Visit provides Nicholls firsthand hospital health check
TCHHS chief executive Rex O’Rourke, Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls, board chair Renee Williams and Member for Cook David Kempton prepare to tour the Cooktown Hospital on 15 May. Find out what the minister had to say about the ageing facility on Page 5.
From Canberra to Cape
‘Passionate’ Smith wants ministers on ground
Matt Smith says he is committed to showing his Canberra colleagues “what we’re actually looking at here” on Cape York as the incoming Leichhardt MP plots a tour of his new 150,000 square kilometre kingdom to take the pulse of communities. Read the story on Page 3.
NOTICE OF SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING
In accordance with the Constitution of VMR Weipa Inc., notice is hereby given that a Special General Meeting will be held:
Date: Friday, 30th May
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Karumba
Purpose of Meeting:
To consider and vote on the proposed transition of VMR Weipa Inc. to become part of the newly established Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ), in line with the Queensland Government’s marine rescue service reform initiative.
All members are encouraged to attend. An online voting poll will also be available in the VMR group chat for those unable to attend in person.
For further information, please contact the Secretary, Peter Graham.
By order of the Committee, Brendon Fay President, VMR Weipa Inc.
NPA s tudents set sights on career possibilities
Cnr of Endeavour Road and McMillan Streets, Cooktown Ph: 0419 759 892
by CHISA HASEGAWA
THINKING about what to do after high school is a daunting decision for any student, but in remote areas like the Northern Peninsula Area, the multitude of options can seem even more obscure.
Taking away some of that fear and uncertainty last week was the Northern Peninsula Area State College career fair, which featured 23 organisations from both the local community and outside for students to see what pathways were available to them after graduation.
Bamaga Senior Campus guidance officer Dan Low said the 14 May event had been a
huge hit with the students, with many stumbling upon a new sense of direction.
“We had students approaching different stalls, asking questions about how to apply for jobs, and asking about the school subjects they need to study in order to enrol for different opportunities,” he said.
“I’ve already had multiple students bring me applications for jobs and say that they want to fill it out, they want to attend JCU for a program, or they want to go and attend Rio Tinto for work experience.
“There’s been a big, sparking interest of students that are voicing the job opportunities that they want to do, based on what they’ve seen in our careers fair, so that’s pretty special.”
He said a mixture of local and outside organisations allowed the students to appreciate what opportunities were already in their backyard, while opening their eyes to pathways they had never considered.
“It was a really good opportunity for students to see local members of the community working for a job and holding different positions in the organisations for the students to then see themselves in,” he said.
“I think having the mix of local agencies and then outside of town agencies come in and offer the opportunity to travel was so important.”
Cairns senator picks up key northern assistant ministries
Proposed Development
67 on SP249793
Approval sought: Development
Permit for Material Change of Use (Service Station)
Application ref: DA 04-25-15(1) Mer Island Fuel Facility
You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to: Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) PO Box 7336, Cairns QLD, 4870
E: info@tsirc.qld.gov.au
P: (07) 4034 5700
W: www.tsirc.qld,gov.au
Public notification requirements are in accordance with the Planning Act 2016
THE appointment of a Cairnsbased senator to several assistant ministries pertinent to Cape York and the Torres Strait is being viewed as a win for the region.
Following the 3 May federal election, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese last week unveiled his new-look cabinet, with Queensland Senator Nita Green set to take on the Northern Australia, Tourism and Pacific Island Affairs portfolios as part of the reshuffle.
The Northern Australia and Tourism portfolios are seen as vital to the success of the northernmost part of the country, and having a representative familiar with the region has been welcomed by community leaders.
In a Facebook post, Senator Green said she was proud to have been appointed as an assistant minister and that she “can’t
wait to get cracking on some exciting portfolios”.
“I am humbled to be asked to serve as an assistant minister by the Prime Minister,” Senator Green said in the post.
“The portfolios of Northern Australia, Tourism and Pacific Island Affairs are intrinsically linked and provide an opportunity to focus on what is unique to, and strategically important about, our region and our closest neighbours.
“I’m a very proud North Queenslander; I’m proud of what we have to offer and the opportunities that lie ahead of us; I will continue to champion the region I’m lucky to call home, in the Senate, and now as a member of the frontbench.”
Madeleine King was sworn in as Minister for Northern Australia, while Don Farrell retained the Trade and Tourism portfolio.
Northern Peninsula Area State College students are feeling a little more sure about their futures after a jam-packed career day on 14 May.
‘Passionate’ Smith promises Cape communities say in future
by LYNDON KEANE
IT is impossible for the newlyminted Member for Leichhardt not to cut an imposing figure in the halls of Parliament, but Matt Smith is hoping it is his representation of one of the remotest parts of the country, and not his 211-centimetre frame, that really makes him known in Canberra.
Mr Smith travelled to Canberra earlier this month to be sworn into the Labor caucus and said his initial impression of the heart of federal politics had been a combination of awe and climate shock.
“The amount of work done in that building (Parliament House) is just incredible,” he said.
“People arrive at seven in the morning and they don’t leave until nine or 10 o’clock at night in what is essentially off season.
“And it’s cold beyond any reason; they’re telling me it’s going to get worse, but if the worst thing I have to suffer through is the odd cold morning to make sure we’re getting it done for Leichhardt, I’ll live with that.”
With the Australian Electoral Commission showing a 9.53 per cent swing against the Liberal National Party (LNP) and candidate Jeremy Neal in Leichhardt, Mr Smith said he believed the result demonstrated how many electors had been voting for
long-serving MP Warren Entsch, and not the party.
“The big question was always was it an LNP seat, or was it a
Warren Entsch seat?” he said.
“It turns out Warren was carrying a lot of personal votes himself.”
In a refreshing admission seldom seen in raw politicians, Mr Smith said he had caught up with his predecessor on 14 May to discuss the electorate, adding he intended to use Mr Entsch’s knowledge of the electorate as a bipartisan resource.
