Cape York Weekly Edition 246 by Cape York Weekly

Cape York Weekly

Denica makes Declan a book star

A MAN’S love of motorbikes has morphed into a heartwarming story of a little boy who just wants to explore the world on two wheels thanks to Weipa mum Denica Bowden, who can now add “published author” to her resume. Read the story (about the story) on Page 5.

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Third man arrested over alleged $35.7m NPA cocaine import plot

by LYNDON KEANE

A MASIG Island man is the third to be charged over his alleged role in a plan to smuggle 110 kilograms of cocaine into Australia through the Northern Peninsula Area in September 2024.

Jamal Kris, 38, was arrested on 6 August and appeared in Cairns Magistrates Court via videolink from Thursday Island on 7 August charged with one count of possession of a commercial quantity of border-controlled drugs, contrary to section 307.5 of the Criminal Code Act 1995

The maximum penalty for the oﬀence is life imprisonment.

On 2 September 2024, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) charged Patterson Mosby and Eli Wapau, both 39, with the same oﬀence after they were arrested in Seisia in possession of the cocaine – with a current street value of about $35.7 million – which police allege they collected from a small boat in the Torres Strait.

That day, police observed a yellow boat with three men on board land at Loyalty Beach, not far from Seisia.

Police allege they then observed one of the men disembark at the wharf and drive oﬀ in a white SUV before returning a short time later, when the three men then allegedly removed six polystyrene boxes from the

vessel and loaded them into the vehicle.

Mr Mosby, from Masig Island, and Mr Wapu, from Moa Island, were arrested on the day, but it took police almost 12 months to identify Mr Kris, who they allege was the man seen leaving in the boat.

Detective Superintendent Adrian Telfer said the operation showed the

tenacity of the AFP to chase down all leads to apprehend anyone suspected of being involved in the alleged importation of drugs.

“This operation yielded immediate results with the apprehension of two alleged oﬀenders in September last year,” he said.

“The 38-year-old man arrested [on 6 Au-

gust] was able to evade arrest in September, but I want to assure criminals the AFP and our partners are relentless in pursuing those who seek to proﬁ t from the import and sale of illegal drugs.

“This seizure last year was signiﬁcant, with the 110kg seized worth an estimated $35.7 million on the street.”

$5m boost for Injinoo road safety

A $5 MILLION investment into the Northern Peninsula Area community of Injinoo will help keep drivers safer on the road.

The Federal Government announced the “critical infrastructure” funding last week as part of the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program (SLRIP), committing $3.5m to the upgraded construction of Injinoo Back Road.

The Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council, which will seal 2.99 kilometres of unsealed road, will jointly fund the project, bringing the total investment to $5 million.

Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith said drainage upgrades would also be undertaken to improve ﬂood resilience, as well as geometry corrections and an intersection upgrade to improve overall road safety and ensure compliance with recognised design standards.

“The sealing of this section of road and improving its ﬂood resilience is essential for connectivity for this part of the community,” he said.

“It will also ensure the overall safety for those who travel this road for work and children’s schooling.

“Road safety is so important, and I am

proud to work with council on delivering this essential project.”

The Injinoo Back Road project is one of 23 in regional and rural Australia receiving funding through the SLRIP, sharing in more than $63m for road safety upgrades.

Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Kristy McBain said work could be undertaken across the country, from northern Cape York down to Tasmania.

“The Albanese Government is ﬁrmly committed to ensuring all Australians have access to essential services, and come home safe at the end of the day,” she said.

A 38-year-old Masig Island man was arrested and charged on 6 August for his alleged role in a plot to import 110 kilograms of cocaine through the Northern Peninsula Area in September 2024. Photo: Australian Federal Police.

Rio Tinto green lights $275m investment in Norman Creek

RIO Tinto has announced it has approved an investment of about $275 million ($US 180m) to commence work on the Norman Creek access project at its Amrun bauxite mine on western Cape York.

The project will enable mining of the Norman Creek region of Amrun, which holds approximately half of the currently declared Amrun ore reserves of 978 million tonnes (Mt).

Construction is under way on key infrastructure, including a 19-kilometre haul road, camp accommodation and a communications tower.

The mining giant said the first production from Norman Creek is targeted for 2027, with full construction completed in 2028.

The 7 August announcement comes on the back of the May announcement that Rio Tinto had commenced early works and a final feasibility study on the Kangwinan project, which, if approved, will increase annual bauxite production capacity from its southern operations by

are slated to close towards the end of the current decade.

Rio Tinto Pacific Operations Aluminium managing director Armando Torres said last week’s Norman Creek announcement reflected the miner’s commitment to the Weipa community.

“Norman Creek is another important step in securing the long-term future of our Weipa operations, and the benefits that mining brings to communities in the region, Queensland and the nation,” he said.

“It will maintain jobs in the region through to at least the middle of this century, ensuring continuity for our people and the Weipa community.

up to 20Mt per year, in addition to the 23Mt currently extracted annually.

Production from the Kangwinan project would replace output from the Andoom and Gove mines, both of which

“The decision to approve Norman Creek reflects the quality of western Cape York’s world-class bauxite deposits, combined with the strong operational improvements our people are making at Amrun that are bolstering our confidence to invest for the long term.”

Youth blossom in Cooktown art exhibition

by CHISA HASEGAWA

OPPORTUNITIES for Cape kids can often adopt a sport focus, but a Cooktown gallery is making sure budding young artists get their chance to blossom.

Cooktown School of Art Society’s (CSAS) second youth exhibition opened at the Elizabeth Guzsely Gallery earlier this month, bringing together the works of young artists aged 7-18, who painted their favourite book characters, or created their own characters.

The overall winner was 14-year-old Holly Clarke, who painted an “elf girl riding a unicorn through a magical forest filled with elves and fairies”.

“I was inspired to paint this, because it seemed to match the theme so well, and it was fun being able to add in all the little, funny details into the painting,” she said.

Although Holly has now participated in four Cooktown exhibitions and won the RAW Exhibition People’s Choice Award earlier this year, she remained humble about her recent win.

“When they announced me as the youth exhibition overall winner, I was shocked, because there were so many good paintings, and when they said my name, I was super happy and surprised,” she said.

