THEY are only four people working around the clock, but Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council’s water operation team has earned the year-long bragging rights of best tap water in Far North Queensland.
For the first time, remote and Indigenous water suppliers across the top end of Queensland were invited to submit their samples to the 2025 IXOM Best Tasting Tap Water Competition, with awards for the Far North Queensland title presented in Weipa last Tuesday at the Queensland Indigenous Local Government Drinking Water Symposium.
Water samples submitted to the Water Industry Operations Association of Australia (WIOA) underwent a blind taste test, and key attributes such as colour, clarity, odour and taste were evaluated.
“We are happy to provide this service, and that our water is being recognised by our peers in the industry and the peak water organisations as being of such great quality.”
WIOA CEO Dean Barnett said the competition aimed to highlight the amount of work that went on behind the scenes to ensure communities had access to quality tap water.
“When it comes to tap water, most pay attention when they turn the tap on and it doesn’t work, and for the rest of the time, it’s just an expectation,” he said.
“We have very little understanding of what goes on behind the scenes, and the amount of effort that goes into us being able to turn that tap on.”
“We were surprised on the day that we had been recognised for having the best tasting tap water in Far North Queensland,” council chief executive officer Peter O’May said.
As a small team in a remote community, Mr O’May said the council faced challenges such as staffing and supplies in making sure the communities taps were always in working order.
“Having good water operators who are committed to community and who can look after this area has always been difficult,” he said.
“We are a small team of four persons; we are on call 24 hours a day, and it has not been unusual for us to be at work in the middle of the night to ensure the community has safe drinking water, so fatigue is a big challenge for us.
“The job is a 24/7, 365 daysa-year one.”
Far North comes together against domestic violence
by CHISA HASEGAWA
ALTHOUGH we are well and truly into June, the end of May, and Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, does not mean the fight against it in our communities stops.
In late May, First Nations organisations Queensland Indigenous Family Violence Legal Service (QIFVLS), Cape York/Gulf RAATSICC Advisory Association and Mookai Rosie Bi-Bayan came together to stand against domestic and family violence and highlight the support available.
According to QIFVLS, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are 35 times more likely to be hospitalised due to family violence than other Australian females, and at least 60 per cent of all First Nations children in youth detention had experienced domestic and family violence.
“Too many of our families, our mobs, have been hurt by domestic violence and sexual assault,” QIFVLS ambassador Andrew Adidi said.
“It’s caused pain that runs deep, through generations, but it doesn’t have to be our story moving forward.
“Change starts with us, with our strength, with our culture, with how we look after each other.”
The Take Positive Action Today to Build a Safer Queensland event explored the topic from a variety of angles, including guest speakers who shared their lived experiences with domestic and family violence, the Queensland Police Service raising awareness on new legislation around coercive control, and service providers who highlighted resources available.
Cape York/Gulf RAATSICC staff member Andrea Mills reinforced the need for culturally appropriate, community-led programs.
“RAATSICC’s Escaping Violence Payment program responds to the particular needs and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experiencing intimate partner violence, to establish a home free from violence,” she said.
“The program started in 2023, and in response to community voices, has grown to cover as far south as Townsville, West to Atherton, and up north up to the Gulf and throughout the Cape.”
If you or someone you know needs help regarding domestic and family violence, call 1800RESPECT, DVConnect Womansline: 1800 811 811, DVConnect Mensline: 1800 600 636 or Lifeline (24hour crisis line): 13 11 14.
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.
Far North Queensland says no to domestic and family violence at the Take Positive Action Today to Build a Safer Queensland event.
Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council has been recognised as providing the best tasting tap water in the Far North Queensland region.
Cape silica mine scores major project designation
EMERGING silica min-
er Diatreme Resources has secured a Major Project Status designation from the Federal Government for its Cape Flattery Northern Silica Project (NSP).
Diatreme made the announcement to the market on 17 June following what it described as an “extensive engagement process” with the government and other key stakeholders.
The project, located near Hope Vale on southeastern Cape York, is currently the only one in Queensland to hold a Major Project Status designation.
The government says the designation “enables strategically significant projects facing complex
Diatreme Resources’ Cape York Northern Silica Project has become the only project in Queensland to currently hold Major Project Status designation by the Federal Government.
regulatory challenges to get extra support and coordinated approvals”, including those pertaining to environmental protection and conservation requirements.
Diatreme chief executive officer Neil McIntyre welcomed the designation for the NSP and
said it put the project in a good position for the next stage of its development.
“The award of Major Project Status is an important recognition of the NSP’s strategic importance as both a worldclass high purity silica resource, and its poten-
tial to directly contribute to the energy transition, specifically the globally important solar photovoltaic supply chain powering the clean energy revolution,” he said.
“The Major Project Status designation will assist us as we progress the NSP through the final permitting and development phases as we enter offtake negotiations and embark on assembling project financing together with our joint venture partner, global materials solutions provider Sibelco Asia Pacific.
“Creating a viable economic project that has clear community support and regional benefits whilst delivering strong returns for our shareholders has always
been our goal, and we are delighted by this Federal Government support at this key stage in the NSP’s development.”
In January, Diatreme announced the NSP’s environmental impact statement (EIS) studies had progressed to the final stages of assessment and mitigation, following receipt of the final terms of reference for the project.
A draft EIS is now being prepared by the company.
The Federal Government recognition of the project comes on the back of the State Government deeming the NSP a co-ordinated project in January 2024 and a project of regional significance in August the previous year.
Puppy takeover at Weipa bank to find forever home
by CHISA HASEGAWA
IT is not every day a trip to your local bank means cute puppies, but customers at the Weipa Queensland Country Bank branch got their cash and cuddles in on 20 June in celebration of Take Your Dog to Work Day.
Cape Animal Protection Shelter (CAPS) dogs Gus and Darcy were the special guests in the branch, stealing the hearts of locals as they hoped to meet their forever families.
Take Your Dog to Work Day was first created in 1999 by Pet Sitters International to celebrate dogs as companions and encourage pet adoptions.
“To celebrate Take Your Dog to Work Day, we thought we would get CAPS on board and bring in a couple of dogs,” branch manager Luke O’Day said.
“We had two dogs; they’re four months old and they’re brothers.
“We had these dogs on display in the branch in hopes of finding their forever home, because they are up for adoption.”
Branch staff also took the opportunity to help feed the dogs in the shelter currently still waiting to be adopted.
“We raised non-perishable food from the staff, so we all went and bought a bag of dog food and then donated that to CAPS,” Mr O’Day said.
“They were very appreciative of the day that we had, and also very appreciative of the food that all the Queensland Country Bank staff had purchased as donations.”
The branch manager said they also promoted their financial advice program, Money Mentor, as a service that could help customers decide if adding a furry member to their family was the right choice for them.
“There’s a money mentor that can dial in remotely for
our Weipa members – basically trying to structure their accounts, looking at their budgeting and just making sure they can afford everything that’s going on,” Mr O’Day said.
“When you’re adopting a new family member, we need to make sure that you’ve got the finances to back that up, otherwise they’d end up back in the shelter.”
CAPS puppies looking for their forever homes visited the Weipa Queensland Country Bank branch on 20 June in celebration of Take Your Dog to Work Day.
DELIVERING QUEENSLAND’S TOURISM FUTURE
Tourism is a big part of what makes Queensland amazing – from the Reef to the rainforests, the outback to the ocean. That’s why the new Queensland Government is delivering our state’s tourism future.
Creating ecotourism experiences in our unique natural environment
Connecting our regions by road, rail, air and sea
Attracting events featuring the world’s biggest names in music, art,sport and culture
Search ‘Destination 2045’ to find out what it means for you.
Destination 2045
by the Queensland Government, William Street, Brisbane.
Far North’s economic strengths, challenges ready to hit the road
THE latest economic and employment data for Far North Queensland will be unpacked at a series of free Regional Development Australia (RDA) Tropical North forums across the region in June and July.
While the State Of the Region roadshow will not make it to Weipa, despite western Cape York’s major contribution to the economic prosperity of the northernmost part of the state, sessions will be held in Cooktown and Hope Vale next week.
