that over my career, through persistence and strong advocacy, I have directly helped secure over $15.8 billion in funding for our region, including:
• $535 million for road projects across Leichhardt, ensuring safer and more efficient transport links for locals and visitors alike.
• $1.7 billion for major highways, including the Bruce Highway, Captain Cook Highway, and the Peninsula Development Road, opening up opportunities for economic growth, tourism, and better connectivity for remote communities.
• $10 billion for the Northern Australia Cyclone Reinsurance Pool, ensuring that families and businesses in cycloneprone areas are no longer crippled by skyrocketing insurance premiums.
• $3.6 billion in funding for vital local projects, from health and education to tourism, community infrastructure, and economic development.
These investments have been transformational, and they have only been possible because of a strong, committed Coalition government that understands and delivers for regional Queensland.
However, I am deeply concerned about the direction our country is heading under the current Labor government. Economic conditions have deteriorated, cost-of-living pressures are soaring, and businesses are struggling to survive. Northern Australia, in particular, has been neglected—Labor simply does not understand or prioritise our region’s needs.
Jeremy Neal, the LNP’s candidate for Leichhardt will continue to fight for our community. Jeremy is a hardworking, dedicated local, a paramedic by trade who has a passion for our region and will stand up for Far North Queensland and ensure we has a strong voice in Canberra.
With a Peter Dutton-led Coalition government, we can get Australia back on track—restoring economic stability, easing cost-of-living pressures, and delivering the policies that our country needs now more than ever.
As I prepare to step away from public life, I want to express my deepest gratitude to you—the people of Leichhardt. Your support, trust, and friendship have meant everything to me. Together, we have achieved so much, and I will always be proud of what we have built.
Thank you to my family, my incredible staff, and every single person who has been part of this journey. It has been the honour of a lifetime to serve you.
Federal Member for Leichhardt
I can’t wait to see what is next in store for the future of our region, and with Jeremy Neal and the LNP, I’m sure we can
Jeremy Neal LNP Candidate for Leichhardt
State’s housing plans a big concern in Cooktown
By LYNDON KEANE
COOKTOWN real estate agents and public sector employees are calling on the State Government to outline its plan for the new Garden Street accommodation hub amid concerns over a “mass dump” of private rentals.
The government housing project will provide accommodation for “critical frontline staff” and is due for completion in May, however, there is confusion about what the development means for existing private leases the government has in Cooktown.
Cooktown Platinum Realty principal Julie Hillhouse said she had fielded calls from investors about the project and asked the government to make its intentions clear for the sake of market confidence and transparency.
“We haven’t been able to get any information on it, and I need to be able to provide accurate information to my property investors,” she said.
“We were told several years ago that it would have zero impact on any housing in Cooktown, because that was going to provide accommodation for additional staff who were not here yet; that’s what I’ve been telling investors, so, if it’s any different, we need to know, because I need to be relaying accurate information.”
A spokesperson for the Department of Housing and Public Works (DHPW) said the Garden Street project would initially accommodate frontline health staff, but said they could not comment on what other departments would do with existing private rentals.
“Whilst these residences will initially serve as housing for health workers, the demand is constantly changing in the regions, and in future, they may provide housing for many other frontline staff,” they said.
“DHPW can’t comment on other State Government departments’ private leasing arrangements for their staff; any private leasing arrangements are a matter for these individual organisations.
“DHPW is hopeful that the delivery of these residences will provide more stock to the regional housing market and remove pressure on the private rental market.”
Ms Hillhouse acknowledged the town needed more rental availability but questioned the
suitability of the design and layout of the Garden Street dwellings to attract long-term government staff to Cooktown.
“If it is families going to be in there, how’s that going to affect the retention of staff?” she asked.
“Are staff going to be happy to live there?
“We obviously need more housing, so we’re not complaining about having more housing … but I definitely think we need to know what’s happening with it.”
One Cooktown-based health worker, who asked not to be named, agreed with Ms Hillhouse’s assessment of the suitability of the Garden Street properties for long-term occupation.
“They aren’t buildings I’d like to live in forever with a growing family and pets,” they said.
“We’ve got a good rental at the moment and the lease is expiring, but we’ve had no information from work about what they’re planning – are they expecting some of us to move into there (Garden Street) or are we getting renewed leases?
“Someone needs to let staff in private rentals know what’s happening, because there’s talk of a mass dump of properties to move most of us to the new ones.”
Cook Shire Council chief executive officer Brian Joiner said the government had not provided any indication it intended to do a bulk drop of private rentals back onto the market.
“With the construction of the hospital over the next four years, there’s going to be up to 60 contractors coming in, so there’s going to be a strong accommodation requirement for those people, therefore, there’s no indication there’s going to be a mass dump of existing private leases,” he said.
“We believe that the rental demand in town is so high that any private leases that do come back on the market will be snapped up by other government departments and private tenants.”
NEWS IN BRIEF
Street offences, Cooktown
A 46-YEAR-OLD woman, 20-year-old woman and 19-year-old woman have been charged after allegedly being involved in a street disturbance outside the Cooktown Courthouse on 28 February.
Police will allege the three women were involved in a heated exchange with members of the public and caused unrest to many others.
The 46-year-old female was charged with public nuisance and driving while suspended, and was issued with a notice to appear at Cooktown Magistrates Court.
The 20-year-old female was issued with multiple infringement notices including commit public nuisance and traffic offences, totalling $1,853 in fines.