“I think my art has improved a lot in the last three years, and has grown from drawing to painting, realistic people and animals, to landscapes and other different things.”

CSAS president Jane Dennis said exhibitions such as this helped to harness raw talent and passion in the region, encouraging artists who would not otherwise get a chance to showcase their work.

“It’s just sort of taking away the fear of exhibiting, and the kids were just so genuine in their response,” she said.

“All the kids had their friends

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

and families there, so it’s sort of a confirmation, especially for arts, because arts is not considered as serious as sport, but art is very valid.”

14-year-old Holly Clarke stole the hearts of judges at the Cooktown School of Art Society Youth Exhibition.

FIND

Weipa mum adds ‘author’ to credentials

By LYNDON KEANE

A MAN’S love of motorbikes has morphed into a heartwarming story of a little boy who just wants to explore the world on two wheels thanks to a Weipa mum who can now add “published author” to her resume.

Denica Bowden surprised her friends and family this month when she used her son Declan’s birthday party to unveil Away With That Trials Bike, which stars the four-year-old as the protagonist who adores his trials bike but cannot ﬁnd anywhere to ride it without people telling him to put it away.

Ms Bowden explained the concept for the book had grown alongside her son over the past few years.

“It kind of came about by chance,” she said.

“When my son Declan was born, my husband was mad, he still is mad, into motorbikes, and had not long before bought a trials bike, and no one really knows much about them.

“We got talking one day, and I was like, ‘oh, maybe I’ll write a little story’, but I didn’t really know if it would turn into a book; I sat on it for a while, a couple of years, and then gave it a bit more attention … before I sent it to a couple of different publishers and got three different offers.”

The colourful children’s book is

illustrated by Laura Wood, and Ms Bowden said it still felt surreal to see her story idea in print.

“I hadn’t told anybody about it apart from one friend and my family a long time ago, because it was a two-year process from contract to book, and I thought I’d just let my family forget about it and then give them a surprise at the end,” she said.

“When I revealed it to my friends, we did a surprise reveal disguised as my son’s birthday party on the weekend, and they were like, ‘where can we buy it?’ and I realised I actually didn’t know, so I googled it that night; I just googled the title and there were all these bookshops listing it and I was like, ‘oh my goodness, how crazy is this?’

“It was my book, and my name, and all these places like Booktopia and Dymocks and that were selling it – that was a bit of a crazy moment for me.”

And what does the star of the story think of his mum’s literary eﬀort?

“He has such a skewed reality,” she laughed.

“We opened the book, and I hadn’t told him that I’d written it, and I started reading and the ﬁrst couple of lines are ‘my name is Declan’, and he goes, ‘why do we look so diﬀerent?’

“And then when I asked him if he knew I wrote it, he’s like, ‘yeah’.”

Public Notice

Mission River Bridge Closures

Monday 18 August to Wednesday 20 August 2025

Public Notice

Subsidised electricit y available for not-for-profits on the Weipa net work

Ef fective immediately, approved not-for-profit organisations connected to the Weipa electricit y net work will be eligible to receive electricit y free of charge under Tarif f N This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to suppor ting the impor tant work you do and easing the burden of energy costs

APPLY TODAY

To apply please submit a formal letter addressed to Weipa Electricit y@riotinto com, including the following information: The registered name and not-for-profit status of your organisation

A summar y of the ser vices you provide to the Weipa and/or surrounding communities

Please be advised that works will be carried out on Mission River Bridge from Monday 18 August to Wednesday 20 August

This will require the bridge to be CLOSED during the following times:

Monday 18 August 8:00pm to Tuesday 19 August 2:00am Tuesday 19 August 8:00pm to Wednesday 20 August 2:00am

Within these closure windows, the maximum single closure will be 2 hours

Emergency Services are aware of the procedure should access be required during these closures

The bridge will be open to normal traffic outside of these hours

Thank you for your patience and understanding during these works

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

Please call our feedback hotline 1800 820 711 or email RTAWeipaFeedback@riotinto com

Details of any current grants or funding received to of fset remote operating costs

Your current Rio T into power account number

Our team will review each application and provide feedback Additionally, Rio T into will review current account balances for organisations approved under this scheme

Please note This subsidy applies only to electricit y connections on the Weipa net work where billing is managed directly by Rio T into It does not apply to connections on the Napranum net work which is ser viced by Ergon Energy Organisations operating in Napranum are encouraged to contact Ergon directly to explore similar suppor t options

We thank you for your continued dedication to the Weipa communit y and look for ward to suppor ting your ef for ts through this initiative

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT Weipa Electricit y@riotinto com

Weipa author Denica Bowden says seeing her story Away With That Trials Bike transform into something people can touch and read has been a bit of a “crazy moment”.

Delivering a new Barron River Bridge

As well as the new Barron River Bridge, here are some of the ways the new Queensland Government is delivering for the Far North:

➡ Delivering a new youth justice school

➡ Upgrading the Edmonton Police Station

➡ Fixing the Bruce Highway

➡ Upgrading Barlow Park and the Manunda Sports Precinct

➡ Backing tourism with the Wangetti Trail and the Smithfield Mountain Bike Trail

➡ Returning maternity services to Cooktown

➡ Expanding Cairns Hospital with more beds and a multi-storey car park.

Find out what else we’re delivering for you.

Delivering for Queensland

Weipa’s Ivy becomes Australia’s youngest robotic surgery patient

by CHISA HASEGAWA

A WEIPA toddler has made medical history as the youngest robotic surgery patient in Australia after receiving a life-changing kidney operation.

Three-year-old Ivy Napiorkowski is back to running around and playing after recovering smoothly from the hightech procedure at Mater Private Hospital Townsville – Australia’s leading centre for paediatric robotic surgery.

Mum April Napiorkowski said she found out about her daughter’s painful kidney issues at 20 weeks pregnant.

“They noticed it then, and let us know that, hopefully, by six weeks, she would’ve grown out of it and it would sort itself out, and obviously, it didn’t,” she said.

“She’s been getting scans and ultrasounds and all sorts of things done since she was born, and it just got progressively worse.”

She said she was referred to Dr Janani Krishnan at Mater Private Hospital Townsville, who suggested robotic surgery would mean a better recovery for little Ivy.