RDA Tropical North chair
Hurriyet Babacan said Greg Bowden from .id (informed decisions) would be one of the key speakers to take to the stage during the roadshow.
“The roadshow will explain how the changes in national, state and local economic conditions and the continued pressure on the cost of living and housing will affect the region,” she said.
“Businesses will also gain an understanding of how they can leverage the latest economic data for future opportunities.”
A longer session will be held in Cairns, with RDA Tropical North giving an update on current priorities alongside AusIndustry, the Office of Northern
Australia, the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, the National Indigenous Australians Agency, the Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and nbn.
RDA Tropical North chief executive officer Sonja Johnson said it was hoped western Cape York would be included in next year’s roadshow.
“It is difficult for the roadshow representatives to travel to all 21 [local government areas] in the Tropical North Queensland region every year,” she said.
“We therefore try and visit different council areas every year, on a rotational basis.
“Rest assured, we aim to travel to Weipa and the western Cape in 2026, as it is an important economic driver for the region.”
The Cooktown session will be held in the Cooktown Events Centre from 9am on 30 June, with the Hope Vale session the same day from 2pm in the community’s meeting rooms.
Walk-ins are welcome, stakeholders can register for the Cape York or Cairns sessions by going to www.rdatropicalnorth. org.au.
RDA Tropical North chair Professor Hurriyet Babacan says the 2025 State of the Region roadshow will allow business operators to “leverage the latest economic data for future opportunities”.
Yorkston to take up NPARC reins
FORMER Torres Shire Council boss Dalassa Yorkston is moving to the mainland after being appointed the new chief executive officer of the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC).
NPARC announced last week Ms Yorkston would take on the role after a unanimous vote at a special meeting of council on 5 June.
Mayor Robert Poi Poi said he was “excited” by the appointment and what it would mean for the remote local government.
“I am very pleased to announce that Mrs Dalassa Yorkston has been appointed council’s CEO and that she has accepted this appointment,” Mayor Poi Poi said in a media release.
“I am excited about the future for NPARC and the great progress we can now make with Mrs Yorkston as our CEO.”
Ms Yorkston has been brought in to steady the ship after the council voted in March to terminate the employment of former CEO Kate Gallaway.
In mid-2024, the then-Department of Housing, Local Government, Planning and Public Works appointed an independent financial controller and governance adviser in the wake of criticism about NPARC’s strategic, operational and financial management.
Ms Yorkston will commence in her new role on 4 August, with Lew Rojahn to continue as acting CEO until that time.
Council.
AUTHORISATION MEETING FOR NATIVE TITLE DETERMINATION AGREEMENTS
Wuthathi Native Title Group
Cape York United # 1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014)
Tuesday 15 July 2025, Cairns
Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will hold a decision-making meeting on Tuesday 15 July 2025 in Cairns for the Wuthathi Native Title Group to consider whether to authorise proposed native title agreements under s.87A of the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) (NTA) for consent determinations of native title over Wuthathi People’s native title country as shown on the map below
Purpose of the Authorisation Meeting
A determination of native title involves a decision of the Federal Court. A determination of native title means that the Federal Court determines (1) who holds native title; (2) what the native title rights are; (3) the area to which the native title rights apply after any determination is made; and (4) which corporation will represent the members of the determined native title group.
If the meeting on Tuesday 15 July 2025 authorises the s.87A native title agreements, each determination will then be sought in the Federal Court. The Court may list a hearing for a consent determination on Friday 24 October 2025 for the area on the map on the left identified as ‘Wuthathi Captain Billy Landing Area’.
A copy of the proposed s.87A native title agreements for a determination of native title for the areas shown on the map above will be available at the meeting on Tuesday 15 July 2025. At the request of the people who constitute the Applicant in the Cape York United Number 1 Native Title Claim, CYLC staff and consultants will be in attendance at the meeting to be available to explain matters such as the meaning and effect of the proposed agreements. Any person attending the meeting will be able to ask questions about the proposed agreements and state their views about the proposed agreements.
Who is invited to attend the meetings?
The meeting is open to all Wuthathi People, being descendants by birth, or adoption in accordance with traditional law and custom, of one or more of the following apical ancestors:
1. Johnson Moreton
2. Frank Wilson
3. Ida “Waterbag” Temple
4. Moe Rie Warren
5. Annie (Athanamu) Punda
6. Pintharra
7. Innis Pascoe
8. Dinah
9. Ada Lancaster
10. Nara Jira Para
11. Ela (Illa)
12. Eliza (wife of Tom Ware) Willie Daphney
Any person who is a descendant of one or more of the apical ancestors listed above is invited to attend this meeting. Please contact CYLC if you would like to confirm whether you are a descendant of one or more of the apical ancestors listed above and so entitled to attend the meeting.
The purpose of the Authorisation Meeting on Tuesday 15 July 2025 is to decide whether or not to approve the proposed s.87A native title agreements for a consent determination of native title for each of the areas shown on the map above. The agenda of the meeting will be to consider whether the persons present:
• agree and adopt a decision-making process;
• agree to the proposed s.87A agreements for a determination of native title;
• agree to either:
• incorporate a new corporation to be the corporation to represent the native title holders identified in the proposed s.87A agreements for determinations of native title (called a
“prescribed body corporate”), and so:
(i) make a decision (1) to approve the rules of the new corporation, (2) to identify who will be the initial directors and contact person for the new corporation, and (3) to authorise one or more named persons to apply to the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations to register the new corporation; and (ii) agree to nominate the new corporation, once it is registered, to be prescribed body corporate for Wuthathi People; or
• on certain conditions, nominate an existing corporation to be the prescribed body corporate for Wuthathi People, and so:
(i) make a decision (1) to specify the existing corporation to be the prescribed body corporate, and (2) direct the identified corporation to take steps to make itself eligible to be appointed as the prescribed body corporate by amending its rules, and to ensure it is representative of Wuthathi People (by accepting new membership applications, holding new elections for directors or other matters); and
(ii) agree to nominate the identified existing corporation, once it has complied with the directions made by the meeting in (b)(i) above, to be the prescribed body corporate for Wuthathi People; and
(iii) incorporate a new corporation as set out in (a) above, which corporation will be nominated to be the prescribed body corporate for Wuthathi People in the event that the identified existing corporation has not complied with the directions made by the meeting in (b)(i) above by 9 August 2025;
• authorise the Principal Legal Officer of CYLC to nominate the proposed corporation in writing to the Federal Court for it to be the prescribed body corporate under ss.56 or 57 of the NTA for the proposed determinations of native title.
Attendance For travel assistance or to confirm attendance or for any other questions about this notice, please contact Jasmin Schubert before Tuesday 8 July 2025 on free call number 1800 623 548 or mobile phone on 0437 460 550 or by email jschubert@cylc.org.au. Video-conferencing facilities will be
Clean-up funding for Cape councils
THE Cook, Hope Vale, Kowanyama, Northern Peninsula Area, Pormpuraaw and Wujal Wujal councils are among 30 across the state eligible share more than $19 million in cleanup and repair funding for community recreational assets.
The State Government announced on 19 March that the councils would be able to apply for funding through the Community Recreational Assets Recovery Program to fix local infrastructure damaged in the Far North Tropical Low disaster event in January and February.
The program, which is funded through federal and state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and managed by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA), will support councils with the restoration of community recreational assets and facilities such as community centres, clubhouses, walkways, bikeways, parks, playgrounds, picnic spaces and beach access points.
The Cape York councils can lodge applications through QRA until 11 July, with all projects required to be completed by a deadline of 30 June 2027.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said investing in community infrastructure was a proven way to lift community spirits.
“We want to give Queenslanders assurance that our government is working with the Queensland Government to help communities recover and rebuild,” she said.
“By restoring community recreational assets we are helping return life to normal for residents affected, providing places for people to make positive memories once more.”
Queensland Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said the Crisafulli government would support councils through the program.
“We are stronger when we work together, and I’m pleased all levels of government are partnering working to rebuild recreational assets in their communities,” she said.
conference from your location into the meeting, whether you live at the location of the meeting or elsewhere, please contact
assistance.