The 19-year-old female was also issued with multiple infringement notices, also equalling $1,853 in fines.
DFRA funding for councils
NINE Cape York and Torres Strait councils are among 38 across the northern part of the state to receive funding following last month’s tropical low weather event.
The announcement was made on 12 March as part of a larger funding and assistance package through the state and federal governments’ joint Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
The Aurukun, Cook Shire, Hope Vale, Kowanyama, Napranum, Northern Peninsula Area, Pormpuraaw, Torres and Wujal Wujal councils will receive DFRA funding to aid their response, clean-up and recovery, including emergency repairs and long-term reconstruction of the road network.
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the funding was welcomed by the councils.
Cook Shire scorecard
COOK Shire Council is calling on residents and ratepayers to have their say as part of its 2025 community scorecard.
The initiative provides an opportunity for the community to share feedback on local services, facilities, and council operations, which will help shape future planning and decision making.
Ratepayers who receive electronic rates notices will get a link to the confidential survey via email, with hard copies available at Cook Shire libraries, offices, the swimming pool and events centre.
The digital survey is open until 28 March, and all residents and ratepayers aged 14 and over are encouraged to participate at www.cook.qld.gov.au.
The Garden Street government housing project is due for completion in May, however, some local health staff have questioned the suitability of the design and layout of the accommodation hub for long-term tenants.
Cooktown Platinum Realty principal Julie Hillhouse is asking the State Government to show its hand on its plan for existing staff private rentals once the Garden Street accommodation hub is completed.
Monthly Community Update
Message from the Chair
Hello Weipa, It’s been a busy time since my last update, here is just some of what fills my days.
In February we saw freight services disrupted again which had significant impact on business’ and residents which is a common occurrence each wet season. This issue will continue each wet season, until we either have an alternative sea freight provider (which I won’t hold my breath for); an all weather road completed (pending stage 3 PDR funding), or an increase to local storage capacity, which will enable us to stock up before the wet. We are working on getting a commitment from the Federal government for the Stage 3 PDR funding, and I am keen to explore the concept of a ‘freight hub’ storage facility further.
I travelled out to Cairns for board meetings with the Torres and Cape Indigenous Councils Alliance (TCICA), and Regional Development Australia (RDA) Tropical North, where the future of Weipa is always a topic of discussion, and of high importance to both groups. I also met with our State
representative, Member for Cook David Kempton, to discuss the freight situation, and some of the opportunities for the future of our region.
The Western Cape Chamber of Commerce will be holding theWestern Cape Futures Symposium, on the 7th & 8th May and will be an amazing opportunity for Weipa to show off our amazing part of the Cape, and our fabulous local business capabilities, while exploring some exciting opportunities for our future with a wide range of awesome guest speakers as part of the line up.
A couple of the highlights for me over the last month, was getting to support a young local rising star to travel to Spain to train with professional teams at a soccer academy. What an opportunity, especially for a Weipa kid! Jack King will be away from family and friends for 3 months, training with some of the games best. Remember the name - Jack King, I think we will be hearing a lot more of it in the future.
Upcoming Event News:
We also celebrated International
Groups
Weipa Town Authority’s Community Group Grants are now open, offering local clubs and organisations the chance to secure up to $2,000 in funding. These one-off grants support groups in purchasing equipment, running programs, or improving their capacity to deliver activities.
Previous recipients, such as the Weipa Dirt Kart Club and Weipa Potters, have used their funding to enhance their facilities and expand their programs.
If your group has a project that could benefit from this funding, don’t miss out! Applications are open from 3 March to 28 March 2025.
Thanks for reading, see you out and about in the community.
JaimeGane
Exciting Activities Lined Up for April School Holidays!
The April School Holiday Program is packed with fun and creative activities for kids of all ages. Running from 7 to 17 April, this exciting program includes:
Handball Design & Competition – Get creative and show off your skills!
Slime Obstacle Course – A messy, fun challenge not to be missed!
In the Garden Day – A hands-on library event for little nature lovers.
Build a Box Fort – Let imaginations run wild with this ultimate construction challenge!
Tickets go on sale Monday, 24 March— don’t miss out! Spaces are limited, so be sure to book early.
Storm Surge Shelter
Community Easter Markets & Showcase Sat 29 March @ Weipa Storm Surge Shelter
School Holiday Program
Mon 7 March - Library
Tues 8 March - Library
Wed 9 March - Cricket
Thurs 10 March - Library Fri 11 March - WAC
Mon 14 March- Library
Tue 15 March - Library
Wed 16 March - WSSS
Thurs 17 March - WAC
Sunset Markets @ Kumrumja Park Sat 10 May | 4-8pm
Across Weipa
Weipa is looking greener thanks to the efforts of the Evolution Mining and Civil Team, who recently planted 175 native trees across 13 locations around town.
These trees were carefully propagated from seed at a local nursery to ensure the longevity and resilience in the local environment. Botanical North was engaged to provide expert advice, ensuring that the selected selected species are best suited to thrive in Weipa’s unique conditions.
This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to maintain and improve green spaces for the community, and a big thank you to the Evolution Mining and Civil team for their contribution to making Weipa a greener, more vibrant place to live!
CHAIR JAIME GANE
Bush medicine tour opens minds
By LYNDON KEANE
A CAPE York bush medicine guide says he hopes sharing his knowledge and the stories of his grandfather’s Country will help both locals and tourists understand the importance of protecting the region’s pristine environment.