“We’ve also now got Nita (Green) as an assistant minister, so between Warren and Nita, I’ve got a good reference,” he told Cape York Weekly
“I’m going to blaze my own trail, but it’s foolish to ignore institutional knowledge, and both of them have it in spades.”
When asked how long it would be before Cape York residents saw him on the ground, Mr Smith said a trip to the far north of his electorate was a priority.
“As soon as I’m declared, we’re going to start a tour straight away … to sit down with community leaders,” he said.
“It’s important that each individual community has its say on its future; there is no one-sizefits-all approach, and anyone who says that about the Cape is wrong.”
He added that while the Albanese government was yet to commit the $240 million needed to progress stage three of the Cape York Region Package to seal the Peninsula Developmental Road, he was “passionate” about ensuring the project received the funding green light.
“It’s my job to bring them
(government ministers) up and show them what we’re actually looking at here,” he said.
“I’m hoping to bring ministers up over the next few weeks and move from there.
“It’s something that I’m very passionate about, and I know it’s something the Cape communities are crying out for.”
Cooktown gets green thumb for Botanic Gardens Week
COOK Shire Council is once again set to join gardens across Australia and New Zealand to mark Botanic Gardens Week 2025 with a week-long program celebrating all things botany.
The program, which runs from 19-25 May, coincides with the 10th anniversary of Botanic Gardens Day, an initiative led by Botanic Gardens Australia and New Zealand to raise national awareness about the vital role botanic gardens play in conservation, education and community wellbeing.
The 2025 theme of Guardians of the Green: Protecting Our Future invites the community to reflect on its role in caring for the environment while enjoying a fun-filled
week of activities, according to Mayor Robyn Holmes.
“We’re proud to be part of this national celebration and to showcase the beauty and biodiversity of our very own Cooktown Botanic Gardens,” she said.
“Botanic Gardens Week is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature, share knowledge, and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.”
Throughout the week, the Cooktown gardens will come alive with engaging, family-friendly activities including a scavenger hunt, pot-a-plant, guided tours, Coffee with the Curator, and the popular Banks and Solander cruise.
The week-long celebration will culminate on 25 May with an open day from 10am to 3pm, with the free event set to feature a community cricket match, live music, face painting, a scarecrow-making competition and painting workshops.
“The open day is the perfect way to wrap up a week of discovery and inspiration,”
Mayor Holmes said.
“It’s a chance for the whole community to come together, enjoy everything the gardens have to offer, and celebrate the vital role they play in our environment and our lives.”
To view the schedule, visit www.cook. qld.gov.au/BGANZWeek.
Incoming Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith (left) is sworn into the Labor caucus with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Canberra last week.
Minister gives Cooktown Hospital health check
by LYNDON KEANE
The man responsible for the state’s health services has seen for himself the urgent need for Cooktown’s ageing hospital to receive a $200 million upgrade during a Cape York visit on 15 May.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls visited Cooktown and Hope Vale during a regional tour last week, and said being on the ground had provided perspective not possible from the south-east corner of Queensland.
“It’s a great opportunity to be here,” he said.
“This is the first of the really, if I can put this, remote communities that I’ve visited outside of Cairns, outside of Townsville, and it’s really good opportunity to see the circumstances here … and understand exactly the need of the Cooktown community and the broader community in and around this area.”
Minister Nicholls toured the facility, including its helipad, which is currently unable to be used due to concerns about the impact rotor wash would have on the dilapidated infrastructure surrounding it, including the hospital’s tarp-covered kitchen.
“It’s not ideal, let me start off in that way,” he said of the situation requiring patients to be transported to the town’s airport, about 20 minutes away.
“It should have been fixed; it’s 10 years
of neglect – the former government knew it needed to be fixed, and that is why it features in our hospital rescue plan.”
Cook MP David Kempton said the hospital, which was built in the 1980s, “wasn’t really fit for purpose then, and it certainly isn’t now”.
The absence of any health services in Lakeland was also flagged with the minister, who said Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service was determining the logis-
tics of establishing a temporary clinic in the gateway to Cape York.
“We know that there’s a real surge of people coming in [to Lakeland], not just with local residents, not just with tourists, but also the farm workers coming through as well,”
Minister Nicholls said.
“I’ve spoken to … the chief executive of the health service here about some models of care that we can introduce in there, and we’re looking at co-operating with the
council up there about perhaps using their facilities, and what a clinic there would look like.”
Cook Shire Mayor Robyn Holmes described the minister’s visit as positive, and said she believed him witnessing the condition of the hospital, including the tarped roof of the derelict kitchen, had been an eye opener.
“I think he really appreciated what the challenges were,” she said.
“He appreciated the shortfalls for the community, and how pretty much everything hinges on the redevelopment of the hospital.
“I don’t think that (the tarped kitchen roof) could happen down there [in Brisbane].
“In reality, seeing is believing, so I do appreciate he made the effort to come and do it; this has been going on for a long time, and it’s getting quite frustrating having to wait.”
During the visit, Mr Kempton said the government was committed to returning maternity services to Cooktown.
“My three children, I lived here, and they were born away, which was a massive disruption of our family and financially,” he said.
“So, this health and hospital centre will include birthing and maternity services, which is critical for this town and to keep people here at home.”
Phase one of the upgrade is due to commence in 2026.
Minister for Health and Ambulances Tim Nicholls services discusses the current condition of the Cooktown Hospital with director of medical services Dr Natasha Coventry during a tour on Thursday.
Cost, delay frustration ‘absolutely’ understood: Sea Swift chairman
by LYNDON KEANE
THE boss of the region’s key sea freight operator says he “absolutely” understands the frustration of customers regarding costs and shipping delays, and wants to see government intervention to provide hip pocket relief to Cape York and Torres Strait residents and business operators.
Sea Swift executive chairman Chris Pearce invited the Cape York Weekly for a tour of the company’s Cairns operation on 14 May to provide a behind-the-scenes look at the logistics of delivering freight to the remotest part of Queensland, and address criticism about its ownership framework and skyrocketing costs.