Former Torres Shire Council boss Dalassa Yorkston has been announced as the new chief executive officer of the Northern Peninsula Area Regional
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain.
Hospital bed childhood inspires nursing career
by CHISA HASEGAWA
A CHILDHOOD spent in and out of hospital has inspired one young Cooktown student to pursue a career in nursing.
Sharni Tucker, who was born with a hole in her left peripheral eardrum and underwent multiple surgeries as a child since the age of four, said the love and care she received from her nurses at the time made her want to become just like them.
After a year of work with the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service, she celebrated her completion of the Deadly Start school-based traineeship program last Wednesday, alongside fellow year 12 student Akeelah Harrigan.
“You’d think for a child who’s been in the hospital all her life that she wouldn’t want to go back to the hospital, but the way the nurses have treated me throughout all my surgeries, it just made me want to become a nurse,” Ms Tucker said.
The Deadly Start school-based traineeship program supports First Nations students with paid, on-the-job training to kickstart their careers in health throughout their final years of high school, helping students transition into employment after graduation in a culturally supportive environment.
Author Fiona Tarr, whose latest book is set in Cooktown, says the “dark, apprehensive edge” of remote places like Cape York makes the perfect setting for a crime thriller.
A BESTSELLING author will return to the scene of the crime when she promotes her latest Cape York-flavoured book in Cooktown next month.
Fiona Tarr will be at the Cooktown Library from 10:30am on 30 July to talk to literary lovers about her latest release, Grave Mistake, which is the third book in her Australian crime series set in the southeastern Cape York township.
Ms Tucker said since July 2024, they had placements in four areas: allied health, community health, administration and nursing, with the students able to choose an area for their cadetship in 2026.
“Nursing was my last placement; I’d been waiting for my nursing placement, and I’m still going to continue it and do a cadetship next year,” she said.
“For me, I’d love to become an RN (registered nurse), because you get to also travel and help people who you don’t know, whereas staying in one place, you know everyone, and it’s nice to go out and give love and support to eve-
A self-confessed people watcher, Ms Tarr loves to interpret body language and social cues, and said she believed Cooktown and its characters were the ideal fuel for creative inspiration.
“My first hit series, Opal Fields, was set in central South Australia in Coober Pedy, and I was looking for another location that would offer a similar small, rural town setting, but different enough that readers of my existing books would find something unique about it,” she explained.
“Since I’ve visited Cooktown annually for a few years now, it seemed ideal to base the new series there.
“For me, remote Australia has that dark, apprehensive edge to it that provides the perfect setting for a crime novel; but small, remote towns are often strong, close-knit communities, and that aspect is perfect for creating genuine, authentic characters that pull together in
ryone else, even though you don’t know them.”
She said she found the traineeship to be incredibly supportive, further inspiring her to become that safe person for someone else in the future.
“Even though it’s a tiny community and they do have a bit of a rush around every now and again, they were very supportive in helping us get to where we want to get,” Ms Tucker said.
“They make you feel welcomed ... it’s beautiful to see how the nurses treat everyone, not just when you’re in hospital [as a patient], but another person as well.”
latest thriller
tough times and care for one another like city dwellers can’t or don’t; add in the climate, natural disasters, deadly creatures and, dare I say, the people who are drawn to the remoteness to avoid being noticed, and you have all the ingredients to fill the pages of bestselling novels.”
In her latest offering, Detective Dawn Grave has returned to Cooktown after 20 years having left everything behind to escape the tragedy of her youth, including her brother’s unsolved murder.
New bodies soon begin to pile up, the book’s protagonist takes the lead in the investigation to find the killer before they strike again.
The author said she was looking forward to swapping winter in the southern part of the state for Cooktown’s dry season, adding she believed the town’s rich history were a “springboard for the social issues” that appeared on the pages of her books.
“The tropical humidity along
with the quirky characters I’ve met in the region ignited my imagination and, because I’ve been there, I’m able to put myself into each scene and bring an authenticity to each book in the series,” Ms Tarr said.
“Cooktown is steeped in Australian culture, both Indigenous and colonial, and these are a springboard for the social issues that often are found in the background of all my books.
“I’m very much looking forward to returning to Cooktown this winter; I was there around the same time last year and enjoyed a few days kitesurfing out at Archer Point.”
And could Cape York make another appearance in one of Ms Tarr’s upcoming books?
“After Cooktown, we’ll be venturing to the tip (Pajinka) and that’s going to be a fantastic chance to find even more inspiration for future novels,” she said.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Mer Island drug charges
POLICE have charged two men with drug offences after executing a search warrant on Mer Island on 17 June.
Officers allegedly located several items during the search, including cannabis plants and seeds.
A 24-year-old man was charged with five offences, including producing dangerous drugs, supplying dangerous drugs, and possessing dangerous drugs.
A second 24-year-old man was charged with producing dangerous drugs.
Both are due to face the Mer Island Magistrates Court on 25 August.
Call for ag EOIs
CAPE York pastoralists and other interested stakeholders are being urged to submit an expression of interest (EOI) to play a role in shaping the future of Queensland’s primary industries.
Representatives of the agricultural sector have until 9 July to register to join three State Government working groups representing the state’s northern, central and southern regions as part of the government’s 25-year Prosper 2050 blueprint.
The working groups will design local solutions that build on Queensland’s strengths, while creating a more profitable, innovative and resilient industry.
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the working groups would “develop practical, regionally focused action plans that ensure a clear direction is set”.
To submit an EOI, go to www.dpi. engagementhub.com.au.
Local stolen vehicles
POLICE are calling for public assistance regarding vehicles allegedly stolen in Pormpuraaw and on Thursday Island this month.
On 10 June, a 2014 Nissan Qashqai – Queensland registration 985FL6 –was reported stolen on the Torres Strait island.
Three days later, on 13 June, Pormpuraaw police responded to a report of a 2010 Nissan Navara with Queensland registration 905IQ5 having been stolen in the western Cape York community.
The two vehicles are among 30 stolen in the Far Northern Region in June, with 339 reported stolen since 1 January.
Sharni Tucker and Akeelah Harrigan celebrate their Deadly Start school-based traineeship graduation in Cooktown
Cooktown farewells community powerhouse
Forsyth, who was laid to rest in Cooktown on 18 June, is being remembered as an impassioned member of the community who lived life with laughter, curiosity, kindness and a bit of cheekiness.
FOR someone who was such a natural inspiration and powerhouse, it was only fitting Susan Forsyth was farewelled by her family, friends and the Cooktown community at the venue of the same name on 18 June.
Ms Forsyth, who was born on 31 March 1936 in the Sydney suburb of Willoughby, passed away in Cooktown on 9 June. She was 89 years old.
The daughter of Margaret Henderson Sharp and Leigh William Forsyth, and sister to Roger Leigh Forsyth, Ms Forsyth attended Willoughby State School and Redlands Cremorne Girls Finishing School.
One of her early jobs was at the Bank of New South Wales, and when she was not diligently sorting cheques, she spent her lunchtimes exploring inner city Sydney
with her lifetime best friend Anne Murray, who worked as a teller at the bank, daily adventures that helped develop her confidence, independence, love of exploration and passion for people.
From her teenage years, she loved to sail on Pittwater, racing with brother Roger in their little VJ dinghy Kilkie
It was through the sailing club she met Ronald Toft, who she married in 1956 before raising a large and loving family of seven children – Karen, Sandra, Neil, Jodie, Malin, Petrina and Tanya. Kathy, an exchange student from the United States, became like a daughter to Ms Forsyth and was lovingly welcomed as the family’s eighth child.
At the time of her passing, Ms Forsyth celebrated 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, Teila and Chase Hunt.
Although Susan and Ron divorced in 1992, she never remarried and continued to live a life full of meaning and connection. Around the time of her divorce, aged 55, inspired by family in America, she showed great courage and self-determination to go out on a limb to start her own ostrich farm at Cessnock.
Her heart also belonged to the garden and the natural world. In her 60s, she cared for wildlife and completed a Certificate IV in Horticulture, specialising in tropical fruits and organic gardening. Birds
and native wildlife captivated her most, and she never tired of the wonders of nature, watching David Attenborough and Gardening Australia.
