Col Vallance and Jim Fletcher struggle for visibility as they power through a corner during a muddy heat three of the Statesman class on day two of the FNQ Dirt Kart Titles. Check out our special coverage of the event on Pages 20-21.
READY TO RUMBLE
Sell-out crowd tipped for Weipa
Western Cape York’s emerging pugilists will showcase their skills in the ring in front of a huge crowd for the highly anticipated Weipa Fight Night 2.0 on Saturday. Find out how one of the fighters making their debut is feeling before their bout on Page 22.
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Big Pups shares more than music on latest Cape tour
by CHISA HASEGAWA
FROM sharing lyrics to sharing life stories, Cape-loving singer Big Pups is encouraging men to be open and vulnerable through a shared love of music.
Pere “Big Pups” Paul finished off his fifth Cape
York tour in Pormpuraaw earlier this month after singing and yarning his way through Bamaga, Seisia, New Mapoon, Bramwell Junction, Lockhart River and Weipa.
Although he has a deep love for every square inch of the Cape, Paul said he had built a
close connection with the Lockhart River community over the years, facilitating yarning circles at the local men’s shed and providing them a space to open up.
“I told them that I’d return and just check on a brother,” he said.
“It was just talking
about things in general, just keeping everything positive, and seeing how everything’s going in the community.
“These guys don’t get access to other resources like we do in Cairns or Brisbane, or anywhere where you’re able to just jump in the car and go and talk to people.”
This year, Paul led a music workshop for a few of the men who were interested in putting together a local band.
During Big Pups’ performance at the Lockhart River Social Club, the men got an opportunity to showcase what they had been working on.
“We had a couple of local boys that got up and played with me on the Saturday night after doing the workshop on Friday, and it was great,” he said.
“That’s something encouraging, because music is an international language, so you can share that gift with everyone, and people, especially in the remote areas, they need access to music as well.”
For the first time, he also organised a yarning session in Pormpuraaw, gaining a deeper understanding of the community he was performing for.
“When I go to these men’s yarns, it’s not about trying to lead a conversation, it’s trying to just let the conversation happen naturally,” the musician said.
“I was very fortunate to have a long yarn with one of the Elders in Pormpuraaw, and I learned so much about their community.”
Turtle bath bomb to make Mapoon coastline Lush
WITH the fizz of a turtleshaped bath bomb will come a cleaner Mapoon coastline with Lush’s latest product release.
In partnership with Sea Shepherd Australia, the cult classic brand launched the “Waru” bath bomb, named after the Tjungundji word meaning “turtle”, available in store and online from 14 July.
Seventy-five per cent of sales from the bespoke product will be donated directly to Sea Shepherd Australia, with a goal to raise $40,000 to fund the 2026 Mapoon beach clean-up.
“Under the stewardship of the Mapoon Land and Sea Rangers, these lands have been safeguarded since 1989,” campaign lead Grahame Lloyd said.
Where: Unnamed Road LAKEFIELD 4871
On: Lot 10 SP208286
“However, this pristine ecosystem, and vital breeding habitat for native turtle species, faces overwhelming threats from heavily polluted waste carried by the Arafura current from south-east Asian countries.
“Mapoon’s remote Aborigi-
nal community endures some of the largest pollution unmanaged by the Australian Government.”
Lush’s advocacy and activism executive Jessielee Pearce said the company was proud to work with Sea Shepherd in removing plastic pollution and
protecting Mapoon’s fragile ecosystem.
“Every purchase helps protect Mapoon, one of Australia’s most precious nesting sites for native flatback, olive ridley and hawksbill turtles that are deeply sacred to the local Aboriginal community,” she said.
“The convenience of plastic is creating a devastating environmental and social problem, but it’s not too late to stem the tide.
“Of all plastic produced, 50 per cent is used to make single-use items with a life span of just 12 minutes, and of the 5,800 million tonnes of primary plastic no longer in use, only 9 per cent has been recycled since 1950.”
Approval sought: Development Permit for Material Change of Use Application ref: DA/4903
Every purchase of Lush Cosmetics Australia’s new “Waru” bath bomb will help fund the 2026 Mapoon beach clean-up.
Big Pups shared more than music with the Pormpuraaw community on his tour with a beachside yarning session.
Tributes flow for beloved Cape castaway Glasheen
by LYNDON KEANE
DAVE Glasheen was a lot of things: father, friend, business titan who lost his empire, enigmatic raconteur, bestselling author, and perpetual life of the party.
He was also a man who managed to rediscover himself and, in doing so, find a rare peace with the world before he died in Brisbane on 5 July.
He was 81 years old.
Glasheen, a former Sydney businessman who lost his fortune in the stock market crash of 1987, turned his back on a conventional lifestyle to spend more than 25 years as a modernday Robinson Crusoe on remote Restoration Island, just off the east coast of Cape York between Lockhart River and Portland Roads.
He came to global attention in 2013 when English broadcaster and adventurer Ben Fogle featured him in an episode of his New Lives in the Wild series, before Glasheen put his life to
paper in 2019 with The Millionaire Castaway, which has sold more than 250,000 copies worldwide.
Fogle told Cape York Weekly his first impression after hearing about Glasheen had been like flicking through the pages of a move script.
“The story sounded like a Hollywood script,” he said.
“I remember first hearing about him in the British press when he represented himself in court; his fight with the government for the right to stay on Resto captured the world’s attention.
“I remember thinking he was the kind of bloke I’d like to meet.”
Katie Goodwin, who lived on Restoration Island with Glasheen for six months after responding to a newspaper advertisement, said he had ended up having a “butterfly effect” on her life that led to meeting her now-fiance and settling on Cape York.
“I was looking to buy a boat in Far North Queensland, and his ad popped up in the Google search saying he was looking for a single or a couple to help restore an old yacht on the island,” she reflected.
“I’d never thought about going to Cape York before in my life and I responded to the ad, and me and Dave got along like a house on fire.
“At that time, I actually did need some restoring, and I ended up on Restoration Island not realising that my new life was going to start in Cape York just from responding to his ad.
“Now, I’m engaged to Jayson, and everything [with Glasheen] just led to greater things.”
When asked what the most important lesson she had learned from Glasheen was, Ms Goodwin said it was that “money meant nothing” in the pursuit of happiness.
“He moved himself away from the rat race, because when you’re down in the rat race, you’re just thinking about materialistic shit – making money, or success and all that sort of stuff.
“When you come up here, it wouldn’t even matter if you were a multi-millionaire; you’ve got nowhere to spend your money.
“If you think you need it, you actually don’t.”
Glasheen’s message of not putting a price on happiness also resonated with Fogle, who urged people to give up chasing material possessions that played no tangible part in a life lived well.
“Money does not buy you happiness,” Fogle said of Glasheen.
“He had it all, but it took losing it to realise that it was what was making him unhappy; I respect that many people are struggling to make ends meet, but many are chasing an excess that we don’t need.
“Dave lost everything but found happiness.”
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
Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council chief executive officer David Clarke said Glasheen would be sorely missed by community residents with whom he had developed “deep friendships” after arriving on Restoration Island in 1997.
“He always had a good heart and was always trying to do the right thing by the Kuuku Ya’u people, whose Country he was living on,” Mr Clarke said.
“Everyone warmed up to him over time, even though he still couldn’t fix a bloody lawnmower after 25 years.”
Ms Goodwin said while many believed Glasheen was living a lonely, solitary existence on Restoration Island, he had a “constant visitor base” of friends, commercial fishing vessels, recreational boaties, cruise ships and celebrities.
She added the octogenarian was also never one to shy away from cutting loose on the dancefloor, even if it was sand.
“He was the life of the party –he was an energy,” she said.
“He’d always be the last man standing at a party, which was always amazing; he would be the one there ‘til the very end.”