“She was first going in for open surgery,

but Dr Janani, she jumped through heaps of hoops to get her signed off to do the robotic surgery,” she said.

“To be honest, at first, when they said she was the first three-year-old, I was a bit scared, but Dr Janani, she really explained everything to me, and gave me the peace of mind that this is going to be so much better for her.”

Even at the tender age of three, Ms Napiorkowski said Ivy had taken on her condition and surgery like a champ, calling the small scars left after the procedure her “superpower spots”.

“Ivy is a superstar – she was always knowing that her side would hurt, and I’ve always been very open with her about what’s going on, so she was ready for it, and happy to finally fix her belly, she would say,” she said.

“Instead of a huge scar, it was only four tiny scars that kind of look like little staple scars, so it was a lot easier for recovery for a three-year-old.

“She calls them her superpower spots, and she presses them, and one makes her invisible, one makes her fast – she’s just made up all these little things.”

Bloomfield bazaar keeps getting better

by CHISA HASEGAWA

THE annual Bloomfield Cultural Bazaar is on the up as a big-time community event, with organisers citing an increasing number of attendees, stallholders and volunteers this year.

Organised by the Bloomfield River District Residents Association (BRDRA), the third rendition of the event on 2 August brought together locals and visitors to enjoy market stalls, local art, live entertainment, and the popular agricultural show.

Bazaar marketing lead Cassie Roatz said the team received an abundance of positive feedback and engagement from the community.

“We had a lot of feedback from our local people here say-

ing they thought it was very well organised, it was a great day with lots of family stuff to do, and it was better than last year,” she said.

“We had all of our stall spaces filled up, which was really cool, because I think last year, we had almost all, but not quite.

“We had a really good volunteer population this year; a lot of the community members came together, and we had some volunteers from Cooktown come down as well, which was really nice.”

Ms Roatz said although the bazaar was about fun for the whole family, it was also an

important fundraising event for the BRDRA to make muchneeded improvements within the community.

“We’re looking at, hopefully, using some of our funds to improve the grounds around the hall; it’s quite uneven, and it’s definitely something that a lot of people commented on, especially older people,” she said.

“The other thing is, there’s still improvements to be made to the Tin Shed near the Ayton library; there’s a kitchen to go in, and a bathroom to make it into a proper emergency hub, and we’d like to see the grounds there a little bit more well-kept too.

“That’s the BRDRA’s goal – to help the residents get what they want out of a community.”

Rio discloses tailings information

RIO Tinto has published detailed information on its global tailings facilities, in alignment with the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM).

The mining giant made the disclosure on 5 August, which includes updated information on 14 tailings facilities rated Very High or Extreme consequence under GISTM classifications, along with new information on a further 84 tailings facilities rated Low, High or Significant.

Chief technical officer Mark Davies said “managing tailings responsibly is essential for keeping people, communities and the environment safe from harm, and is fundamental to maintaining [Rio Tinto’s] social licence.

The latest tailings disclosures, including figures for the miner’s Weipa operations, can be found at www.riotinto.com/en/ sustainability/environment/tailings.

OTT burn update

THE Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) says green conditions have forced revised dates for controlled burns on the Old Telegraph Track (OTT) this month.

In a social media post last week, QPWS said rangers would now be aiming to conduct annual load reduction burning along the iconic Cape York track from 25-29 August. QPWS is urging visitors planning on tackling the OTT during this period to consider an alternative route.

For more information, call the Atambaya (Heathlands) ranger station on 4060 3241.

Youth intervention grants available

GRANTS of up to $300,000 are available for Cape York and Torres Strait groups delivering early intervention programs to provide at-risk youth showing early signs of criminal behaviour with the education, life skills and support to divert them from a life of crime.

Applications for round two of Kickstarter grants are now open, and Minister for Youth Justice and Victim Support Laura Gerber said “it’s critical we intervene early before youth go down a life of crime, and this funding allows us to support even more organisations to deliver locally led early intervention programs”.

Non-government organisations are encouraged to consider new or expanded solutions and apply for funding.

For more information about applying, go to www.yj.smartygrants.com.au/ yjkickstarter25-26R2.

Attendees of the third Bloomfield Cultural Bazaar say organisers have put on their best event yet.

Little Ivy Napiorkowski is enjoying playing out in the sun again after becoming the youngest patient in the country to undergo robotic surgery.

Monthly Community Update

Message from the Deputy Chair

Howdy Weipa

After an incredible (and massive) first half of the year our Town Chair, Jaime, has been set free for a few weeks of well-earned R & R, so it’s my honour this month to deliver a message as Deputy Chair. Speaking of ‘massive’, it’s a lucky month for me to pen my inaugural community message in that I’m spoilt for choice as to what to highlight. I feel like I’d need 10 pages just to recap on the events of last month, and even then, I wouldn’t be doing it justice.

Congratulations to Weipa Dirt Karts for hosting their State Titles event in July. Competitors flocked to the tracks travelling various distances ranging from ‘just down the road’, to all the way from Western Australia. The result was a polished, high-octane race meet, stamping Weipa a permanent place on the map of QLD racing.

Next on the social calendar was the “King of the Cape” Fight Night. A fantastic night was had by all in attendance (including rugby league and boxing icon Justin Hodges) as the Cape York Boxing Club packed out the Storm Shelter and gave us 19 adrenalinecharged bouts of boxing,

showcasing Western Cape’s local sporting talent in many of those bouts, and showing the competition from all over QLD just how tough they’re bred in the Cape.

Then from a late night in the boxing ring, to a very early start on the starting line, the following morning saw records numbers of athletes participating in the 8 Weipa Running Festival. Race records were broken, milestones and resolutions achieved, and the Weipa spirit was alive and well as the Andoom Showgrounds transformed into a stadium of inspiration and encouragement. And, if you thought our town Chair needed a little holiday, spare a thought for our resident DJ, Scott Kootoofa, who went back-to-backto back, entertaining us at all three major events in July. th

But wait, just when you thought the excitement was over, buckle up for the 20 Weipa Rodeo on 22-23 August 2025, sure to be a crowd pleaser. Events like these not only bring entertainment and joy to our little isolated community, but also attract many visitors to the area, spotlighting Weipa onto the world’s stage and contributing substantially to our th

Sunset Markets Set to Shine with Laughter and Local Fun

The final Sunset Markets for 2025 are set to wrap up the season with a bang on Saturday, 6 September from 4pm - 8pm. A crowd favourite for locals and visitors alike, the markets will once again feature food vans, market stalls, live entertainment, and activities for all ages — but this time, with a hilarious twist! A Dad joke competition will take centre stage, calling on the community to dig deep into their best (or worst!) joke vaults for a chance to win some great prizes.