The company is 100 per cent owned by the Queensland Government Insurance Fund, but Mr Pearce said he did not agree with the suggestion dividends paid to the Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC), which manages the investment, was impacting Sea Swift’s service delivery.
“QIC invested heavily in Sea Swift on behalf of the superannuation funds, so it’s dividends do not impact on our ability to run this business,” he said.
“The reality is, with this business, every one of those ships costs a lot of money.”
Mr Pearce said one of the biggest challenges for the company was the unpredictability of some freight volumes, and the high cost of replacing plant and equipment battered by salt spray.
As an example, he estimated the trucks Sea Swift uses to refuel sites across Cape York and the Torres Strait have a useable life of “about 15-18 months” due to rusting caused by seawater, while the same vehicle would last about a decade in normal operating conditions.
FREE COMMUNITY EVENT
In response to claims made earlier this month the company refused a Weipa-based business an account because it only used sea freight during the wet season, Mr Pearce said he did not believe it to be the case and said the issue would be investigated.
“We don’t knock people back,” he said.
“We understand some people use road [freight] during the dry period, and then come to us in the wet period, when we try to accommodate everything.
“Generally, we’ve got enough capacity to do that; the only times that things will fail is if we have an issue, like we were talking about before with the Newcastle Bay [crane malfunction].”
The Sea Swift boss praised his team and implored the public not to take their frustrations with the company out on the individuals on the ground.
“We’ve got a lot of people that work in this business that do some amazing things every day,” he said.
“We sail 365 days of the year,
right through Christmas, Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and we sail because we understand the critical nature of what we do.
“From time to time, we have issues, we’re slow; sadly, at times, some of our crew get abused by the general public – that’s really difficult to take, because they are good people.”
On the question of providing an offset to the high cost of sea freighting products to Cape York and the Torres Strait, Mr Pearce said he believed the government –whether state, federal or both – had a responsibility to ensure where people called home did not cause additional cost of living pressure.
“There’s no secret that I’ve been advocating for that for a while,” he said when asked about how vital freight relief was for the region.
“Some of our islands [we deliver to] have 89 people, right? And you’ve got hours of steaming time to get to the island, you’ve got hours at the island, and then you’ve got hours steaming off, and you’re delivering to 89 people.
“It’s just common sense that it would be expensive, and I believe that there should be some assistance from either a state or a federal level.
“I think it’s absolutely appropriate.”
Sea Swift operations co-ordinator Damone Everall and executive chairman Chris Pearce show off some of the spare engines the sea freight operator needs to keep on hand to ensure continuity of service for Cape York and the Torres Strait.
Classic prize pool swells to more than $200,000 to hook anglers
Who will share in the more than $200,000 prizes on offer when the brag mats are put away and the keyrings taken out at the 2025
Classic?
by LYNDON KEANE
ANGLERS love a bit of exaggeration, but there will be no need for tall tales when the curtain is raised on the prize pool ahead of the 2025 Weipa Fishing Classic (WFC).
The event, which will be held on 6-8 June, celebrates its platinum anniversary this year and while she was keeping mum on
exactly what prizes would be on offer, WFC president Lisa Lui said the pool had swelled to more than $200,000.
“The Top 30 prize pool is shaping up nicely,” she said.
“Each year, we aim to surpass the previous one, and I’m confident we’ve achieved that this year again.
“We have over $200,000 worth of prizes, and the list is
still growing; while I can’t reveal any details about the prize list just yet, we’ll be announcing it soon.”
With only three weeks remaining until gates at Andoom Oval open and the first lines are cast in Weipa’s ultimate flex of fishing muscle, Ms Lui said planning was in “full swing” and that more than half of the keyring tickets needed to get
your hands on one of the Top 30 prizes had already been sold.
“Our fantastic committee has been hard at work since December last year preparing for the 20th anniversary Fishing Classic,” she said.
“This year’s event promises to be our biggest yet.
“Ticket sales are progressing well; we’ve only been selling for a few weeks, and are already halfway through; if you haven’t secured your ticket yet, act fast before they sell out.”
While seeing who claims what prizes on the final night is the favourite element for many Weipa residents, Ms Lui said she found it impossible to narrow it down to a single part of the three-day event.
“I look forward to the Friday, the anticipation for the event to kick off, and watching everyone stream in once the gates open,” the WFC president said.
“I don’t have a favourite part – I love every moment.
“From the fish weigh-in, seeing everyone’s catches, and watching the kids bring theirs in, to the prize draws and the excitement when numbers are called out, the fireworks, the entertainment – it’s all fantastic.”
Cooktown goes purple to show DV support
by CHISA HASEGAWA
IT is a nightmare traditionally kept behind closed doors, but Cooktown will bring it to the forefront when the community turns purple this Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month.
On 22 May, the Cooktown District Community Centre (CDCC) domestic and family violence team is calling on all community members, schools, organisations and local services
to bring awareness by wearing purple, displaying purple decorations, and starting conversations about respect, support and prevention.
A CDCC domestic and family violence team member, who asked not to be named due to the sensitive nature of their work, said purple represented courage, strength and hope.
“It symbolises a commitment to ending domestic and family violence, and for us all to stand in solidarity with
those affected,” they said.
“Turn the community purple is to try and get the community to become aware of domestic and family violence, and how prevalent it is in all communities.
“In remote areas, it’s a good idea to try and harness the communities, because people are so dispersed and isolated, so it’s hard for us to get to them.”
The team member said the CDCC service covered not only those
in Cooktown, but also Wujal Wujal, Hope Vale, Laura and Bloomfield.
“The ones that are living out in those areas are the ones that often miss out, because there are only so many areas we can reach, and so many people we can reach,” they said.
“It is traditionally a type of behaviour that’s hidden, but the idea is, we’re bringing it out into the open, and telling people, don’t be afraid to report it, it’s not something you have to expe-
rience alone,” they said.