Glasheen’s passing has left a deep void on Restoration Island and in the hearts of the family and friends who loved him.
There will never be another Millionaire Castaway.
POSITION VACANT Procurement Officer
Reporting to the Finance Manager, the Procurement Officer is responsible for the efficient and effective purchasing and stores support to Council, including the daily operations of procurement and contracting activities of Council.
The Procurement Officer will ensure prompt accurate and reliable service provision of purchasing and procurement activities and maintenance of purchasing and contract arrangements to meet the diverse range of goods and services required by Council.
Duties include but not limited to:
• Supporting Council staff with procurement of services, advice and support for goods, services, plant and equipment
• Assisting with the efficient delivery of purchasing, procurement and delivery functions
• Carrying out financial transactions, cash handling and receipting tasks in line with established procedures
• Preparing purchase requisitions in Practical Plus, ensuring purchase requisitions provided to suppliers and contractors including a copy of Council’s purchase order terms and conditions
• Consolidating all purchasing at Council
Please visit Council’s website to download a full position description and send a resume with 2 current references to HRManager@wujal.qld.gov.au
Position is open until filled
Ben Fogle and Dave
Dave Glasheen was always happy to pull out a pen for an impromptu beach signing session of his bestselling book, The Millionaire Castaway, for literary lovers who washed up on Restoration Island.
CIAF celebrates return to ‘spiritual home’
by LYNDON KEANE
ARTISTS and audiences alike were empowered to remain vigilant about social, political and cultural issues impacting First Nations communities across the country when the 2025 Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) returned to its “spiritual home” from 10-13 July.
This year’s CIAF adopted the theme of Pay Attention!, inspired by artist Tony Albert’s evocative 2011 print work of the same name, and artistic director Teho Ropeyarn said it provided a strong re-
minder to everyone involved with the annual event.
“It’s a reminder … to stay at the forefront for all our issues of truth telling and things like that, but to also encourage artists to think outside this square and to push their practice,” he said.
Mr Ropeyarn, who has had an association with CIAF since first exhibiting as an artist about 15 years ago, said he was awed every time he saw works from a diverse range of creatives, including many from Cape York and the Torres Strait, starting to be displayed.
“It blows your mind every year,” he said.
“You discover new artists every year; emerging artists, they’re always coming through the ranks.
“Just to see our art, and Queensland art, and all our artists in one place has always been exciting, and there’s always something to see every year.”
Yalanji and Lama Lama artist Kerry Klimm’s Spill the Tea on the Colony exhibition and masterclass was a hit with crowds, with the unique concept inviting participants to “sit with uncom-
fortable truths over tea and biscuits”.
She said even the choice of biscuits to use in her display – Kingstons – was carefully thought out.
“When I was a kid, you knew there was some serious talk to be had if those flash bikkies were brought out,” she laughed.
“There are still serious conversations to be had with my work, so I thought putting the Kingstons out on the plate was fitting.
“One of the billies talks about black love, joy and rage, and that basically sums me up.”
Board deputy chair Leitha Assan said returning to the Tanks Arts Centre added an extra bit of wow factor to this year’s CIAF offering.
“We’re very, very excited … coming home, coming back to our spiritual home here in our 16th edition of CIAF,” she said.
“It feels like we’re coming full circle.
“Just the whole setup; the fresh air in the botanical gardens is just the best place for our artists and our presenters and practitioners here; the whole vibe feels really, really, I couldn’t describe it – a breath of fresh air.”
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Artist Kerry Klimm has a bit of fun with her Spill the Tea on the Colony interactive exhibition.
CIAF board members Tarragh Cunningham, Leitha Assan and Vicki Taylor, along with artistic director Teho Ropeyarn, give journalists a sneak peek of the 16th instalment of the arts extravaganza at the Tanks Arts Centre.
Cook Shire adopts ‘practical’ approach for 2025-26 budget
by LYNDON KEANE
THERE are no bells and whistles anywhere to be seen in the 2025-26 Cook Shire Council budget as the organisation focuses on getting back to the basics of delivering essential services and maintaining public assets.
Guided by community feedback that was predominantly against rate rises for new or non-essential works, the council has deferred all non-essential projects for the coming 12 months with what it says is a “practical and financially disciplined” budget.
Mayor Robyn Holmes said the operating budget of $83.5 million, which excludes depreciation, targets key priorities for the community including local roads and bridges, housing, aged care, safety, crime prevention and economic development.
“Council was trying to be really conservative, and I think we came up with a really balanced budget,” she
said after the budget was adopted on 8 July.
“Looking forward, it’s going to flow on into the future as well; it’s no secret that we’re very heavily reliant on grant funding, so we’ll still pursue those grants for various projects into the future.”
The council will spend $55.2 million maintaining roads, footpaths, drainage and bridges during the 202526 financial year, as well as $14.5m for community live-
ability operations and $8.3m on the delivery of essential services across its local government area.
Safety improvements on the Ida and May Street intersection is one of the major operational projects flagged for Cooktown over the coming 12 months, as is free pet desexing and a fencing upgrade for the pound.
In Ayton and Bloomfield, the council will continue developing the local footpath network, as well as focus on
rectifying draining concerns flagged by residents.
Landfill cell invigoration is in the budget for Coen, while the rehabilitation of Perfume Gully is scheduled for Lakeland in 2025-26.
A $7.62m capital works program, of which about 90 per cent is externally funded through the state and federal governments, will include projects like the Russell Creek bridge deck replacement and Davies Hill/Horseshoe Bend slab renewal
($1.85m), $1.1m for the rehabilitation of the Cooktown Scenic Rim walking trail, and detailed design of future housing infrastructure in Lakeland ($3.73m).
Mayor Holmes said the budget reflected the financial realities of a remote council with a small ratepayer base and limited opportunities to generate own-source revenue.
“We’re investing in the fundamentals and relying on strategic external funding to
deliver major infrastructure projects,” she said.
Chief executive officer Brian Joiner added the council would continue to advocate for the Federal Government’s financial assistance grants to be lifted to 1 per cent of Commonwealth tax revenue.
“As a shire, we have a social responsibility that we have to look after a lot of communities that can’t afford the rates and the revenue that we need to be able to sustain the services, but that’s part of our lot in life, and why we’re working with the [Local Government Association of Queensland] to pressure the Federal Government to increase the FA grants back to the 1 per cent, which is really important for marginal councils like us, that just don’t have the rate base and can’t afford to put a 100 per cent rate rise,” he explained.
“We’re looking forward to our first meeting with Matt (Smith) post the election … to bring it to his attention.”
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Councillors have voted to adopt a “practical and financially disciplined” budget for the 2025-26 financial year as Cook Shire Council focuses on asset maintenance and essential service delivery.
Cooktown has spoken: People’s Choice artists announced
by CHISA HASEGAWA
WHEN a life-altering injury brought one Cooktown painter back to her childhood hobby, she had one goal: to step out of her artist grandfather’s shadow.
The spotlight shone on Symone Welsh last week when she was crowned the adult recipient of the 2025 Cooktown Art Award People’s Choice prize.
Ms Welsh said her grandfather, who had an impressive career as a landscape oil painter, had been a huge inspiration for
her since she first put paint to paper.
“My grandad often tells people that I did a painting when I was about two years old and could barely pick up a paintbrush, and I did a landscape of Archer Point,” she said.
“I painted the water, the sky, the sun, and some birds, and he said he knew from that moment that I could paint.
“I guess I just watched him and idolised him and his artist career, and just aspired to want to do that.”
Ms Welsh said she had never
planned to pursue art as a career path, but when an injury forced her out of her job and studies three years ago, she found herself turning her passion into something more serious.
“I kind of tried to pull all my strengths together and go, what can I do, and art was my biggest background,” she said.