Harold “Mooks” Tayley is a Kuku Nyungkul Elder and Traditional Owner who runs a bush medicine and tucker tour business at Rossville Retreat, south of Cooktown, in the shadow of Kalkajaka (Black Mountain).
Born in Laura, Mooks has honed his encyclopaedic knowledge of traditional foods and medicine over nearly 40 years and said he still got a thrill out of helping people learn about their myriad uses over tens of thousands of years.
“I learned all my stuff from my grandfather, yep, and father,” he said as he described the healing properties of cycads.
“[The knowledge] was passed on down from them, and I’ve been doing this about 36 years now.
“First thing, before I take them (tour guests) on a walk is do a smoking ceremony with them; even after the walk, I do the same thing, and I still speak all my language, so, you know, it’s great.
“It’s a good feeling because, after my walk, people leave with a smile – they’ve never experienced these things before and that’s what people are looking for.”
The list of people who have shared Mooks’ knowledge reads like a celebrity A-list, with pop star Katy Perry, nine-time Olympic gold medallist and US swimming royalty Katie Ledecky, and British explorer and survivalist Ed Stafford among those who have experienced his hands-on guiding style.
Rossville Retreat owners Dave and Sandy Bates praised Mooks’ ability to engage with a diverse range of tour guests and said the “good friendship deal” the trio shared benefitted both businesses.
“For Rossville Retreat, it’s huge to have Mooksie with is – he’s a living legend, not just in Australia, but around the world,” he said.
“You know, we have people from Europe coming over … for a month to come and see Mooks.
“Mooks’ business is here and our business is here, so the two companies have come together.”
Mooks said he believed getting tour guests into the bush to experience traditional food and medicine firsthand played a big role in educating them about environmental
management and protection, and added he still enjoyed learning after almost four decades sharing his expertise.
“[The tours] are a bit of fun and they’re in nature, which helps them learn,” he said.
“I’ve been learning all these things since I was 15, so everything is just natural for me, you know; I spent 10 weeks in eastern Arnhem Land with one old guy out there, he’s passed away now, but he teach me a lot of stuff out there, too, in the dry country; Lau-
ra is more sandy country, similar to Arnhem Land.”
When asked what the future held for his incredible knowledge, cultural stories and tours, Mooks simply offered a wry smile as he bent down, picked a vivid purple snakeweed flower and asked whether I could taste its mushroom-like flavour.
For Mooks, there is clearly no time to waste pondering what is down the road when there is knowledge to be imparted on an audience thirsty to hear it.
Kuku Nyungkul Traditional Owner and bush medicine guide Harold “Mooks” Tayley talks to Rossville Retreat owners Sandy and Dave Bates about the medicinal properties of cycads ahead of what is shaping up as a bumper season for his tours.
Dreams come to life in exhibition
By CHISA HASEGAWA
IMAGINATION is turning into reality as two first-time exhibiting artists prepare to showcase their work to the Cooktown community.
Imagine will open on 29 March at the Elizabeth Guzsely Gallery, giving patrons an insight into the quirky minds of artists Tracey Blumer and Gisela Whithear.
Ms Blumer said the title was inspired in part by their awe at having the opportunity to showcase their work in a duo exhibition.
“I could never have imagined putting on an exhibition, so I think it’s amazing that we live in a town where we can actually do something like that,” she said.
“My sister is the artist, and she lives in Sydney; she’d dream about getting access to a gallery that says, ‘here, come and put your stuff on the wall’, so I recognise how lucky we are.”
She said they were both completely homegrown artists, having been long-time attendees of the town’s various art workshops and classes.
“Gisela and I are both long-standing Cooktown residents who both started our artistic journeys here; I’ve never had an art lesson outside of Cooktown,” Ms Blumer told Cape York Weekly
“I’m proud to say that every RADF (Regional Arts Development Fund) workshop, every workshop down at the gallery, every drawing class, I am one of the products of that; as an artist, I have been produced by
Cooktown and the support that we get from various funding resources.”
The title of the exhibition also reflects what the pair call an “intuitive style”, where they pick up the paintbrush without a plan, resulting in abstract interpretations created by 10-15 layers of paint.
“I like the more abstract, wild stuff,” Ms Whithear said.
“We got together because we have a similar style, and we’ve been working together and painting every week.”
Cooktown School of Art Society president Jane Dennis said Imagine was part of a new directive to encourage artists to hold their own exhibitions and showcase their work individually.
“It just gives them a reason to develop their art and move on up, and it’s about giving people confidence,” she said.
“You don’t often get that opportunity with galleries, so we are still progressing with our open house policy of bringing different art to the public and encouraging artists to have a voice.
“When I was a young and emerging artist, a lot of galleries would not take you on, because they had their own agendas, so being in a smaller community, I think that level of acceptance is broader, which is exciting for me, because I’ve never felt that art is for the few, I feel like art is for everybody to get involved in any way they like.”
Imagine will be available to the public from 29 March to 7 April at the Elizabeth Guzsely Gallery.
Artist Gisela Whithear describes her work as abstract, wild and a little bit offbeat.
Cooktown artists Gisela Whithear and Tracey Blumer ahead of their exhibition Imagine
Health graduates bound for Cape
FIVE new nursing and one midwifery graduates are heading north after joining Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS).
Executive director of nursing and midwifery services Jacob Walsh said the graduates would be initially posted to the general wards in the Weipa, Cooktown and Thursday Island hospitals, with the region’s newest midwife also heading to the Torres Strait.
