Glenn and Kirra Egan, and Tacita and Matt de Tournouer prepare to tee off with more than 70 other players for the Weipa Men’s Mental Health Golf Day on Saturday. See who else we spotted on Page 14.
Pair lace up for 820km fundraiser
Michael Collins and David Tuckwood have set themselves the mammoth challenge of running from Weipa to Cairns to fundraise for two causes close to their hearts. Read about their marathon 17-day plan on Page 8.
5pm
Saturday June 21st at Weipa Bowls Club
Current members encouraged to attend New memberships will be accepted at meeting
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WEIPA DEPOT
Iraci Ave, Evans Landing Mob: 0429 003 743
Ph: 4069 7183 Fax: 4069 7472
COOKTOWN DEPOT
Cnr of Endeavour Road and McMillan Streets, Cooktown Ph: 0419 759 892
THE Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has been quick to dispel rumours the annual dry season maintenance grading of the Peninsula Developmental Road (PDR) had been scrapped for 2025.
Cape York Weekly was contacted by several Cape York council leaders and business operators last week concerned by rumours TMR was set to shelve maintenance grading once the current opening grade had been completed due to budgetary constraints.
However, TMR has confirmed maintenance grading will commence along the entire PDR from July, while re-sheeting works currently under way on a 4-kilometre section of the road south of Archer River are expected to be completed by the end of the month.
Regular maintenance grades are critical to ensuring the PDR – the only road link between Cape York and the rest of Queensland – is driveable for residents, tourists and road transport operators during the dry season.
A TMR spokesperson told Cape York Weekly the department recognised how vital a safe and driveable PDR was to the region’s economic and social wellbeing.
“The Department of Transport and Main
Roads understands the importance of maintaining the Peninsula Developmental Road for Cape York communities,” they said.
“Several crews have been carrying out grading to damaged sections on the PDR north of Hann River from flooding experienced during the 2024-2025 wet season; now, with drier conditions, crews will progress south of Hann River, where grading will continue until August 2025.
“Reconstruction works are also underway between Laura and Weipa, and include pavement, scours and washout repairs to sections damaged because of rainfall and flooding associated with disaster events from 2022-23 through to 2024-25.
“The condition of the PDR will continue to be monitored, and further maintenance will be carried out as required until the next wet season begins.”
Country comes to life for 46th Cooktown Art Award
by CHISA HASEGAWA
WHETHER on canvas, paper, or medium in between, imaginations of Country will come alive at the 2025 Cooktown Annual Art Award when the exhibition opens on Thursday night.
46th
of the event, themed My Country, is set to showcase creations in various categories, including painting, works on paper, mixed media, Indigenous, sculpture, and the Endeavour Lions Youth Awards.
Cooktown School of Art
Society president Jane Dennis said she was looking forward to seeing the creative flair of local artists, adding the theme was merely for inspiration and open to interpretation.
“My Country is not necessarily Cooktown – it could be a story about a spiritual Country,” she said.
“It’s up to anyone’s interpretation what My Country means; it doesn’t literally have to be a landscape.
“We have a few abstract artists in our group, so they obviously wouldn’t do anything literal; it could just be a moment in time for them in their brain.”
Ms Dennis said the open and welcoming atmosphere of the art scene in Cooktown was perfect for not only the seasoned creatives, but also new faces looking to join the fun.
“We had such a great response again from the RAW exhibition; people who’d never made art just felt like, ‘oh, I could do this’, so it got all these creative juices running,” she said.
“It just encourages new creatives, which is the main thing; it’s a little bit of encouragement to be a bit fearless, because you never know who’s going to win.”
The 46th Cooktown Annual Art Award will open on 19 June with a live jazz performance by Art Soul, followed by an announcement of category prize winners.
Works will be available for viewing at the Elizabeth Guzsely Gallery during the Cooktown Discovery Festival and until 5 July.
To keep making Queensland safer, the new Queensland Government is expanding ‘adult crime adult time’ to include 33 serious offences. We’re putting more police on the ground and rapid response for crime hotspots. We’re also taking knives off the street with Jack’s Law and breaking the cycle of youth crime with early intervention programs like Regional Reset.
To see how safety is being restored where you live, search Making Queensland Safer.
Despite rumours to the contrary, the Department of Transport and Main Roads will undertake 2025 dry season maintenance grading along the entire length of the Peninsula Developmental Road from next month.
The
rendition
The imaginative minds of Cooktown will unveil their interpretation of this year’s Annual Art Award theme, My Country, on Thursday night.
Photo: Supplied.
Breakdowns continue for beleaguered Jardine ferry
by LYNDON KEANE
THE council responsible for the operation and maintenance of the derelict Jardine River ferry will not comment on the impact ongoing breakdowns are having on the community and Cape York tourism operators.
Following the vessel returning to the water following a month-long repair mandated by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) in May, the ferry has experienced at least three significant breakdowns in less than three weeks.
On 5 June, the hydraulic pump in the ferry’s gearbox failed, followed by an incident two days later that left it stuck in the middle of the river while transporting four vehicles and passengers across.
On Wednesday, Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) announced on social media the embattled ferry was again inoperable due to “additional mechanical challenges … requiring immediate repair”.
The ferry returned to normal operations on 12 June.
Cape York Weekly put five questions to the council about its fitness to continue the ongo-
ing operation and maintenance of the only road link between the Northern Peninsula Area and the rest of Cape York, as well as whether it was taking the financial impact on local tourism operators seriously, however, it refused to provide a response.
“Council won’t be responding,” acting chief executive officer Lew Rojahn said in an email on 12 June.
“The ferry is operational again.”
On Friday morning, Mayor Robert Poi Poi posted a message on social media advising the council was “in the process of feasibility on both purchase of a river ferry upgrade or building a bridge”.
“[Before] anything can be built, or even planned, we need to ask - whose land is this, and who has the right to decide?” he asks in the post.
“Any meaningful development must begin with deep listening and proper consultation with First Nations communities.
“Our approach would aim for environmental and socioeconomic impact assessments before proposing to Traditional Owner groups.”
In 2021, the State Government
completed a desktop business case for a bridge, however, it did not progress to a ground truthing stage due to a lack of support from Traditional Owners.
Cape York Camping Punsand Bay general manager Kahlia Colquhoun slammed NPARC’s attitude towards the ferry farce, saying the business had been unable to even get a council representative to talk on the phone.
“Overall, our business is struggling,” she said.
“We have not only been dealing with this ferry stuff for over eight weeks now, but we’re seeing a huge decline and concern of future bookings, and people changing their plans to not come to Cape York throughout this whole season,” she said.
“Council’s not answering their phones and they’re not doing regular updates to the community or the travellers; I have office staff that are getting absolutely slammed by customers and guests travelling up here, because there’s just so much uncertainty and there’s so little information.
“They’re (NPARC) downplaying the severity of this situation; whether they don’t understand or they don’t care, I’m not really sure, but it makes it really hard for us when we’re copping the flack of the decisions made by the council.”
Ms Colquhoun estimated the business’ sales “were down about 23 per cent” for the start of the 2025 tourist season, with another NPA operator, who asked not to be named, reporting an even greater decline on the back of ferry reliability concerns.