Ms Forsyth’s adventurous spirit and deep love of family took her around the world. She travelled extensively, particularly to the United States, where she spent cherished time with her children and grandchildren. A special chapter of her life unfolded in Thailand, where she stayed with local families and was eventually “adopted” by one. Her generosity of spirit led her to return multiple times, and she even taught English at a Bangkok high school.
In 2012, she moved to Cooktown to be closer to family, and enjoy the town’s sense of community and natural beauty. She embraced the Cooktown lifestyle wholeheartedly, becoming a regular at her favourite coffee shops, Nature’s Powerhouse and the Riverside Cafe.
Raised in the Church of England, Ms Forsyth reconnected with her faith after moving to Cooktown and attended the Cooktown Community Church with her granddaughter Jacynta Hunt. Her faith journey, like her life, was heartfelt and open-minded.
Ms Forsyth also had a passion for swimming, which she pursued to a master’s level. She became a valued and inspiring member of the Cooktown Swimming Club,
and an integral part of the Cooktown Pool team, where she trained as a volunteer swim teacher and passed on her love of water to many young children. Bi-weekly aqua aerobics classes were an essential part of her social and physical fitness, and she earned the nickname of “The Lifeguard” through entertaining all with her quick wit and strength.
At age 83, she exceeded her personal goal and swam 130 laps of the 25-metre Cooktown Pool, the same year she was a torch bearer for the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.
Ms Forsyth’s love of life extended to music, especially country classics by John Denver, Willie Nelson and Tom Jones, and it was little surprise Graham O’Connor’s A Road Less Travelled became her life song.
Those who knew Ms Forsyth will remember her boundless curiosity, sharp, dry humour, and deep compassion, as well as her remarkable ability to connect with people.
Last week’s commemoration at Nature’s Powerhouse was not about saying goodbye – it was about celebrating a life lived with laughter, curiosity, kindness and a bit of cheekiness.
Ms Forsyth wasn’t just loved, she was unforgettable – a rocket to the moon.
Susan
Volunteers bag ‘heartbreaking’ amount of Cape Bedford marine debris
by CHISA HASEGAWA
TEN days of sun, sand and sweat have made the coastline of Cape Bedford 14 tonnes lighter after Parley Australia’s biggest beach clean-up expedition yet.
The aches and pains of 50 volunteers are now starting to fade after picking up marine debris over a 10-kilometre stretch earlier this month in collaboration with Traditional Owner Ivan Deemal, who guided participants on the cultural significance of the land.
One volunteer, Therese Phillips, said that as a newcomer to Cooktown, the beach clean-up was a meaningful way to connect with her new home.
“The best way to know where you are is to literally walk on the land,” she said.
“I really think that it’s worthwhile to participate in an event like this; I’d been for a drive around another beach not too far from Cooktown, and I had seen in a very small way, the sort of litter that can come up on a beach.”
Ms Phillips said the sheer
volume of marine debris was initially overwhelming, but found that the Parley Australia team was able to break it down into manageable tasks.
“When you would drive down the beach in the morning and see the volume of plastic and refuse that was on the beach, you think you’ll never be able to clean this,” she said.
“It was just like a miracle; it seemed like an impossible task, but it’s a bit like how do you eat an elephant – one bite at a time.”
She said the expedition and seeing the debris firsthand, in-
cluding more than one tonne of plastic bottles and glass, affected her everyday choices as a consumer.
“I’m coming back and I’m immediately hating plastic the way I’ve never hated plastic before,” Ms Phillips said.
“I’ve replaced some plastic containers already with some ceramic, glass and siliconlidded containers already, and I’ve said to my family, we are actively moving away from plastic.”
Another volunteer, Anika Craney, who works in the diving industry, said the amount of
rubbish on the beach brought “tears to the eyes”.
“I’ve done a lot of deep sea expeditions ... I’ve seen a lot of waste out there, which is really heartbreaking, because we’d be like four, five days sail from land, and there’s still so much out there,” she said.
“This is the first time I’d seen that amount of rubbish in a small space, and it makes me realise how much more there must be out there.
“It’s impactful in different ways, but to see that much was really heartbreaking, like it did bring tears to the eyes.”
Cape, Torres tales highlighted at 12th Freshwater Saltwater exhibition
by CHISA HASEGAWA
THE stories of Cape York and Torres Strait Islander artists are front and centre at the 12th UMI Arts Freshwater Saltwater exhibition.
The popular annual exhibition was unveiled on Friday, showcasing 34 diverse works from 12 artists across acrylic on canvas, monoprints, and woven artefacts.
Exhibiting artist Erin Jia, who has connections to Badu Island, Murray Island and Malanbarra Yidinji, said the exhibition theme allowed her to celebrate her various stories and histories.
“It really sits with me, because I am freshwater and I am saltwater,” she said.
“With my Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ancestry and my lineage, it means the two coming together, and that’s what we are.
“We are two different cultural
groups, but we are one, and it’s so beautiful to be able to bring an exhibition together to show that as a unity.”
Despite Ms Jia’s Aboriginal lineage not originating on Cape York, she said artwork sold and given to the Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council in 2023 strengthened her connection to art, and resulted in her working in community after the Tropical Cyclone Jasper flood event.
“It felt like I was going to be in Wujal Wujal working, with my artwork being given to them as a return to community after their disaster, and they were displaced from their community, so that was a big connection for me,” she said.
“I’m really finding where my Aboriginal connections lie, and I felt that from my artwork and weaving.
“It was great to go and live and work up in Wujal Wujal and connect with the Aboriginal people up there, and I made some amazing relationships up there.”
Outages this week
SOME residents in Rocky Point and Nanum will be without power for four hours this week while critical repairs and maintenance are carried out.
Rio Tinto has advised from 8am-12pm today (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 about the outages, call 1800 820 711 or email RTAWeipafeedback@riotinto.com.
School holiday fun
TICKETS are now available for Weipa Town Authority’s fun-filled school holiday program from 30 June-11 July.
From laser tag battles to puppet making, story time activities to STEM cubelets, there is something for all of Weipa’s younger residents when they make the most of the coming time away from the classroom.
T-shirt tie-dyeing at the library is set to be popular with participants aged 12 and older on 2 and 3 July.
To get your tickets, head to the WTA website or Facebook page.
Up to $40,000 for road safety
CAPE York and Torres Strait not-for-profit groups can now apply for Queensland Government grants designed to support local road safety initiatives.
Funding of up to $40,000 is available through the Department of Transport and Main Roads’ Community Road Safety Grants program, which aims to support education initiatives that change local behaviours and attitudes to road safety.
To find out how to apply, call the grants team on 1300 186 159 or email roadsafetygrants@tmr.qld.gov.au.
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
Exhibiting artist Erin Jia says the Freshwater Saltwater exhibition is unifying her various cultural backgrounds.
A staggering 14 tonnes of marine debris was collected by volunteers during Parley Australia’s Cape Bedford clean-up expedition this month.
Minniecon to lead CIAF’s 2025 ambassador army
DON’T be surprised if you see Talicia Minniecon roaming around this year’s Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) armed with a microphone, camera and her trademark warmth as she captures the event’s stories, spirit and spontaneous moments.
Ms Minniecon has been announced as CIAF’s 2025 Ambassador Program lead and is set to take on the role of content creator, storyteller and cultural powerhouse as she conducts roving interviews around the 16th instalment of the must-see event from 10-13 July.
Artistic director Teho Ropeyarn said the appointment of Ms Minnecon as program lead would help CIAF connect with audiences on the ground and via social media.
“CIAF is about connection –with culture, community and creativity – and Talicia is the perfect person to reflect that and bring life to our thematic through line, Pay Attention!” he said.
“We’re excited to have her vibrant voice and energy amplifying the many faces and stories that make CIAF so special.”
Festivalgoers are encouraged to
keep an eye out for Ms Minniecon and have a yarn when they see her to talk all things CIAF and industry leading Indigenous creativity.
In addition to her on-ground reporting, Ms Minniecon will also lead the Ambassador Program, which will invite young First Nations content creators to learn, connect and co-create with her throughout the four days of the event.