It’s free to enter, and prizes will be awarded to the top jokes that get the biggest groans and giggles from the crowd. So get your thinking caps on—or let your fingers do the googling—and be part of the fun!

local economy. Thank you to all community groups and the amazing volunteers for giving so much. WTA is proud to back these incredible local events that bring our community together!

Finally, speaking of the world’s stage – how amazing is Weipa’s very own Tia-Clair Toomey who just days ago was again crowned “Fittest Woman on Earth”, dominating the 2025 CrossFit Games, winning the title for the eighth time. Officially dubbed the most dominant CrossFit athlete of all time, we couldn’t be any prouder of your achievements Tia.

Now to business, I hope many of you have had a chance to complete the “Have Your Say” survey online or around town. If you haven’t, I strongly urge you all to spend a couple of minutes to provide your valuable feedback, which will ultimately inform the WTA’s 2026-2030 Corporate Plan. All the best initiatives start out as a thought…

Finally, this month we return to the polling booths on 16 August 2025 in a By-Election to fill our vacant Member position. We are privileged to have five courageous, community-minded

Christmas Letters from Santa Are Back

The magic of Christmas is returning to Weipa with the much-loved Christmas Letters from Santa campaign! Parents and carers are once again invited to help bring festive cheer to their little ones by registering to receive a personalised letter straight from the North Pole.

To be eligible, families must register online, attend the Weipa Christmas Markets on Saturday, 29 November, and have an active post office box at the Weipa Post Office. These letters are a heart warming surprise that children will remember for years to come.

Spots are limited, so don’t miss outregister before Saturday, 30 August, and get ready to see some serious Christmas joy in your mailbox!

GeoffRobins

Scan to ‘Have Your Say’

New door decals at the Hibberd Library

The new door decals at the Hibberd Library are now complete, giving our entrance a fresh and vibrant new look! Thanks to the How Do You Library? micro grant—proudly funded and supported by the Queensland Government and the State Library of Queensland.

Upcoming Event News:

Weipa Town Authority By-Election

Voting @ Weipa Storm Surge Shelter Saturday, 16 August | 9am - 6pm

Sunset Markets @ Kumrumja Park Saturday, 6 September | 4-8pm

Youth Night @ WASP Grade 6-8 Friday, 12 September | 5-8pm

DEPUTY CHAIR GEOFF ROBINS

Weipa urged to show off creative ﬂair for rodeo

WHILE there is a cash prize on oﬀer, Weipa businesses, schools and clubs will have ultimate bragging rights in sight as the township prepares to show some creative love for its rodeo.

Registrations are now open for the 2025 Weipa Rodeo storefront display competition, which provides an opportunity for locals to get into the rodeo spirit before chutes open at Andoom Oval on 22-23 August.

Weipa Camping Ground impressed with its winning display in 2024 and marketing oﬃcer Darci Lawson said the friendly competition was a perfect opportunity to celebrate what the rodeo meant to the community.

“Big events like the rodeo don’t come around often in Weipa, so when they do, it’s the perfect excuse to go all out and celebrate,” she said.

“It also lines up with our peak tourist season, so it’s a great way to showcase the fun and community spirit Weipa has to oﬀer.

“We love any chance to support local and create a unique experience for our guests –it’s what makes Weipa feel so special during events like this.”

Ms Lawson said while the well-known Weipa business would create another eye-catching display for the milestone 20th rodeo, her lips were sealed on what elements it would incorporate.

“We haven’t had a chance to lock in any plans as of yet – peak season has kept us run oﬀ our feet,” she said.

“But we’re already tossing around a few fun ideas; we’re deﬁnitely looking forward to putting something fun together and seeing what the rest of the town brings.”

Weipa Rodeo Association president Reuben Slingo said it was up to locals to work out which angle they wanted to put on their entry.

“It’s an exciting event that invites local businesses and organisations to showcase their creativity and community pride by decorating their storefronts, rooms or oﬃces with a rodeo theme, developing an on-theme product, or simply hosting an event,” he said.

“Participants can use a variety of elements such as cowboy hats and boots, lassos, horseshoes, hay bales, saddles, and all sorts of vibrant western motifs to capture the essence of rodeo culture.

“Perhaps a dress-up day, or even casual Fridays in your best cowpoke attire; perhaps a bring your horse or bull to school day, or something to show oﬀ your winning buckles – the sky’s the limit.”

To register for the competition, email weiparodeoassociation@hotmail.com.

Judging ﬁnishes at 9am on 21 August, and the entry that receives the most votes will bag the prizemoney.

year’s winning effort, and are encouraging all Weipa businesses, schools and clubs to get involved in the 2025 Weipa Rodeo storefront display competition.

Cooktown gets personal with popular crime author

by CHISA HASEGAWA

IN a sea of stories set in famous cities like Paris and New York, Cooktown locals are getting their turn at experiencing the fun of recognising local landmarks in a novel series.

Australian author Fiona Tarr paid a visit to the Cooktown library on 30 July to promote her Dawn Graves series, which is set in and around the Cooktown region.

Locals got the chance to get up close and personal with the author, getting an insight into her writing process and her trips to the region which inspired the stories.

“I visit every winter, and it’s a very unique spot,” Ms Tarr said.

“I tend to write rural or remote country town crime ﬁction, and Cooktown was just that perfect setting.

“I think [the library visit] was really good, because some of the people who were there had read some of the books, and some hadn’t, so I think it opened the readership up to new eyes, because they went, ‘oh, it’s based in Cooktown, let’s read it’.”

Ms Tarr said she was drawn towards small towns because of the locals, adding she never planned the story before writ-

ing, so interesting characters who drove the narrative forward were essential to her writing process.

