After a false start on Friday, our tourist season can officially begin after the Jardine River ferry finally started transporting vehicles to the northernmost part of Cape York on Sunday morning. Find out what visitors had to say on Page 6
Mining giant Rio Tinto says its Kangwinan expansion project will create 800 construction jobs and boost Weipa bauxite production by up to 20 million tonnes annually if it gets the green light in 2026. Read the story on Page 3.
Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Weipa Inc.
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 CHISA HASEGAWA
ADEQUATE transport is vital for a school in giving its students opportunities to learn outside of the classroom, but one Cape York school has been without a bus for more than a year.
The Lakeland State School P&C Association is calling for help on social media in their fundraising campaign for a bus after the school’s only mode of group transportation, which they won through a Woolworths campaign in 2004, was deregistered last year after two decades of use.
their children to various activities held outside of the school, which was logistically challenging and not always possible.
“We’re part of the cluster schools in the area, so when we have sports days and cross country and things like that, we need to travel and we do it together as a group, so we can compete against each other,” she said.
“It’s obviously the same for school excursions and camps – we didn’t have a camp last year.”
Ms O’Kane said she was hoping to involve visiting tourists in the fundraiser.
“There’s hundreds of people that travel through Lakeland every year, so we are going to put some signs up along the way into Lakeland, and we’re going to have some banners at all our local businesses and also the gateway to the Cape to advertise our GoFundMe page,” she said.
Tuxworth &
Iraci Ave, Evans Landing Mob: 0429 003 743 Ph: 4069 7183 Fax: 4069 7472
Cnr of Endeavour Road and McMillan Streets, Cooktown Ph: 0419 759 892 CAIRNS OFFICE: Ph: 4035 4022 25 Redden St, Portsmith
“We’ve had that bus ever since, but last year, we just got a letter from the Queensland Education Department saying that it had to be retired because of its age, which we didn’t realise,” president Stefanie O’Kane said.
“Otherwise, we could have prepared for this, but they basically deregistered it on us.”
Ms O’Kane said over the past year, parents had to take
Ms O’Kane said the P&C Association had considered other options, such as a bus charter service, or leasing a bus, but that both were too expensive.
“Because of where we are, if we want to hire a bus, we actually have to pay for the bus to travel from, say, Mossman to Lakeland, and back,” she explained.
“It costs like $5,000 just to get a bus to take us from Lakeland to Rossville, which is like a 40-minute drive and back, so it’s just not viable.”
Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the department had not received any formal requests regarding the provision of a school bus, but that it was now investigating potential grants and fundraising activities to support the school.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg did not respond to a request for comment by the time Cape York Weekly went to press.
To help the bus fundraiser, visit www.gofundme. com/f/help-lakeland-stateschool-get-a-bus.
by CHISA HASEGAWA
YOUNG Far North Queenslanders make up 20 per cent of driver and passenger fatalities despite representing only 10 per cent of the population, but one Weipa school hopes a new program will help keep their students safe on the road.
Last week, Western Cape College (WCC) hosted Road Safety Education’s (RSE) Ryda program, giving senior students the opportunity to participate in a series of workshops on being a safe driver and passenger.
“With many of our senior students either driving or about to begin, Ryda provides a pow-
erful, practical program that goes beyond the classroom to prepare them for the responsibilities of the road,” principal Dan Tonon said.
“The mix of interactive sessions, expert presenters, and real-life stories makes it an ideal fit for our context.”
According to RSE, drivers are at their highest risk of being involved in a crash during their first year of driving unsupervised, and this risk increased when peer-aged passengers were added to the mix.
Mr Tonon said at times, he worried about the driving habits and safety of young people in his community.
“Living in a remote area like Weipa, where young people often start driving early and may travel long distances, the risks are heightened,” he said.
“I worry when I hear about risky behaviour, but I’m also reassured when I see students genuinely engaging in programs like Ryda.”
While Ryda has been running since 2001, this year was the first time the program has been brought to Weipa.
RSE head of program delivery John Elliott said drivers in remote communities were over-represented in already concerning statistics.
“Less than 2.4 per cent of Queenslanders live in remote
or very remote regions, but this is where almost 14 per cent of driver and passenger fatalities occur, so expanding Ryda’s capacity to reach remote communities has been a key focus for Road Safety Education,” he said.
Mr Tonon said he hoped the students took “a greater awareness of how their decisions … can have life-altering consequences” away from the program.
“More than anything, I hope they left feeling empowered to make safe choices, to look out for their mates, and to know that their lives matter to this community,” he said.
by LYNDON KEANE
INCREASED bauxite production of up to 20 million tonnes (Mt) each year and the creation of an estimated 800 construction jobs are on the cards if an expansion plan unveiled by Rio Tinto on 22 May is given the green light.
The mining giant has pulled back the curtain on what it has called the Kangwinan project, an answer to the planned closure of its Andoom mine by the end of the decade.
Named at the request of the Wik Waya Traditional Owners, Kangwinan is a protector of all sacred, ceremonial and female protocols of the tribe, and is also the name of the black female crow, a totem of the Wik Waya people.
The project will involve building a new mine and expanding the existing port to almost double bauxite production from Rio Tinto’s Weipa southern operations, where Amrun is located.
If approved, the project will establish a mining operation 15 kilometres south-east of Amrun, which was opened in 2018.
At full capacity, Rio Tinto said it expected the expansion would boost Weipa south operation bauxite production by up to
20Mt annually, in addition to the 23Mt currently mined, effectively replacing the tonnages lost when Andoom and Gove are mothballed in the next five years.
Weipa general manager Steve Dunstone said the project would play a vital role in securing the western Cape York township’s economic future.
“This announcement is an important step to securing the future of our Weipa operations, and the benefits that mining brings to communities in this region,” he told Cape York Weekly
“We have a proud 60-year history as a major contributor to the local economy, and this announcement further underlines our commitment to the region, our Traditional Owner partners, and the local commu -
nity in Weipa for many years to come.”
News of the ambitious project came on the same day it was announced chief executive Jakob Stausholm, who has been in the role since 2021, would step away from the company’s top job later in the year.