“The registered nurse graduates will have a range of clinical experiences, including acute medical, surgical, emergency care, community, and primary health care,’’ Mr Walsh said.
He said the new registered nurse
graduates were from a variety of universities and backgrounds, including Thursday Island’s Gabrielle Sabatino, who has swapped an office for a ward.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Join the CUC board
COUNTRY Universities Centre Cape York is seeking community members passionate about education to join its board “to help shape the future of higher education” in the region.
Those with experience in law, finance, IT, auditing, compliance or cultural practices are being urged to consider applying for a board position, which will involve a bimonthly meeting either in Cooktown or virtually via Teams.
Applications close at 5pm on 31 March. For more information, or to submit an application, visit www.cuccapeyork.edu.au.
Commitment to councils
THE State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to working arm-in-arm with local governments following the signing of a new Equal Partners in Government Agreement at Parliament House on 12 March.
Premier David Crisafulli, Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy, and Local Government Association of Queensland chief executive officer Alison Smith and president Mayor Matt Burnett formally signed the agreement, which is the first step in rebuilding the relationship between the state and its 77 councils.
The Equal Partners in Government Agreement was first signed in 2012, and the new agreement empowers councils to improve their liveability and strengthen local economies.
Mayor Burnett welcomed the new agreement, which he said further cemented the excellent working relationship the government had garnered with councils since coming to office in October 2024.
“Partnerships only work when they are truly equal,” he said.
Deadline for beach clean-up
RIO Tinto is reminding pet owners with animals buried at Nanum’s Dead Dog Beach they only have until 30 April to remove mementos ahead of a planned remediation project.
Starting in mid-2025, work will commence to clean up the popular area, with the project to include the removal of all above-ground items and rubbish from the area.
In consultation with Traditional Owners, Rio Tinto has also advised the burying of pets at Dead Dog Beach will no longer be permitted following the completion of the project.
For more information, call 1800 820 711 or email RTAWeipaFeedback@riotinto.com.
Originally from Tasmania, Mrs Sabatino met her husband, who is from Hammond Island, in Brisbane, and the couple moved to the Torres Strait in 2018.
various administrative positions, and said she was looking forward to continuing to serve her community, albeit in a new role.
“Initially, I wanted a change from administration and I really wanted to move into something clinical,’’ Mrs Sabatino said.
“After looking into a few different healthcare fields, nursing stood out as a highly rewarding career with diverse clinical and non-clinical opportunities.
“I was and still am really interested in chronic disease management, First Nations health and rural and remote health practice and research.’’
Mrs Sabatino completed her degree externally over four years, two full-time and two part-time, while also continuing to work parttime with the health service.
Because that’s what facts do. They get in the way of wild theories, sensational headlines, and stories that are just too good to be true. And that’s the point.
Real journalism isn’t about chasin g clicks or stirring outrage. It’s about accountability. It’s about getting the story right, not just being the first to talk about it.
It’s about knowing your community and knowing what matters most.
Because when the truth matters, shortcuts don’t cut it.
We believe facts make stories stronger, not weaker. That’s why everything we publish is grounded in independence, integrity and an unwavering commitment to accuracy and the community we are part of.
Truth isn’t a single person’s point of view.
It’s a responsibility. And it’s one we take seriously.
Trust journalism to deliver you the truth.
The latest cohort of nursing and midwifery graduates are all smiles as they prepare to head to Weipa, Cooktown and Thursday Island for Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service.
High praise for region’s vet clinic
By CHISA HASEGAWA
IN a profession shaped by long hours, tough conditions and harrowing turnover rates, a regional Queensland veterinary practice with clinics in Weipa and Cooktown is proving that workplaces can evolve to better support women.
Tableland Veterinary Service (TVS) has been named one of Australia’s 30 Best Workplaces for Women by Great Place to Work Australia, putting the business on the list as one of only three regional employers recognised for their commitment to supporting, empowering and retaining women in the field.
Five years ago, TVS challenged the traditional rigid rostering and after-hour demands of the industry, which often disproportionately affected women, and instead opted for a four-day work week and flexible scheduling.
“We recognised that we were losing a lot of staff, and a lot of that was because women were leaving the industry itself, not because they were moving to another workplace and still being a vet,” director and vet Dr Stephanie Williams said.
“Women were just saying, I can’t juggle this level of work and run a household, and that’s been a problem across the board in veterinary practices.
“We consciously changed the way our full-time vets had to work, so everyone dropped to a four-day
week and stayed on the same salary, and we’ve got a lot of part-time and some casual staff now.
“That’s allowed us to keep peo-
ple on, even when
they have started a family or have other things in their life they need to fit in as well.”
GREAT RADIO CONNECTING NORTH QLD
schedule significantly lowering turnover rates.
“The retention rate is so much better; we used to be always desperately recruiting vets, to the point that we would hear of somebody that might be moving to the area and you’d be trying to contact them just to poach them,” she said.
“In some clinics, we’ve probably been over-staffed, while others in the industry are screaming for vets.
“It’s great having a familiar face and having staff that the clients can get to know, rather than it being locums or people that are a temporary solution.”
Senior vet and TVS director Dr Tamara Olley, who regularly travels to the Cooktown clinic, said the “family feel” and flexibility had kept her at TVS for almost two decades – her entire career as a vet.
“I think because we have that family feel, it’s okay to say no and have boundaries around your work,” she said.