“Our hope is that a neighbour would stand up and go, well, I saw that turn the community purple thing, and they said it’s not right and I’m going to speak out.”
If you or someone you know needs help regarding domestic and family violence, call 1800RESPECT, DVConnect Womansline: 1800 811 811, DVConnect Mensline: 1800 600 636 or Lifeline (24-hour crisis line): 13 11 14.
Women’s health forum nears
WESTERN Cape York women will have a chance to hear from health experts, educators and guest speakers when a forum is held in Napranum next month.
Delegates of the inaugural Western CapeHER women’s health forum will converge on the Napranum Community Hall for the event, which will aim to pinpoint the challenges impacting western Cape York women from achieving their full health potential.
The forum will be held on 5-6 June, running from 7am-5:30pm on day one, and 7-11:30am on the final day.
For more information, or to register, visit www.westerncapeher.com.
Discover Cooktown
THE one-month countdown point has been passed as Cooktown prepares to welcome visitors from across Australia for its biggest community event of 2025.
The Cooktown Discovery Festival will be held on 20-22 June and is set to unite locals and tourists in a celebration of everything Cooktown, and the town’s unique shared history.
Highlights will include the grand street parade on Saturday afternoon, as well as the must-see re-enactment of Captain Cook’s landing on the final day of the festival.
To find out more, go to www. cooktowndiscovery.com.au.
Seed info sessions
THE Rio Tinto land and rehabilitation team will hold information sessions about its annual community seed collection program next month.
The sessions, which will include a free sausage sizzle, will be held in Aurukun at the IKC from 10am-1pm on 3 June, Mapoon at the council office on 4 June from 9:30am-12:30pm, and at the PCYC in Napranum from 9:30am-12:30pm on 5 June.
Anyone who would like to learn more about joining the program is urged to come and see the team at one of the sessions.
Weipa Fishing
Cape York voices needed for state’s ag future
by CHISA HASEGAWA
CAPE York primary producers will have their say on a draft blueprint set to “drive future investment, create jobs, and unlock opportunities for agribusiness” for the next 25 years in Weipa this month.
Primary Industries Prosper 2050, which was formulated with around 250 industry representatives at the Queensland Primary Industries Forum in Brisbane earlier this year, is now calling for public feedback as it tours the state.
On 30 May, local stakeholders are invited to ensure their voices are heard at the consultation session, which will be held at Weipa Motel and Resort from 11am.
Lakeland grazier Joy Marriott said she wanted to see the bureaucracy around multiple land use be eased, so landholders could make further use of what they have.
“Regardless of the tenure, we want to see more land use, and ease it up a bit, because even though I’m on a freehold block, if I want to go into any other industry, I’ve got to do a material change of use (MCU),” she said.
“You might have a marvellous idea and that’s all good, but you don’t actually benefit if it’s really prohibitive to have an alternative thing.
“We understand the environmental [aspect], we don’t want to trash the environment, but at the end of the day, people on the land need to be able to use their land.”
Ms Marriott said when she opened a campground on her property, she spent “half a million dollars, at least” on the MCU.
She criticised the government red tape that made it almost impossible for small businesses to survive, including after Tropical Cyclone Jasper, when residents set up small campsites through Hipcamp but were subsequently shut down.
“They’ve just been decimated, and it’s a little bit of cash, you
know, a little bit of income,” she said.
“They want to jump on us, and then you get the big properties that are owned by the carbon people, they don’t have to do a material change of use to start getting carbon credits, and they could be making millions of dollars, but us, if we want to have two people camping on our joint, we’ve got to do a material change of use and spend half a million dollars; it’s ridiculous.”
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) will undertake maintenance dredging from early May 2025 at the Port of Weipa.
Dredging will also be completed at Amrun on behalf of Rio Tinto.
The project will take up to four (4) weeks to complete.
The dredge vessel TSHD Brisbane, as well as support vessels, have restricted manoeuvring capability. Local and visiting boaties are asked to take care and notice of all warning flags and lights.
Maintenance dredging needs to be carried out to ensure that safe, navigable shipping depths are maintained.
Environmental controls and management measures will be implemented throughout the program to minimise the risk of any potential impact on the marine environment.
Your cooperation and understanding is appreciated.
“It’s hard enough doing business in Cape York, anyway, because of the remote location and the wet season.”
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said it was important voices from all communities and industry sectors were heard to ensure a future where Queensland primary industries could “thrive and prosper”.
“We want every industry to have their say, including those that operate out of the more re-
mote parts of Queensland, who often have to go above and beyond to have their voice and view heard,” he said.
“We need to work with the industry to return the sector to full profitability after decades of neglect under various Labor governments that took advantage of our food, fibre, foliage and especially fishing industries.”
Ms Marriott said biosecurity on the Cape was also a topic she wanted to see prioritised in the plan after the controversial mid2023 closure of the Cape York Biosecurity Centre.
“They’ve closed that biosecurity thing down at Coen, which leaves us very vulnerable; there’s a very leaky boundary going up to Indonesia and [Papua] New Guinea,” she said.
“Foot-and-mouth [disease] is in Indonesia, and it could come down through there, and we’re very aware that they’re going to draw a line, and that’s going to be called a buffer zone, and they will kill all our animals.
“Apart from the financial cost of it, most cattle people like their cattle; we’ve been breeding them for generations, and that’s the last thing we want to see.”
Stakeholders who cannot attend the in-person consultation can join the conversation online at www.dpi.engagementhub.com.au/ primary-industries-blueprint, with both the public and online consultation closing at 5pm on 9 June.
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett (right) is calling on Cape York primary producers to have their say on the Primary Industries Prosper 2050 plan. Photo: Supplied.
Baby, it’s been a big 12 months in Weipa
AS the Weipa Hospital celebrates the first anniversary of the return of birthing services on 22 May, the families of the first two babies born in the facility’s maternity suite in 2024 reflected on what having the option meant to them.