A mother, educator, entrepreneur and advocate, Ms Minniecon is the founder of Mob Made Media & Communications, and she said she was thrilled to be joining the CIAF team in 2025.
“I’m beyond excited and deeply honoured to be part of CIAF 2025 – a space that celebrates the strength, brilliance and creative power of our First Nations people,” she said.
“This is more than a moment –it’s a movement, and it’s an honour for me to be here, amplifying our voices and empowering our communities from a grassroots level.
“I’m here to listen, connect and share; every person has a story, and every yarn is a chance to honour culture and community.”
Aboriginal Land Act 1991
Notice of Minister’s Intention to Appoint Grantee
The Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation intends to appoint:
Wuthathi Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC (ICN 7157) as grantee of:
19 SP269684
20 SP349311
21 SP349311
23 SP349311
25 SP269684
28 SP269684
24 SP269684
35 SP269684
350 SP349311
The proposed Grantee will hold the land in trust for the benefit of Aboriginal people particularly concerned with the land, their ancestors and descendants, pursuant to section 40 of the Aboriginal Land Act 1991
A map of the proposed transfer area is available from the office listed below.
Written representations must be received by 5.00 pm on Friday 25 July 2025 and may be made to:
The Honourable Andrew Powell MP
Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation
C/- The Director
Cape York Peninsula Tenure Resolution Program
Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation
5B Sheridan Street
CAIRNS QLD 4870
or PO Box 4597
CAIRNS QLD 4870
or Email: CYPTRPTenure@detsi.qld.gov.au
For further information, contact the Cape York Peninsula Tenure Resolution Program on (07) 4222 5185 during office hours.
Talicia Minniecon will be a familiar face on the ground at this year’s Cairns Indigenous Art Fair after being named the event’s 2025 Ambassador Program lead.
(Arkham) lunatics rule Discovery Festival asylum
by LYNDON KEANE and CHISA HASEGAWA
THE scenes were like something out of a twisted-yet-entertaining horror movie when teams vied for glory in one of the strangest events of the Cooktown Discovery Festival on Saturday afternoon.
From defrosting meat pies to fool’s gold, broken hobby horses to filling a bucket with a sponge, hundreds of spectators were in stitches as they lined Charlotte Street outside the West Coast Hotel for the 2025 Unfenced Asylum Challenge.
After what felt like a dozen attempts to explain the rules of the one-of-a-kind challenge to confused and possibly over-hydrated competitors, the starting whistle sounded and the three-leg relay began amid skolled drinks, half-chewed pies and some incredibly close calls hovering over a wheelie bin.
Given the name of the competition, it was fitting some of Arkham Asylum’s most notorious residents – Gotham’s Finest – took this year’s challenge crown after laying waste to the competition.
The trio of the Joker, Two-Face and Harley Quinn – Brandon Walker, Cam Bourne and Aimee Nastasi – dressed to impress and put their victory down to a paraphrased team motto borrowed from a certain Talladega race car driver.
“If you’re not first, you’re the first loser,” laughed Mr Bourne after the cheering outside the pub subsided.
“The only thing going through my mind was, ‘don’t spew, just eat the pie’.”
Mr Walker, who looked at ease dressed as Heath Ledger’s incarnation of the Joker in a nurse’s uniform, said he believed the wardrobe choice played a part in the team’s victory.
“I got told I had to dress up as the Joker, so I go the nurse’s outfit and it turned out to be a very athletic outfit – I was able to go full motion and just perform at my best,” he said.
“Full credit to the team, to TwoFace and Harley Quinn, I couldn’t have done it without them.”
Ms Nastasi, who is rumoured to have been recruited for her speed across the Charlotte Street asphalt, not her pie-eating prowess, said the team had adopted an “if you can’t be good, be good at it” mentality before the challenge.
“I got a call to join the team and I thought, ‘is this a compliment, or is not a compliment?’” she said.
“It was crazy but it was so much fun; we’ll see if we come back next year to defend our crown.”
The Cooktown Ring-Ins took out second place in the challenge, with the Mad Hatters taking home bronze.
Gotham’s Finest – Two-Face (Cam Bourne), Harley Quinn (Aimee Nastasi) and the Joker (Brandon Walker) – attempt to psych out the competition before the 2025 Unfenced Asylum Challenge.
When you’re tucking into a defrosting pie, it’s better for all concerned if you do so over a wheelie bin.
Sometimes, one beer just isn’t enough.
It’s probably easier if you don’t ask about the hobby horse.
Nothing to see here, just a man having a moment with his defrosting pie.
COMMUNITY NOTICE
Attention all Mapoon residents and visitors.
Please be advised that from the 16th of June to the 30th August 2025 Mapoon Land & Sea Rangers will be conducting their annual controlled burning of Mapoon country.
Please be aware of smoke hazards for the duration of the burning.
Rangers will be placing smoke hazards signs on the roadside near burning sites.
Please relocate all Assets that are out on country and at risk of aerial incendiaries
Runners conquer Goliath opponent
by LYNDON KEANE
THERE was a look of both immense satisfaction and relief on the face of Ollie Boltz after he conquered the challenging Goliath of Grassy in his best time ever on Saturday morning.
“Oh man, I underestimated that hill,” he told Cape York Weekly after being the first runner to cross the finish line of the Big Run for Little Athletics.
“It’s a lot harder; I did it last year, but this year still felt harder.”
Boltz stopped the clock in the 4-kilometre trip to the top of Grassy Hill and back in a staggering 13 minutes, 54 seconds to claim the men’s Open class ahead of brothers Jake and Sam Turner.
Tayla Gunton was the first woman home in the women’s Open division in a time of 17:45, with Madison Klein and Sophie Kiernan rounding out the placings.
With Grassy Hill behind him, Boltz will return to the United States later this year to compete in cross country for Iona University in New York, something he admitted was on his mind during his preparation for Saturday’s event.
“There’s been a lot of early mornings and, you know, I have bigger goals in mind, so just thinking about those helped,” he said.
“I’m going back to the US in August to race over there doing cross country for Iona University, which is like 30 minutes north of New York City.”
Madison Klein, Ollie Boltz and Tayla Gunton celebrate their success after conquering Cooktown’s Grassy Hill in the Big Run for Little Athletics on Saturday morning.
The event was a celebration of runners of all ages and abilities as participants fundraised for Cooktown Little Athletics.
The Big Run for Little Athletics finished on Sherrin Esplanade in the heart of the festival village for the first time at the weekend.
Outback Mike regales festival crowd with survival stories
IT was a mutual learning experience when renowned survivalist, adventurer, filmmaker and author Mike Atkinson took to the Cooktown Discovery Festival stage at the weekend.
Better known as Outback Mike, Atkinson had the crowd captivated with his stories or survival, bush skills and the homemade dugout canoe he sailed for more than 1,500 kilometres up the east coast of Cape York.
He told Cape York Weekly he enjoyed sharing his knowledge and gleaning new under-
standings from his interactions with festival patrons.
“A lot of people that live up here will have skills that I don’t have, you know, so it’s a two-way information flow,” he said after getting off the stage on Saturday.
“I might say a few things that they learn from, but I’m also listening to what they say; they’ve got more time up here.”
The former Alone Australia contestant added he used appearances like the Discovery Festival to learn more about differing views on survival,
exploration, society and history.
“I’m just interested in the subjects, so, if someone’s got an alternative view, I’m really keen to hear it,” he explained.
“To understand, and you can’t really know about any of the problems we’ve got, unless you can see all the different angles.”
Atkinson concluded his duty as the festival’s special guest on Sunday night with a packed screening of his documentary, Modern-Day Castaway, at the Cooktown Events Centre.
Hounds put best paw forward for dog show
COOKTOWN’S dogs were the bestest boys and girls when the Cooktown Horse Sports Association hosted a hound show on 22 June.
The event gave fourlegged residents an opportunity to take part in the 2025 Cooktown Discovery Festival with a range of categories open to junior and senior pet owners.
Association president Sarah Frew said the annual competition continued to get stronger and stronger.
“It was a fun morning,” she said.
“Each year gets better and better; we had 39
entries, which was great to see.
“We appreciate everyone who made the effort to come down and compete or just spectate.”