“I’ve stopped looking at the figures over the last few weeks, but we were at least 50 per cent down on where we’d usually be this time of year,” they said.
“The ferry’s crippling us and the council doesn’t give a stuff; we’ve tried to get someone in NPARC to tell us what’s happening, but the only way to find out seems to be Facebook.”
Despite the numerous breakdowns since the ferry was returned to operation on 25 May and the mandatory reporting of issues, the maritime watchdog said no new reports had been logged.
“AMSA is aware of a mechanical failure that is affecting the Jardine River ferry,” an AMSA spokesperson said on 11 June.
“No other mechanical failures with the ferry have been reported since May 2025.
“AMSA previously accepted a report on the vessel’s hull repairs in May 2025 as evidence that the necessary repairs were completed to the required standard.”
What we asked NPARC
1. How many breakdowns has the ferry experienced since it was returned to operation in late May?
2. Does the council understand the outrage of business operators and community members about the reliability of the ferry, especially in the middle of peak tourist season?
3. How can NPA business operators and the community have any faith that there aren’t more breakdowns to follow this dry season?
4. Does the council still believe it is the best entity to operate and maintain the ferry and campground facilities?
5. Does Mayor Robert Poi Poi still support a bridge replacing the ferry, as he told Cape York Weekly following last year’s local government elections, and has continued to tell local stakeholders on a one-on-one basis?
The Jardine River ferry broke down again last week while transporting passengers to the Northern Peninsula Area. Photo: Facebook (Eion Kennedy).
FIND ME N THE FRIDGE
FIND ME IN THE FREEZER
New postings bolster Weipa policing ranks
by LYNDON KEANE
DON’T be surprised if you see some new faces in uniform around Weipa over the coming weeks.
Seven additional constables have been posted to the local police station for periods ranging from 12-24 months to bolster Weipa’s thin blue line and experience everything policing in one of the remotest parts of Queensland has to offer.
For Constable Georgia Iddon, the posting meant experiencing the state’s far north and the sense of community spirit remote townships like Weipa are renowned for.
“I’d never been this far north before,” she said.
“Before this was Cairns, so I just thought I’d try something rural, try something fun; it’s not every day you get to come out this far up in North Queensland.
“Weipa’s good; you see everyone, and you get to go down to the pub, do the trivia, and go to things like the Fishing Classic; we’ve been going to the Stars foundation at [Western Cape College] – we just go there and hang out with the girls.”
After graduating in May 2024 and spending his first 12 months in uniform in Cairns, Constable Roy Blain said he was enjoying the challenges and unique experiences Cape York’s geography offered up.
“It’s been good meeting everyone,” he said.
“You get to learn about all the offroad tracks and stuff like that, so it’s different to policing in Cairns; it’s a good difference up here.
“Yesterday, we were up at Mapoon and got bogged in the car, but there was no problem; it’s something different and a bit of fun.”
Weipa officer in charge Senior Sergeant Warren Flegg said the new constables were a welcome addition to the team, adding he
believed the Cape York posting would help them become better police.
“It’s so much of a difference to policing communities, and that’s where you learn about people, communication styles and community living,” he said.
“It’s my belief you become a better police officer by coming to these locations, because you do develop different sets of skills, not only the policing sense, but also
management types of things as well.
“You learn so much; you’ve either got the resources or you don’t, and you make do and you can manage things so much better.
“For the more serious stuff as well, they get that ability to do it; it’s not a case of having a large CIB (Criminal Investigation Branch) unit here competing for offences.
“When we see people at their
worst, we’re actually dealing with it, and they’re getting that, and gaining that experience.”
Senior Sergeant Flegg added there was a chance the additional boots on the ground meant Weipa could soon have a 24-hour rostering.
“We’re reviewing our rosters,” he told Cape York Weekly
“Obviously, now we’ve got more resources here, we are looking at changing our rosters to suit.”
Acting Inspector Mark Cini, Sergeant Josh Kelly and Weipa officer in charge Senior Sergeant Warren Flegg with new local police Constable Michael Madden, Constable Scot Winkworth, Constable Georgia Iddon, Constable Alex Burrell, Constable Orley Fenelon, Constable Roy Blain and Constable Mat Clark.
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Destination 2045
by the Queensland Government, William Street, Brisbane.
WTA gears up for August by-election
by LYNDON KEANE
WEIPA voters will return to the ballot box in August to decide on the replacement for a popular member of the community’s leadership team.
Weipa Town Authority (WTA) elected member Lisa Scharf has tendered her resignation and will vacate her seat at the end of June, a decision she told Cape York Weekly was “heartbreaking” but unavoidable as she prepared to leave town to join her husband at his new job.
“It’s heartbreaking, because I basically gave my heart to Weipa, and took my role very seriously at WTA,” she said.
“It’s very sad, but it was just a decision we had to make, because we’ve been living apart.”
Given more than 12 months has passed since the March 2024 council elections, section 166(1) (b) of the Local Government Act 2009 prescribes the vacancy must be filled by a by-election.
WTA Chair Jaime Gane said she and fellow elected members were devastated by Ms Scharf’s imminent departure, adding planning was under way to lock in the date for the by-election.
“We will be sad to see her go,” she said.
“We can’t formally advertise for new candidates until the
position is vacated, so that will happen after our meeting at the end of the month; we are looking at potential options around mid-August, being mindful of community events like the rodeo.”
Ms Gane said she hoped to see a broad cross-section of the community nominate to join the WTA leadership team.
“I’m hopeful that people will
Weipa bank
WE’RE not sure how they’re going to fill in their deposit slips, but some special fourlegged customers will be welcomed by staff into the Weipa Queensland County Bank (QCB) branch on 20 June.
The local branch, along with its Cairns sister branch, will celebrate Bring Your Dog to Work Day on Friday to fundraise for two local animal rescue organisations – Cape Animal Protection Shelter (CAPS) and the Cairns-based Young Animal Protection Society.
Weipa branch manager Luke O’Day and his team will
offers
see it as an opportunity to get involved in shaping the future of the community,” she said.
“I know there are a lot of passionate people in this town, and the best way to influence change is to have a seat at the table, so I would definitely encourage people to put their hand up.”
Despite her disappointment at having to walk away from the
role she is so passionate about, Ms Scharf echoed the chair’s sentiment and urged Weipa residents to consider representing their community.
“It’s very worthwhile, because you’re giving a voice to the people that live there, that pay rates, that own businesses, and their voice is very important to be heard,” Ms Scharf said.
puppy love to special visitors
roll out the welcome mat and arm themselves with chew toys as the bank is filled with rescue dogs looking for their forever home.
In addition to trying to link Weipa families with a new furry family member, the event will highlight the important work CAPS does on western Cape York in rehoming, rehabilitating and advocating for animals in need.
To lend a paw, QCB team members are collecting donations of non-perishable dog and cat food, ensuring these rescue groups are supported
long after the last tail has wagged on the day.
The initiative is supported by the bank’s Money Mentoring program, and mentor Ash Bessant said free budgeting sessions to members and nonmembers alike would also be available, in addition to the fourlegged showstoppers.
“With the rising cost of living, the service we provide is more valuable than ever,” she said.