Since birthing services returned to western Cape York after a quarter-century hiatus, 20 babies –eight boys and 12 girls –have come into the world locally, including one on Mother’s Day earlier this month.
Emily Thorogood, the mother of little Vin, who made history as the birthing unit’s first arrival on 28 May 2024, praised the service and said it had helped facilitate a simple birth.
“My first son, Kai, was born in Mareeba, so we had to fly out of Wei-
pa at 36 weeks, and that would have been even more difficult to do with Vin when we had Kai to consider,” she said.
“With Vin, I was able to labour at home for a
while, then just drive two minutes to the hospital and Vin was born half an hour later.”
Mum Maddi, who gave birth to Millie, the birthing unit’s second
arrival, on 26 June last year, said she and partner Lincoln had initially planned to return to their hometown of Ipswich, west of Brisbane, to deliver.
“But birthing locally at Weipa turned out to be amazing and, logistically, it worked out perfectly for us; the idea that I could labour at home, then be able to go back to our own home with Millie straight away,” she said.
“I felt like the care at Weipa was so individualised; it was just about us and our baby from when we first moved to Weipa and had our first appointment with our midwife.”
Weipa’s last birthing service closed in 1999 and director of nursing Kindee Lawty said the milestone first birth had been a moment of cel-
ebration for the hospital’s midwifery group practice.
“Our first birth in May last year was an incredible moment for all of us here at Weipa,’’ she said.
“Our midwifery group practice team had been so dedicated to supporting the women of the western Cape through their pregnancy and post-natal journeys, and then to be able to provide a birthing service as well was so wonderful for our communities.
“That was exactly why we worked so hard to reopen this service, so that our families did not have to travel long distances to have their babies.’’
The western Cape York community is invited to the hospital to help celebrate the oneyear anniversary at a free event from 9am-12pm this Thursday.
Cooktown showcases silver screen for Reconciliation Week
FROM a sporting documentary to untold tales of slavery and an uplifting family favourite, Cooktown will come together to watch the stories of First Nations people on the big screen in celebration of National Reconciliation Week.
Running from 26-31 May, Cook Shire Council will present a three-night film festival featuring a curated selection of Indigenous films – each a compelling exploration of truth, identity, and the ongoing journey of reconciliation.
Mayor Robyn Holmes said this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme, Now More Than Ever, was a reminder that the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people must continue with strength and unity.
“Hosting a film screening during National Reconciliation Week is about more than entertainment,” she said.
“It’s an opportunity to reflect, to learn, and to come together around stories that help shape our understanding of one another and the Australia we want to build together.”
This year’s line-up will begin on 26 May with Araatika! Rise Up, which follows NRL legend Dean Widders and his cam-
paign to incorporate First Nations culture into pre-game rituals.
On 29 May, a powerful documentary sharing the untold stories of five Aboriginal women who endured governmentsanctioned servitude will shed light on the policies that shaped generations of trauma,
PUBLIC NOTICE
JARDINE FERRY MAINTENANCE
CLOSURE: 23 APRIL – 23 MAY 2025
The Jardine River ferry will be removed from the Jardine River for essential repairs to the ferry hull to ensure ongoing safe operations.
Closure dates: Wednesday, 23 April to Friday, 23 May 2025.
Annual safety repairs to the Jardine Ferry are under compliance regulations set by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). Council apologises for the inconvenience caused and thanks you for your patience during this essential repair period.
Tickets purchased for travel during closure period, remain valid when ferry is open.
NPARC T: (07) 4090 4100 or (07) 4090 4120
before a showing of crowd-favourite movie, The Sapphires, showcases the beauty of music with humour, soul and spirit on 31 May.
All screenings are free, but bookings are essential as spaces are limited.
For more information and to book your spot, visit www.cook.qld.gov.au/nrwfilms.
Cape tourism recognised
SEVERAL Cape York tourism operators have flexed their muscle to be included in a list of more than 2,300 Best of Queensland Experiences (BOQE) across the state.
The operators will show off the Best of Queensland Experience mark after being given the nod and official stamp of excellence from Tourism and Events Queensland.
Cape York Camping Punsand Bay, the Cooktown Museum and Weipa Camping Ground are among the local outfits to receive BOQE status, and Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the bar was set “deliberately” high to truly showcase “the best of the best”.
“Carrying the industry’s Best of Queensland Experience stamp is a significant achievement, and the operators who have secured this have gone above and beyond to offer an all-round outstanding experience for visitors to our great state,” he said.
Sponsorship program open
ARE you a western Cape York community group, club or organisation that makes the region a vibrant place to live and work?
You may be eligible to apply for financial support through Rio Tinto’s sponsorships and donations program, which is now accepting submissions.
The program catchment area includes Weipa, Aurukun, Mapoon, Napranum and the Northern Peninsula Area.
Round one closes on 31 May, with the second round of the program scheduled to run from 1 June-30 September.
For an application form, or to learn more about eligibility requirements, email RTAWeipaFeedback@riotinto.com.
Still no declaration
THE Liberal National Party (LNP) has suffered a 9.53 per cent swing against it in Leichhardt, despite the party having a stranglehold on the seat for almost three decades.
The AEC is still yet to declare results from the 2025 federal election, with Labor’s Matt Smith chomping at the bit to be formally announced as the winner in the race to replace Warren Entsch.
Mr Smith recorded 56.09 per cent of the vote in the two candidate preferred count, with the LNP’s Jeremy Neal securing 43.91 per cent.
AUSTRALIA
Cook Shire Mayor Robyn Holmes and the council’s Reconciliation Action Plan co-chair Lucy Deemal say the film festival is about more than entertainment.
Another 19 babies have been born in Weipa since little Vin Thorogood, pictured with parents Alistair and Emily, and big brother Kai, became the first planned birth at the town’s hospital in a quarter of a century on 28 May last year.
Laura fashion judges saddle up for ‘outside the box’ ensembles
by CHISA HASEGAWA
IT can get hot and dusty trackside at the Laura Races, but a striking outfit will never fail to shine when thousands of punters gallop through the gates of one of Cape York’s must-do social events on 28 June.