“For example, today, I’ve picked my children up [from school] at three and finished early, so there’s that flexibility we try to offer all our staff in all positions.
“It’s also the support, and the confidence in the staff; if I’ve got a sick child or something, and I’m working away from the clinic, I know the other people in the clinic can help me out in those kinds of situations, and I can do the same for others when they need it.”
Cooktown asked to have its say on centre’s future
THE Cooktown District Community Centre (CDCC) is aiming for more than 400 responses to a survey that will help set the agenda for the Cooktown Events Centre.
Cook Shire Council resumed management of the facility in late 2024 and has partnered with the CDCC to undertake the Cook Shire Community Activity and Program Survey 2025, which will give stakeholders an opportunity to have their say on what they would like to see offered.
CDCC chief executive officer Tracey Boulton said it was important the community had its voice heard through the survey.
“With new management in place [at the events centre], there’s a fresh opportunity for the community to shape how the venue is used and bring long-envisioned programs to life,” she said.
Cook Shire Mayor Robyn Holmes echoed the sentiment and urged residents to complete the survey.
“The survey’s really important, because we want to know what programs the com-
munity wants – if no one responds, we don’t know what they want,” she said.
“It sets the scene for us to put on programs the community will embrace.”
Community members can complete the survey in person at the CDCC on Charles Street, via the CDCC Facebook page, or by scanning the QR code above.
Dr Williams told Cape York Weekly the change had also been great in maintaining consistency for clients, with a balanced work
Residents are being urged to have their say on what programs they want to see running at the Cooktown Events Centre after Cook Shire Council resumed management of the facility last year.
Senior vet and Tableland Veterinary Service director Dr Tamara Olley says the structure of the business allows her to balance being a mother and a career woman.
Resilience cash on offer in Cape
By CHISA HASEGAWA
A GRANT that is helping Bloomfield build a community hub kitchen after the devastation of Tropical Cyclone Jasper is now open again for 2025.
The Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) and Suncorp launched the latest round of grants aimed at supporting community groups in remote, rural and regional Australia to build back better after extreme weather events as part of the Rebuilding Futures program.
Community groups and not-for-profit organisations in regions affected by declared disasters or extreme weather events between 2019 and 2024 are invited to apply for funding to reduce the impact of disasters and prepare for future weather events.
The Bloomfield River District Residents Association received a $20,000 grant last year to build a kitchen at the Tin Shed.
“The Tin Shed came to be used as a community hub during the 2023 disaster and onto 2024, but there was no kitchen,” secretary Robyn Guedes said.
“There’s a little sink which is nothing to
speak of, so we applied for the FRRR grant to install a kitchen that the community can use, so that people who are displaced and don’t have a home, they don’t have to be leaning on other people and making food in other people’s kitchens.”
With the kitchen plans currently going through council approval processes, Ms Guedes encouraged other Cape York groups needing to rebuild and improve after Tropical Cyclone Jasper to apply for the grant.
“They definitely should; I’ve actually spoken to the Rossville group and encouraged them to apply for it,” she said.
“In our application, it was about us having been through the disaster and highlighting the great community need for it.
“Services were springing up inside the tiny Ayton library and there were people on top of each other, so there was really a need to have a community hub, but something that is a bit functional, so it’s something that we want to build on.”
Applications for both streams of funding through FRRR close at 5pm on 3 April.
For more information, visit www.frrr.org. au/funding.
Torres Strait sea cucumber season sets a new record
IN just three days, Torres Strait fishers have generated an estimated $700,000 for the local economy after harvesting a record number of sea cucumbers earlier this month.
The sea cucumber, also known as the beche-de-mer, is considered a luxury seafood product in the lucrative Asian markets, earning fishers up to $40 per kilogram at beach prices, before buyers exported the dried delicacy worldwide.
This year’s harvesting season ran from 3-5 March, during which fishers collected 19.22 tonnes of the high-value black teatfish species – just shy of the season’s 22t catch limit.
John Tabo, a local commercial fisherman and Kemer Kemer Meriam representative for the region’s hand collectables fisheries
group, said the beche-de-mer industry was one of the highest earning fisheries in the Torres Strait region for locals.
“The black teatfish opening date was set at the right tides and time,” Mr Tabo said.
“Plenty of fishers look forward to the season opening – it benefits everybody in the whole community.”
In 2023, the region’s beche-de-mer fishery reopened after a 20-year closure to support regeneration of black teatfish and increase stock levels, so the species could be harvested sustainably, and in accordance with strict minimum size limits.
Most of the region’s beche-de-mer are harvested from waters surrounding Mer, Erub and Ugar islands in the eastern Torres Strait.
Community Feedback and Complaints
Torres Strait fishermen Nodoro Mabo and John Tabo celebrate a lucrative sea cucumber season.
Bloomfield’s Tin Shed, which served as a community hub during the Tropical Cyclone Jasper disaster, will be getting a new kitchen thanks to an extreme weather recovery grant program.
CapeYorkWeekly
andtheireffortsthatsavedlivesacrosstheCape disasterFarNorthinwhatwastheregion’sworst Puttinginlivingmemory.theirownlivesatrisktohelp boththetheirmatesandcompletestrangers,theyare WhenembodimentoftrueblueAussiespirit.
InAndtheydiditallforfree. manythisspecialedition,welooktoshareas highlightingofthosegoodnewsstoriesaspossible, thebestofwhathasbeenahor
littleasaresultofCycloneJasper,whoproduced bomb”fanfareonarrival,onlytoleavea“rain ofbiblicalproportionsinhiswake.