Pacific operations aluminium managing director Armando Torres echoed Mr Dunstone’s sentiment and said the plan put Cape York at the forefront of Rio Tinto’s broader operation.
“This feasibility study will explore a new bauxite operation at our Weipa Operations and represents a strong vote of confidence in the world-class bauxite deposits on the western Cape York Peninsula, our bauxite operations, and the local community,” he said.
“It’s an important step toward securing the long-term future of our operations at Cape York, and the benefits that mining brings to communities in the region, while ensuring security of supply to our Australian refineries and to our customers.”
The mining giant said the project would generate “more than 800 jobs in construction, and would maintain the workforce currently employed at Weipa’s mines slated for closure”.
The approved early works include building a 250-room camp at Amrun Village to house construction workers and developing an initial access road to Kangwinan.
A final investment decision is due in 2026, subject to cultural heritage consultation with Traditional Owners, completing engineering, cultural heritage and environment studies, as well as securing regulatory approvals.
SUPPORT workers in Hope Vale and Wujal Wujal are celebrating new opportunities for growth in the industry after graduating with a formal qualification in disability support earlier this month.
For more than a year, My Pathway’s specialist disability support trainer Cheryl Archer travelled regularly to Hope Vale to deliver tailored face-to-face training to support workers in completing their Induction to Disability Support Skillset, a training program designed to provide the foundation for a long-term career in support services.
My Pathway disability support Hope
Vale team leader Farzana Woibo said some of the graduates had not attempted accredited training before, but the support Ms Archer provided had helped everyone thrive.
“Cheryl really went above and beyond to support our team, and break down the information to us, so we could understand,” she said.
“The training helped grow our staff to understand even more about support work, everything from assisting clients with daily living activities to working with health providers and lots more.
“It has really helped me to grow in my role as team leader.”
Ms Archer said the graduates’ eagerness to learn, along with the tailored delivery of training to remote communities, opened many doors to success for the team members.
“I really tried to bring the training back to the work they are doing in Hope Vale, building on the strengths they were already demonstrating,” she said.
“The graduates should all be so proud of their achievements; some have overcome some really significant barriers to earn these qualifications.”
by CHISA HASEGAWA
THIS year’s Napranum school photos will look fresher than ever after a Weipa barber’s generous gift of free haircuts to the local PCYC’s young boys and men.
From tapers to fades, 19 students from prep to year 12 walked away with a sharp new cut on 17 May from Axel Tongia, aka Axe the Barber.
Mr Tongia, who barbers part-time alongside his day job at Western Cape College as an operations officer for the Clontarf Foundation, said he wanted to use his skills to help the boys feel their best on school photo day.
“I work at Western Cape College Monday to Friday, and I’m down at the PCYC weekly with work, so I’m heavily involved with the kids in Weipa and Napranum, so I wanted to dedicate some of my personal time to them,” he said.
“It’s something that I’ve always wanted to do, and who doesn’t feel better after a haircut, you know?”
The barber said it was great he already had a relationship with all the kids, and that they were able to get the experience of having a rapport with their barber, which was not always possible in a remote community.
“I was fortunate enough that
I knew all the kids I cut on the weekend,” Mr Tongia said.
“Usually, people wait until their next trip to Cairns to get a haircut, but because I knew them, I think it was comfortable.
“It was a great experience, and we’ll definitely be doing it again; I’ve had a lot of messages with people saying they’re so thankful, and what really made it worth it is just the kids
rocking up and leaving with a big smile on their faces.”
PCYC Napranum Acting Sergeant Emma Wallis said the western Cape York club was grateful for Mr Tongia’s kindness and care for the boys ahead of their big day in front of the camera.
“A fresh haircut for school photos is a big thing; a lot of these boys and young men take a lot of pride in their ap-
pearance and how they present themselves, and you know what they say, ‘if you look good, you feel good’,” she said.
“Axel is a wonderful role model for these young men, not only giving them the tools to be their most confident selves, but also demonstrating the value of doing things for others without expecting anything in return.”
TORRES and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) and a neighbouring health service are headed for the Federal Court after a class action claiming Indigenous patients received inappropriate medical treatment because of their race was lodged on 19 May.
The class action is being led by law firm JGA Saddler and covers a period of nearly three decades between 1996 and 2024.
It is alleged TCHHS and the North West Hospital and Health Service (NWHHS) “unlawfully prevented class members from accessing healthcare in a manner consistent with their human rights and fundamental freedoms” pursuant to the Racial Discrimination Act 1975.
In the proceeding, which has a claim period from 20 December 1996 until 12 September 2024, JGA Saddler alleges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients “have experienced discriminatory conduct by the healthcare providers by reason of their race”, including inadequate or inappropriate medical assessment, follow-up assessment and management and patient support.
The class action also claims patients were subjected to “overt racism, implicit or subconscious bias, racial stereotyping, paternalism … and dismissive attitudes” by TCHHS and NWHHS staff.
A spokeswoman for Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the government would not be commenting on the case now it was before the court.
“As the matter is before the Federal Court, it would be inappropriate to comment,” the spokeswoman told Cape York Weekly
by LYNDON KEANE
IT’S official: when it comes to teams, Weipa has the best in the state in its own backyard.
The Weipa Camping Ground crew has been crowned Team of the Year at the 2025 Caravan Parks Association of Queensland Awards earlier this month, and is ready to show off the service that won them the prestigious gong as visitors start their annual pilgrimage to Cape York.
It was a big night for the local business, with Darci Lawson also shortlisted from nominees across Queensland as a finalist in the Simon Warner Memorial Young Achiever of the Year Award.
General manager Gemma Shaw said the team was still on a high after their name was called out during the awards ceremony.
“This award means a great deal to all of us at Weipa Camping Ground,” she said.
“Our team puts in an incredible amount of effort every day, and to have that dedication recognised in this way is truly special.
“It’s a proud moment that celebrates the hard work, passion and teamwork that define our approach.”
Ms Shaw travelled to the Gold Coast with Ms Lawson, Brooke
Quartermaine, Lyn Frost and Nadine Loof for the awards night, and said it had been an opportunity to promote the region to industry representatives.