With just over a month to go until fashionistas frock up and the barriers fly open, Fashions on the Field co-ordinator Melanie Morgan said she hoped to see competitors style creative looks suited for the Laura conditions.
“We’re a bit more country, we might be a little more relaxed, suited more for the warmer weather, so it’s our own interpretation of fashions in North Queensland,” she said.
“We love to see something that’s not necessarily been seen before, something that might be a little outside of the box, someone sort of challenging the boundaries.”
Ms Morgan said although the dress code for the Laura Fashions on the Field was slightly looser than its southern counterparts, a beautiful headpiece was essential for a day at the races.
“We want our event to highlight fun, we’re not strict like some other Fashions on the Field competitions,” she said.
“Headwear is one of the things we do say is essential; we like to see some millinery and a cohesive outfit to go with it.
“We do like to see that people have gone to the effort, like their makeup is done, they’ve done their hair, but other than that, the event’s about having fun.”
Sarah Bensted and Jono Bell, who judged the 2024 competition, will be returning to take on the difficult task of choosing which racegoers return home with a sash in late June.
Fashionistas of all ages will have a chance to showcase their unique tastes, with categories split into Little Ones (ages 0-5, boys and girls), Little Miss and Little Mister (ages 6-12), Young Lady and Young Sir (ages 13-17), Lady of the Day (ages 18-39), Golden Lady of the Day (40 and over), Couple of the Day (18 and over), and Dapper Male of the Day (18 and over).
Despite the relaxed atmosphere of bush racing, Fashions on the Field competitors are gearing up
heads
2025 Laura Races on 28 June.
Thursday, June 26 to Sunday, June 29 2025
WEEKEND EVENT DETAILS
THURSDAY 26TH JUNE 2025
• 8am: Novice & Maiden Campdraft events Rodeo Arena
FRIDAY 27TH JUNE 2025
• 7am: Maiden Campdraft event Rodeo Arena
• 1:00pm: Race Club Horse Sports (held in middle of race track, all nominations before event begins onsite)
• 6:30pm: Friday Night Cabaret at the Race Club with live band “Black Image” and bar open until midnight
• Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner meals available all Friday from several stalls near Tennis Court/Race Area
• Lunchtime: Laura Annual Races, gates open 10:00am with first race at 1:00pm
• 5pm: Laura Race Club Cabaret with music and bar open until midnight, which completes weekend events held by the Race Club
• 6pm: Rodeo Arena: Grand Entry, Bushman’s Bronc Ride, Open Bull Ride followed by live band “The Barnyard Band”
• Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner meals available all Saturday from several stalls near Tennis Court/Race Area
SUNDAY 29TH JUNE 2025
• 7am: Rodeo Arena: Full Rodeo Events Program, followed by an Auction & Raffles & Live Band “The Barnyard Band”
Fashions on the FashionsFieldon
CATEGORIES:
Little ones ages 0 – 5 years boy & girl
Little Miss/Mr ages 6 – 12 years
Young Lady/Sir ages 13 – 17 years
Lady of the day age 18 – 39
Golden Lady of the day age 40 & over
Couple ofthe day
Dapper male of the day 18+
There is no theme for the day, just appropriateness for the Laura Races & to have fun!
If not now, when for Cape
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
BEFORE you read any further, here is your official warning to brace yourself, because I’m about to say something positive about politicians.
It will come as quite the shock to anyone who has previously read one of my searing, politicallythemed rants, but I’m turning the other cheek to a lifetime of venom aimed at our elected representatives, and am instead prepared to offer the benefit of the doubt that those collecting substantial paycheques in Canberra to act in our best interests actually have them at heart.
Perhaps I’m getting sentimental in my old age. Perhaps it’s the remnants of a hopeless romantic deep inside me fighting to surface. There’s a possibility this newfound optimism is the result of banging my head on that low-hanging branch on my trip down the Peninsula Developmental Road last week. Whatever the cause, I’m excited to see what the election of Matt Smith as the new Leichhardt MP, having a local member as part of the ruling party, and the promotion of Nita Green to some key assistant ministries mean for our often neglected patch of the country. To get in front of the eight ball
and stave off commentary and hate mail branding this as a Labor puff piece, I’ll mention right here that I’ve intentionally remained fiercely apolitical my entire journalism
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years, but I’ve also been scathingly critical of all parties, irrespective of their colour or creed, and how they represent remote parts of Australia like Cape York and the Torres Strait in what I still believe is a hopelessly flawed political landscape.
I’m looking at you, two-party preferred system, and sycophants from both sides of the fence who find themselves with “MP” postnominals without ever having had experienced the trials and tribulations of the real world.
One of the things that fills me with the most hope about our new 211-centimetre Member for Leichhardt is that he wasted no time in connecting with his predecessor, long-time defender of our region Warren Entsch, to ensure local political knowledge about Cape York issues wasn’t lost during the transfer of power.
and congratulations to our new federal MP for having the refreshing confidence to admit you don’t know it all as you make the role your own.
We are still $240 million light on with regard to progressing stage three of the Cape York Region Package, something I’ve made abundantly clear to the former Taipan-turned-politician his northernmost constituents expect to be addressed – and funded – as a priority. Senator Nita Green’s elevation to assistant minister in the Northern Australia and Tourism portfolios can only aid our fight for the federal dollar, especially if she can exploit her new cabinet roles to shamelessly promote the criticality of developing the social, economic and infrastructure status quo on Cape York and in the Torres Strait.
career. It makes it so much easier to tee off and spit bile at our elected leaders for ignoring us.
I’ve written some positive things about politicians over the
When was the last time you heard a politician readily admit they broke bread with the enemy to seek their opinion and decades of experience, let alone acknowledge it to the media? There should be more of it, because only an idiot would pretend someone who did your job for nearly three decades before you got tapped on the shoulder didn’t have anything to offer in terms of wisdom and friendly warnings.