“It’s hard getting out there, and it’s definitely hard stepping out of a great man’s shadow, but it’s been a great journey so far, and the support’s been really overwhelming.
“The recognition, and to
be gifted with the [People’s Choice] award, had me feeling completely honoured and absolutely humbled.”
The winner stunned the community with a beautifully intricate acrylic painting of Isabella Falls, with a few hidden animals for viewers to get up close and look for.
“I wanted to add a little quirk in there, too, be cheeky like my grandad, and add some hidden animals in there – just something you can’t get in a photograph,” Ms Welsh explained.
“I kind of wanted to bring people into the painting, to take that step forward and go, oh, is that what I think it is?”
In the youth category, Alira Auld stole the hearts of Cooktown with a charming watercolour cassowary.
The nine-year-old said she started painting two years ago, and she loved all things colourful and vibrant.
“I did spatters with paintbrush, and drips with water and paint, and merged the colours together - light and dark, and put the light in the dark,” she said.
“Probably my favourite [medium] is watercolours, because they’re easy to spread, and how they merge and how colourful they are.”
Hope Vale author launches award-winning debut at home
by CHISA HASEGAWA
SHE is now a nationally acclaimed author, but Hope Vale’s Wanda Gibson is staying true to the humble roots her award-winning picture book Three Dresses is based on.
Hope Vale locals packed the Pioneer Hall on 2 July for a special lunchtime launch of Ms Gibson’s debut book, which won the $100,000 Victorian Prize for Literature category of the 2025 Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards earlier this year, making history as the first children’s book to claim the prize since the award’s establishment in 1985.
Ms Gibson, who is also a well-respected artist in her community, said the launch was well supported.
“They enjoyed it very much; they
didn’t know about the book until it came out,” she said.
Family and friends beamed with pride at the event, with her son, Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council Mayor Bruce Gibson, opening the launch, and community members sharing heartfelt stories and words of congratulations.
Growing up in the Hope Vale mission, Ms Gibson said her family did not have much, but cherished what they did have, and that gratitude was the message she hoped to share with the younger generation.
“I wanted people to read the book and see how we lived in our time,” she said.
“That was the main thing for writing the book, so that children can read it and see what they got now, we didn’t have.”
NEWS IN BRIEF
OTT burns planned
THE Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) is urging visitors planning on tackling the Old Telegraph Track (OTT) in late July and early August to consider an alternative route while controlled burns are being carried out.
In a social media post, QPWS said rangers and fire units would be operating along the iconic track to conduct annual load reduction burning, with delays to traffic movement expected.
Impacted areas may include Eliot Falls, Cannibal Creek, Canal Creek and Cypress Creek.
For more information, call the Atambaya (Heathlands) ranger station on 4060 3241.
Cape bridge closures
THERE will be intermittent full closures on two Cape York bridges later this month as the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) carries out inspections and servicing.
From 22-23 July, TMR crews will be on the Hann River bridge on the Peninsula Developmental Road, and on the Wallaby Creek bridge on Shiptons Flat Road on 24-25 July.
From 8am-5pm over the four days, the bridges will be closed for an hour at a time, with 15-minute intervals to allow traffic through.
Motorists are being asked to factor the closures into their travel.
The latest road conditions can be checked at www.qldtraffic.qld.gov.au.
Local grant wins
TWO beloved Weipa events are among 600 organisations across Queensland to share more than $14 million through the latest round of the State Government’s Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF).
The Weipa Running Festival has received $35,000 to purchase equipment and install signage for the annual event, while Western Cape Feral Animal Control will use its grant of more than $27,000 to purchase equipment and a storage container to boost the region’s feral animal competition each September.
Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said GCBF funding provided critical funding to important community groups and the delivery of their projects.
“We received more than 1,100 applications for this round, and I urge all eligible groups to apply to current and future rounds,” she said.
Applications for Round 124 of the GCBF $100,000 super round close on 18 July.
Symone Welsh captured the eyes, hearts and votes of her community with a stunning representation of Isabella Falls at the 2025 Cooktown Annual Art Award.
Hope Vale’s Wanda Gibson launches her debut book in community, with son Mayor Bruce Gibson opening the event.
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
Apprentices help council chip away at NPA skills shortage
IN a bid to address a trades skill shortage in the region, Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) has added two carpentry apprentices to its ranks through a partnership with the State Government.
The council and the Department of Trade, Employment and Training have signed on the apprentices, Jerry Ahmat and Annabel Tabuai, to complete a nationally recognised Certificate III in Carpentry as a training pathway to the construction sector.
Mayor Robert Poi Poi said the council was proud to recruit the local trainees, with Ms Tabuai being the first female apprentice to pick up the tools for the organisation.
“Annabell Tabuai is council’s first
female apprentice in a male-dominated trade,” he said.
“Her four-year carpentry apprenticeship is funded under the First Start Program, which is supported by the Queensland Government.
Mayor Poi Poi said the pair would help NPARC’s construction team tackle a range of vital infrastructure projects planned for the region.
Mr Ahmat joins NPARC as a third -year apprentice, having completed two years of training to date.
“NPARC is excited to see both Jerry and Annabell begin this new chapter, to help grow our beautiful region in far north Cape York,” Mayor Poi Poi said.
“We wish them every success as they embark on their apprenticeship journeys.”
Cape, Torres called on to keep reef clean
by CHISA HASEGAWA
THE Great Barrier Reef is a wonder of the world that must be preserved for the next generation, and it is time for Cape York and Torres Strait Islander residents to step up once again. Registrations for the 2025 Great Barrier Reef Clean-up by Tangaroa Blue Foundation’s ReefClean Program and Clean Up Australia opened on 9 July.
Running throughout Octo-
ber, the event invites schools, businesses, community groups and individuals across the reef catchment to host clean-ups at their local beach, creek, river or reef.
Tangaroa Blue chief executive officer Heidi Tait said Cape York and Torres Strait communities had participated in many Great Barrier Reef Clean-ups and other organised events in past years.
“We’re very thankful for the communities that get on board,
and we do our big clean-up events every year in Cape York at select beaches, but we know that there’s lots of other beaches that need a clean-up,” she said.
“[This] is an opportunity for those people that may not join one of our more formal events to create their own, and we hope that we cover more of the coastline.
“We know that Cape York gets hammered by marine debris, predominantly from
overseas, and we always need a clean-up being done ... it also provides an opportunity to collect really valuable data to be able to showcase these issues.”
Participants receive free clean-up kits and support to organise their event, making it easy to take part in protecting Australia’s iconic Great Barrier Reef.
Last year, more than 1,800 volunteers removed over 97,000 items of marine debris across 147 clean-up sites.
“We are able to take registrations from the Torres Strait all the way down to the Bundaberg, Burnett River Region of the Burnett Mary,” Ms Tait said.
“More of these remote locations, where it’s hard to get to, where you traditionally don’t get communities, they’re the ones that we’d love to see registered along Cape York.”
Register for a clean-up and receive your free kit at www. tangaroablue.org/gbrcu.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Cooktown stabbing
A MAN is in a non-life threatening condition after being allegedly stabbed in the back during a break-in in Cooktown on 10 July.
It is understood emergency services responded to a Helen Street address about 12:25am last Thursday morning, where they found a man in his 20s, the occupant of the property, who had allegedly been stabbed with a “knife from the residence” after he confronted an intruder.
A Queensland Police Service spokesperson the alleged offender had fled the scene on foot as investigations continue.
Weipa power outage
RIO Tinto is advising Weipa and Napranum residents power to the entire communities will be turned off for six hours next week.
To conduct maintenance of the Lorim Point power station, there will be a planned blackout from 10pm on 22 July until 4am on 23 July.
The work will result in town-wide outages in Weipa, Napranum and East Weipa for the six-hour period.