RESULTS
Best in Show (Open): Eliza Cameron and Otto; Best in Show (Junior): Henry and Theodore; Working Dog (Open): Eliza Cameron and Otto 1, Josh Sewell and Ginny 2, Chris Warren and Otto 3; Working Dog (Junior): Miles Higgins and Lamington 1; Best Dressed (Open): Alison Jones and Pepe 1, Linda McNab and Angie 2, Jeanne Masding and Leeloo 3; Small
Purebred (Open): Pat Fitzgerald and Skipper 1, Suzanne and Tonks 2, Alison Jones and Pepe 3; Small Purebred (Junior): Dayna and Daisy 1, Lauren Hook and Teddy 2, Henry and Theodore 3; Medium Purebred (Open): Kasey Meldrum and Blue 1, Josh Sewell and Ginny 2, Jeff Newman and Lexie 3; Medium Purebred (Junior): Miles Higgins and Lamington 1; Large Purebred (Open): Nola Shawcross and Cassie 1, Mike Masding and Chilli 2; Cooktown Special: there were prizes for everyone because the judges could not decide.
Automotive showdown revs up Discovery Festival
ONE of the largest Cape York Automotive Muster fields ever provided a rumbling soundtrack for the Cooktown Discovery Festival from 20-22 June.
The event continues to grow in stature each year and is a festival favourite with automotive enthusiasts and spectators alike.
Competitors kicked off the 2025 muster with a light display and sound off on Friday night, before vehicles lined up along Charlotte Street for inspection and judging before participating in the grand parade.
There were nine categories on offer for this year’s event, including Best Classic Car, Best Souped-Up Rig/Car, Roughest Rig and Best Flex.
While an army of four-wheel drives lined up for the always-entertaining flex test, the inclusion of a silver Toyota Yaris had many scratching their head.
Clint Wezniak, the owner of the Frankenstein hatchback, said he was thrilled to have turned so many heads with his unconventional entry.
“It’ll be interesting to see how it goes with the flex; it goes hard,” he laughed.
“It’ll do 110 (kilometres per hour) bush bashing; it’s a beast.
“Anything you want to throw at it, it’ll take.”
Clint Wezniak and his Toyota Yaris, which became the unconventional star of the 2025 Cape York Automotive Muster.
Survivalist and adventurer Mike Atkinson, better known as Outback Mike, with his homemade canoe the Salty Kangaroo in the Cooktown Discovery Festival village on 21 June.
Dogs and their owners were on their best behaviour (well, most of them) at the Cooktown Horse Sports Association hound show on Sunday morning.
CAPE York is different kettle of fish to the rest of the country and needs to be treated as such by our political masters in Canberra if we are to have a prosperous and economically diverse future.
The announcement on 17 June by Diatreme Resources that its Cape Flattery silica mine had been designated Major Project Status by the Federal Government is a big win for the company and the southeastern Cape York communities set to benefit from its development, but the odd project getting support from Canberra and Brisbane here and there doesn’t go far enough.
In fact, I think sweeping changes are needed to ensure any business looking to establish itself in an area as geographically and economically remote as Cape York is afforded every opportunity to flourish thousands of kilometres from the urban hubs of the country that usually garner the most love from policy makers.
It’s pretty evident Treasurer Jim Chalmers has his ambition set on being the one to give Australia’s tax system the biggest shake-up it’s had since GST was introduced in July 2000.
Dr Chalmers told the National Press Club last week that “no
sensible progress can be made on productivity, resilience or budget sustainability without proper consideration of more tax reform”. Here’s an outside-the-box tax reform concept that doesn’t involve a ridiculous proposal to put unrealised capital gains from high-worth superannuation accounts in the crosshairs: transform Cape York into a special economic zone (SEZ) to stimulate economic growth and development in one of the remotest spots in the country.
• Traditional features: high ceilings, hardwood timber floors, French doors, T&G walls
• Four spacious bedrooms and a central lounge room
• Functional kitchen with gas stove, oven, rangehood, large pantry, and dishwasher
• Modernised bathroom and laundry area opening to rear patio and yard
• Air-conditioned bedrooms and living area for year-round comfort
• Spotted gum hardwood flooring and finished timber features throughout
• Available fully furnished if required
• Re-roofed and fitted with cyclone-proof external louvres
• Dividing fence between backyard and garage—ideal layout for a second dwelling or extra parking/large boats or caravans
SEZs provide local and overseas businesses with incentives to invest in new ventures and infrastructure through reductions in tax and regulation, and while the former Darwin Trade Development Zone failed more than 20 years ago due to excessive government interference and minimal genuine carrots for investors, the concept has the potential to be tailored for our unique circumstances if the Federal Government is genuine in its desire to give productivity a much-needed kickstart.
Running a small business is tough going at the best of times, but when you factor in the curve balls operating on Cape York throws at entrepreneurs, setting up a SEZ begins to make more sense. I’m talking about the cost of freight to provide goods and services, remuneration and housing challenges with recruiting and retaining staff, and the fact many are forced to generate 12 months’ revenue during the months of the year the region is accessible to a
broader client base – our southern visitors.
The potential of a Cape York SEZ is something I’ll be flagging with our new Leichhardt MP, Matt Smith, to see whether he can fly the idea up the Parliament House flagpole and get the Treasurer and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to salute it.
For our fish and chip shops, manufacturers and fabricators, roadhouses, tourism operators and myriad other Cape York businesses we all know and love, there is no denying a helping hand is needed that acknowledges and offsets the incredible challenges – financial and social – associated with running a business up here, challenges I suspect most metropolitan business owners would tremble at the prospect of having to overcome on a daily basis.
If Dr Chalmers and the political puppeteers in Canberra are serious about giving Australia’s productivity a can of Red Bull, especially in remote areas, they need to ensure business operators have an equitable playing field. Hell, when you’re talking about Cape York, the first thing to do is ensure businesses up here and in our cities are actually playing the same sport. The establishment of a Cape York SEZ would go a long way to achieving this, and make our backyard somewhere a diverse range of businesses could flourish for generations to come.
If Treasurer Jim Chalmers is serious about giving the Australian tax system its biggest shake-up in recent times, he could do worse than considering the establishment of a special economic zone for Cape York, says editor Lyndon Keane.
Cape York Weekly Puzzles Page
Fill in the blank cells using
Whillier
Fit the numbers 1-6 once into every hexagon so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers are the same. No number is repeated in any single hexagon.
Thursday, June 26 to Sunday, June 29 2025
WEEKEND EVENT DETAILS
THURSDAY 26TH JUNE 2025
• 8am: Novice & Maiden Campdraft events Rodeo Arena
FRIDAY 27TH JUNE 2025
• 7am: Maiden Campdraft event Rodeo Arena
• 1:00pm: Race Club Horse Sports (held in middle of race track, all nominations before event begins onsite)
• 6:30pm: Friday Night Cabaret at the Race Club with live band “Black Image” and bar open until midnight
• Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner meals available all Friday from several stalls near Tennis Court/Race Area
• Lunchtime: Laura Annual Races, gates open 10:00am with first race at 1:00pm
• 5pm: Laura Race Club Cabaret with music and bar open until midnight, which completes weekend events held by the Race Club
• 6pm: Rodeo Arena: Grand Entry, Bushman’s Bronc Ride, Open Bull Ride followed by live band “The Barnyard Band”
• Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner meals available all Saturday from several stalls near Tennis Court/Race Area
SUNDAY 29TH JUNE 2025
• 7am: Rodeo Arena: Full Rodeo Events Program, followed by an Auction & Raffles & Live Band “The Barnyard Band”
Fashions on the FashionsFieldon
CATEGORIES:
Little ones ages 0 – 5 years boy & girl
Little Miss/Mr ages 6 – 12 years
Young Lady/Sir ages 13 – 17 years
Lady of the day age 18 – 39
Golden Lady of the day age 40 & over
Couple ofthe day
Dapper male of the day 18+
There is no theme for the day, just appropriateness for the Laura Races & to have fun!