“We help our members budget for life’s big moments, like bringing home a new furry family member and for the ongoing costs that come with that com-
mitment; the aim is to prevent financial stress and reduce the number of pets returning to shelters.”
Mr O’Day said his team was more than happy to support the work CAPS did for the community.
“It’s great to see our team out in the community supporting groups like CAPS,” he said.
“The work they do to care for and rehome animals is incredible; being part of their outreach efforts means a lot to our team and to the dogs who benefit from a second chance.”
NEWS IN BRIEF
Buskers set for Discovery
DO you consider yourself a bit of a talent with a musical instrument? Are you keen to get your hands on up to $1,000 in prizemoney for showing off your skills? If so, the Cooktown Discovery Festival busking competition may be for you.
The competition will be held from 9am-4:30pm along Charlotte Street on 21 June, and will offer a 12-17 junior category and an open category for those aged 18 and older.
The winner of the open competition will pocket $1,000, while the junior busking champion will take home $350.
For more information, go to www. cooktownexpo.com.au and click on the Busking Competition button.
Pick up book for challenge
PREP to year 9 students across Cape York and the Torres Strait are being asked to get reading for the next three months as part of the Premier’s Reading Challenge.
The annual event aims to improve literacy and encourage children to read for pleasure and learning, with students challenged to experience 15-20 books during the reading period.
Cook MP David Kempton said reading was one of the greatest gifts children could be given and urged the community to get involved.
“It sparks imagination, builds confidence and inspires big dreams,” he said.
The reading period for the challenge finishes on 22 August.
To sign up, visit www.readingchallenge. education.qld.gov.au.
Weipa power outages
SOME residents in Rocky Point and Nanum will be without power for four hours later this month while critical repairs and maintenance are carried out.
Rio Tinto has advised from 8am-12pm on 24 June, properties on Nonda Close, Bombax Court, 1-13 Alstonia Drive and 38-47A Pandanas Parade will be impacted.
From 8am-12pm on 30 June, those on Damson, Delonix, Clarke, Taree, Carcoola and Coolong courts, Transmission Street, the ABC broadcast tower and 4 Yileen Court will be affected.
For additional information, call 1800 820 711 or email RTAWeipafeedback@ riotinto.com.
Lisa Scharf (centre), pictured with Judey Haeusler and WTA Chair Jaime Gane, says her decision to resign as one of the town’s elected members was “heartbreaking” and is encouraging community members passionate about representing Weipa to throw their hat in the ring for at the August by-election to determine who will replace her.
Weipa pair to pound PDR for marathon fundraising effort
by LYNDON KEANE
THERE’S commitment to a cause, and then there’s pounding the Peninsula Developmental Road (PDR) for more than a fortnight to show your support in a fundraising effort to top all others.
Weipa’s Michael Collins and David Tuck-
wood are part of the furniture within western Cape York’s tightknit running community, and have announced they will tackle the 820-kilometre trek between the township and Cairns to raise money for the Cape Animal Protection Shelter (CAPS) and the Royal Flying Doctor Service’s (RFDS) Far North Queensland service.
The pair is aiming to knock off more than a marathon every day for 17 days, leaving Weipa on 22 August and arriving in Cairns on 7 September.
Mr Tuckwood said the concept had started as a challenge from his wife, Susie, and snowballed from there.
“I was out running with Susie one morning, my wife, and I just said to her, ‘I reckon I could run from Weipa to Cairns’ and she said, ‘well, you need to talk to Michael’, and I spoke to him that afternoon, and he said, ‘awesome, I’ve been looking for someone to do this with and let’s go ahead’ and it hasn’t stopped since then.”
Mr Collins said the prospect of taking on the trip that takes most people 10 or more hours in a vehicle was quite daunting.
“It’s the biggest running challenge I’ve ever undertaken and, at this point, it sort of feels out of reach, but I sort of feel like it’s one of those things you just get started and see it all come into play,” he said.
“All the training we’ve done up to now is sort of coming together and should get us through.”
While the runners are still finalising the logistics of support crews and the like, CAPS president Shayna Reeves praised the lengths they were going to for the Weipabased not-for-profit.
“It’s phenomenal, the thought behind what they’re doing, because it’s honestly hard yakka – it’s a 10-hour drive, let alone them going to run it,” she said.
“The fact that they’re looking at raising money for CAPS alongside [the RFDS] is amazing; I know for us, the money would go like a long way; we’re wanting to expand and get some more exercise yards, so, if we hit the goal that they’re aiming to achieve, then that basically funds our next construction project, which would be huge.”
Ms Reeves said both men had a personal link to CAPS and the work the organisation did on western Cape York.
“They’ve both been involved,” she explained.
“David, for instance, he’s actually got an adopted CAPS dog … and Michael’s always been a part of checking in and seeing how things are going; he’s very community orientated.”
RFDS Far North mental health manager Jos Middleton said it was “heartwarming” the men were prepared to hit the road to promote and support the organisation’s work.
“To go to these sorts of lengths to help out with the mental health and wellbeing services we offer across Cape York is just incredible,” she said.
To donate to CAPS for the fundraiser, go to www.tinyurl.com/4us2y3b9, or https://www.doyourthing.org.au/fundraisers/ michael-collins--david-tuckwood/weipato-carins-820km-run to support the continuation of RFDS services across Cape York.
Michael Collins and David Tuckwood get acquainted with some four-legged friends and CAPS’ Nicole Pritchard and Shayna Reeves ahead of the pair’s monster fundraiser run between Weipa and Cairns in August.
Third time’s a charm for Cape York ultra bike attempt
by LYNDON KEANE
CAPE York has been indelibly inked in the memories of three competitors after they completed a mammoth 6,200-kilometre ultra endurance challenge by standing proudly at the tip of Australia this month.
The trio were participating in the 2025 Terra Australis, a gruelling two-wheel adventure along the entire east coast of the country, from Wilsons Promontory in
Victoria to Pajinka at the northernmost point of the continent.
Merdeith Quinlan, who has made two previous failed attempts to conquer the ride, was the first of the three riders to reach the end of the road, stopping the clock in 35 days, 7 hours and 55 minutes – more than 175km per day.
Paul Lester was the second rider in the field of six starters to complete the race in 37 days, 9 hours and 33 minutes.
One competitor withdrew from the race after 760km, while two more pulled the pin on the arduous challenge at the 1,200km and 1,450km distance markers.
Craig Johnston, the only other rider left standing, reached the Northern Peninsula Area at the weekend, 44 days, 16 hours and 41 minutes after setting out from Victoria.
Ms Quinlan said the behindthe-scenes planning for the selfsupported race had been critical to her success.
“I think planning is key to it, and being aware of what you’ve got ahead of you, and how far apart the food stops are, because it’s all self-supported,” she said.
“You have to look after yourself; you have to know when the shops are open – there’s no point counting on shops when you’re going to be riding through town at three in the morning, unless there’s a bakery open, which occasionally happens.
“In terms of the mind, I had my phone with lots of downloaded books, podcasts and music, all the traditional things that we all use these days to help us keep positive and motivated; I had a different flavour of things
that I could listen to, depending on the mood and the occasion.”