“The awards ceremony was an incredible experience and such a privilege to be part of,” she said.
“It was truly inspiring to see industry leaders from across the country being recognised for their achievements, and it gave us a
great chance to connect with others in the caravan park sector.
“Many people were surprised we had travelled all the way from Weipa to the Gold Coast for the event – some hadn’t even heard of Weipa before – so, it was a fantastic opportunity to put our little corner of the world on the map and build valuable connections for the future.
“And yes, we absolutely made the most of the chance to dress up;
Wednesday 28 May 2025
Please be advised that an emergency response training exercise will be conducted at Weipa Airport on Wednesday 28 May between 8 30am and 12 00pm
This exercise will involve the use of emergency vehicles, realistic prosthetics, and simulated blood to create a lifelike scenario for training purposes
Please do not be alarmed - this is a planned and controlled exercise designed to enhance emergency preparedness FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
Please call our complaints and feedback hotline 1800 820 711 or email RTAWeipaFeedback@riotinto com
opportunities like this don’t come around often in Weipa, so it was lovely to step out in style and enjoy a couple of days away.”
Now back on the ground in Weipa, if not back from cloud nine, the team plans to promote its win in a bid to attract more caravanners to western Cape York.
“This award means a great deal to us, and we’re excited to share it with our guests,” Ms Shaw said.
“It’s a reflection of the strong family values that define our workplace culture; we see each other as family, and that genuine connection extends to the way we welcome and care for our visitors.
“We take great pride in creating an environment where guests feel at home, and this recognition reinforces the spirit of service and warmth that we strive to offer every day.”
This National Reconciliation Week, journey through truth, resilience, and hope across three unforgettable nights of powerful films
Shire Hall Monday 26 May - Araatika! Rise Up! Thursday 29 May - Servant or Slave Saturday 31 May - The Sapphires
by LYNDON KEANE
AFTER an embarrassing false start on 23 May, Cape York’s 2025 tourist season is officially under way following the resumption of Jardine River ferry operations on Sunday morning.
On Friday afternoon, when the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) was meant to be returning the ferry to operation, it was instead removing it from the river and frantically arranging a confined spaces welder to be flown in from Cairns after the vessel began taking on water on Thursday night, less than 24 hours after it was refloated.
NPARC had announced in a social media post on Friday afternoon that “unfortunately, the ferry will not return to operation during this weekend”, however, a procession of four-wheel drives and caravans started being moved from the campground on the southern side of the river at about 11am on 25 May.
While the council is yet to provide an official update on the recommencement of operations, a
source familiar with the ferry and Australian Maritime Safety Authority-ordered repair work undertaken over the past month said it had been a “fingers crossed” moment to get the vessel back in the water after Friday’s setback.
“It’s been fingers crossed for everyone over the last couple of days, you know?” they said.
“There was talk of Tuesday, Wednesday, but it’s back now and we’ll see.
“You know, there’s gotta be a better solution to getting people
over the river; if that’s a new ferry or a bridge, I don’t know, but some of the plating [on the current ferry] is communion wafer thin in parts; it’s gotta be at end of life from a safety angle.”
More than 250 tourists stranded at the campgrounds on the southern side of the river watched the saga unfold, with many opting to leave and explore the western side of Cape York until the ferry was returned to operation.
The visitors who have stayed have, for the most part, remained
philosophical about the whole experience, including Bruce and Lynn Ryan.
The Port Macquarie couple was one of the first to set up at the campgrounds last week and, despite having to clean the toilets and showers to make the amenities useable when they arrived, said they were enjoying the atmosphere and camaraderie that had developed among tourists.
“You can’t do much about it, can you?” Mr Ryan mused.
“It’s part of the experience – a lot of people probably don’t think that though.”
Bamanga-based Bam Bam’s Bakery and Takeaway has been praised for making regular deliveries of bread, fuel and other basic supplies to the campgrounds over the past few days, and Melbourne tourist Bianca Lucas, who is travelling with her husband and three children, said they were committed to staying to support local businesses.
“Of course it’s disappointing, but we are one of the lucky ones,” she said.
“We have a caravan, generator,
stocked fridge and water; some people left today (23 May) after hearing the news, as they are already low on battery power; some don’t have enough food, and others are time poor.
“At this stage, we will stay; we want to support the businesses on the other side and we have the time to wait.”
THE sacrifice of an Aurukun soldier who helped defend his country during World War II has been commemorated during a ceremony at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra today (27 May).
The service of Private Charlie Bob Ngakyunkwokka was recognised at the Last Post Ceremony on National Reconciliation Day on Tuesday and War Memorial historian Dr Thomas Rogers said the former Aurukun resident’s bravery during the conflict was to be commended.
“Born on 7 January 1912 at Aurukun Presbyterian Mission … Waal Waal Ngakyunkwokka served in the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion during the Second World War,” he said.
Private Ngakyunkwokka enlisted for service with the Australian Army on 13 September 1943 and joined the 2nd Australian Water Transport Group, before being transferred to the 14th Australian Water Transport Operating Company.
Under constant threat of enemy sea mines and aerial attack by Japanese aircraft, his duties included piloting Army vessels in the Torres Strait and Gulf of Carpentaria, and moving personnel and stores between ships, flying boats and the shore.
“In March 1945, Waal Waal Ngakyunkwokka was transferred to the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion, one of the very few racially segregated units in Australia’s history,” Dr Rogers said.
While on leave in Aurukun in 1945, he contracted influenza and died of pneumonia on 20 April at just 33 years of age.
Private Ngakyunkwokka is buried at the Aurukun cemetery, where his is the western Cape York community’s only war grave.
The Last Post Ceremony is performed every day, except Christmas Day, at the War Memorial at 4:30pm, and shares the story behind one of 103,000 names on the Roll of Honour.
To date, more than 4,100 ceremonies have been performed and War Memorial director
Matt Anderson said it would take more than 280 years to read the story of each of the names appearing on the roll.
“The Last Post Ceremony is our commitment to remembering and honouring the legacy of Australian service,” he said.