Cape, Torres netballers
Crossley peaks in time for taxman
NETBALL Queensland has announced it will set up NetSetGo! centres in Cooktown, Hope Vale, Wujal Wujal, the NPA and Torres Strait to engage girls aged 5-10 in the sport.
Netball Queensland has been awarded a grant that will enable the establishment of up to 12 new Woolworths NetSetGO! centres in remote First Nations communities to deliver tailored netball experiences to up to 360 young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls.
The centres are currently being rolled out and Netball Queensland general manager Glenn Dennis said he believed their benefit would extend far beyond the court.
“This grant is a gamechanger for communities that face limited access to sports programs and significant socioeconomic challenges,” he said.
The $100,000 grant was made possible through an initiative Unilever ran in May 2024, in partnership with Woolworths, to donate 10c from each sale of certain items to the Confident Girls Foundation.
The centres will be led by experienced First Nations coaches and community volunteers to foster a connection to sport from an early age, and offer capability and skills development for young players in the remote communities.
A spokesperson for the Confident Girls Foundation said the NetSetGo! format would allow participants to be inspired through netball.
“Our mission is to inspire and engage young people through sport, and Netball Queensland are exemplary in delivering this vision,” the spokesperson said.
“We can’t wait to see the lasting impact of these programs.”
“By investing in grassroots netball, we are fostering not just new athletes but stronger, healthier communities.”
GRANT Crossley was the most consistent around the Carpentaria Golf Club course when 15 players contested the weekly Dawnbusters battle under overcast skies on 22 June.
Crossley returned to the clubhouse with 45 off the stick for nett 13, which was enough to let him bag the winner’s chocolates and relegate Dave Sands (46/14) to bridesmaid for the second week in a row.
According to the writer of this Dawnbusters report – one G Crossley – Sunday’s winner was simply the “most deserving”.
“I separated myself from the rabble, and walked with the two newest players in order to be able to concentrate on my game and enlighten the Dawnbuster rookies in the art of golf,” he rambled.
One of those rookies, Eddy Tiemens, took home the Hoffman’s after being subjected to nine holes of Crossley wisdom.
Brian Ackland nailed the longest drive for the men, with Beth Dall taking out the women’s long drive before retiring hurt.
Golfers will tackle the back nine from about 6:45am on 29 June.
Netball Queensland has announced Cape York and the Torres Strait are set to receive some of the 12 NetSetGo! centres being rolled out in remote Indigenous communities.
‘Community’ feel drives record Running Festival nominations
A FEELING of community before, on and after race day is one of the factors driving what is shaping up as a record number of participants for the 2025 Weipa Running Festival (WRF), according to the committee steering the popular annual event.
With three weeks to go until participants of all ages pound the pavement in the marathon, half marathon, 10-kilometre, 5km, 2.5 and family fun run categories, almost 300 people have already put their hand up to don a race bib on 20 July.
“Registrations are looking fantastic, well ahead of previous years, with close to 300 registrations al-
ready,” WRF president Rose Robins told Cape York Weekly
“Who knows what the last flurry will be like as race day fever builds but there will be no race day registrations, so you’d better be quick.”
Ms Robins said she believed the event’s reputation as a supportive, inclusive event for competitors of all running abilities was what kept local and visiting participants coming back year after year.
“I think it’s a combination of the mutual respect as runners, mixed with our Cape York sense of community that gives WRF the name it has,” she explained.
“The feeling and display of community of our event is always mentioned by the out-of-town runners.”
Ms Robins said while each runner would be working on their own preparation with less than a month to go until the starter’s pistol fires, support events like yoga sessions in Kumrumja Park and group runs had proved extremely popular with experienced and novice competitors alike.
“We are pleased that we are able to build on our participants journey to race day,” she said.
“We’ve had big numbers for the afternoon yoga sessions – there is something very special about
Hope Vale cowboys set for bucking US adventure
by CHISA HASEGAWA
TWO young cowboys’ talents will take them from Hope Vale to the United States in September after being selected to represent Australia at the World Mini Bull Finals.
Tyson “TJ” Ford, 11, and 13-year-old Kaileb Kyle are currently training hard for their first international competition, which they were recruited for based on their performances over the past 12 months at various events.
In January 2025, TJ competed in his first national competition, with mum Ashleigh Oberluter explaining it was a huge accomplishment that pushed him as a rider.
“Nationals was big, like a huge stepping stone in itself, and then to be invited to an international competition, that’s just a whole new level,” she said.
“It’s the first time for anybody to be recognised out of Hope Vale, and the boys are so young, so that’s a big accomplishment in itself as well.”
TJ said his first international competition was nerve-racking, but he was pre-
paring as much as possible, taking on the same training regime as his lead-up to the Australian Bushmen’s Campdraft and Rodeo Association National Finals Rodeo earlier this year.
“I’m excited and nervous, but I’m also nervous to make friends,” he said.
“I try to ride as much and often [as I can].”
The two boys will be joined by fellow Queensland cowboys on their journey to Utah, giving them the opportunity to meet riders they do not normally cross paths with.
“It’s a team they’re taking down, so nine young people under 17, and they’re from all through Queensland,” Ms Oberluter said.
“A lot of them are competing in different associations, so different regional areas, and so it’s a good way of bringing them all together.”
Despite bull riders competing alone in the arena, Ms Oberluter said ensuring the team members connected was still vital for an athlete’s performance.
“In the first week of the holidays, we’re
hoping to get down to Proserpine to have a training run with the group that’s going, just so they can get to know each other as a team and start that bond before they actually travel,” she said.
“It is a very individual sport, in terms of them going out and riding, but without everybody around – their support team, the protection athletes, the chute boss, the managers, the whole rodeo – it just wouldn’t be able to happen at the end of the day.”
Ms Oberluter has also set up a GoFundMe page to help with the costs of getting the boys to Utah, which is currently at about the halfway mark of its goal, and said the support had been overwhelming.
“I’m just blown away; I didn’t actually think it would take off as quickly and as rapidly as it did, but I’m so thankful,” she said.
“I was a little bit hesitant to put it out there, but I’m glad I bit the bullet and ended up doing it.”
To help TJ and Kaileb get to Utah, go to www.gofundme.com/f/red-soil-brothersget-to-world-mini-bull-finals.
Kumrumja Park late in the afternoon.
“The women’s health session was very informative and welcomed from our women runners … and the group runs are cementing solid running friendships; we’ve also received lots of positive feedback about the course familiarisations.”
Registrations for the marathon, half marathon and 10km events close on 18 July, while runners have until the following day to get their names in for the 5km, 2.5km and family fun run.
For more information about one of Weipa’s must-try events, go to www.weiparunningfestival.org.au.
Ryder streets ahead with parkrun PB
YOUNG Ryder Street had plenty of reasons to smile when he celebrated a personal best (PB) time at Weipa parkrun #424 on 21 June.
Street led the field to be the first participant to salute the timekeepers in 22 minutes, 2 seconds, his best-ever time over the 5-kilometre circuit.
Sherece McCulloch was the first female across the finish line in 26 minutes on the button.
A field of 61 participants, including eight first timers, donned their sneakers for their weekly running ritual, with Finley Nadredre, Emma Cerruto, Lily Jewell, Melanie Brewer, Lyndsey Fielding, Catherine Samuel and Louise Jones also recording PB performances.
Brigitta Vakauta, Denica Bowden, Inyika Nadredre, Nakoa Bob, Sereana Canaweka, Tanya Poi Poi and Tarzha Pascoe were on volunteer duty to ensure participants had everything they needed.
Weipa parkrun is held every Saturday morning at 7am, with participants tackling the track from the shelter opposite the hospital roundabout in Nanum.
Newbies are always welcome, with everyone asked to muster about 15 minutes early so the event can start on time.
Hundreds of competitors of all ages will pound the pavement as they participate in the Weipa Running Festival on 20 July.
Just five months after his first national competition, Hope Vale’s Tyson “TJ” Ford has been recruited to represent an Australian team at the World Mini Bull Finals in Utah.
Ryder Street is all smiles as he crosses the finish line in a personal best time in Weipa on Saturday morning.
OVERALL numbers will be down but more A-grade players than ever before are expected to vie for south-eastern Cape York golfing bragging rights when they challenge for the 2025 Cooktown Open this weekend.