“It means that I can ﬁnd those quintessential Australians characters, and some of their quirks and some of their unusual personality traits to add ﬂavour and add depth to the book,” she said.

“I always joke with my readers that if they’ve man-

aged to pick out who the murderer is before the end of the book, they’ve done better than me, because generally, I don’t know who the murderer is until about three-quarters of the way through the book.”

Ms Tarr also promoted her latest release, Her Lost Bones, which is her seventh book in the Opal Fields series.

“Most of my interaction with my readers, because I am sold internationally as well, is digital,” she said.

“When I get to do library visits, I ﬁnd them really energising, because you’re faceto-face with your readers, you get some feedback … and it’s a really lovely way to interact.”

Ms Tarr’s fourth book in the Dawn Graves series, Grave Secret, will be released this month, and is currently available for pre-order on her website.

Bridge closures

THE Mission River Bridge will be closed for up to two hours at a time between 18-20 August to allow annual maintenance work to the infrastructure.

The closure will be implemented from 8pm on 18 August until 2am on 19 August, and from 8pm on 19 August to 2am on 20 August.

During the closure windows, the maximum single closure will be two hours.

The bridge will be open to normal trafﬁc outside these hours.

For more information, call 1800 820 711 or email RTAWeipaFeedback@riotinto.com.

Roundtable forgets remote resilience

THE State Government brought together producers, freight operators and logistics leaders to tackle bottlenecks and reduce costs at a series of supply chain roundtables in Brisbane last week.

One of the main focuses of the meetings was how to improve direct export pathways from Queensland ports.

Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates said the roundtables were a direct response to the challenges exporters faced.

“Efﬁcient road, rail, air and sea freight networks are essential to getting Queensland goods to global markets directly from Queensland,” she said.

It is understood the topic of crippling freight costs to remote areas like Cape York and the Torres Strait, and the impact of wet seasons on supply chain resilience was left off the agenda.

Mapoon celebrates

THE wider Cape York community is being invited to celebrate with Mapoon at the 2025 Paanja Festival from 26-28 September.

The event will include the annual Barra Bash, and a cultural dance competition with $10,000 in prizemoney on offer.

In addition, it will be a weekend of art workshops, live entertainment, food stalls and ﬁreworks.

For more information, call Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council on 4082 5211.

Even the burgers got into the rodeo spirt in 2024.

The Weipa Camping Ground crew are aiming to go one better than last

Fiona Tarr’s Grave Regret piques the interest of Cook Shire Council Mayor Robyn Holmes. Photo: Supplied.

2025 WTA By-Election

Candidates battle for votes ahead of Weipa by-election

FIVE candidates are rallying community support in the ﬁnal days before voters head to the ballot box on 16 August to decide who will represent them in the Weipa Town Authority (WTA) chamber until 2028.

The candidates – Tacita de Tournouer, Rikki Cooper, Jeﬀ Hughes, Malcolm Slack and Sheridan Teizel – are vying to ﬁll a vacancy created by the resignation of former elected member Lisa Scharf, which triggered this weekend’s byelection.

Ahead of voters having their say, we asked all ﬁve candidates the following four questions:

1. Tell us a bit about yourself and your connection with Weipa.

2. Why are you running as a candidate for the WTA vacancy?

3. What do you see as the top priorities, opportunities and challenges for the Weipa community?

4. Why should Weipa give you its vote on 16 August?

On Saturday, the voting booth at the Weipa Storm Surge Shelter will be open from 8am6pm.

For those wanting to cast their vote before then, prepolling is available this week at the WTA oﬃce at Rocky Point from 9-4pm each day until Friday.

The candidate proﬁles appear in the same order as their names on the ballot paper.

Tacita de Tournouer

Question 1

I’VE proudly called Weipa home for the past 11 years, and am a long-time ratepayer and community member. My husband and I are raising three children here – each of them has attended Western Cape College (WCC), with our eldest now away at boarding school. I’ve worked at WCC for the past nine years, and continue

deeply about our community – our families, our youth, our businesses and our future. I’ve seen ﬁrsthand the strength and potential of our town.

I want to represent everyday residents and ensure Weipa continues to grow in a way that’s sustainable, inclusive and focused on opportunities for the next generation. I believe in community-led decision-making, open communication, and practical solutions. This is my way of giving back to the town that has supported my family, and I’d be honoured to be a voice for the people of Weipa.

Question 3

to support youth development through sport and education. Outside of work, I regularly volunteer for local clubs and events. I love the outdoor lifestyle that makes Weipa so special and am passionate about giving back to the community that has given so much to my family.

Question 2

Rikki Cooper

Question 1

I HAVE called Weipa home for over 17 years. From my ﬁrst visit at the age of 20 to see my husband while he worked across the Cape, I fell in love with not only Weipa, but the entire

To support a growing, resilient community, Weipa must prioritise investment in core infrastructure – roads, water, waste and recreational spaces – alongside action on housing affordability to attract and retain workers and families. Improving access to healthcare is also essential for community wellbeing.

A key concern is the longterm uncertainty around Rio Tinto’s future in the region. We need a clear, communityinformed transition plan to ensure job security and economic stability.

Expanding vocational education, apprenticeships and youth engagement will help develop a skilled local workforce and improve youth retention.

Weipa’s natural assets are a valuable drawcard to attract visitors, investment, and skilled professionals.

Challenges persist –especially unreliable access to essential services during wet season, limited food supplies and restricted air travel options. Increased competition or improved ﬂight subsidies are needed to improve regional connectivity.

Question 4

I’m running for the Weipa Town Authority because I care

Opportunities lie in diversifying the economy beyond mining, with potential in eco-tourism, small business, ﬁshing and renewable energy.

I’d very much welcome any suggestions or ideas that you would like to put forward. Your input matters, and I’m keen to listen and represent what’s most important to our community.

I will be a strong, consistent voice for our community –someone who listens, speaks up and takes action. I’m deeply passionate about Weipa’s future and driven to make real, lasting change.

I care about what matters to locals – better services, more opportunities for our young people, and ensuring Weipa thrives well into the future.