For more information, call 1800 820 711 or email RTAWeipafeedback@riotinto.com.
Have your say on NRM plan
CAPE York Natural Resource Management (NRM) is calling for input on a communitywide survey that will help develop how the region’s natural resources are managed for the next decade.
Consultation has commenced for the Cape York Peninsula Regional NRM Plan 2026–2036, and chief executive officer Pip Schroor said the survey would allow diverse perspectives on protecting Cape York’s people, culture, land and water, and biodiversity to be obtained.
“The plan’s strength depends on capturing the full spectrum of views from Indigenous communities, local residents, farmers, graziers, Traditional Owners, scientists, tourism operators, and everyone who lives, works in and loves Cape York,” she said.
The survey can be completed at www. capeyorknrm.com.au/nrm-plan.
New apprentices Jerry Ahmat and Annabell Tabuai are congratulated by NPARC human resources manager Leonie Ishmail.
Great Barrier Reef Clean-up participants in 2024 clear Chili Beach of marine debris. Photo: Supplied.
PRE-AUTHORISATION INFORMATION MEETING ABOUT A NATIVE TITLE DETERMINATION AGREEMENT and
WORKSHOP ABOUT A PRESCRIBED BODY CORPORATE YIITHUWARRA NATIVE TITLE GROUP
Cape York United # 1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014)
Wednesday 23 July 2025 PCYC, Cooktown
This notice is to advise that Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will convene a Pre-Authorisation Information Meeting on behalf of the Cape York United #1 (CYU#1) Claim Applicant on Wednesday 23 July 2025 in Cooktown to discuss the process for the Yiithuwarra Native Title Group to authorise a proposed native title agreement for a determination of native title over the area outlined in purple shown on the map at right. Following the Pre-Authorisation Information Meeting, CYLC will hold a workshop to provide information about a Prescribed Body Corporate (PBC) for the Yiithuwarra Native Title Group. Pre-Authorisation Information 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.
Fifteen (15) days after the Pre-Authorisation Meeting on Wednesday 23 July 2025, there will be a meeting to authorise the native title agreement on Thursday 7 August 2025, where the Yiithuwarra Native Title Group will be asked to consider whether to authorise the proposed native title agreement for a determination of native title. If the Native Title Group decides to authorise the proposed agreement, the determination will then be sought in the Federal Court.
At the Pre-Authorisation Information Meeting on Wednesday 23 July 2025, the Yiithuwarra Native Title Group will also be asked to make decisions about each of the following apical ancestors, and whether they should be added to the Yiithuwarra group description (and so their descendants would be included in the group as Yiithuwarra people, if they were not already descended from a recognised ancestor) :
1. Ngamu Dhaarridyin (aka Billy Hart aka Long Billy aka Billy Wardsman);
2. Bujin; and
3. Gungunbi.
PBC Workshop
The Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) (NTA) requires a PBC to be appointed by the Federal Court to represent native title holders whenever a native title determination is made. If a native title determination is made for the Yiithuwarra Native Title Group, the Federal Court will be required to determine a PBC to represent the group. Under the NTA, it is for native title holders to nominate their PBC. Fifteen (15) days after the workshop about PBCs on Wednesday 23 July 2025, and if the Native Title Group decides to authorise the proposed native title agreement, the Yiithuwarra Native Title Group will be asked at the authorisation meeting on 7 August 2025 to nominate a new PBC for the proposed native title determination.
Who is invited to attend the meeting and workshop?
The pre-authorisation meeting and workshop is open to all descendants by birth, or adoption in accordance with traditional law and custom, of one or more of the following apical ancestors:
1. Wathi (Billy Salt)
2. Ngapurrwil
3. Yebonini
4. Odhay
5. Warreygini (Kitty)
6. Wilurinta
7. Yamburunda
8. In-girr (German Harry)
9. Albert Barrow Point
10. Rosie (wife of Albert Barrow Point)
11. Aiejene (Jimmy Robinson)
12. Akalwaljul (father of Wondal Charlie Monaghan)
13. Ekanjin (mother of Wondal Charlie Monaghan)
14. Tommy Merrilees
15. Thalnggulu
16. Akuthirarka
17. Otoro
18. Ngamu Dhaarridyin (aka Billy Hart aka Long Billy aka Billy Wardsman)*
19. Charlie Tarpaulin
20. Thilkwuna (Nellie Robinson)
21. Wandyarriny (Charlie Lefthander)
22. Eva (wife of Barney Laura)
23. Nellie Nunggul (Yarkan)
24. Jacky Red Point
25. Bessie O’Burnes
26. Charlie Chookie
27. Thurralwinga (Alice Johnson)
28. Charlie McGreen
29. Harry Mole
30. Tharramali
31. Ngarungal
32. Rosie aka Nellie (wife of Barney Laura)
33. Mother of Billy Hart
34. Miriam Ngamu Bandir
35. Ruth Bandir (Dudur)
36. Waarigan
37. Minnie aka Wawumudha (wife of Norman Arrami)
38. Billy (father of Dudley Bulmer)
39. Dirngulu (Maggie aka Maude)
40. Bujin*
41. Gungunbi*
The apical ancestors above have been considered and accepted by members of the Yiithuwarra Native Title Group. In-principle agreement about these ancestors from the State of Queensland is pending. The list above may be subject to change until agreement is reached with the State of Queensland. Apical ancestors marked with an asterisk(*) will also be the subject of further decisions, to be made at the Pre-Authorisation Meeting on 23 July 2025.
Any person who is a descendant of one or more of the apical ancestors listed above is invited to attend this meeting and the workshop. 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 and workshop.
If you have queries about the purpose of the Pre-Authorisation Meeting and PBC Workshop, please contact Legal Officer Fiona Beman on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email fbeman@cylc.org.au. The location and time of the authorisation meeting on Thursday 7 August 2025 will be publicly notified and notices will be sent out to all members of the Yiithuwarra Native Title Group on the CYLC contact database in due course. Yiithuwarra Native Title Group members should use these contact details if they wish to add the name and contact information to the CYLC contact database.
Attendance, Travel Assistance & Teleconferencing
IMPORTANT
For travel assistance, to confirm your attendance or for any general queries about the meeting, please contact CYLC Business Support Officer Lee Ann Miller on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email lmiller@cylc.org.au Note that there is limited funding available for travel assistance and requests must be made by 16 July 2025 Teleconferencing facilities will also be made available at the meeting. If you would like CYLC to arrange a teleconference from your location into the meeting, whether you live at the location of the meeting or elsewhere, please contact Lee Ann Miller at CYLC. CYLC is committed to providing every opportunity for eligible persons to attend the meeting.
Vehicle breakdown leads couple to make Coen commitment
by LYNDON KEANE
WHILE many people couldn’t wait to get out of a town after experiencing it for the first time due to a vehicle breakdown, one couple has transformed their love for Coen into a new business venture the whole community has embraced.
Steve Ramsay and Sara Watkins are well-known faces in the central Cape York community after running Coen Mechanical for several years, and have recently celebrated the opening of their new store, the Little Bush Pantry.
The shop is located next to Coen Mechanical on Regent Street and Ms Watkins said they had identified the need to expand the retail and service offerings in the community for both locals and seasonal visitors.
“I think initially, when we broke down in town, there wasn’t a mechanic, and we saw the need for it then, and having spent the last couple of years here, we kept seeing an increase in need of the ability to have a bit of variety in shopping and a bit of variety in fuel,” she said.
In addition to boasting an extensive range of supermarket products, fruit and vegetables, and Ampol fuel, the Little Bush Pantry offers an online option for click
and collect shoppers, the State Government’s 20 per cent remote freight subsidy on essential items, and a growing offering of artwork and products designed by Coen creatives and entrepreneurs.