Players will take to the Walker Bay course on 28-29 June and Cooktown Golf Club president Brent Hetaraka said while nominations were down on previous years, the number of high-grade players set to tee off and the condition of the course would set the stage for some competitive golf.
“We’ve got a pretty decent spread of players, grade-wise,” he said.
“There’s a lot of good golfers coming up, a lot of A-graders coming up, which is nice – normally there’s not many.
“Word’s got out that the course is in pretty good nick; I had a few Mossman Golf Club members
come up last week and have a bash around … and they’re saying the greens are better than theirs at the moment, so, I think that’s motivated a lot of people; the course looks amazing.”
Never one to back away from some pre-event mind games, Mr Hetaraka said he planned to have his name etched on the silverware when players returned to the clubhouse after the final round on Sunday.
“Regardless of who’s coming, I plan to win it anyway,” he laughed.
Any golfer who can card an ace on the 9th hole during the Open will walk away with a $10,000 boost to their hip pocket, an offer that has had many working on their short game in the lead-up to the oncourse showdown.
Players interested in a late nomination to be in the field this weekend should check out the Cooktown Golf Club Facebook page.
Cairns bout beckons for Barton
HE has delivered some knockout blows in his short boxing career, but Weipa’s Jack Barton will be aiming to produce the performance of a lifetime in Cairns on Wednesday night.
Barton has been invited to join the card for No Limit Boxing’s double header at the Cairns Convention Centre on 25 June, which will be headlined by former world champion Liam Paro and two-time world title challenger Liam Wilson.
The undercard bout comes of the back of the 17-year-old’s impressive Golden Gloves win in Townsville last month in the 81 kilogram intermediate division.
Barton told Cape York Weekly he felt “a lot more confident and a lot stronger being at a more natural weight” and is expected to dominate when he dons the gloves in front of more than 2,500 boxing fans in Cairns.
Cape York Boxing Weipa founder and coach Scott Wallace described his fighter’s call-up to the big stage as “our club’s dream”.
“From the point of view of a grassroots boxing coach, it doesn’t get any better – it’s the pinnacle,” he said.
“We never expected an offer like this; we never even dreamed about an offer like this.
“Being a bush boxing coach, I always thought I’d get my fighters to a certain level, then I’d send them off to somebody else.
“To be able to fight in front of this many people in Cairns, it’s our fighter’s dream, it’s our club’s dream and it’s our coach’s dream.”
He added the bout was the next step on the path to Barton realising his potential as a rising star in the ring.
“People don’t realise the hours that we put in – the blood, sweat and the tears to get to something like this big show in Cairns,” Mr Wallace said.
“It’s probably a couple of years earlier than we were expecting Jack to get there; we’ve got big dreams for him.”
The fight will be Barton’s final hit out before the club hosts Weipa Fight Night 2.0 on 19 July, an event Mr Wallace said would provide more than just thrills in the ring.
“There’s going to be a lot of loud, snappy music, a lot of bright lights, a very loud entrepreneur commentator - it’s more of a show than just people jumping in the ring and punching on,” he explained.
“Everybody mentioned what a great show it last was two years ago because of the entertainment value.”
Bragging rights – and $10,000 for a hole-in-one – will be on the line when golfers tee off in the 2025 Cooktown Open on 28-29 June.
Jack Barton, pictured during his recent Golden Gloves win, will don the gloves in front of the biggest crowd of his boxing career in Cairns on Wednesday night. Photo: Supplied (Michelle Evans).
Barriers set to fly open for five-race Laura card
by LYNDON KEANE
LAURA only gets to host one race meeting every year, but it will be standing room only trackside on Saturday as thousands of punters frock up for one of Cape York’s must-do social events.
The fields for the five-race program will take shape when nominations close at 11am today (24 June), but Forgiato, the winner of the 2024 Laura Cup, will not be aiming for a three-peat on Saturday after the 8-year-old gelding was retired from racing.
The $15,000 Laura Cup (1450 metres) is the feature race on the program, with the Laura Bracelet sprint over 1000m also tipped to attract some quality runners.
Laura Amateur Turf Club secretary Jenni Sorensen said there
had already been strong interest from trainers and riders ahead of the 28 June meeting.
“We’ve seen a lot of interest from the trainers and from jockeys,” she told Cape York Weekly
“We obviously won’t know how many noms we’ve got until Tuesday morning, but we’re expecting some good fields.
Ms Sorensen said the annual fashions on the field competition
would also be a major drawcard for fashionistas aiming to leave their mark on the event.
“Fashions on the field is just huge,” she said.
“Everybody dresses up to the nines – it’s amazing.”
Ms Sorensen added she believed the annual race meeting was “the social event of the Cape”, a title club president Phil Holloway said was fitting.
“It’s an iconic event that’s been going now for 128 years, and people from all over the Cape enjoy coming there,” he said.
“We have to limit the number of people because of the facilities we’ve got, but we don’t have any problem in filling the whole place.”
Gates open at 10am on Saturday, with the barriers scheduled to fly open in the first race at 1pm.
Laura buckles up for rodeo thrills, spills
THERE will be thrills and spills aplenty when competitors face off against fourlegged opponents at the 2025 Laura Rodeo and Campdraft this weekend.
More than 2,000 people are expected to converge on the rodeo arena to witness a full program of events over four days, and rodeo and campdraft manager Karlene Shepherd said the “family weekend” was set to produce some fantastic rides.
“We’re all set to go,” she said.
“There’s three nights of music, the rodeo and campdraft, races and horse sports.
“Nominations for the campdraft are up, and we’re waiting to see where the rodeo ends after late nominations, but they’re looking on par to normal.”
The action will get under way from 8am on Thursday with the novice and maiden campdraft events, and then from 7am on 27 June.
On Saturday night, the grand entry will
rock the rodeo arena before the crowd is thrilled by the excitement of the bushman’s bronc ride and open bull ride.
There will be plenty of prizemoney on offer for cowboys and cowgirls, including $2,000 for the open campdraft, $3,000 for the maiden event and $2,000 for the novice draft.
In the rodeo events, there is $3,5000 up for grabs in the open bull rides on Saturday and Sunday nights.
When the dust settles on Sunday afternoon, two competitors will walk away with the event’s most coveted prizes – the All-Round Cowboy and Shelley Shephard Memorial All-Round Cowgirl trophies.
SPORT IN BRIEF
Weipa touch results
THERE were some one-sided scorelines when teams took to the field for round eight of the 2025 Weipa Touch Association season on 18 June.
Top End Taggers trounced Can’t Touch This 13-nil, while Untouchables (15-nil) and Spartans (11-nil) also kept Scrambled Legs and Lacking Stamina scoreless in their clashes.
Cheers for Beers had a big 15-2 win against Weipa Weapons, with Villains triumphing over Res Strong 9-2 and Cape Candies and Pisswrecks producing the match of the round in a 6-4 result.
$2k up for grabs
TEAMS from across south-eastern Cape York will battle for a $2,000 winner’s purse at the FNQ Family Touch Carnival in Cooktown next month.
The event will be held at the John Street Oval from 8am-6pm on 5 July, with dual international Bo de la Cruz and Arthur Beetson Foundation ambassador Brenton Bowen set to feature on and off the paddock.
For more information about registering a team, call or text 0447 159 814.
PK steals Wednesday Wackers limelight
PETER Kenny was the best of the bunch of 14 that teed off in Wackers action on 18 June.
Ex-Weipa resident Jim Hoffman dusted off the clubs and caught up with familiar faces while on holidays, but Kenny stole his limelight to bag bragging rights ahead of Steve Kennett, who took home the bridesmaid’s crown.
A big shout out to Kennett and his wife, Kate, for donning their chef hats to cook up delicious burgers for the hungry golfers. Jim Lucas claimed the pin prize on the 7th, with new player Eddy Tiemens securing the Bradman’s.
Cowboys and cowgirls of all ages will put their reputations on the line during an action-packed weekend of rodeo and campdraft events in Laura from
The action will be fast and furious in the bookie’s ring at the Laura Races on Saturday as punters try to find a winner.
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