“Through our daily Last Post Ceremony, we not only acknowledge where and how these men and women died; we also tell the stories of who they were when they were alive, and of the families who loved and, in so many cases, still mourn for them.”
WE all know mums are pretty special humans every day of the year, but their contributions and dedication were put in the spotlight at a special pre-Mother’s Day liturgy in Weipa earlier this month.
St Joseph’s Parish School rolled out the red carpet for local mothers when a big crowd converged on the school on 9 May for the event, which included a sumptuous morning tea to say thank you for everything Weipa mums did for students, their families and the greater community.
A spokesperson said the liturgy provided the St Jo-
seph’s community the opportunity to reflect on mothers, who they were, and what they represented.
“We took a moment to appreciate all the loving mothers and mother figures who work tirelessly to ensure the wellbeing of their children,” the spokesperson said.
“For those that are still with us, and those that come before us, their unconditional love and support have made our world a better place.”
The liturgy included a PowerPoint presentation of photos of mothers and their children, with a variety of games played at the morning tea.
A FREE event aimed at increasing awareness of men’s mental health will be held in Weipa on 13 June.
Mary O’Brien from Are You Bogged Mate? will be coming to western Cape York to help start a conversation about the importance of men addressing mental health concerns, with a big contingent of participants expected at Carpentaria Golf Club.
Doors will open at 5:30pm for a 6pm start, with nibbles and live entertainment also on the program.
‘Good character’ evidence limited
THE use of “good character” evidence will be restricted for sexual offences following major changes to sentencing laws being introduced by the State Government last week.
The Penalties and Sentences (Sexual Offences) and Other Legislation
Amendment Bill 2025 will introduce a new aggravating statutory factor to require the courts to treat sexual assault and rape offences committed against children as being more serious.
The Bill also ensures no negative inference can be drawn if a victim does not provide a victim impact statement.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the amendments ensured “victims are being put first”.
“No one wants to hear that a rapist is all-round great person, a trustworthy mate, or that they’re respected in the community,” she said.
WESTERN Cape York will rock when High Voltage – the AC/DC Experience headlines the entertainment for the 20th Weipa Fishing Classic next month.
The tribute band will take to the stage on 7 June and promises to belt out tunes from across AC/DC’s vast music catalogue to have Classic patrons stomping their feet and singing along.
For more information about the entertainment line-up for the event, check out the Weipa Fishing Classic Facebook page.
by LYNDON KEANE
WHAT started with an engine on a saw bench in northern Tasmania’s timber country more than six decades ago will culminate with another being started 4,000 kilometres away in memory of a brother lost on Wednesday.
Cooktown man Allan Walker has spent the past three years fixated on the four-tonne engine that powered the stamping machine at one of the region’s former gold mines and, after a Herculean effort to recover it from the bush, has meticulously restored it to what he hopes is running condition.
It is important to note “what he hopes is running condition”, because starting the engine to test it before its unveiling this week would have been cheating, according to his late brother Dennis, whom the passion project is in honour of.
“I haven’t had it going yet, but it’s ready to start, and that will be in honour of my brother,” he told Cape York Weekly
“I can’t start it [before the event], because my brother always had this idea you always do something once, and then the job’s done.
“If I started it now, I’d be cheating; I’ve got to do my homework now and start it on the day.”
The engine was made in 1924 by Ronaldson Bros and Tippett in Ballarat, and Mr Walker explained getting it home to commence the restoration had involved cutting a 1km track through the scrub to allow a crane to transport it.
“My neighbour said there was an engine over in the bush that I should have a look at,” he said.
“I went through the right channels; we had to make a track through the scrub and make a track to get a crane in.
“Two years after I saw it, I had the engine home.”
Now, with the engine restored through a combination of original and fabricated parts, the latter required after visitors to the old gold mine “souvenired” key components, Mr Walker explained what had fuelled his quest to commemorate his brother’s memory after he died in 2019.
“Dennis was a twin and the youngest by about seven minutes,” he reflected.
“My other brother Ron is still in Tasmania, and we grew up down there – my two brothers, me, and mum and dad.
“We had this little engine that was made in England, a similar style to this engine, on a saw bench to cut timber, and when I was 10, I
remember being strong enough to pull on the belt to start the engine.
“[Dennis] restored a lot of engines after we grew up and he always tried to find the original engine dad had, but he couldn’t get it; so, I’ve always tried to get an engine like it, and that’s how I got this one.”
Mr Walker, now 78, said he be-
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.
lieved his brother would be proud of the work he had put into the restoration.
“On top of the moon, he’d be,”
Mr Walker said emotionally.
“Most of the engines he restored, he painted them better than showroom condition and wouldn’t start them; they were better than Mickey Mouse.
“Starting this one will be for him.”
The community is invited to join Mr Walker to celebrate the completion of the project and watch the engine start for the first time since its restoration from 9:30am on 28 May at 2 Cycad Close – about 7km north of Cooktown Hardware.
There were smiles all round as the Napranum community united to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its early childhood centre on 15 May.
IF the celebration to mark the first 50 years of Napranum’s early childhood centre is any indication, the vital community facility has at least another five decades and many more ahead of it.
The community turned out in force to celebrate the Napranum Early Childhood Centre’s (NECC) 50th birthday on 15 May, with Napranum Aboriginal
Shire Council Deputy Mayor Robert Wigness delivering a speech to mark the occasion.
NECC director Carmen Dixon said the centre supported local children in their early years and provided a safe place to grow while connecting them to culture and Country.
“It’s shaped by the community, and it gives back by supporting families and helping to
raise the next generations,” she said.
“The 50th anniversary celebration was a very proud moment for the whole community; it brought together families, past and present students, Elders, and past and present educators to reflect on the successes that the centre has achieved over the years.
“The anniversary was also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of connection, learning, and respect for Indigenous histories and knowledge systems; many former students reflected on how the centre has grown and developed since they attended and the deep connection they still have for the centre.”
Ms Dixon said the NECC provided a critical service to local working families, as well as those undertaking study, adding she believed the secret to the facility’s success over the past 50 years was its people.
“The real strength of NECC has always been its people,” she reflected.