Ms Watkins said the couple’s decision to provide social enterprise funding for local artists and small business start-up support, as well as providing a new option for employment and workplace skill development, had been well received by the Coen community.
“There are a lot of enthusiastic people in this town, and they’re very creative, but they don’t have a platform they can stand on to sell their products, so, we’ve already started helping with that,” she explained.
“We’ve also started to do kind of small business funding.; there’s an individual that we have, she has a small business loan with us, which means she’s able to purchase the equipment she needs to then create more of a variety of
the stock that she has for sale in the shop.
“It means we’ll be able to create Coen branded merchandise as well, so, that’ll all be likely made in Coen, and we’ll get some additional artists on board as well.”
With Coen Mechanical offering a full range of services, including mechanical repairs, windscreens, roadworthy certificates and airconditioning, Mr Ramsay said the business had proved a holiday saver for a growing number of tourists
whose vehicles had succumbed to the Peninsula Developmental Road on their Cape York adventure.
“We’re pretty much saving a lot of people’s holidays,” he said.
“They spend a lot of time and a lot of money coming up here; if they get to Coen as the first stop and their vehicle’s already broken, it can take a week or so to get a tow truck, so the reaction from people we’re repairing is that they love the service, and they really feel there’s a need for us here as well.”
The Coen Mechanical workshop offers a full range of services for locals and visitors including repairs, windscreens,
After a chance breakdown in Coen several years ago, Sara Watkins and Steve Ramsay have fallen in love with the community and established Coen Mechanical and their latest venture, the Little Bush Pantry.
PRE-AUTHORISATION INFORMATION MEETING ABOUT A NATIVE TITLE DETERMINATION AGREEMENT and WORKSHOP ABOUT A PRESCRIBED BODY CORPORATE GUUGU YIMIDHIRR NATIVE TITLE GROUP
Cape York United # 1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014)
THURSDAY 24 JULY 2025 HOPEVALE
This notice is to advise that Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will convene a Pre-Authorisation Information Meeting on behalf of the Cape York United #1 (CYU#1) Claim Applicant on Thursday 24 July 2025 in Hopevale to discuss the process for the Guugu Yimidhirr Native Title Group to authorise a proposed native title agreement for a determination of native title over the area outlined in purple shown on the map at right. Following the Pre-Authorisation Information Meeting, CYLC will hold a workshop to provide information about a Prescribed Body Corporate (PBC) for the Guugu Yimidhirr Native Title Group.
Pre-Authorisation Information 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.
Thirteen (13) days after the Pre-Authorisation Meeting on Thursday 24 July 2025, there will be a meeting to authorise the native title agreement on Wednesday 6 August 2025, where the Guugu Yimidhirr Native Title Group will be asked to consider whether to authorise the proposed native title agreement for a determination of native title. If the Native Title Group decides to authorise the proposed agreement, the determination will then be sought in the Federal Court.
At the Pre-Authorisation Information Meeting on Thursday 24 July 2025, the Guugu Yimidhirr Native Title Group will also be asked to make decisions about each of the following potential apical ancestors, and whether they should be added to the Guugu Yimidhirr group description (and so their descendants would be included in the group as Guugu Yimidhirr people, if they were not already descended from a recognised ancestor) :
1. Lizzie Douglas
2. Jalbanmun Peter (grandfather of Lizzie Big Jack)
3. Jinnie Bluey (mother of Sandy Petersen, Rita Florrie (Katchewan) and others) PBC Workshop
The Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) (NTA) requires a PBC to be appointed by the Federal Court to represent native title holders whenever a native title determination is made. If a native title determination is made for the Guugu Yimidhirr Native Title Group, the Federal Court will be required to determine a PBC to represent the group. Under the NTA, it is for native title holders to nominate their PBC. Thirteen (13) days after the workshop about PBCs on Thursday 24 July 2025, and if the Native Title Group decides to authorise the proposed native title agreement, the Guugu Yimidhirr Native Title Group will be asked at the authorisation meeting on 6 August 2025 to nominate a new or existing PBC for the proposed native title determination.
Who is invited to attend the meeting and workshop?
The pre-authorisation meeting and workshop is open to all descendants by birth, or adoption in accordance with traditional law and custom, of one or more of the following apical ancestors:
1. Andy Butchan
2. Baabi
3. Balkan (wife of Baabi)
4. Barney
5. Bawayga Jack
6. Biddy (mother of Bobby Dixon and others)
7. Billy (father of Dudley Bulmer)
8. Billy Webb
9. Bilmbil (wife of Ngamu Ngakuburla)
10. Bindadelma
11. Bujin
12. Buthal (brother of Charlie Wallace)
13. Charlie Gibson (aka Charlie Cooktown)
14. Charlie Wallace
15. Dirngulu (Maggie aka Maude)
16. Duka
17. Elizabeth Tulo
18. Father of Tommy and Sammy Brown
19. Gaalgujan (Maggie Wallis)
20. Galganji
21. Gulgi Galbay (Maggie Webb)
22. Gungunbi
23. Henry Baru
24. Jack McIvor
25. Jimmy (father of Charlie Wunbu Gordon and Tommy Confin)
26. Jimmy (father of Tommy Dowling and others)
27. Johnny (Binhdiwarra)
28. Kalgurdam (spouse of Orlander Rattler)
29. Lyla Gibson (wife of Charlie Summerhaze)
30. Maggie (mother of Sambo Walsh)
31. Maggie (wife of Billy Snider)*
32. Maria (Burrun) (wife of Mulun Jacko)
33. Maria (mother of Dudley Bulmer)
34. Matyi
35. Maudie (wife of Ngandal George Northcotte)
36. Midhaking
37. Minnie aka Wawumduha (wife of Norman Arrami)
38. Minnie Gibson (wife of Peter Rosser)
39. Miriam Ngamu Bandir
40. Moira (wife of Mulun Jacko)
41. Mulgal
42. Mulun Jacko
43. Nellie (mother of Polly Bulmer)
44. Nellie (mother of Polly Holdsworth and others)
45. Nellie (mother of Tommy and Sammy Brown)
46. Nellie (mother of Tommy Dowling and others)
47. Nellie Nunggal (Yarkan)
48. Ngamu Bayambi
49. Ngamu Darnchidir (Stumpy)
50. Ngamu Guubanyu
51. Ngamu Marrgu (Jimmy)
52. Ngamu Ngakuburla
53. Ngandal (George Northcotte)
54. Ngolongolo (Kitty)
55. Ngumbuibigu (Billy)
56. Otoro
57. Paddy McIvor
58. Peggy Rootsey
59. Ruth Bandir (Dudur)
60. Tommy Point Lookout
61. Topsy (mother of Peter Gibson and others)
62. Waarigan
63. Wulgali (mother of Charlie Wunbu Gordon and Tommy Confin)
64. Wuthal (Nellie Coates)
65. Yaalugure (wife of Barney)
66. Yalngkarijubur (father of Earl Mitchell)
67. Yegeran (wife of Bindadelma)
68. Yirbil (Emma Capebedford)
The apical ancestors above have been considered and accepted by members of the Guugu Yimidhirr Native Title Group. In-principle agreement about these ancestors from the State of Queensland is pending. The list above may be subject to change until agreement is reached with the State of Queensland. Apical ancestors marked with an asterisk (*) will also be the subject of further decisions, to be made at the Pre-Authorisation Meeting on 24 July 2025.
Any person who is a descendant of one or more of the apical ancestors listed above, including the three (3) potential apical ancestors, is invited to attend this meeting and the workshop. Please contact the CYLC Anthropology unit if you would like to confirm whether you are a descendant of one or more of the apical ancestors and so entitled to attend the meeting and workshop.