Kudos to both men for seeing beyond party lines for the betterment of the Leichhardt electorate,
I may be optimistic, but I’m not completely delusional. There is a chance the majority government Prime Minister Anthony Albanese finds himself commanding after the 3 May strip out of the Coalition and Greens means he will do what he wants for another term and just completely ignore remote Australia, but I hope this does not somehow become a Cape-crippling premonition.
With the pieces aligning as they are on the political chess board, the only question we can ask is if now is not Cape York’s time to prosper, when will be?
Senator Nita Green and incoming Leichhardt MP Matt Smith, pictured with Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, were joined at the hip during the federal election campaign, with editor Lyndon Keane hopeful the collaboration continues for the betterment of Cape York and the Torres Strait.
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.
UK experience leaves Archie hungry for rep honours
by LYNDON KEANE
WEIPA’S Archie Thomas has returned from a soccer lover’s dream trip to the United Kingdom with a boosted passion for the game and a greater understanding of what it will take to run onto the pitch at the sport’s highest level.
The 10-year-old rising football star travelled more than 14,500 kilometres for the experience of trialling in front of 30 scouts from professional leagues in the UK, as well as witnessing Manchester United play on their home turf at Old Trafford.
While the trial did not quite go to plan, he described the experience as “awesome” and said he was now setting his sights on Peninsula trials early next month.
“The trials were awesome and it was a great experience for me,” he said.
“I enjoyed the 1-on-1 battles against the England lads, and working at higher intensity.
“I also had a report card that told me my strengths and weaknesses to work on, which was written by a UEFA A-licence coach.”
With the Peninsula trials scheduled for 5 June, Archie’s father, Jamie Thomas, said he believed there needed to be more football development opportunities and qualified coaches across Cape York.
“For the Cape, there needs to be more development, qualified coaches and opportunities for kids to compete with the clubs across Queensland,” he said.
“The organisers were very impressed we had made the journey from Weipa, and loved us being there.”
With the sport experiencing a resurgence in Weipa and Cooktown, Mr Thomas said he would love to see a showdown between the two clubs to further advance soccer’s standing on the Cape.
“That would be a great get together of two remote clubs,” he said.
Weipa
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41 par for course
THERE could only be one victor when four players returned to the Carpentaria Golf Club clubhouse with the same gross score in a thrilling instalment of Dawnbusters on 18 May.
Jamie Hutton, Helen Sabatino, Scott Triffitt and Grant Crossley carded 41 off the stick as a field of 16 took to the course in the first peek at Weipa’s idea of winter weather, but it was Sabatino who made the most of handicaps to record a stunning nett 8 and claim the weekly winner’s prize.
Hutton (nett 18) had to settle for bridesmaid honours for the round.
Alan “Fish” Philliskirk found the middle of the fairway to bag the men’s long drive, with Beth Dall following suit for the women, as well as being crowned Sunday’s Hoffman’s recipient.
Scott Andrews had his irons dialled in and took home the nearest to the pin prize for his trouble.
Dawnbusters will take on the front nine on 25 May, with new players always welcome to join the fun from about 6:45am.
One of the highlights of 10-year-old Archie Thomas’ trip to the United Kingdom, apart from trialling in front of soccer scouts, was watching Manchester United take to the pitch on their home turf at Old Trafford.
DESPITE enduring
a round trip of nearly 2,000 kilometres to take to the paddock, 36 boys from the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area impressed with their skills and sportsmanship during the recent AFLQ Schools Cup in Cairns.
AFL Cape York took two northern teams to the showdown, a junior line-up comprising grade 7-8 students, and a youth team featuring grade 9-10 students.
The junior team returned home with two wins, a draw and a loss from its four clashes, while the youth boys won their first game before narrowly losing their next two.
AFL Cape York works with partner schools to select students based on behaviour and attendance first, and football skills second, and development co-ordinator Kieran Sciberras praised the performances of players on and off the field.
“I don’t think the boys
actually realise how well they’re playing together as a team,” he said.
“For a group of young men who don’t even have an AFL field on their islands, to come together and hold their own against the best AFL schools in Cairns is truly impressive.
“Some of our boys have played in this carnival at younger age groups or within our Crusaders
representative program, but for others, this is their first time playing on a full-size AFL oval.”
Mr Sciberras said it was rewarding to see the impact the sport was having on students.
“Being told firsthand by parents, teachers and families about what a positive impact this program is having is special,” he said.
“It’s a great way to
offer these young people positive life experiences while reinforcing our core values of respect, responsibility and pride.”
Mitchell Suthers received the AFLQ Schools Cup Medal for player of the carnival, while Curtis Warusam and Brendan Luffman won the AFL Cape York Most Valuable Player medals.
Weipa netball star shoots for Queensland showdown
by CHISA HASEGAWA
SHE is described as normally shy and quiet, but on the court, she is one of Weipa’s fiercest young competitors.
Just four years after beginning her netball adventure, 12-year-old Olivia Emmett will be heading to Caloundra next week after being selected to represent the 10-12 years Peninsula team at the 2025 Queensland Representative School Sport Netball State Championship.
After not getting the outcome she wanted at last year’s tryouts, Emmett said it became her dream to make the state team this year after coming so close.
“I was a bit disappointed last year getting picked as a shadow, but I’m feeling good this year,” she said.
The rising star was the only person to make the Peninsula team north of Cairns, which, as Cape York athletes know, was no easy feat with geographical challenges and fewer training sessions.
“It’s a bit harder, I guess, because for the Peninsula team, it’s every week, but I go down to Cairns every second week, and we only have training for two hours on a Saturday,” she said.
Weipa Social Netball Club coach Kini Rokosoi said Emmett’s exceptional talent and dedication
to the sport set her apart from most players her age.
“She’s absolutely gone from peak to peak since she started,” she said.
“When we recently went to Townsville [for the Netball Queensland Country Carnival], my plan wasn’t to take any of the grade 7s or any 12-year-olds, but Olivia was an exception, along with two other kids of her age.”