Ms Quinlan completed her race without any mechanical breakdowns, something she credited to pre-race maintenance and component replacement, and “not smashing it too badly” as a conservative rider.
The 53-year-old said there was major satisfaction in being the first across the finish line, and had nothing but praise for the Cape York residents she met, including a group of riders on a motorcycle tour.
“People up in the Cape are just so lovely,” she said.
“I just find when you get into the remote areas of Australia, that people just get nicer and warmer, and more willing to have a chat or help.
“The Cockatoo Creek crossing was really high and I was trying to work out what to do, then I heard these engines and these guys on trail bikes rocked up; they just jumped in the water, in a line, and picked my bike up like it was a toy, because they’re tall and big boys; they just walked over so easily, and I was struggling to swim over.
“That was just so cool.”
Bamaga store claims service gong as CEQ managers celebrate
REMOTE store operator
Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) has celebrated the passion, dedication and achievements of its store leaders at its inaugural CEQ Managers Gathering in Bamaga and on Horn Island recently.
The event took on the theme of Thrive Together and brought store managers and leadership team members from across Cape York and the Torres Strait for two days of connection, creativity and cultural immersion.
Chief executive officer Michael Dykes said the gathering was an opportunity for the organisation to recognise the hard work of store teams and
create a shared vision for the future.
“Our people are the heartbeat of CEQ – their leadership in remote communities is vital to local wellbeing, resilience and prosperity,” he said.
“This gathering was about celebrating our teams, sharing ideas and continuing to build a culture where we care, every day, always.”
There were plenty of local winners at the CEQ Awards Dinner,
with the Bamaga IBIS picking up the Outstanding Customer Service category and Soum Saha from the Lockhart River store named the winner of the Team Values Award.
Konio Lovai (Training
The Batavia Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation (BTOAC) has commenced compliance patrols across Batavia Country, including Batavia National Park, as part of its annual dry season land management program.
This program will run from June-December 2025 and is aimed at protecting the land, enforcing cultural and environmental protocols, and supporting safe visitor behaviour during the critical fire season.
The rangers will also be carrying out hazard reduction burns and traditional fire management practices with other stakeholders during this period.
To ensure transparency, accountability and the safety of all involved, the rangers will wear body-worn cameras while undertaking patrols.
For more information about the program, contact the General Manager on 0438 880 289 or visit www.batavia.org.au
Cooktown charges
POLICE have charged a charged a 41-yearold Cooktown man with a number of offences last week.
It will be alleged the man committed offences between 3 May and 4 June in the Cooktown and Manunda areas.
Police further allege on 28 May, the man failed to return a rental vehicle to a Cairns North business.
At about 1pm on 4 June, police located and arrested the man at a Cooktown address where the stolen vehicle was located.
The man was transported to the Cooktown police station where he was charged with one count each of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, possession of dangerous drugs and stealing.
He is due to appear in the Cooktown Magistrates Court on 2 July.
Gambling super grants open
THE State Government has launched the latest round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund (CGBF), with grants of up to $100,000 on offer to help not-for-profit organisations deliver services and assist natural disaster recovery efforts.
Approximately $30 million is available to support a wide range of community projects and services.
The super round of the CGBF closes on 18 July.
For more information about the grants, or to apply, go to www.justice.qld.gov.au/ initiatives/community-grants.
Date set to Conquer
HUNDREDS of walkers and riders will transform the Peninsula Developmental Road into a dusty pavement when they lace up their shoes for Conquer the Corrugations in October.
Award), Daisy Ketchell (Workplace Health and Safety Award), Genevieve Fauid (Store Audit Award) and Tina Asela (Caring, Every Day, Always Award) also collected individual awards at the dinner.
The date of the annual mental health awareness walk has been set for 4-5 October, with participants set to blaze a trail from the former Cape York Biosecurity Centre north of Coen on day one, and from the Archer River Roadhouse on the second day.
Last year, almost 300 walkers turned out to mark the 10th anniversary of the event. For all the latest, keep an eye on the Conquer the Corrugations Facebook page or visit www.conquerthecorrugations. myshopify.com.
Community Enterprise Queensland’s store leaders converged on Bamaga and Horn Island for the organisation’s inaugural leadership and awards gathering recently.
Meredith Quinlan was the first of the field to complete the gruelling 2025 Terra Australis ultra bike race – which covers the length of Australia’s east coast – in a touch under 35 days, 8 hours.
Top honours for Pormpuraaw at awards
by CHISA HASEGAWA
THE western Cape community of Pormpuraaw is only small, but its efforts and recent achievements in reconciliation and First Nations wellbeing are anything but.
The Pormpur Paanthu Aboriginal Corporation (PPAC) was celebrated at the Queensland Reconciliation Awards earlier this month, bringing home the top prize in the Premier’s Reconciliation Award and Community categories for their work with the annual Pormpuraaw Youth Summit.
“We are still shocked, but we are very proud and honoured,” PPAC president Ganthi Kuppusamy said.
“We are grateful that our work is not overlooked, and we learned that a small community like ours can also bring innovative ideas and set a powerful example for others.”
The Pormpuraaw Youth Summit, which is an annual community-led event designed to strengthen cultural identity, leadership skills and reconciliation among First Nations and non-Indigenous youth, has provided a culturally safe space for young people to engage in traditional practices, career mentoring, and health and wellbeing activities, fostering crosscultural understanding and social cohesion since 2012.
“Last year, the theme of the youth summit was empowerment
through reconciliation, so it was all about bringing people together,”
Ms Kuppusamy explained.
“When we come together, we can achieve so much and resolve various matters, instead of pointing fingers.”
PPAC’s efforts did not stop at youth, with regular events held
throughout the year to acknowledge the lived experiences of residents, and to remind them of the support available.
Ms Kuppusamy said the community’s recent National Sorry Day event, which was attended by almost 200 residents and stakeholders, was an important
moment in standing together with the First Nations community.
“It’s about acknowledging the hurt and sadness caused by the past, and working towards reconciliation and healing between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians,” she said.
“I talked to people about our healing program that the organisation is offering, and having these kinds of events helps people understand what services are offered by our organisation, and people feel comfortable to come and attend.”
Pormpur Paanthu Aboriginal Corporation representatives Richard Killian and Marc Harbrow celebrate top prizes with Queensland Governor Dr Jeannette Young.
Monthly Community Update
Message from the Chair
Hi Weipa
I hope you have all recovered after the Fishing Classic weekend. I didn't do an update for last month, so I'm going to briefly cover May and June in this one.
May was dominated by the Western Cape Futures Symposium, which was an overwhelming success. Hosted by the Western Cape Chamber of Commerce, the Symposium is an incredibly important event for our region. It highlights the incredible opportunity that exists here, and gets people to come to Weipa, and gain first hand experience in the region. I had numerous conversations with people, who were in some way involved with policy or program delivery in our region, but had never been here before. The Symposium fundamentally changed their perception and understanding of the people and communities of the Western Cape, to the point where it would change how they did things moving forward. That's a powerful thing to see happening in front of you. The feedback was incredibly positive, and people are excited and extremely optimistic about the
future of the Western Cape.