I’m ready to work hard for the people of Weipa, and I hope the community will place their trust in me to represent them with integrity, energy and heart.

western Cape. I was captivated by the warm community spirit, vibrant cultural heritage and stunning natural environment, and I immediately knew I wanted to make Weipa my lifelong home to raise our family.

Over the past almost two decades, I have proudly raised my two children here, now aged 22 and 17, instilling in them a deep respect for our area. My connection to Weipa goes beyond just living here – it has become part of my identity, who I am, and is a place I will forever call home.

Question 2

I am running for the WTA vacancy to support and stand alongside Chair Jaime Gane in advancing our shared vision for sustainable growth, enhanced community services and opportunities that reﬂect our unique heritage and aspirations.

My long-term residency gives me ﬁrsthand insight into the challenges and potential that deﬁne Weipa. Without allegiance to any major corporation, I am free to advocate for every resident, particularly those whose voices go unheard. I believe in proactive collaboration, transparent decision making and inclusive engagement to ensure all perspectives are heard and valued.

Rather than critique from the sidelines, I want to work directly on solutions. By representing our collective interests with integrity and dedication, I aim to drive initiatives that preserve our community spirit, foster resilience and secure a prosperous future for every family in Weipa.

Question 3

I believe the top priorities for the Weipa community include tackling the rising cost of living, soaring grocery, fuel and flight expenses, while addressing housing affordability through fair rents and rates. We must ensure that local businesses and workers benefit first, reducing outside contractors who mostly do not source or support our community in the long term.

Challenges arise when we stick to familiar patterns. Reliance on existing relationships and not asking the hard questions means grocery, fuel and service costs stay high, and outside contractors continue to edge out local businesses. Maintaining these practices, we won’t improve or progress Weipa.

Questioning “the way it’s always been” unlocks new possibilities. Shifting to local-ﬁrst can reduce costs and build skills; reinvesting locally will strengthen social ties and ﬁnancial resilience.

When we dare to change our routines, Weipa gains the power to shape a more affordable, inclusive and vibrant future.

Question 4

I know the true meaning of community spirit and how if we want change, it takes the dedication of our local community to get it done.

I don’t just say I am going to do things – I get things done. I have a proven track record of turning ideas into action. I understand that real community progress relies on collective dedication, so I don’t just promise solutions, I deliver them.

Throughout the years, I have secured grants for local community associations, forming part of multiple organising committees for community events, and donating hundreds of kilograms of gowns, clothes, books and footy boots to families in need, I’ve demonstrated commitment, creativity, and follow through. I’ve championed careers education, created job pathways for locals and consistently showcase Weipa’s strengths on every stage.

Electing me means choosing a tireless advocate who listens and acts on what is important to you.

Tacita de Tournouer says she wants to ensure Weipa grows “in a way that’s sustainable, inclusive and focused on opportunities for the next generation”.

Rikki Cooper has lived in Weipa for more than 17 years and says questioning the status quo is the key to unlocking new possibilities.

2025 WTA By-Election

Jeff Hughes

G’DAY, I’m Jeff.

In 2000, I kicked off my adventure, hitting the road to the Cape, where I ran Moreton Telegraph Station. After conquering the rest of Australia, I decided Weipa was my home.

I met my amazing wife here, and now have three kids at Western Cape College. 20 years on, I’ve been a diesel ﬁtter at Rio Tinto, and also have two home businesses – Scoopy Snacks (the ice cream van) and Billwhacked Australia, an adventure wear brand.

I’m tossing my hat in the ring for the WTA election because Weipa is always going to be my home. I’m on a mission to make Weipa the best it can be for everyone.

I’m all about advocating for a sustainable future as we ease off the mining throttle, keeping Weipa’s unique charm alive and kicking.

Cast your vote for me – I’m not a yes man, and I’m not afraid to voice the tough stuff.

Malcolm Slack

Question 1

I’VE been proud to call Weipa home for over 20 years, and have also lived in FNQ my entire life, born in Mossman. I chose to raise our family here, and my youngest daughter is currently in year 11 at Western Cape College.

Over the years, we’ve built strong ties to the community and embraced the unique lifestyle that Cape York offers. Weipa has given so much to my family –from friendships to opportunities – and now I feel it’s the right time to give back. By standing for WTA member, I hope to contribute to the continued growth and wellbeing of our town, and ensure it remains a place we’re all proud to call home.

Question 2

I’m running as a candidate because I genuinely care about the future of Weipa and the people who live here. After more than two decades in the community, I’ve seen how much potential our town has — but I also understand the challenges we face.

I believe it’s important to have local voices around the table, people who understand the day-to-day realities of life in Weipa and are committed to making practical, positive change.

I’m not here with a personal agenda – I’m here to listen, represent, and work hard to ensure Weipa continues to thrive for current and future generations.

Question 3

Weipa has so much potential, but we need to address a few key areas. Infrastructure is a top priority – particularly kerb and channelling across town, and upgrading the road between the primary and secondary

schools, which is in poor condition. The road out of Weipa is also a major concern – being known as the worst in Cape York isn’t something we should accept.

Another challenge is the red tape that often hinders community events and volunteers. We need to make it easier, not harder, for people to run events and get involved. I also want to ensure new businesses are supported and not held back by inﬂexible processes.

By improving infrastructure, supporting community initiatives and encouraging local business growth, we can create a stronger, more vibrant Weipa for everyone.

Question 4

I’m running because I care deeply about Weipa – not just as a place, but as a community. I’ve lived here for over 20 years, raised my family here and experienced ﬁrsthand what makes this town special. Now, I want to give back by being a voice for the people, someone who listens, speaks up and gets things done.

I’m not here with empty promises, I’m here to focus on the real issues that matter – ﬁxing our roads, improving infrastructure like kerb and channelling, cutting red tape that holds back community events and volunteers, and supporting local businesses so they can thrive, not struggle.

I bring a practical, commonsense approach and a genuine commitment to making Weipa an even better place to live, work and raise a family. If you want someone who’s approachable, accountable and ready to work hard for our town, I’d be honoured to have your vote on 16 August.

Question 1

MY roots in Weipa run deep, this is my home and where I’ve chosen to live, work and give back. I grew up here, spent time away for secondary schooling, and returned over a decade ago to raise my family and contribute to the community. I have traditional connections to the Alngith, Mbaiwum, and

Wik-Way clan groups, and I’m actively involved in Weipa community groups, including the Community Care Centre and local sports clubs for my two children.