“The commitment from past and present staff and Elders, many of whom are from community and shared their knowledge and time with the centre for years and even decades.
“This is what’s kept the centre going strong for 50 years; they’ve built it up with love, care and a deep understanding of what local families and children need.”
As community members celebrated and considered what the NECC meant to them and their families, Ms Dixon said the council had plans in place to ensure the ongoing success of the centre for future generations.
“The future for NECC is very strong,” she said.
“It will keep growing with the community – shaped by local voices, guided by Elders, and inspired by the past educators who’ve laid the groundwork.
“Council is currently undertaking an extensive investment program, which will ensure the centre continues to deliver quality services well into the future.”
PRIMARY producers, land managers, Traditional Owners, industry experts and other stakeholders put the future of Cape York’s grazing sector in the spotlight at a two-day forum in Laura last week.
The 2025 Grazing Forum was hosted by Cape York Natural Resource Management (NRM) and featured expert presentations, engaging discussion and practical demonstrations as delegates considered their roles in ensuring sustainable grazing continued to deliver economic, environmental and animal welfare benefit to the region.
May.
Updates were provided by Cape York NRM, Gulf Savannah NRM, AgForce and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, followed by presentations on savanna fire management, disaster
resilience, agricultural innovation and environmental markets, with the carbon and natural capital accounting session sparking particularly lively conversation.
At the conclusion of day one, the Laura Ro-
deo and Campdraft Association fed delegates while Cooktown-born musician Ella Hartwig made the trip north from Brisbane to provide an evening of toe-tapping entertainment under the stars.
On Wednesday, the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation talked all things cattle genetics, before the Department of Primary Industries delivered a session on phosphorus supplementation and an update on the national feral pig action plan was provided.
An event spokesperson said the forum,
which was supported by the TNQ Drought Hub, had provided delegates with a rare chance to discuss industry trends, advancements and concerns in person.
“The forum was praised by stakeholders and government representatives as a valuable networking opportunity, with meaningful conversations, reconnections and strong engagement across the two days,” the spokesperson said.
“It was a welcome reminder of the power of face-to-face connection in building knowledge and community.”
POLICE are calling for public assistance regarding a four-wheel drive allegedly stolen in Bamaga on 22 May.
The white 2018 Toyota HiLuxQueensland registration 803XZL - was reported stolen in the Northern Peninsula Area earlier this month, and is one of 33 stolen in the Far Northern Region in May.
In total, 299 vehicles have been stolen in the state’s northernmost policing region since 1 January.
THE State Government has added 20 offences to its Adult Crime, Adult Time legislation during a late night sitting of Parliament on 21 May.
The new offences include arson, torture, kidnapping, trafficking in dangerous drugs, rape, attempted rape, sexual assault, ramming a police vehicle while driving, and attempted murder.
In all, 33 youth crime offences are now captured under the LNP government’s showcase election commitment.
“The expansion of Adult Crime, Adult Time puts victims’ rights ahead of the rights of offenders and restores consequences for actions,” Premier David Crisafulli said.
WITH wet conditions persisting through parts of Cape York and the Torres Strait, the region’s health service is reminding residents to take precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service public health medical officer Dr Paul Dugdale said mosquito-borne infections had already been recorded in the area this year.
“Across our region, we have already had cases of mosquito-borne infections, including Ross River virus, malaria, dengue fever and chikungunya,” he said.
“Our neighbours in Papua New Guinea also are affected.”
Dr Dugdale said residents needed to do their part and take action to eliminate mosquito breeding sites on their properties and protect themselves from bites.
by CHISA HASEGAWA
AS National Volunteer Week comes to a close, a Weipa local is being highlighted for his efforts with the local RSL sub-branch in paying tribute to those who have served.
As a veteran himself, Lloyd Williams joined the Weipa sub-branch in 2012 after transitioning out of the Australian Defence Force, and just two years later, he was fully immersed as its president in 2014.
“I was asked to attend by a couple of members of the RSL, so I went to a couple of meetings, and found the group to be quite amiable and easy to get along with,” he said.
“I enjoy the camaraderie, mostly, and it’s the friendships you get, regardless of rank or status or history.”
Mr Williams served in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) reserves for 28 years, which included 20 years with No 13 Squadron in Darwin, and an eight-year stint as an electrician at Weipa’s RAAF Base Scherger.
These days, his focus lies on uniting the Weipa community for Anzac Day and Remembrance Day commemorations at the local memorial.
“To me, it gets better every year, like this year at Anzac Day, we had, I’m guessing, more than 60 kids in the march,” Mr Williams said.
“To me, that means everything, that’s passing the message onto the future generations of what Anzac Day is all about.”
Knowing how important Anzac Day and Remembrance Day services are for the community, Mr Williams has been working on a Memorial Walk project to give the community another opportunity to honour local service personnel.
“So far, we have implemented a beautiful steel memorial statue that natural light shines through, but the bulk of the project will be historical signage for residents to view and learn more about local war history,” he explained.
The veteran said highlighting the Indigenous heroes who were not historically recognised and celebrated was an important part of the project’s signage.
“Historical knowledge develops respect, and it’s not only respect for European soldiers, it’s also respect for the local Indigenous soldiers and those that took part in rescuing downed aircraft crew,” he said.
“There’s quite a few that joined up, but unfortunately, like Indigenous soldiers all over the country, they were not granted the same rights as European soldiers, and they weren’t recognised in the same way, which they should’ve been, because they did the same damn job.
“All kinds of events have happened on the Cape, and so few people know factually what happened with all of them, and if I could get half of the events put on signs, it educates the community.”
“I’ve got a historian from Cairns chasing up to give us factual sum, who’s been prominent with the Napranum War Memorial history out that way.”
• Random draws throughout the event
• Food stalls & product stalls
• Live music & family fun for everyone
• Major raffle with awesome prizes
• Fireworks Friday & Sunday night
by CHISA HASEGAWA
CAPE York and the Torres Strait’s rich Indigenous history is home to four finalists of the 42nd edition of Australia’s most prestigious First Nations art prize.