If you have queries about the purpose of the Pre-Authorisation Meeting and PBC Workshop, please contact Deputy Principal Legal Officer Louise Keepa on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email lkeepa@cylc.org.au. The location and time of the authorisation meeting on Wednesday 6 August 2025 will be publicly notified and notices will be sent out to all members of the Guugu Yimidhirr Native Title Group on the CYLC contact database in due course.
Attendance, Travel Assistance & Teleconferencing
IMPORTANT
For travel assistance, to confirm your attendance or for any general queries about the meeting, please contact CYLC Business Support Officer Lee Ann Miller on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email lmiller@cylc.org.au Note that there is limited funding available for travel assistance and requests must be made by 16 July 2025 Teleconferencing facilities will also be made available at the meeting. If you would like CYLC to arrange a teleconference from your location into the meeting, whether you live at the location of the meeting or elsewhere, please contact Lee Ann Miller at CYLC. CYLC is committed to providing every opportunity for eligible persons to attend the meeting.
Cultural dance in heart of Cape NAISDA graduate
by CHISA HASEGAWA
AFTER a challenging five years navigating life as a performer through COVID-19, a Cape York and Torres Strait Islander dancer is celebrating her graduation from one of Australia’s leading performing arts training organisations.
Harlisha Newie-Joe, a Goemu and Wagadagam woman who grew up in Weipa, received her Advanced Diploma of Professional Dance Performance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples at the National Aboriginal and Islander Skills Development Association (NAISDA) late last month.
Directly after graduating from Western Cape College, Ms Newie-Joe moved to New South Wales in 2020 to begin her dance college journey, but it did not quite go to plan.
“Due to COVID, everyone was sent back home, and then it was just a world of Zoom, which was not easy, because imagine doing ballet for the first time, and now you’re trying to learn over Zoom,” she said.
“With wet season and stuff like that, Wi-Fi wasn’t the best; there were storms up here, so it was hard.”
She returned to NAISDA in 2021, only to be sent back six months later when COVID-19 hit once again, but the interruptions allowed her to really think about what she wanted in the industry.
Ms Newie-Joe went on to make her family and community proud with many achievements, including a bursary to the Perth Moves festival, travelling to Hawaii with Arpaka Dance Company, and forming Garwoeidhamin
Mayan, a business which delivers dance workshops and classes, with two fellow graduates.
“It did slow things down, and gave me the chance to think about what I wanted outside of this course,” she said.
“I knew I wanted to do something in the arts and community, I just didn’t know how that was possible until NAISDA.
“I never thought I’d be capable of doing this; NAISDA really opened doors for me and my eyes on the possibilities out there.”
NAISDA chief executive officer Kim Walker congratulated Ms Newie-Joe and the other 2025 graduates.
“Our students are culture carriers, storytellers and change makers,” she said.
“Harlisha and her fellow graduates are ready to take their place as leaders in the world of performing arts and beyond.
“We are proud of their journey and excited for what comes next.”
Ms Newie-Joe said she would love to use her background in traditional Torres Strait dance and stage techniques learned at NAISDA to encourage others from her community to go for their goals.
“There is a goal for myself and the other two graduates to go up there and do some workshops,” she said.
“You see all around, our mob have natural talent, whether it’s in the arts, dance or music.
“There are hidden talents everywhere, but there’s always elements of shame and that lack of belief in themselves.”
Former Weipa resident and dancer Harlisha Newie-Joe shines at the NAISDA graduation ceremony. Photo: Lisa Haymes.
Cooktown author finds literary Oasis with latest gripping tale
A COOKTOWN author is promising mystery, intrigue and just a little bit of romance with his latest book.
Eric George, who writes under the nom de plume of Jacqueline George, has just released Oasis, a tale he says is full of spies, soldiers, dancing girls and ancient Egyptian ghosts.
Mr George, who has more than 20 books credited to his literary alter ego, said she was best known for a “sexy-but-thoughtful romance” style of writing, but admitted the latest tale would be noticeably different for regular readers.
“There’s no sex in this one, and you have to wait until the last page for a single kiss,” he laughed.
Oasis is set in the western desert, with the battle of El Alamein casting a shadow over the whole story as it explores the true story of the German attempts at spying in Cairo during the build-up to the battle.
Life in 1942 Egypt is
portrayed vividly throughout the pages, and Mr George said the reason why – old family roots to that part of the world – was explained in the book’s afterword.
While he said “Cooktown is used to the idea” of his alter ego, Mr George explained others were still surprised when they met him, but said it had been a necessary move to break into the romance genre early in his writing career.
“Initially, I did a retelling of Treasure Island, and I did it under my own name,” he said.
“It was only when I got a publisher and I’d written another book, the publisher said, ‘look, this is romance, and you can’t sell romance with a male name – find yourself a pen name’.
“So, I’m actually Jack Eric George, so I changed that into Jacqueline.”
When asked where he drew the inspiration for his stories from, especially living in a remote area like Cooktown, Mr George
seemed to suppress a grin as he explained many of his works covered nonromantic topics.
“When you’re an old fart, you don’t get much in the way of romance, except, of course, the love of my life, my wife, who steadfastly refuses to be part of any books, especially naughty ones,” he said.
“But, actually, only about half of my output could be called romance.”
Oasis has been a labour of love for the well-known Cooktown resident, who admitted it had taken more than a decade to finish.
“This one is at least 10 years in the making, because I’d written the first section, and I knew it was there, but other things happened and I just didn’t continue, and I came back to it last year,” he said.
The book is available as a paperback and eBook from Amazon, with hard copies also available at the arts and craft shop in Cooktown.
Cooktown author Eric George, who writes under the pen name of Jaqueline George, shows off his latest offering, Oasis, which promises readers thrills with spies, soldiers, dancing girls and ancient Egyptian ghosts.
Cape’s castaway leaves unforgettable legacy
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
FOR a bloke who fled to one of the remotest parts of the country to rediscover himself in solitude after losing it all, Dave Glasheen certainly had a knack for drawing a crowd.
You could be forgiven for thinking a man who set up a new life on Restoration Island – about as far from the hustle and bustle of city life as you can get – would be averse to surrounding himself with people after turning his back on corporate life and parting ways the baubles most of us associate with success and making it as an adult these days.
But it wasn’t the case. When he died peacefully in Brisbane on 5 July, the 81-year-old Dave still had a reputation for being the life of the party with a penchant for engrossing friends and strangers with his stories, some of which were noticeably taller tales than others.
Despite his move to Resto, Dave genuinely relished human connection, a fact demonstrated by his willingness to hold impromptu book signings for anyone who asked on the beach of the place he called home for more than 25 years.
Perhaps it was because, unlike everything else in his life before it was lost in the 1987 stock market
crash, it’s impossible to put a price tag on people.
I always found Dave to be in one of two frames of mind when communicating. The first was what you’d expect of a guy living in a remote paradise with all the time in the world to contemplate life, share stories and learn about the adventures and experiences of those who rocked up on his island doorstep.
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He’d talk your ear off, and it was to be celebrated as a major victory if you managed to get more than a few full sentences inserted into his animated raconteuring. The other was almost a throwback to his days as a business titan in Sydney –clipped and devoid of even a single unnecessary word. It was the latter approach I encountered when I last spoke to
Dave a couple of months before his death.
I had been planning on writing a feature piece on the coexistence of blackfella and whitefella philosophy in 21st century Australia, and what societal benefit could be drawn from embracing the differences and similarities of both cultures. Given his unique life experiences, especially after arriving on
Resto, I figured Dave would be perfect to offer up a perspective. I sent him a lengthy text message outlining my plan and asking what he thought about the idea as a story concept.
When my phone finally vibrated with his reply, it didn’t take long to read: “Yes interested”. That’s when it dawned on me that Dave had worked out long ago there was no point dedicating the limited time we have on this blue marble to encounters that don’t enlighten or enrich our lives in some way. I asked, he said yes, so the ball was back in my court to transform his accedence into an engagement that was worth more than two words.