May also brought the first Sunset Markets for the year, which were incredibly well attended. I think we had a record number of stallholders in attendance, and the community showed up in great numbers to support them (and maybe get some last minute Mother's Day presents). All in all it was a very successful start to the Sunset Markets for this year, so big thanks to the WTA team for co-ordinating, and for all the stall holders and community members for attending.
We had the Federal Election in May, where our new Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith was voted in. Matt made his first trip to Weipa as our Federal Member last week, and met with many groups to hear about the priorities of the community. I would like to congratulate Matt on his election win, and commend him for making the Western Cape his first official visit in office. I very much look forward to working closely with Matt over the coming years to advocate for our community, and achieve outcomes.
Upcoming Event News:
Active After School Program - Netball Commences Wednesday 23 July - 45mins per session from 3.15pm6.15pm @ WSSS
note, if you have ever thought about getting involved and joining the committee, I'm sure they would love to have you. To the committee, on behalf of the community, Thank you for giving your time, energy, and sometimes sanity, so we can all enjoy a fantastic weekend. We greatly appreciate all that you do.
We are getting into the busiest time of the year now, and there is always something happening, so be sure to follow the WTA Facebook page and check the community calendar on our website to stay up to date with what's happening.
Looking forward to seeing you out and about in the community.
JaimeGane
Epic School Holiday Lineup
Families are in for a treat these June/July school holidays, with an action-packed program ready to blast boredom into another galaxy. From puppet-making and STEM cubelets to tie-dye crafts and graphic novel workshops, the local holiday program is jammed with activities to entertain every curious mind.
At the centre of the fun is the highly anticipated Star Wars Laser Tag experience, landing at the Storm Surge Shelter with over 30 sessions on offer. Group bookings opened Tuesday, 10 June, with flexible options including a 10-pass for $135, private party sessions for $200, or purchase casual games at just $15 from 16 June.
Paws for a Moment: Pet Registration Due
It’s that time of year again – animal registration renewals are due by 30 June! All dog and cat owners are reminded to renew their pet registrations to ensure compliance with local laws and to help keep our community and furry friends safe. Registration helps us return lost pets to their families quickly and supports responsible pet ownership across the region.
Renewing is quick, easy, and essential. If your contact details have changed or if you've welcomed a new pet to the family, now’s the time to update your info. Avoid late fees and help us keep tails wagging and paws protected – get your pet registered before 30 June!
From 23 July to 10 September, the Weipa Active After School Program will be offering exciting netball sessions for children of all ages! Held at the Weipa Storm Surge Shelter, this program provides age-appropriate training to help kids develop their netball skills, whether they're just starting or looking to advance. With sessions running on Wednesday afternoons, it's a fantastic way for your kids to stay active, learn new skills, and have a blast!
Registration opens Wednesday, 9 July, so be sure to sign up your kids for a full term of netball fun at only $80 per child! See website for specific schedule times.
CHAIR JAIME GANE
20 JUNE 2025
Friday 21 JUNE 2025
10:00am – 12noon Botanic River Cruise w Darryn Crayn* Riverbend Tours
12noon – 10:30pm Markets Open Festival Village
Saturday
1:00pm – 1:45pm History of the Cooktown Convent Presentation* Cooktown Museum
1:30pm – 4:00pm Make Play Nurture - Weaving Workshop Festival Village
2:00pm – 3:00pm Guided Tour of Cooktown Botanic Gardens* Botanic Gardens
9:00am – 9:30am Meet the Buskers Festival Village 9:00am – 2:00pm CWA Tea House* CWA
9:30am – 10:00am Little Athletics Big Run Awards Festival Village
9:30am – 11:30am Kids Face Painting Sovereign Resort Hotel 9:30am – 3:00pm Make Play Nurture - Weaving Workshop Festival Village 9:30am – 4:30pm Busking Competition Charlotte St
10:00am – 10:30am Outback Mike Survival Skills Talk Festival Village
10:00am – 10:30am Banana Eating Competition Country Universities Centre
11:00am – 11:15am Gold Mining Machine Demonstration Cnr Green and Charlotte St 11:00am – 1:00pm Cooktown Youth Colour Run* William Daku Park 11:00am – 3:00pm Wine and Food Tasting Sovereign Resort Hotel 12noon – 12:30pm Blue Tac Festival Village 12noon – 1:00pm Unfenced Asylum Challenge West Coast Hotel
12noon - 3:00pm Kids Corner Festival Village
12:30pm – 1:15pm Fashionista Stitcher - Fashion Parade Festival Village 12:30pm – 2:45pm Cape York Automotive Muster
8:30am – 10:00am Cooktown Horse Sports Hound Show Dog Park, Adelaide St
8:30am – 9:30am Combined Church Service Festival Village
9:00am – 11:00am Mural Painting Workshop* Elizabeth Guzsely Gallery
9:00am – 2:00pm CWA Tea House* CWA 9:30am – 3:00pm Make Play Nurture - Weaving Workshop Festival Village
9:35am – 9:55am Busking Competition Winners Festival Village
10:00am – 11:30am Cooks Landing Re-enactment Bicentennial Park
11:45am – 12:05pm Blue Tac Festival Village 12:25pm – 1:10pm Shaun Kirk Festival Village
5:30pm
1:30pm – 2:30pm Red Soil Country Festival Village 2:00pm – 5:00pm The Orchy’s Sovereign Resort Hotel
5:00pm – 7:30pm Sunset River Cruise* Riverbend Tours 6:00pm – 7:30pm Mike Atkinson Documentary* Cooktown Events Centre Endeavour River
9:10pm Road Trippers Festival Village
9:30pm – 10:30pm Hussy Hicks Festival Village
Men’s mental health message finds fairway
by LYNDON KEANE
“DON’T burn the machine – you can always get it out.”
That was the blunt metaphor that highlighted Mary O’Brien’s Are You Bogged Mate? message to about 60 Weipa residents at Carpentaria Golf Club on Friday night.
Ms O’Brien, a spray application and drift management specialist in the agricultural sector by trade, has travelled more than 500,000 kilometres across the country spreading her message about the importance of men taking their mental health seriously, and made the trip north to western Cape York to address the audience ahead of the Weipa Men’s Mental Health Golf Day on 14 June.
Weipa resident and BUSY at Work psychologist and senior health practitioner Sindi Morley opened the event by sharing an impassioned story about her own family’s experiences with mental health before Ms O’Brien took the microphone to provide a raw and unplugged presentation unsubtle enough to pierce the armour of even the most stoic men in the audience.
She told Cape York Weekly she believed men were not the horrible communicators they were made out to be when it came to mental health.
“I think they just do it differently,” she said.
“And I think that’s the big problem, that everyone says, ‘blokes don’t talk’, but they will talk if you give them the right people in the right space, and understand that blokes communicate very differently to women.”
Using a relatable mix of farming and rural metaphors, Ms O’Brien explained men did some of their most effective communication in the most unconventional of settings, like driving a car or teeing off on the golf course.
“I’ll have men that will come to me and say, ‘I’m not quite bogged,
but the wheels are starting to slip’, so it’s about that different terminology,” she said.
“You’ve got to be very relaxed in that shoulder-to-shoulder stuff, which is how blokes communicate, and that mateship and doing things together; men will be in a better place to communicate
shoulder-to-shoulder, rather than face-to-face.”