Local knowledge comes in handy
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
THERE’S a lot to be said for the benefit of letting people experience something with their own senses to garner a better understanding and appreciation of its importance, rather than lecturing about why it is so.
It’s certainly the case when it comes to the environment, and why it’s so critical it’s properly managed and protected, especially in landscapes as sensitive and precious as those we are fortunate enough to live amongst on Cape York and in the Torres Strait.
Before you tar and feather me as a hypocrite for saying that while continuing to criticise the push by the federal and former state governments to slap parts of Cape York with World Heritage status, consider how perfect an example my apparent juxtaposed thinking is of the polar opposite outcomes of experienced versus told learning.
Should some of our political overlords get their way to let UNSECO put parts of Cape York on the World Heritage list, it would require a ludicrous schedule of reporting, rules, regulations and red tape designed to control our backyard and guarantee the snoutin-trough careers of a battalion of bureaucrats both here and in Paris for decades to come.
Would the UNSECO tick of approval really make us and anyone who visits the region better understand environmental protection and why we all have a role to play?
Would World Heritage status help unlock remote economic sustainability by allowing us to use the environment as an educational tool?
In both cases, I’d argue there’s an overwhelming case for no, and you only have to look at other places to have received UN-
ESCO’s blessing to see what I’m talking about.
How then do we best protect our incredible natural environment for generations to come? How can we more effectively educate ourselves and visitors about the beautiful fragility of the environment? I say the answer is in empowering the best resource we have available – the people who call Cape York and the Torres Strait home.
The idea came to me at the weekend when I caught up with Kuku
Whether it’s a Traditional Owner, an island tour operator or a pastoralist, they all have a story to tell about their stewardship of the environment around them, whether it’s been for 30 years or 30,000 years. Why aren’t we exploiting this reality to drive and prioritise projects that will deliver environmental and economic wins?
What’s going to engage a tourist more – a social media campaign about protecting Cape York through the World Heritage machine, or letting them help muster cattle across a vast station, taste bush tucker and watch a sunset from the west coast of the Cape or one of the Torres Strait islands in genuine lived experiences of the connection between people and nature?
Nyungkul Elder Harold “Mooks” Tayley to check out his new-look bush medicine tour ahead of the annual influx of tourists from all over the world. Mooks is knowledgeable, passionate and able to convey key messaging about his culture, story and the necessity of sustainable environmental management better than any UNESCO or government propaganda or oversight ever could – and there are hundreds like him across Cape York and the Torres Strait.
We’re lucky to have both the people and the canvas to sell the message of environmental protection better than anyone else, and the most effective way to achieve large-scale societal awareness may be to unlock unique hyperlocal ecotourism opportunities across the region.
If we and the estimated 100,000 tourists who visit Cape York each year can be immersed in the learning experience, not only do we start to nurture remote economic diversity, but we also create annual armies of people committed to environmental protection because they’ve seen, smelled, touched, tasted and heard the stories.
Free Appraisals – Start the year by discovering your property’s true value, obligation-free
Results-Focused – We’re dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for every sale
Expert Advice – Benefit from local knowledge & personalized service from a boutique agency
Sales Only – 100% focused on selling your property & delivering outstanding results
THINKING OF SELLING?
Don’t wait – kickstart your plans today and
Editor Lyndon Keane says the best environmental protection Cape York and the Torres Strait can receive is through people like Kuku Nyungkul Traditional Owner and bush medicine guide Harold “Mooks” Tayley, pictured on his grandfather’s Country at Rossville, sharing their passion and knowledge with locals and visitors.
Cape York Weekly Puzzles Page
Sudoku
Fill in the blank cells using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and 3x3 block.
Quick Workout
Fit the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same. No number is repeated in any hexagon.
CUC Cape York BOARD VACANCY
Do you have a passion to empower our communities to realise higher education aspirations?
Do you have skills to contribute to a dynamic and evolving non-profit community education organisation?
Country Universities Centre Cape York Ltd (CUC-CY) has vacancies for board members to serve on its volunteer board. CUC-CY’s original board was designed to support the establishment of the centre in 2022. With establishment of the centre complete and further funding confirmed to 2029, CUC-CY is now seeking local board members from across Cape York Peninsula to support its ongoing success. Each board member is generally appointed for a term of 3 years.
Potential board members should have a connection to the Cape York Peninsula and expertise in law, information technology, finance, auditing/compliance, and cultural practices will be highly regarded.
Bi-monthly meetings are held in-person at CUC-CY in Cooktown and available to attend via Teams Meetings are generally scheduled for the last Friday of the second month at 1pm AEST with the AGM held each year in late November.
Applicants are requested to provide a written application outlining:
• Why you wish to join the board
• Your community involvement
• What you can contribute to the CUC-CY Ltd board
Please attach a copy of your resume.
Applications close: 5pm, Monday 31 March 2025
Submit applications to: jenni.james@cuccapeyork.edu.au
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted by telephone to undertake an interview in April
For further information or a confidential discussion, please contact CUC-CY Chair Marilyn Morris 0488 246 371 or Centre Manager Jenni James 0499 202 249.
TENDER NOTICE
Northern Bypass Road - Northern Approach to Jardine Ferry Crossing
The Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) is now accepting tender submissions from businesses and individuals interested in the Northern Bypass Road upgrade to seal project (northern approach to Jardine River ferry crossing).