Sadly, Dave’s ailing health and my schedule colluded to ensure that engagement never happened.
Cape York and the myriad people who met him over the years after his Robinson Crusoe-like escape from the shackles of materialism and modern life are inestimably richer for having crossed paths with the Millionaire Castaway. He taught so many of us that it’s not what you have, but what you learn, who you love and what you experience that provide real wealth beyond our wildest dreams. I have no idea what’s in store for us when we depart this mortal coil, but whatever’s out there, you’ll get Winx-like odds Dave is still the centre of attention, spinning yarns and doing it all on his terms.
$1,500,000
Editor Lyndon Keane says wherever Dave Glasheen is now, odds are he’ll still be the centre of attention and in the middle of spinning a yarn for a captivated audience. Photo: Supplied.
Cape York Weekly Puzzles Page
Fill in the blank cells using numbers
Quick Workout
Fit the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same. No number is repeated in any hexagon.
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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.
Monthly Community Update
Message from the Chair
Hi Weipa
I hope everyone is enjoying the school holidays, if they apply to you! The school holiday Laser Tag sessions at WASP have been a huge hit, and as always, our amazing Library staff have been running creative and engaging activities to keep the kids entertained. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again....we’re incredibly lucky to have such a dedicated team at the WTA. They continually go above and beyond to organise events and activities for our community, especially our young people, and they do a fantastic job.
Recently, we held a citizenship ceremony where we welcomed six new Australian citizens. It’s always an honour to conduct these ceremonies, and a powerful reminder of how fortunate we are to call this country home. It’s also a moment to reflect on the freedoms and rights we enjoy, and sometimes take for granted.
This weekend, the Far North QLD Dirt Kart Titles are happening, and it promises to be a spectacular event. Bring the family down for a fun-filled weekend! We’ve even managed
to convince my husband Kurt to drive the Cape York Weekly sponsors head-2-head, despite the fact that he’s never actually driven a dirt kart before! I’m sure it’ll be entertaining! Although knowing him, I’ll probably be eating my words since he is one of those annoyingly coordinated people who’s good at everything!
Also coming up is the Weipa Running Festival, which always showcases the commitment and talent of our local running community. It’s a great motivator to get out there—whether that means going for a run, a walk, or signing up as a volunteer marshal like I usually do! The Festival Committee does an amazing job creating a fantastic finish line atmosphere, where we all gather to cheer on the participants. It’s definitely worth heading down for a great morning out.
On a more strategic note, the Elected Members and WTA staff are gearing up to develop our 2026–2030 Corporate Plan, which will guide our direction over the next five years. We’d love your input. A short community survey is now available on the WTA website and Facebook page—it only takes a few minutes and
Hibberd Library’s Front Doors Getting a Fresh New Look!
The Hibberd Library is getting a little facelift! Thanks to the How Do You Library? micro grant—proudly funded and supported by the Queensland Government and the State Library of Queensland—our much-loved front doors will soon be transformed with vibrant new vinyl decals. This revamp will help create a more welcoming, engaging entrance that reflects the energy and creativity happening inside the library every day.
Watch this space as the transformation begins! Whether you’re a regular visitor or popping in for the first time, we can’t wait to welcome you through our refreshed front doors soon. Keep an eye on our socials for sneak peeks and the final reveal!
Upcoming Event News:
encourage you to put your hand up.
Thanks for reading, and I look forward to seeing you out and about in the community.
JaimeGane
Public Notice
Notice of By-Election
First 5 Forever program Term 3
Wednesdays Toddler Rock ‘n’ Rhyme @ 9.30am
Thursdays Baby Wiggle ‘n’ Giggle @ 9.30am
Active After School Program - Netball Commences Wednesday 23 July - 45mins per session from 3.15pm6.15pm @ Weipa Storm Surge Shelter
Sunset Markets @ Kumrumja Park Saturday 2 August | 48pm
National Science Week @ Hibberd Library | Sat 9Sat 16 August
Notice is hereby given that the Weipa Town Authority will conduct a Byelection for the vacant position of Member.
Nominations to fill this position are invited from persons qualified to be elected to the Weipa Town Authority.
Nominations will be taken from Monday, 21 July 2025 and close at 12.00 noon on the Nomination Day being Tuesday, 29 July 2025.
Nominations must be in the approved form and be given to the Returning Officer at the Weipa Town Authority Office, 6 Hibberd Drive, Rocky Point Weipa.
For further information, please contact the Weipa Town Authority Office via telephone (07) 4030 9400 or email admin@weipatownauthority.com.au
Should a poll be required it will be held on Saturday, 16 August 2025.
Nicky Perriman
Returning
Officer
14 July 2025
CHAIR JAIME GANE
2025 FNQ Dirt Kart Titles
Club toast of Cape after kart title success
THE red dirt – and mud
– flew and motorsport fans were on the edge of their seats when the Weipa Dirt Kart Club hosted an overwhelmingly successful two-day fight for ontrack bragging rights at the weekend.
Local racers and those from interstate went headto-head in the FNQ Dirt Kart Titles on 11-12 July, with competitors contesting nine classes as they chased the coveted plates reserved for the event’s best of the best.
Club president Dave Hancock hailed the weekend a win for the sport on western Cape York.
“It was a definite success,” he said.
“We got the added benefit of some really good drivers coming up from down south, which helps extend the ability of our guys and, when they’re racing in a place like this, it’s not all about the competition for them – they take the time to stop and really point out small things that help our drivers improve.”
Multiple-time Australian champion Ben Brown was among the visiting interstate competitors and Mr Hancock said he be-
lieved having a driver of his ability in Weipa would pay dividends for local karting enthusiasts now a connection had been established.
“His day job is to build and perfect go karts, so, having the ability now to give him call and pick his brain about a few things, and talk to him on a more of a personal level than just the transactional level will benefit these guys in the club,” Mr Hancock said.
While the on-track action was the focus of this year’s titles, Mr Hancock said the club had high hopes of using the overall appeal of Cape York to boost nominations for the next event.
“I’ve been talking to a few of the guys that were here, and a few guys that were interested in coming, around the other types of events we’ve got on the Cape they may be able to enjoy while they’re up here,” he explained.
“You know, maybe have the go karts one weekend and then the Fishing Classic the next weekend.
“Something like that would possibly allow the guys to stick around and make a holiday of it.”
Kirk Rasmussen.
Daniel Metcalfe.
Sponsors got into the racing spirit before competitors took to the track to battle for the 2025 FNQ Dirt Kart Titles plates on Saturday.
Club president Dave Hancock signals the end of another heat.
Competitors were completely focused on fine tuning their karts before the green flag dropped in the finals on Saturday night.
Kate Fletcher.
Ben Brown.
When they weren’t racing, some of the youngest competitors at the FNQ Dirt Kart Titles had the best seats in the house to watch the on-track action.
Scott Webster.
Billy Villinger impressed in the Midgets class. Michael Ward.
The future of the sport on western Cape York was on show over two days of karting action.
Marc Shepherd gets sideways into a corner.
Sam and Lucas Hancock make some last-minute tweaks ahead of Saturday’s heats.
by LYNDON KEANE
WESTERN Cape York’s young pugilistic talent will leave it all in the ring when they don the gloves to thrill hundreds of boxing fans at Weipa Fight Night 2.0 on 19 July.
Fighters from Mareeba, Atherton, Yarrabah and Thursday Island will converge on Weipa for the region’s most anticipated boxing event in two years, with professional boxer and former NRL star Justin Hodges also set to make a special appearance.