Now in its third year, the golf day has surpassed more than $25,000 raised for men’s mental health initiatives, with punters stumping up more than $4,300 in the pre-game buggy auction on Saturday morning alone.
Emilee Costello goes for the green.
Vernon Clark and Matt Bakes.
Hamish and Isaac Campbell.
Nicole Clegg does her best to take out a poor, innocent newspaper editor with her tee shot on the 1st hole. From weekly warriors to once-a-year hackers, players of all abilities turned out to support men’s mental health.
Steve Dunstone, Pete Humphreys, Nick Preece and Michail Petridis.
Steven “Chilli” Pye putts (and misses horribly) early in the round.
Jeremy Mountjoy putts on the 18th hole.
It was smiles all round from the Hastings Deering teams.
Melanie Turner and Jess Stecko.
Mary O’Brien from Are You Bogged Mate? (left) catches up with the Ambrose Angels, the team behind the two days of fundraising, fun and awareness for men’s mental health.
Men must face mental health fear
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
IF you ask most blokes, there are about a million things on the list of things they’d rather do than actively discuss their mental health, especially in front of other men.
Change that to things they’d prefer to focus on than actually addressing their mental health concerns, and I promise you the items on the list are now orbiting somewhere in the vicinity of two or three million.
Perhaps it’s some ancient Y chromosome throwback, but while we will readily – and proudly –show off gruesome injuries to anyone who’ll have a look, our lips become inexplicably glued together when it comes to mentioning we’re concerned about what’s going on between our ears. Broken arm sustained doing stupid things on a motorbike? Straight to social media. Feeling out of sorts and not quite yourself? I’ll bottle that one up and pretend it’s not a thing, thank you very much.
Society certainly deserves an element of mea culpa for the sad state of affairs relating to men’s mental health. To a degree, we’re still told from a young age that men and boys are meant to be tough, resilient and the masters of all things physical. You know,
from changing a tyre in a thunderstorm to taking down a buffalo to provide for the family armed with nothing more than a slingshot and rugged masculinity. I think so many of us are worried about living up to the hype of being a man’s man and not showing weakness in the eyes of those around us that we completely ignore the impact that bullshit pressure is having on our mental wellbeing.
Here’s a fun little fact to keep in your pocket until you need it:
the strongest, manliest thing a bloke can do is admit he isn’t okay. Granted, dropping a buffalo with a slingshot is probably a close second, but putting your hand up and asking for help takes more balls and backbone than most men will ever muster in a lifetime.
It’s not just suicide I’m talking about here. Mental health impacts every aspect of our daily lives, and it can often be amplified when you call a remote place where everyone knows everyone else home. If your
We Have Moved To
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head’s not right, it’s a near certainty it’s having a negative impact on not only you, but your partner, kids, mates, colleagues and every community member you encounter. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not all about you.
In our part of the world, we’re lucky we have some incredible, passionate people working tirelessly to give men the kick up the arse most need to start considering mental health a priority. You only had to look at the turnout at Car-
pentaria Golf Club for the Are You Bogged Mate? session on Friday night to see we all know it’s important. The conversations need to be had, whether with a health professional or while sledging mates putting in a charity golf day, so what are you waiting for?
If your mental health isn’t where it should be, remember the journey out of the darkness isn’t one you have to take alone. The most terrifying step is usually the first, and if you’ve admitted you need a hand, you’ve already taken it. There are phone numbers at the end of this editorial for those wanting confidential help, but there are also plenty of blokes in our own backyard across Cape York who have been there and are more than happy to listen and offer a bit of advice. My number’s also on the front page of every edition of the paper, so feel free to give me a bell or bail me up when you see me around the traps.
It’s time to become the strongest, most resilient and awe-inspiring men we can be. We owe it to ourselves and everyone around us, especially those who look to us for guidance about how a real man should act.
If you need to speak to someone urgently about your mental health, you can call Lifeline (13 11 44), MensLine Australia (1300 789 978), Beyond Blue (1300 224 636), 13Yarn (13 92 76) or Brother to Brother (1800 435 799).
Navigating mental health can often feel like traversing the corrugations on the PDR at times for many with a Y chromosome, but editor Lyndon Keane says men owe it to themselves – and those around them – to do something about the bumps in the road.
POSITIONS VACANT
Bamagau Kazil TSI Corporation is a community controlled organisation located in Bamaga Community providing childcare services including a Long Daycare, Afterschool Care and Vacation Care.
EDUCATOR – AMA LALA DAYCARE
Reporting to the Director, the Educator works under the guidance of the Group leader and is responsible for creating a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment for children, planning and implementing age-appropriate activities and supporting their holistic development, while also collaborating with parents and other colleagues. For further information, including a position description please contact the Service Manager directly.
Desired skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with children, parents and staff, an understanding of the Early Years Learning Framework and National Quality Standards, an ability to implement programs that supports children’s interests and needs, collaborative team member
Qualification & Experience: Minimum qualification of Certificate III in Children Services and at least one (1) years of relevant work experience.
Salary: Between $65,000 to $70,000 per annum depending on experience
All applications should be addressed as follows:
Service Manager, Bamagau Kazil TSI Corporation 245 Jacob St Bamaga, QLD, 4876 Phone: (07) 4069 3500
Email: ServiceCoordinator@bamkaz.org.au
Closing Date: Friday 18th July 2025
GROUP LEADER – AMA LALA DAYCARE
Reporting to the Director, the Group Leader is the lead educator within the room and is responsible for the overall well-being and development of children in their care including planning and implementing age-appropriate activities, maintaining a safe and stimulating environment and communicating effectively with parents and staff. For further information, including a position description please contact the Service Manager directly.
Desired skills: Strong communication skills to communicate effectively with children, parents and staff, a strong understanding of the Early Years Learning Framework and National Quality Standards, an ability to plan and evaluate curriculum that supports children’s interests and needs, collaborative team member.
Qualification & Experience: Minimum qualification of Diploma in Children Services, at least two (2) years of relevant work experience and a Valid Working with Children Check or willing to obtain
Salary: Between $70,000 to $75,000 per annum depending on experience
All applications should be addressed as follows: Service Manager, Bamagau Kazil TSI Corporation 245 Jacob St Bamaga, QLD, 4876
Phone: (07) 4069 3500
Email: ServiceCoordinator@bamkaz.org.au
Closing Date: Friday 18th July 2025
EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHER
Reporting to the Director, the Educator works under the guidance of the Group leader and is responsible for creating a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment for children, planning and implementing age-appropriate activities and supporting their holistic development, while also collaborating with parents and other colleagues. For further information, including a position description please contact the Service Manager directly.
Desired skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with children, parents and staff, an understanding of the Early Years Learning Framework and National Quality Standards, an ability to implement programs that supports children’s interests and needs, collaborative team member
Qualification & Experience: Minimum qualification of Certificate III in Children Services and at least one (1) years of relevant work experience.
Salary: Between $65,000 to $70,000 per annum depending on experience
All applications should be addressed as follows: Service Manager, Bamagau Kazil TSI Corporation
245 Jacob St
Bamaga, QLD, 4876
Phone: (07) 4069 3500
Email: ServiceCoordinator@bamkaz.org.au
Closing Date: Friday 18th July 2025
POSITIONS VACANT
NPA Family and Community Services Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Corporation is a community controlled organisation located in the NPA Communities providing a range of social, health, employment and childcare services including a Long Daycare, Afterschool Care and Vacation Care.