My background spans business, policy and crosscultural work across Cape York. I also run a remotebased consultancy focused on digital inclusion and cultural education.

Question 2

I want to see Weipa thrive, not just economically, but as a vibrant, liveable town for all. What strengthens our region should uplift everyone, but the key lies in understanding the different cohorts within our community. High-level goals mean little without targeted, practical strategies.

I bring fresh thinking, local insight and a community-ﬁrst approach that recognises the diverse people who call Weipa home. With experience across both governance systems and local contexts, I want to help shape a future that reﬂects our shared aspirations.

changes in key industries, my training and experience helps me consider and factor in the broader ripple effects on the community when making decisions.

Top priorities include economic diversiﬁcation, affordable housing and better services for families and youth.

I also recognise that the cost and reliability of freight and airfares is a key focal point in the community right now.

Question 3

As Weipa faces major

We have opportunities to strengthen how our systems work by improving connections between community, service providers, industry and government. There is real potential to build on existing partnerships, infrastructure and local knowledge to improve what’s already in place, while developing smarter strategies for the future – including planning for normalisation. If elected, I’ll focus on what’s achievable now, improving how things work today while contributing to long-term planning within existing systems. I’ll stay connected, informed and committed to advocating with integrity.

Question 4

I’m committed to long-term outcomes, not short-term gains. The success and sustainability of this region is deeply personal to me. I’ve dedicated my life to gaining education, training and practical experience so I can give back in a meaningful and lasting way.

I bring a combination of lived experience, local knowledge and professional skill. I’ve spent years listening, advocating and working across sectors in Cape York. I understand the importance of practical decision making that includes everyone – residents, workers, Traditional Owners and the Indigenous community, businesses, and families.

Weipa needs practical, locallydriven solutions that reﬂect the real needs of our people. My vision for Weipa is clear – a well-governed town that plans wisely, listens to its people and acts for the long term. If elected, I’ll bring transparency, accountability and a genuine commitment to building a future that reﬂects the strengths and aspirations of our whole community.

Sheridan Teizel

Diesel ﬁtter and business owner Jeff Hughes says he is passionate about making Weipa the best it can be for everyone.

Malcolm Slack describes himself as “approachable, accountable and ready to work hard for our town”.

Sheridan Teizel, pictured with sons Lucas and Archer, says she is committed to long-term outcomes for the Weipa region, not short-term gains.

Design consultant engaged for $200m Cooktown Hospital redevelopment

Public Notice

Notice of Poll

by LYNDON KEANE

THE appointment of a design consultant for the $200 million Cooktown Hospital redevelopment moves the project a vital step closer to providing the community with the health infrastructure it “needs and deserves”, according to Cook MP David Kempton.

The Member for Cook and Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) chief executive Rex O’Rourke announced in Cairns on Wednesday morning (6 August) that BVN had been engaged to oversee the early stages of the project – Cape York’s largest health infrastructure investment to date.

The redevelopment is being undertaken as part of the State Government’s Hospital Rescue Plan and, when completed, the upgraded facility will include eight new beds, a new operating theatre, a new birthing suite, emergency department and medical imaging.

Mr Kempton, who raised a young family in the south-eastern Cape York community, said it was important people in remote areas had the access to reliable and suitable health services their city cousins took for granted.

A By-election for one (1) Member of Weipa Town Authority will take place on Saturday, 16th of August 2025.

The nominated candidates are as followsDE TOURNOUER, Tacita COOPER, Rikki HUGHES, Jeff SLACK, Malcolm Andrew TEITZEL, Sheridan

Voting on election day:

The polling booth will be located at the Weipa Storm Surge Shelter, Rocky Point.

Ordinary voting hours are from 8.00am to 6.00pm.

Voting before election day:

Pre-polling is available at the Weipa Town Authority Office, 6 Hibberd Drive, Rocky Point, Weipa from Monday, 11th August 2025 between 9.00am and 4.00pm.

Nicky Perriman Returning Officer 29 July 2025

“A decade of Labor’s ineptitude, including false promises by minister Shannon Fentiman during the election campaign last year, left Cooktown and the wider Cape York community on life support, with an outdated health facility and no birthing services,” he said.

“We are building and expanding the health services that the Cooktown community needs and deserves.

“The modern facility will also help with staﬀ recruitment and retention, which will be a huge beneﬁt for the future healthcare for our remote community.”

The ﬁrst stage of design work undertaken by BVN will include the validation of the previously completed design for the new hospital.

Mr O’Rourke said extensive engagement with staﬀ, stakeholders and Cooktown residents would begin in the coming months to ensure the project reﬂected the diverse community.

“We acknowledge the existing hospital is ageing and in need of upgrading,” the TCHHS boss said.

“We want to ensure staﬀ at Cooktown Multi-Purpose Health Service have the most up-to-date facilities to deliver vital services

to the Cooktown and surrounding communities.”

A separate tender will be released for the construction component of the project once the detailed design is ﬁnalised.

The engagement of a design contractor has been praised by Cook Shire Council, with Mayor Robyn Holmes saying it demonstrated the long-overdue project was progressing.

“Today’s announcement is a welcome step forward for a project that’s long overdue and absolutely essential to the health and wellbeing of our shire,” she said.

“The Cooktown facility services not only our local community, but many neighbouring and remote communities across Cape York; that’s why its timely and full delivery must remain a priority.

“Cook Shire Council will continue to advocate with the project team and funders for a modern, ﬁt-for-purpose hospital that genuinely reﬂects our region’s growing demand for acute healthcare services and supports equitable access to healthcare for all.”

The ﬁrst phase of the upgrade is due to commence in 2026, with project completion scheduled for the 2029-30 ﬁnancial year.

TCHHS chief executive Rex O’Rourke announces the appointment of BVN to the $200 million Cooktown Hospital project ﬂanked by Cook MP David Kempton, director of medical services Dr Natasha Coventry and director of nursing and midwifery Vikki Jackson on 6 August.

Member for Cook David Kempton tours the Cooktown Hospital with Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls in May.