With more than a dozen bouts lined up, a mix of experienced amateurs and first-time competitors will showcase their skills, with crowd favourites Jack Barton and Samson Poi Poi ready to show fans why they collected 2025 Queensland Golden Gloves wins in May.
Cape York Boxing Weipa founder and coach Scott Wallace said he was expecting a parochial crowd on Saturday night as ath-
letes battled for the King of the Cape crown.
“I think there’s about 30 or 40 people coming down from Bamaga just to watch Samson put the gloves on,” he laughed.
“The town’s just abuzz; I can’t even go into the shops, because everybody just pulls me up and wants to talk about Fight Night and what’s going to happen.
“It’s amazing for a little town to be so keen to watch a boxing tournament.”
One of the fighters throwing leather in their first bout will be John Brown, who said his excitement level was building ahead of debuting in front of what is expected to be a sold out crowd.
“It’s pretty humbling,” the 17-year-old said as he prepared to train on Friday.
“Scotty’s training us pretty hard and the sparring’s been really good.
“I’ll just try not to let the pres-
sure get to me too much, you know.”
Mr Wallace said he expected Brown to deliver a strong showing.
“You watch him, he’s only new to the sport but he’s got some skills,” he said.
“He’s got an American boxing style, so it should be pretty thrill-
ing for the crowd when he gets in the ring.”
The Weipa Storm Surge Shelter doors open for the cash only event at 5pm, with the bell set to sound in the first bout at 6pm sharp.
For the latest information about the event, keep an eye on the club’s Facebook page.
Family affair as Chan, Buckley top Dawnbusters
VIV Chan made the most of perfect golfing conditions to notch up the narrowest of victories when 16 Dawnbusters teed off in Weipa on 13 July.
Chan carded a gross 41 for nett 18, with daughter Chelsie Buckley also recording nett 18 to force the adjudication of weekly bragging rights to a countback, which was claimed by the former.
Other players to post strong showings off the stick were Scott Triffitt (40) and Grant Crossley, who returned to the clubhouse with the same gross score as Chan but, unlike her, went home without a prize.
Triffitt bagged the pin prize on the 18th hole.
Chan was the women’s long drive winner, while the men’s long drive went to an unnamed newspaper editor who secured his prize with his first shot of the round, only to then watch his game fall apart for the following eight holes.
After pairing with Brandon Waretini to win the Weipa golf-bowls showdown the day before, Jon Dall failed to fire on Sunday morning, with the performance leaving many to question whether he really is the frontrunner for the 2025 Weipa Curmudgeonly Athlete of the Year.
Beth Dall was the Hoffman’s winner for the round.
Players will take on the front nine on 20 July, with new golfers always welcome to join the fun from about 6:45am.
Viv Chan was the best of a field of 16 Dawnbusters after beating daughter Chelsie Buckley on countback to claim bragging rights on 13 July.
Jack Barton, pictured during his No Limit Boxing win in Cairns on 25 June, will be a crowd favourite at Weipa Fight Night 2.0. Photo: Emily Haire.
Excitement aplenty for participants
with both returning and new competitors admitting to being a bundle of excited nerves ahead of race day.
Jos Middleton, who claimed the women’s marathon crown in 2024, said she was only able to tackle the half marathon this year due to an injury sustained training for an endurance event.
“It’s safe to say this year is a year for embracing, not racing,” she told Cape York Weekly
teers for their contributions and time to make the event possible.”
Jarrod Ausburn will be aiming for back-toback marathon titles but admitted his race preparation had been less than ideal.
“My race prep has been a bumpy one with Bali trips, rodeos and dry season Cape adventures, but we all have our excuses,” he laughed.
“I’m doing the 5km with some friends,” she said.
“I’m excited, because it’ll be the first official race that I’ve ever done, and I’m not a runner, so I’m very much looking forward to it.
“The whole event has such a good vibe as well.”
SPORT IN BRIEF
Andrews bags big win
SCOTT Andrews may have taken home the winner’s chocolates but his handicap had to endure a trip to the barber for a short back and sides after he notched up a big Wackers win on 9 July.
The field of 12 was tested by windy conditions around the back nine at Carpentaria Golf Club, with Andrews (42/28) finally playing well to claim the win over runner-up Steve Head (48/33.5).
by LYNDON KEANE
There will be a mix of old hands and firsttime participants when a record field of racers contests the 2025 Weipa Running Festival (WRF) on 20 July.
“After acquiring an injury late last year whilst preparing for my first ever 100-kilometre, I have had a slow recovery which has impacted my preparation for any events in 2025 so far; but I’m not one to cave easily, so I will still be showing up; I won’t be expecting anything much from my body other than to make it to the 21km finish line whilst enjoying the morning.
The annual event will have more than 350 people donning their race bibs across five distances on Sunday morning,
“I will soak up the buzz of the festival and bring gratitude to the beautiful Country we run on, and all of the volun-
It remains to be seen whether the pre-race excuses are part of some cunning play designed to psyche out his opposition, but Ausburn said he was chomping at the bit to hear the starter’s pistol fire.
“Bring on race day – I can’t wait to have a run with a few hundred old mates and new,” he said.
One of those new mates will be Polly Nash, who is gearing up to tackle her first race after getting the running bug through the Weipa Aquatic and Sports Precinct’s eight-week challenge and Weipa parkrun.
WRF president Rose Robins said she was proud to see what participants had achieved since committing to be a part of race day.
“I love the conversations during the leadup, the ‘I’ve just ran my very first 10kms’, or seeing the pathways crawling with people out training,” she said.
“I’m the sucker who can tear up at the finish line watching anything from someone digging deeper than they thought possible, someone’s family cheering them home and embracing them, or even just the little ones storming across the line looking for the Zooper Dooper.
“Bring on the sound of the cowbells.”
Colts gallop to top of Southern Cape ladder
THE Coen Colts have moved to the top of the 2025 Southern Cape Cluster rugby league ladder after they muscled up for a dominant victory against the Lockhart Scorpions on 12 July.
Teams travelled to Pormpuraaw to continue their battle
for the premiership silverware with the Scorpions succumbing to the home team Crocs 28-20 in the first clash of the day.
In the second game, the Colts galloped to a comfortable lead before posting a 20-point win against the Scorpions, who
have been the team to beat this year, in a 36-16 result.
Hope Vale was unable to field a team for the round.
After the dust settled on Pormpuraaw Oval, both the Colts and Scorpions sit on eight competition points after recording four wins each for
their 2025 campaigns, however, the Coen line-up currently claims top billing with a superior for-and-against record.
Teams will head to Lockhart River for the next round of remote rugby league action on 26 July.
The gusty conditions meant the pin prizes on the 15th and 18th were never in danger.
Grant Crossley was the Bradman’s recipient on countback.
Incentive for Cooktown athletes
TO help competitors travel to Cairns to compete in the Coral Coast Carnival on 2627 July, Cooktown Little Athletics is offering families of club members a financial helping hand.
The club will cover the competition levy and non-member fee ($40) for the event, as well as reimburse fuel receipts of up to $100.
Families will need to pay the event nomination fee ($12 per event) for disciplines their child wishes to compete in.
Registrations close on 16 July.
For more information, check out the club’s Facebook page.
Horsemanship clinic
JONO Battle Equine Services is returning to Cooktown to deliver a horsemanship clinic and Emmett treatments for two- and fourlegged participants next month.
Through Cook Shire Council community grant funding, the Cooktown Horse Sports Association has also been able to purchase a mechanical cow that will be used during the clinic.
The 2 August clinic will cost $50 to participate in or $20 to fence sit, with treatments the following day priced at $110 per human or horse.
For more information, or to book a spot, call 0447 296 319.
Jos Middleton, who claimed the Weipa Running Festival women’s marathon crown in 2024, said this year was for “embracing, not racing” after she suffered an injury late last year preparing for her first 100-kilometre event.