T002-25 Northern Bypass Road – Northern Approach to Jardine Ferry Crossing
Interested companies and individuals must download Tender documents, complete the Schedules and relevant attachments and submit their Tender Response via VendorPanel. Tender documents are available for download from the Local Buy VendorPanel website https://www.vendorpanel.com.au/ publictenders.aspx under the above Contract number and project name.
Tenders shall be lodged via Local Buy VendorPanel and must be received before 17:00 (AEST), Wednesday 2 April 2025. Further information can be obtained by contacting Council’s Operations Department via email tenders@nparc.qld.gov.au
Lew Rojahn Acting Chief Executive Officer
Weipa Open champion out to defend his title in 2025 Milestone parkrun for visitor
By LYNDON KEANE
THE combination of camaraderie and red-hot action on the course is what will draw golfers from across Far North Queensland to western Cape York in the first weekend of May, says the player aiming for back-to-back crowns at the 2025 Weipa Goodline Open.
Carpentaria Golf Club will roll out the red carpet to welcome competitors for the 36-hole showdown on 3-4 May, with the course set to impress visitors despite a “difficult” wet season.
Matt Slade, who wrestled the Agrade men’s title from fellow Weipa golfer Warren Brewer in 2024, said he had been thrilled to stop a Brewer four-peat and was looking forward to defending his crown in six weeks.
“It was good to get one up on him finally,” Slade said.
“If I can get it again this year, I’ll be happy.”
When asked what it was about the Open that attracted local players and those from more than 1,000 kilometres away each year, Slade said he believed there was significant appeal both on and off the course.
“It’s just a good weekend. A lot of the Weipa players, they’re really social, and it’s all about having fun
together – the golf’s just a bonus,” he said.
Club president Murray Mountjoy said the Open had developed a reputation that made it a must-do competition for amateur golfers in the state’s north.
“It’s certainly a fun, enjoyable event,” he said.
“It’s got a high level of competition – it’s a very competitive com-
petition, but it’s also one where players are going to enjoy themselves; we like to think we’re good hosts, and certainly look forward to welcoming the other clubs who travel up here to compete.”
Although Weipa has experienced a hit-and-miss wet season, Mr Mountjoy said the course was playing well ahead of the biggest event on the local golfing calendar.
“Goodline are on board, and I’d like to acknowledge them as a wonderful, generous sponsor,” he said.
“I’m also very pleased to say the golf course at the moment, while the wet season has been difficult, is looking pretty good; the greens are in the best condition they have been in a long time, and we’re hoping that will hold out until May.”
ALMOST 20 per cent of the field of 71 participants notched up personal bests when they pounded the pavement for Weipa parkrun #410 on 15 March.
The highlight of the event was the participation of visiting parkrunner Sheridan Davis, who arrived from Brisbane on Friday with her father, Warren Williams, and flew out of Weipa on Sunday just to say she had laced up her shoes for Australia’s northernmost parkrun for her birthday.
Chrisden Russ was the first male across the finish line in 20 minutes, 46 seconds, while Emma Eyre’s 26:16 put her at the pointy end of female finishers.
Ryder Street, Scott Easter, Hailee Ryan, Finley Nadredre, Ravi Jyani, Lala Bowie, Ali Scott, Mallory Allen, Bianca Icke, Catherine Samuel, Nathini Kanthan, Nicola Campbell, Aloesi Poi Poi and Yavala Poi Poi were the 14 participants to notch up PB times.
Saturday’s volunteers included Judey Haeusler, Alister Munro, Vide Freiberg, Sheridan Davis, Zigmund Freiberg, Ella Brown, Luther Freiberg, Mel Scott, Nicole Pritchard and Anthony Newsome.
Gutsy Barton vows to lift work rate before next bout
HE may not have walked away with the eighth win of his career, but boxer Jack Barton has returned to Weipa with a resolve to “work harder” as he sets his sights on his next challenge in the ring.
Barton, 17, was beaten by 19-year-old Ethan Reynolds in a unanimous decision at The Big Fights 38 in Toowoomba on 15 March, but said he was taking plenty of positives from the clash.
“I’m feeling pretty good,” he said after the bout.
“There’s a real professional level of fighting with this [event] with the weigh-in and stand-off – it was cool.
The young fighter said he felt more comfortable stepping into the ring in the 81 kilogram weight class, adding he was confident
it would not be long before he added another win to his record.
“I’ve just got to do more training and work harder so the next one’s a win,” he said.
“I feel a lot more comfortable not having to drop more weight, so I’ll try and stay at that, have a few more fights at that weight and see how I go.”
The pro-am event was also the 10th anniversary of the death of boxer Braydon “Brayd” Smith,” and Barton’s father, Scott, said it had been an emotional night for competitors and the nearly 1,000 boxing fans in attendance.
“It was massive and it was really emotional for Jack, because he was part of a 10-year memorial for Braydon Smith,” Mr Barton said.
Ethan Reynolds (right) gets a unanimous judges’ verdict in his 81 kilogram division amateur fight against Weipa’s Jack Barton in Toowoomba on 15 March.
Matt Slade says he is looking forward to defending his crown in the 2025 Weipa Goodline Open on 3-4 May.
Second-best round secures win for Lucas
THERE were no easy conditions for Dawnbusters on Sunday as they were greeted with the mercury at 31 degrees and humidity north of 90 per cent as they tackled the Carpentaria Golf Club back nine.