Alick Tipoti (Badu Island), Colina Wymarra (Seisia), Lisa Michl Komanggén (Kokoberrin) and Naomi Hobson (Coen) were named among 71 finalists in the 2025 Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA) earlier this month, a testament to the quality of art in the region.
Among these talented artists is a NATSIAA veteran, who has previously won the awards four times across various categories.
Mr Tipoti took home his first victory in 2003 in the Works on Paper category, before going on to win the same category in 2007, the People’s Choice Award in 2008, and the 3D category in 2014.
The artist said he had been out of the award circuit for a while, but was returning with a bang with a large three-piece sculpture in the 3D category.
“It is a fibreglass sculp-
ture representing the spiritual waterspouts, and they’re over two metres,” he said.
“I feel strong about cultural sculptures entering into awards; that’s where I feel I have a strong chance.”
Mr Tipoti’s artistic practice was initially focused on linocuts, carving intricate patterns passed down as a child from his Elders, but he
has since transitioned to fibreglass as a way to connect with his history.
“My forefathers, they catch the turtle for ceremonial [purposes]; it’s a delicacy, and nothing goes to waste,” he explained.
“The carapace of the shell was used to create ceremonial masks; now, it is against protocol for me as a modern-
day person to go and catch turtles to collect shells for the sake of making a mask to be hung in a museum, so I don’t practice that.
“That’s what inspired me to do fibreglassing, because I stain them to make it look like turtle shell.”
Along with visual art, Mr Tipoti said he also held a deep passion for song and
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dance as a way of keeping culture alive.
“I’ve ventured into my grandfather’s footsteps of embracing song and dance,” he said.
“Song is because I believe that’s the next best medicine to revive our language, and dance is because I believe that shows our living culture, rather
than we just talk about culture.
“I invest a lot of time in my children with art to promote and keep our cultural fire burning.”
The 2025 Telstra NATSIAA exhibition will open on 21 June at MAGNT Darwin, and the winners will be announced at a gala awards ceremony on 8 August.
THERE’S a well-known saying that without trucks, Australia stops. The same thing could be said of communities across Cape York when it comes to volunteers.
On the back of National Volunteer Week from 19-25 May, I thought it time we put our local volunteers under the microscope to consider the impact their contributions really have on life in one of the most geographically vast parts of the country.
This year’s theme of Connecting Communities is particularly fitting for us, given just how much volunteers do to bring us together, both literally and metaphorically.
According to Volunteering Australia, the peak body for all things volunteering, doing so “creates lasting relationships that enrich lives and strengthen communities”, while those actually doing the hard work experience a boosted sense of community engagement, connection and belonging. It’s a spot on assessment, however, it echoes as a bit warm and fuzzy, and touchy feely for many of our volunteer heroes and how improved our communities are for having them around.
You’ve only got to flick through the pages of today’s paper to meet
some of our Cape York volunteers, but the reality is that if we did a profile on all of you, this edition would run to about 400 pages –that’s how prolific you are, and how phenomenal your work is.
Think of your favourite Cape York event. The Weipa Rodeo? Volunteers. The Cooktown Discovery Festival? Volunteers. The Weipa Fishing Classic, Weipa Running Festival or annual Laura Races, Rodeo and Campdraft more
to your liking? Yup, you guessed it. Volunteers. But it isn’t just our headline community events that are made possible by an army of volunteers pulling strings behind the scenes. Have you ever needed a hand from the State Emergency Service, rural firies or the guys and girls crewing our marine rescue vessels? More volunteers, but ones prepared to put their lives on the line to make Cape York a safer place.
At Rio Tinto the strength of our relationships with the communities where we operate, and broader society, is fundamental to our business
Rio Tinto is willing to learn from our mistakes, by listening to understand and genuine partnering, we will deliver better long-term outcomes for everyone
Every complaint will be carefully considered and a written response will be provided We encourage open communication and collaboration to work towards an agreed resolution for all involved
If a resolution cannot be reached your complaint will be escalated to management who will reassess the issue and undertake an internal investigation to confirm the next steps An independent tribunal may be considered for complaints of a serious or complex nature
How can I provide feedback or make a complaint?
speak to our Communities and Social
on, get a community project across the line or have local emergency responders trained up for when the proverbial hits the fan.
Our volunteers come in a diverse range of ages, shapes and sizes from an even more eclectic offering of backgrounds and experiences, but no matter what they look like, they all seem to have these monstrous hearts and an apparent inability to say no to helping out just that bit more.
I’m lucky in this job, because I get to see behind the curtain of most events of community significance and walk amongst the volunteers as they do their thing. I’m not going to lie – it’s pretty bloody awe inspiring, and definitely makes you question how much you’re contributing yourself.
The one thing most serial volunteers have in common is that they prefer to remain in the shadows, quietly going about their business without fanfare or kudos. That’s a good thing, because volunteers are the ones the rest of us are usually quick to forget about when we’re enjoying the fruits of their blood, sweat and tears. Too often, we will pass through the entry gate and not give a moment’s thought to how much work it took to put an event
If you are one of our incredible volunteers, thank you on behalf of every one of us who calls Cape York home, as well as the procession of tourists who head north annually to experience the lifestyle and unique events that are only possible because of your selflessness or dedication.
If you aren’t a volunteer, but are keen to get involved to make your community a better place to work and play, all you have to do is leap headlong into the unknown and ask. Someone will find a job –usually more than one – for you in any of our clubs, groups, teams or organising committees.
Fill in the blank cells using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and 3x3 block.
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.
“IT’S for boys and girls”.
That is the message the Cooktown District Junior Rugby League Club is trying to get out to potential new players as it seeks to bolster its ranks in some age divisions for the 2025 season.
The season has started strongly for the club after two away games to Mossman already under its belt and another planned for 31 May, but a shout out has been made to attract junior football stars from under-6 to the 13-17 League Tag competition.
“We are at capacity in the U10s, but have spaces still available in our other teams – U6, U7, U8, U12 and 13-17 League Tag,”
Crocs secretary Jacynta Hunt said.
“We have a great team of coaches, but if there is anyone else interested, we will have a face-to-face course with the NRL in Cooktown in the coming weeks; we definitely need more sports trainers and referees to help on game days.