EDUCATOR – INJINOO & UMAGICO DAYCARE
Reporting to the Director, the Educator works under the guidance of the Group leader and is responsible for creating a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment for children, planning and implementing age-appropriate activities and supporting their holistic development, while also collaborating with parents and other colleagues. For further information, including a position description please contact the Program Manager – Organisational Development directly.
Desired skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with children, parents and staff, an understanding of the Early Years Learning Framework and National Quality Standards, an ability to implement programs that supports children’s interests and needs, collaborative team member
Qualification & Experience: Minimum qualification of Certificate III in Children Services and at least one (1) years of relevant work experience.
Salary: Between $65,000 to $70,000 per annum depending on experience
All applications should be addressed as follows:
Program Manager – Organisational Development, NPA Family and Community Services
10 Adidi St, Bamaga, QLD, 4876
Phone: (07) 4212 2000
Email: hr@npaws.com.au
Closing Date: Friday 18th July 2025
GROUP LEADER – INJINOO & UMAGICO DAYCARE
Reporting to the Director, the Group Leader is the lead educator within the room and is responsible for the overall well-being and development of children in their care including planning and implementing age-appropriate activities, maintaining a safe and stimulating environment and communicating effectively with parents and staff. For further information, including a position description please contact the Program Manager – Organisational Development directly.
Desired skills: Strong communication skills to communicate effectively with children, parents and staff, a strong understanding of the Early Years Learning Framework and National Quality Standards, an ability to plan and evaluate curriculum that supports children’s interests and needs, collaborative team member.
Qualification & Experience: Minimum qualification of Diploma in Children Services, at least two (2) years of relevant work experience and a Valid Working with Children Check or willing to obtain
Salary: Between $70,000 to $75,000 per annum depending on experience
All applications should be addressed as follows: Program Manager – Organisational Development, NPA Family and Community Services
10 Adidi St, Bamaga, QLD, 4876
Phone: (07) 4212 2000
Email: hr@npaws.com.au
Closing Date: Friday 18th July 2025
EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHER
Reporting to the Director, the Early Childhood Teacher leads the kindergarten program and is responsible for providing high-quality education and care to children in our early learning centre. For further information, including a position description please contact the Service Manager directly.
Desired skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with children, parents and staff, an understanding of the Early Years Learning Framework and National Quality Standards, an ability to implement programs that supports children’s interests and needs, collaborative team member
Qualification & Experience: Minimum qualification of Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and at least one (1) years of relevant work experience.
Salary: Between $77,000 to $85,000 per annum depending on experience
All applications should be addressed as follows: Program Manager – Organisational Development, NPA Family and Community Services
10 Adidi St, Bamaga, QLD, 4876
Phone: (07) 4212 2000
Email: hr@npaws.com.au
Closing Date: Friday 18th July 2025
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Former Weipa basketballer earns Queensland honours
THE on-court competition may be blistering, but a former Weipa junior sportsman will be hoping his Queensland kit includes something warm as he prepares to swap Far North Queensland for regional Victoria to compete on the national stage next month.
Thurston Bosuen, who grew up in Weipa and only moved to Cairns three years ago to pursue his sporting dreams, has been named in the under-16 Queensland Norths team that will put state pride on the line from 6-13 July in Bendigo as Basketball Australia hosts the 2025 U16 National Championships.
Bosuen is one of 20 Queensland players selected to don maroon in Bendigo and he said being called up for representative honours had been the culmination of several years’ hard work both on and off the court.
“Coming from a remote community, only
having lived in Cairns for the past 3 years, and making the Queensland basketball team means everything to me,” he said.
“It’s more than just wearing the jersey or playing at a higher level, it’s proof that dreams can come true, no matter where you’re from.
“Being selected means I get to represent not just myself, but my community; it shows other kids back home that with hard work, belief and support, we can be just as good as anyone in the state.
“It’s about more than basketball, it’s about opening doors, breaking barriers and showing that talent lives everywhere, even in the most remote places.”
For any Weipa residents wanting to watch Bosuen show off his skills for his state, the championships are scheduled to be broadcast online by Basketball Australia at www. competitions.basketball.
SOCIAL GOLF!
DAWNBUSTERS stalwart Jon Dall added another polo shirt to his wardrobe following his latest win at Carpentaria Golf Club on 15 June.
The wily Dall returned to the clubhouse with a gross round of 53 for nett 12, relegating Dave Sands to runner-up duty after he carded a 46/15.
Dall did make a victory speech, however, we aren’t sure to whom he credited the win, as a certain editor was busy lodging a protest about being given an inappropriately low handicap.
Brandon Waretini and Rob McVean did not succumb
to the shenanigans of their playing group – led by serial offender Jim Lucas – to have the rounds of the day with 41 and 42 off the stick respectively.
Peter Kenny and Dawnbusters first timer Joy Parkin were the best with the big sticks to claim the men’s and women’s long drive prizes.
Scott Andrews embraced a tough flag placement to bag the pin prize on the 18th.
Josh Martin took home the Hoffman’s.
Dawnbusters will take on the front nine on 22 June from about 6:45am.
Former Weipa resident Thurston Bosuen is making a name for himself on the basketball court after being selected to don Queensland colours to compete at the national championships in Bendigo next month.
Josh Martin, Scott Andrews, Jon Dall, Dave Sands and Peter Kenny celebrate their Sunday morning success at Dawnbusters on 15 June.
Aussie basketball star shoots to inspire Cooktown players
by CHISA HASEGAWA
ONE of Australia’s most decorated female basketball players is coming to Cooktown to inspire young girls and women in the community this weekend.
WNBA and WNBL champion, and threetime Olympian and bronze medallist Cayla George will lead a basketball clinic on 21 June and a female mentorship session on 22 June.
Hosted by the Cooktown Salties basketball team and Cook Shire Council, the event is free and open to girls aged 11-17 years old.
Cooktown Salties coach Ashton Viranatuleo said it was exciting for the girls to have a strong female role model who understood their experiences as athletes in a remote community.
“She is one of the biggest Australian basketballers there is; just to be able to get people of that calibre is amazing,” she said.
“Cayla is from Cairns, her husband is a Torres Strait Islander, so they are used to community, and they understand the challenges that you have in communities.
“Being remote, it makes it challenging anyway, but then also, you throw in the female
side of it, too, and it just makes it difficult as a whole.”
Viranatuleo said although basketball was a huge feature of the weekend, participants did not have to be well-versed at shooting hoops.
“Basketball is obviously the thing that kind of brings everyone together, but then on the Sunday, we’ve got plans to hear from Cayla and her story,” she said.
“We’ve got kids from different sports up here; there’s a lot of basketball kids, but we’ve got a few of the swimming kids that are going to be a part of it, and some of the athletics kids.
“We’re trying to get kids involved from different areas, just so she can empower girls as a whole.”
Sunday’s mentoring session will step away from basketball for the girls to learn about nutrition and self-care.