The coach said Emmett was somewhat of a rarity in the sport, being proficient in both defence and shooting.
“She first started off in defence, and she just kind of progressively got into shooting, which is really quite unique for a netballer,” she said
“Normally, you’re kind of one or the other, you’re either a good shooter or a good defender, but she’s an excellent all-rounder.”
Ms Rokosoi said the club was incredibly proud to have her representing Weipa in Peninsula colours, adding that it took a special player to be selected despite her remote location.
“For them to choose her, even though she can’t attend every single training session, you have to be something special for them to trust that you’re going to train outside of their training, and perform at the state titles,” she said.
The AFL Cape York junior boys team in Cairns.
The AFL Cape York youth players impressed with their skills on the paddock after making the almost 2,000-kilometre round trip to Cairns to compete in the AFLQ Schools Cup.
Weipa’s Olivia Emmett has been selected to represent the Peninsula netball team just four years after starting out in the sport.
Mareeba success for Weipa WAG gymnasts
WEIPA’S gymnasts have showed off their prowess on the competitive stage after travelling to the Atherton Tablelands for two days of vaulting, swinging and leaping at the weekend.
Twenty-six members of the Weipa Gymnastics Club made the 1,500-kilometre round trip to test themselves at the Mareeba Country Challenge on 1718 May, a Gymnastics Australia sanctioned event designed to test their skills against about 300 other gymnasts.
The Weipa athletes are all part of the Women’s Artistic Gymnastics program, a competitive, levels-based program for females.
In Mareeba, the girls had to complete a routine on each of the four apparatus – vault, uneven bars, balance beam and floor – and, depending on their age and experience, competed at either level 1, 2, pre-3 or 3, and were graded after their performance.
It is a remarkable result for
the western Cape York club, which, despite being around since the 1980s, had not operated until 2023 due to a lack of coaches and volunteers
The club now boasts three qualified coaches and more than 100 members.
Head coach Tracey Small
described the experience and performance of her athletes as “amazing”, and said it had been a watershed moment when the girls realised they had the ability to impress at competition level.
“They all did really well,” she said.
“We’re a really tiny club, but we were really competitive and were right in there.
“It just all came into place, even though there have been illfounded doubts along the way.”
Elsa Glassborow, 10, finished second in her floor routine and third on the beam, and said she could not wait for the next competition.
“It was exciting, but also a bit nervous for me,” she said.
“I’d like to keep getting better at everything.”
Rose Robins was part of the cohort of mums and volunteers who travelled with the gymnasts and said the girls now had “a nice air of proudness about them” after the competition.
“I think it was an amazing eye opener for the girls, because they’ve all lived in this ‘I love gymnastics’ bubble for so long, and to see the competition and the other gymnasts, they now know they’re good enough to be a part of that,” she said.
Parkrunners celebrate 100th finish for Blythe
THE Weipa parkrun family is renowned for celebrating individual and collective success, and it was no different when Chris Blythe crossed the line for his milestone 100th finish on 17 May.
Sixty-two participants ran, jogged and walked the course on Saturday morning, with young Ziggy Freiberg and Ross Dawson tuning up their Weipa Running Festival preparations by both greeting the timekeepers in 23 minutes, 4 seconds.
First time competitor Gemma Price was the first female across the finish line in 24:24.
sey Fielding, Catherine Samuel, Jemma Collins, David Bergmansons, Georgie Jenkins, Warren Brewer and Danita Ebenezer were the 11 participants to achieve personal best times on the day. Nothing happens without a volunteer army, and it was Nicola Campbell, Michael Collins, Vide Freiberg, Camille Freiberg, Sarah Agnew, Fiona Dyer, Luther Freiberg, Mel Scott, Lizzie Perrin and Ziggy that made parkrun #419 possible.
Weipa parkrun is held every Saturday from 7am, with participants meeting at the shelter opposite the hospital roundabout on the corner of John Evans Drive and Kerr Point Drive in Nanum.
SPORT IN BRIEF
Head causes Wackers upset
HOT conditions challenged the 17 players who teed off chasing Wackers glory in Weipa on 14 May.
Carolyn Head combined a strong gross round and a generous handicap to take home the winner’s chocolates with her 55/30.5 effort, with Rob McVean an unlucky runner up (40/31.5) after his top off-the-stick showing.
Leigh Daniels (15th) and Ross Craven (18th) were the pin prize winners, while Zoe Daniels claimed the Bradman’s for the round.
Mick “Magic Apples” Cerneka made a Wednesday return to Carpentaria Golf Club and reluctantly collected his Bradman’s gong from a month ago.
Cooktown’s top dog
THE four-legged residents of Cooktown will be chasing the title of top dog when the Cooktown Horse Sports Association hosts a hound show during next month’s Discovery Festival.
The show will be held from 8am on 22 June at the dog park on Adelaide Street, with seven categories on offer to ensure pooches of all shapes, sizes and temperaments have a chance to shine.
Nomination will cost $5 per category.
To nominate your dog, email cooktownhorsesports4895@gmail.com.
Weipa touch results
THERE were some thrilling results when round three of the Weipa Touch Association season was played on 14 May.
Cape Candies recorded an 8-6 victory over Lacking Stamina, while Pisswrecks were too good for Can’t Touch This in a 15-5 result.
Spartans (10) topped Res Strong (7), with Untouchables and Top End Taggers securing respective 6-2 and 13-7 wins against the OGs and Cheers for Beers.
Villains continued their dominance of the 2025 season with a 28-nil win against Scrambled Legs.
Preparations are made to welcome Chris Blythe across the finish line for his 100th Weipa parkrun on 17 May.
Dana Braun proudly finishes her routine. Photo: Bee Exposed Photography.
• Site comprises a 4,914 sqm, slightly irregular
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industrial offices, showroom & warehouse buildings • Total combined lettable area of 1,940 sqm • Fully leased investment to two tenants with a passing net income of $243,280p/a plus outgoings & GST
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