“We are looking forward to hosting Atherton on 16
August in Cooktown, and would love the community to support us.”
Ms Hunt said there was a strong cohort of female players across the club’s age groups and urged more to try their hand at rugby league.
“It’s for boys and girls – all our junior teams have female players,” she said.
“There is a two-week come-and-try form you can fill out if your child wants to give rugby league a go.”
The club is holding a fundraising car wash at Cooktown Hardware on 7 June and players are expecting to keep sponges and chamois busy as they help the vehicles of Cooktown look spick and span, as well as running a raffle with a Thermomix as the major prize.
New players can be registered for the season at www.playrugbyleague. com, and anyone with questions is urged to email cooktownjrl@gmail.com or call 0429 351 804.
Despite
The Western Cape Communities Co-Existence Agreement (WCCCA) is an Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) over the Rio Tinto mining lease areas of the Western Cape York region of Northern Queensland. The Agreement is between the eleven Traditional Owner Groups, four Shire Councils (Aurukun, Napranum, Mapoon and New Mapoon), Rio Tinto, the Queensland State Government and the Cape York Land Council on behalf of the Native Title Parties.
The Western Cape Communities Coordinating Committee (WCCCC) and its five Sub-Committees transparently monitor, implement and review the objectives of the WCCCA to ensure that all parties’ obligations under the Agreement are met. The WCCT office is the administration arm for all Trusts and the WCCCC. It manages the overall business of the company, including servicing, assisting and supporting the above entities.
WCCT is committed to providing high quality services to our Traditional Owners, and we recognize the importance of employing the most suitable candidates. Currently we are seeking applications for the position of:
Reporting to the Executive Officer, the Office Manager is responsible for the efficient and effective functioning of the WCCT Office in order to meet organisational objectives. This includes demonstrating appropriate and professional workplace behaviours, performing their responsibilities in a manner which reflects and responds to continuous improvement, managing Administration staff, managing IT and communications systems and other office equipment, and providing support to the Executive Officer. The Office Manager is also responsible for the coordination and planning of all WCCT, WCCCC, Sub-Regional Trusts and Sub-Committees meetings scheduled throughout the year.
We anticipate the applicants will have completed a formal training in Business Administration or a similar field and have experience in a similar role where they have been responsible for the efficient and effective functioning of an office, managing administration staff, document control, managing IT and communications systems as well as compliance with organisation policies and procedures and workplace health and safety regulations. A current C class driver’s license is also required for this role.
Prior experience with MYOB, centralized database, and a sound knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island protocols are highly desired.
Traditional Owners and Aboriginal people are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants must have the right to work in Australia.
For further information, including a position description please contact the Executive Officer directly.
All applications should be clearly marked “Private and Confidential” and addressed as follows: Executive Officer PO Box 106
Weipa, QLD, 4874
Phone: (07) 4069 7945
Email: eo@westerncape.com.au
DATE – FRIDAY 6th JUNE 2025
HE only had eight opponents to beat, and a generous 32 handicap did not hurt when Steve Kennett triumphed in Dawnbusters action in Weipa on 25 May.
In unseasonably hot conditions for a week out from western Cape York’s “winter”, Kennett returned to the Carpentaria Golf Club bar with 44 off the stick for a fieldblitzing nett 12.
Jon Dall finished his round with gross 56 for nett 19 and the runner-up prize.
Dall’s much better half, Beth, was on fire and took home both women’s long drive and Hoffman’s chocolates.
Dave Sands showed his versality on the tee block by claiming the men’s long drive and pin prize on offer.
Kennett admitted the win was the culmination of his Australian mates coaching him on the finer points of social golf, including the obligatory sledging.
Dawnbusters will contest the first of the Winter Wonderland Games when they take to the back nine on 1 June, with new players always welcome to join in on the fun from about 6:45am.
by CHISA HASEGAWA
IT was a “humbling” away game for the Cooktown Salties in Port Douglas earlier this month, but it has only fuelled the fire in the young basketballers as they shoot for their next big win.
After landslide 80-6 and 6515 wins against Douglas Heat Basketball Club in March by the under-12 boys’ team, the Salties returned with two more teams as the sport continues to grow in popularity in the region.
Coach Dave Chung said the now-U14 boys’ team was disappointed after two losses on the latest road trip, but it was vital in helping them become stronger players as they reflected on what went wrong.
“Last game, they won by quite a bit, so I think it was quite humbling to have that loss,” he said.
“When we were driving down, they were saying they hope it’s harder competition than last time; it was really good to see they were tuned in and wanted a challenge.
“Talking to them afterwards, and doing the self-reflection, I kept reiterating that you’re only going to get better if you play better teams.”
The Salties also took an U16
boys’ team, which won one of two clashes, and, for the first time, a recently formed girls’ line-up.
Mr Chung said the club had been open to girls to play co-ed with the boys since the resurgence
of basketball in Cooktown almost two years ago, but that there had been little interest.
“I’ve got children at the high school, and my daughter said there were girls playing basket-
ball at lunchtime amongst themselves,” he said.
“We recognised that they might just not want to play with the boys, because at that age, they can be a bit rough and not have that awareness playing with girls.”
Three months since beginning training, the U14 girls took on their first official competition, taking home a fierce sense of direction and determination for their training.
“Because it was the first game, we just told the girls, we’re just wanting to know where the gaps are,” Mr Chung said.
“It’s a totally different playing style from schoolyard to actual competition; where schoolyard can get a bit showy and fun, competition is a bit more serious and needs a bit more use of communication.
“They lost both games, but you could see the girls enjoyed it, and took away a lot from that on what areas we need to concentrate on training to improve, so it’s only up from here.”
THE region’s youngest AFL schoolgirls side was undefeated in the primary division of the AFLQ Schools Cup in Cairns last week as it won all seven games against the best school sides the city had to offer.
AFL Cape York regional development co-ordinator Kieran Sciberras said players in the primary and youth divisions did Cape York and the Torres Strait proud with their athletic performances on the paddock.
“Our grade 5 and 6 girls team wore the Eagles guernseys with pride, and played with our three priorities of steps, speed and tackles all day,” he said.