“She’s planning on cooking some easy recipes with them to show them ways to eat healthy and look after themselves,” Viranatuleo said.
“We’ve also got some stuff planned around looking after their skin, you know, doing little facials, and give them a whole thing on being able to look after your body.”
Three teams locked at top of touch ladder
THREE teams have an eye on Weipa Touch Association supremacy as they sit locked at the top of the table after seven rounds of competition.
Despite suffering a 15-1 loss at the hands of Untouchables on 11 June, Villains sit in first position on the 2025 ladder on 18 points based on for and against results, with Cape Candies and Pisswrecks also sharing the same score.
On Wednesday night, Can’t Touch This defeated Weipa Weapons 12-4, Cheers for Beers triumphed over Cape Candies 9-2, Pisswrecks and The OGs played out an entertaining 9-6 clash, and Scrambled Legs had a handy 12-4 victory against Lacking Stamina. Top End Taggers delivered
one of the biggest margins of the week with a 15-3 touch up of Res Strong.
Going down the ladder, Top End Taggers and Spartans each sit on 15 points, with The OGs (14 points), Untouchables (12 points) and Cheers for Beers (11 points) rounding out the teams currently on double figures in the premiership hunt. Res Strong has 9 competition points, with Scrambled Legs and Weipa Weapons on 6 points.
Lacking Stamina and Can’t Touch This find themselves at the bottom of the ladder after seven rounds on 3 points.
Round eight of the Weipa Touch Association premiership will be played at Andoom Oval on 18 June.
Cooktown Salties players Hartlyn and Shine Corea are thrilled to shoot some hoops with Australian basketball legend Cayla George this weekend.
Suns celebrate record junior league season
by LYNDON KEANE
IF you thought there were a lot more Weipa junior rugby league players taking to the paddock each Thursday this season, you aren’t wrong.
The Central Cape Suns are celebrating their biggest season in the township’s history, with a staggering 280 players registered for 2025 – an increase of nearly 100 players on last year.
Club president Jess Rex said the executive committee was thrilled with the growth of the sport on western Cape York, with teams now being fielded in age groups from under-6 to U16.
“We are also extremely proud of our growth in our girls team, with a record 32 players,” she said.
“Three years ago, when we wanted to start a girls team, many said we would not get the numbers; this is a huge achievement and reflection on our dedicated coaches.
“To cater to our increase in registered players, we have been blessed with many pas-
sionate coaches, who have donated much of their spare time to increasing their education and qualifications to ensure they are providing the best possible training experiences for our players.”
While Weipa’s junior rugby league stars are shining on their home turf at Andoom Oval, they are also preparing to head south to show off their footy credentials.
The U11 team will travel to
Townsville on 4-5 July for the Laurie Spina Shield, with the U14 boys and girls setting their sights on the RISE carnival in Cairns on 19-20 July.
In September, two U14 boys and girls teams will tackle the Tassell Trophy Challenge in Cairns.
With 30 players joining the 2025 season from Mapoon, Ms Rex said the club prided itself on its sense of inclusion and mateship.
“We are a very close-knit club,” she said.
“Players form close bonds with their coaches and committee members; most people know each other’s names and support each other’s games - even if they are not registered as a player, they come down to support their mates; we have also seen an increase in community members coming down to support our players.
“Thursday night is footy night, an opportunity to watch our kids play, grab a feed and enjoy a night of community footy – it’s the place to be.”
First timers set parkrun pace
ALMOST 15 per cent of the field were experiencing their first Weipa parkrun when 65 participants took to the 5-kilometre circuit for edition #423 of the weekly running favourite on 14 June.
Matthijs Beuckens made the most of his first parkrun to be the first participant home in a time of 23 minutes, 46 seconds.
In a morning of strong performances for parkrunners lacing up their shoes for the first time, visitor Alison Spurway from the Orange Runners Club was the first female to say hello to the timekeepers in 26:35.
Emma Cerruto, Vide Freiberg, Tyrone Tuckwood and Danita Ebenezer notched up personal best efforts to kick off their weekend.
Ali Scott, Amanda Allender, Brigitta Vakauta, Emma Eyre, Lizzy Polak, Pryce Morris and Susie Tuckwood donned the volunteers’ vests to provide participants with a helping hand.
Weipa parkrun is held every Saturday morning at the hospital roundabout in Nanum, with participants asked to be there early to ensure the starter’s gun can fire at 7am.
SPORT IN BRIEF
Weipa Super 6s
A FUN-FILLED day of six-a-side cricket is guaranteed when the Weipa Super 6s return to western Cape York on 21 June.
The Weipa Junior Cricket Club will host teams at the Hibberd Drive ground from 9:30am-2:30pm on Saturday, with the competition open to all ages and skill levels.
Spectators are more than welcome to find a good spot to watch the big hits and thrilling fielding on show during the day.
The cost to participate is $10 per player.
To register, call 0488 432 038 or 0466 809 987.
Laura pool tops $80,000
TRAINERS and connections will be battling for $82,500 in prizemoney when gates fly open at the 2025 Laura Races on 28 June.
The Laura Cup (1400 metres) and Laura Bracelet (1000m) will be the feature events on the five-race card, but a strong field of nominations is expected for the Benchmark 50 handicap over 1200m, with $25,500 in prizemoney on offer, in addition to lucrative QTIS bonuses for qualified horses.
Nominations close at 11am on 24 June, with acceptances to be declared by 10am on 26 June.
Byrne burns field
MATT Byrne was in top touch when he bested the field of 17 Wackers in Weipa on 11 June.
Byrne carded a 42/30 to take the win from runner-up Ross Craven (40/33.5), with “Magic Mick” Cerneka still not featuring at the pointy end of the leaderboard.
Rob Richardson (15th) and Leeroy Ahmat (18th) claimed the nearest to the pin gongs.
Austen Newsome goes in for a tackle on Archer Eales during their teams’ under-10 clash.
There were two- and four-legged participants in the field of 65 for Weipa parkrun #423 on 14 June.
FOR LEASE
Have you been looking to lease industrial land in Evans Landing? Here is your opportunity!
•4786m2 of Industrial Zoned Land in total • AREA 1 - 1911 m2 PLUS 3 x 40 foot containers with workshop/storage space between (that is 2 workshops with power and sewer x 116m2 each) together with Hardstand Area • AREA 2 - 765m2 driveway and plenty of parking plus 330m2 of caretakers accommodation adjoining
• Only furniture and electrical business in Weipa
AREA 31780m2 fenced and gated. 2 x 20 foot storage containers with 2 x 8m covered workshops/storage adjoining Owners would prefer to lease in one parcel however will look at splitting if required. If you have been looking for this type of property or a block of this size then here is your opportunity to secure it.
• Established for over 10 years & run locally • Partnered with three great buying groups, Furniture Court, Beds R Us & Bi-Rite • Established relationships with all local government departments, community trusts & businesses within Weipa & surrounds • Premises currently leased until September 2026
• Price includes 2021 Isuzu NPR truck & a 2005 Isuzu truck + 5 storage containers behind the store front • Stock is at value
• Opportunity to purchase or lease a 24 x 14 metre shed, located at Evans Landing on a 1588 square meter industrial block • Last three