Jim Lucas carded a gross 48, his second best round of the season, to secure his sec-
ond season win with nett 17, with Jon Dall recording an even half century for nett 20 and his first bridesmaid crown of the year.
Beth Dall chalked up her seventh Hoffman’s title, while Scott Triffitt and Viv Chan took the big-hitting long drive honours.
Triffitt backed up his driving prowess by
claiming the pin prize on the 18th hole. Lucas said he was happy with his off-the-stick showing, which was only bettered by his gross 47 in November last year.
Dawnbusters will take on the front nine on 23 March, with new players welcome to join the action from about 6:45am.
Country star to headline milestone Weipa Rodeo
By LYNDON KEANE
ENTERTAINMENT for the 20th Weipa Rodeo is set to hit the right notes with the announcement an Australian country music star will take to the stage for both nights of the milestone event.
James Blundell will make his maiden trip to western Cape York to perform on 22-23 August and told Cape York Weekly he could not wait to get bauxite dust on his boots.
“I’ve never been to Weipa,” he said.
“It’s combining two great loves of mine – being to a place I’ve never been, and rodeo, which is one of those addictions.”
With a career spanning almost four decades, Blundell said rodeo patrons could expect a mix of old and new songs, with the promise crowd favourites would definitely be on the set list.
“It’s going to be a mix of the old and new stuff,” he said.
“I’m always conscious of not playing too much new stuff, especially in a traditional crowd; there are just sets that make sense to play in a setting like that.”
Weipa Rodeo Association entertainment co-ordinator and former president Steve Fairbrother said securing Blundell was a coup for the event’s 20th anniversary, and said musician
Danny Phegan, who is no stranger to performing on western Cape York, had played a pivotal role in making it a reality.
“I said to Danny, ‘I don’t really know what I want, but we want to make it good for 20 [years]’,” Mr Fairbrother said.
“Danny was at Tamworth at the time, and came up with a couple of suggestions, and one of them was James Blundell.
“Danny’s become like part of
the family up here in Weipa, and we relied on his help and we secured James.”
Mr Fairbrother said both musicians would perform during the two-day event, adding he believed many would converge on Weipa just for the live entertainment line-up.
“Mate, it’s fantastic for the rodeo; once we start putting our [social media] clips together with both James and Danny, it’s
going to draw people to town just to watch the entertainment,” he said.
“The rodeo’s about families and all of the community.
“James will be playing both nights; I plan on having Danny sing the national anthem on the Friday night and James sing the national anthem on the Saturday.
“It’s a pretty spectacular thing when they do that in the arena with the grand entry.”
SPORT IN BRIEF
Weipa karting AGM
DRIVERS, officials and supporters will make tracks to Carpentaria Golf Club this week for the 2025 Weipa Dirt Kart Club annual general meeting.
The meeting will commence at 6pm on 20 March and a club spokesperson said it would present a chance for new members to find out what the sport was all about.
“Whether you’re a seasoned member or someone curious about what we do, this is the perfect opportunity to get involved,” the spokesperson said.
“Come along, meet the team and discover the thrill of dirt kart racing.”
For more information, check out the club’s Facebook page.
Pom topples big field
‘POM’ emerged triumphant from a bumper field of 22 golfers when the weekly dose of Wackers returned to Weipa on 12 March.
With the exception of one shower, fine weather blanketed the Carpentaria Golf Club course, with Pom’s nett 29.5 providing clear air to take home the winner’s chocolates over runner-up PK, who carded a nett 32.5.
Matt Byrne bagged the 7th hole pin prize, while no one could bother the scorers on hole nine.
Bruce Brockhurst claimed the Bradman’s on countback from Grant Crossley.
League training begins
THE Cooktown District Junior Rugby League club will kick off training for its 2025 season from today (18 March).
With players ranging from 6-17 years old, the sessions have been staggered to maximise skill development and space to train. Under-6 and U7 players will train from 4-5pm on Tuesdays, U8s from 5-6pm on Tuesdays, U9/10s Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-6pm, and U11/12s from 4-5pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
U13/14s will take to the training paddock from 5-6pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with the U13-17 League Tag players lacing up their boots from 4-5pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
A club spokesperson asked players to arrive 10 minutes before their allocated training time and remember to bring the required safety gear.
Australian country music star James Blundell will headline the entertainment for the 2025 Weipa Rodeo as western Cape York prepares to celebrate 20 years of the event. Photo: Justin’s Photo Works
FOR LEASE
Have you been looking to lease industrial land in Evans Landing? Here is your opportunity!
1780m2 fenced and gated. 2 x 20 foot storage containers with 2 x 8m covered workshops/storage adjoining Owners would prefer to lease in one parcel however will look at splitting if required. If you have been looking for this type of property or a block of this size then here is your opportunity to secure it.
• Only furniture and electrical business in Weipa
• Established for over 10 years & run locally • Partnered with three great buying groups, Furniture Court, Beds R Us & Bi-Rite • Established relationships with all local government departments, community trusts & businesses within Weipa & surrounds • Premises currently leased until September 2026
• Price includes 2021 Isuzu NPR truck & a 2005 Isuzu truck + 5 storage containers behind the store front • Stock is at value
• Opportunity to purchase or lease a 24 x 14 metre shed, located at Evans Landing on a 1588 square meter industrial block • Last three years trading figures are available after the signing of a confidentially agreement