“With so many games, our players got to try different AFL positions from starting passages of play in the ruck and midfield, to kicking and saving goals in the forward and back lines.
“It was a joy to share the day in Cairns with families from Cape York and the Torres Strait who came to watch at North Cairns Tigers Oval.
“Thank you to everyone who was part of this achievement, from sponsors and schools, to parents, teachers and volunteers.”
First-time carnival player Zayda Pearson-Garnier was awarded the team’s best on ground, Frances Mosby won the AFL Cape York Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, and Tei’ya’Lee Mosby-Loban took home best in camp for her exemplary behaviour and positive attitude.
In the youth division, grade 9 and 10 players impressed with trademark steps, speed and tackles.
“The team included a mix of new faces and players from last year, who encouraged and shared tips with their teammates,” Mr Sciberras said.
“Our AFL girls played exceptional football against quality teams and experienced players, but never gave up.”
Josie Sagigi was named AFL Cape York MVP, while Mistee Sagigi was crowned the competition’s overall MVP.
by LYNDON KEANE
WEIPA’S credentials as a breeding ground for boxing excellence took centre stage when four young fighters stepped into the ring at the 2025 Queensland Golden Gloves at the weekend.
Cape York Boxing Weipa teammates Jack Barton, Samson Poi Poi, Rubyn Olsen and Billy Reynolds made the trek to Townsville with coach Scott Wallace and an entourage of supporters to appear on the Townsville card on Saturday and Sunday, with the quartet recording a mixed bag of results.
Barton and Poi Poi will return home with some new bling for the club’s trophy cabinet after taking Golden Gloves honours in the 81-kilogram intermediate and 67kg novice classes respectively.
Mr Wallace said Poi Poi could have produced a “Cinderella story” when he was asked to step
up in weight class for a crack at a second Golden Gloves title on 25 May, however, the young fighter was flattened by illness on Saturday night.
“His family (Poi Poi’s) came all the way down from Bamaga and Weipa, and the building just lit up with them cheering – it was just amazing,” the coach said.
“He was ready to go again today (Sunday), but just woke up too sick, so we had to call it.
“What a Cinderella story it would have been.
“It was an outstanding effort, and the boys fought technically and hard and in good sportsmanship; they’re just four absolute gentleman, just the way they handled themselves and got
around down here; it was just a pleasure to bring them down.”
Olsen and Reynolds fought well but were unable to overcome bigger opponents.
Barton said he felt more comfortable in the ring at his new fighting weight, adding he believed his win proved the strategy was working.
“It’s a lot better from the weight class below,” he said.
“I feel a lot more confident and a lot stronger being at a more natural weight.
“It was a good fight; I did feel that the first two rounds were fairly even, and then the last two went my way.”
The 17-year-old said he was hoping for another bout before Weipa Fight Night 2.0 in July and praised his fellow boxers for their showing on the Golden Gloves stage.
“I was cornerman for the boys and I enjoyed that part of it; it was good to work as a team,” he said.
by LYNDON KEANE
THE challenge of a “nightmare” course layout is what attracts players from across Cape York and Far North Queensland to the Cooktown Open every year, according to Cooktown Golf Club president Brent Hetaraka.
This year’s event will be held over three days, starting with the annual Prawn Run on 27 June before golfers take on a 36-hole stroke format on the Saturday and Sunday.
One of the big drawcards of the Open will be the chance for competitors to pocket $10,000 for a hole-inone on the 9th hole, and Mr Hetaraka said he believed a few club members were se-
cretly practicing with their short irons and spending the prize in their heads.
“I reckon there will be a few of the boys practicing their short games on the 9th,” he laughed.
“They’ll be eyeing it off for sure.”
With the Walker Bay course in sensational condition, the club president said it was the combination of the event’s social aspect and the difficult layout of the course itself that had visiting golfers beating a path to Cooktown every June.
“The course is the best I’ve seen it, and even the oldschool boys are saying it’s unreal,” Mr Hetaraka said.
“The course is just crazy –I came up here playing off 3,
and I’m off 7 or 8 now; with the design and the wind, it’s just a nightmare of a course, and I think that brings a lot of people in for [the Open].
“I think the social aspect of it attracts a lot of people as well; they kind of let loose a bit, which is good.”
With 40 nominations already received, it is not too late to get your entry in before the competition cap of 70 is reached.
“We’re trying to cap it at 70, just because of carts and stuff, and being a nine-holer and that,” Mr Hetaraka said.
Nomination forms are available on the club’s Facebook page, and all other Open-related inquiries can be answered by emailing cooktowngccaptain@gmail.com.
http://www.bom.gov.au/australia/tides/#!/qld-weipa
THIRTEEN Wackers encountered great weather when they took on the front nine at Carpentaria Golf Club on 21 May.
Dave Sands returned to the clubhouse with 46 off the stick (nett 31) to prove hitting the course every day can pay off, but he had to settle for runner-up honours after Rhiannan Crossley (55/29.5) made the most of her handicap to bag the win. Sands won the pin prize on hole 9, while no one could find the green on the 7th. Carolyn Head was the weekly Bradman’s recipient.
TOP End Taggers recorded the biggest winning margin of round four Weipa Touch Association action on Wednesday night. The team delivered a 24-1 thumping of Weipa Weapons at Andoom Oval, with Villains trumping Lacking Stamina 9-1 and Spartans claiming a 6-3 win over Pisswrecks.
Untouchables and Cape Candies had big victories over Res Strong and Can’t Touch This, with 17-2 and 13-4 scorelines respectively.
Cheers for Beers and The OGs played a thriller which resulted in an 8-all draw.
THE 2025 Cooktown Golf Club Championships winners have been crowned after the second 18-hole battle on 24 May.
Brent Hetaraka swapped his perpetual bridesmaid’s bouquet for the A-grade silverware, while the C-grade gong was snapped up by Wal Welsh.
Despite fracturing his tibia a month ago, Steve “Moon Boot” Butler limped his way to claim B-grade honours.
Tanya Stewart took home the Ladies winner’s chocolates.
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