REVISED NOTIFICATION FOR AUTHORISATION MEETING FOR NATIVE TITLE DETERMINATION AGREEMENTS AND A DECISION ABOUT A PROPOSED APICAL ANCESTOR GUUGU YIMIDHIRR NATIVE TITLE GROUP

Cape York United # 1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014)

Wednesday, 20 August 2025 HOPE VALE

This notice is to advise that the Applicant in the Cape York United #1 (CYU#1) Claim will convene a decision-making meeting on Wednesday 20 August 2025 in Hope Vale for the Guugu Yimidhirr 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 the areas shown on the map at right. This meeting will also consider whether to accept a proposed apical ancestor, “Charles Palmer” for inclusion in the Guugu Yimidhirr group description. Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will facilitate the meeting on behalf of the Applicant in the CYU#1 Claim.

Please note that this meeting has been re-notified for the purposes of notifying additional business of the meeting – the consideration of the proposed apical ancestor “Charles Palmer”. The date, time and place of the meeting has not changed.

Section 87A 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 Wednesday 20 August 2025 decides to authorise the proposed s.87A native title agreements, each determination will then be sought in the Federal Court. The Court may list a hearing for consent determination on Thursday 23 October 2025 for the area bordered with a purple line on the map and identified as the “Proposed Guugu Yimidhirr Determination Area”.

A copy of the proposed s.87A native title agreements for a determination of native title for the areas shown on the map will be available at the meeting on Wednesday 20 August 2025. At the request of the Applicant in the CYU#1 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.

The authorisation meeting will be held as follows:

Date: Wednesday 20 August 2025

Venue: Pioneer Hall, Muni Street, Hopevale

Times:10:00am – 3:00pm (registration opens at 9:30am)

Who is invited to attend the Authorisation Meeting?

The Guugu Yimidhirr People are invited and entitled to attend this authorisation meeting. The Guugu Yimidhirr People are the descendants by birth, or adoption in accordance with traditional law and custom, of one or more of the following apical ancestors (listed alphabetically):

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. Jalbanmun Peter (grandfather of Lizzie Big Jack)

26. Jimmy (father of Charlie Wunbu Gordon and Tommy Confin)

27. Jimmy (father of Tommy Dowling and others)

28. Jinnie Bluey (mother of Sandy Petersen, Rita Florrie (Katchewan) and others)

29. Johnny (Binhdiwarra)

30. Kalgurdam (spouse of Orlander Rattler)

31. Lizzie Douglas

32. Lyla Gibson (wife of Charlie Summerhaze)

33. Maggie (mother of Sambo Walsh)

34. Maggie (wife of Jimmy Snider)

35. Maria (Burrun) (wife of Mulun Jacko)

36. Maria (mother of Dudley Bulmer)

37. Matyi

38. Maudie (wife of Ngandal George Northcotte)

39. Midhaking

40. Minnie aka Wawumduha (wife of Norman Arrami)

41. Minnie Gibson (wife of Peter Rosser)

42. Miriam Ngamu Bandir

43. Moira (wife of Mulun Jacko)

44. Mulgal

45. Mulun Jacko

46. Nellie (mother of Polly Bulmer)

47. Nellie (mother of Polly Holdsworth and others)

48. Nellie (mother of Tommy and Sammy Brown)

49. Nellie (mother of Tommy Dowling and others)

50. Nellie Nunggal (Yarkan)

51. Ngamu Bayambi

52. Ngamu Darnchidir (Stumpy)

53. Ngamu Guubanyu

54. Ngamu Marrgu (Jimmy)

55. Ngamu Ngakuburla

56. Ngandal (George Northcotte)

57. Ngolongolo (Kitty)

58. Ngumbuibigu (Billy)

59. Paddy McIvor

60. Peggy Rootsey

61. Ruth Bandir (Dudur)

62. Tommy Point Lookout

63. Topsy (mother of Peter Gibson and others)

64. Waarigan

65. Wulgali (mother of Charlie Wunbu Gordon and Tommy Confin)

66. Wuthal (Nellie Coates)

67. Yaalugure (wife of Barney)

68. Yalngkarijubur (father of Earl Mitchell)

69. Yegeran (wife of Bindadelma)

70. Yirbil (Emma Capebedford)

*Please note that the State of Queensland has not agreed to the inclusion of the apical ancestor named “Otoro”. This matter will be discussed at the authorisation meeting.

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 listed above and so entitled to attend the meeting. Purpose of the Authorisation Meeting

The purpose of the authorisation meeting on Wednesday 20 August 2025 is to decide whether or not to approve the proposed s.87A native title agreements for a consent determination of native title for the areas shown on the map above. The agenda of the meeting will be to consider whether the persons present: 1. agree and adopt a decision-making process; 2. agree to the proposed s.87A agreements for a determination of native title; and 3. agree to either:

a) incorporate a new corporation to be the prescribed body corporate (PBC) to represent the native title holders identified in the proposed s.87A agreements for determinations of native title, 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 PBC for the Guugu Yimidhirr People; or

b) on certain conditions, nominate an existing corporation to be the PBC for the Guugu Yimidhirr People, and so:

i. make a decision (1) to specify the existing corporation to be the PBC, and (2) direct the identified corporation to take steps to make itself eligible to be appointed as the PBC by amending its rules, and to ensure it is representative of Guugu Yimidhirr 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 3(b)(i) above, to be the PBC for Guugu Yimidhirr People; and iii. incorporate a new corporation as set out in 3(a) above, which corporation will be nominated to be the PBC for Guugu Yimidhirr People in the event that the identified existing corporation has not complied with the directions made by the meeting in (b)(i) above by 15 September 2025; and 4.authorise the Principal Legal Officer of CYLC to nominate the proposed corporation in writing to the Federal Court for it to be the PBC under ss.56 or 57 of the NTA for the proposed determinations of native title.

At the request of the Guugu Yimidhirr Native Title Group, a further workshop will be held on Monday 18 August 2025 at 2pm to 5pm at the Pioneer Hall in Hope Vale for participants to discuss the nomination of the PBC and the proposed structure. See attached notice for details. If you have queries about the purpose of the s.87A Authorisation Meeting, please contact Deputy Principal Legal Officer Louise Keepa on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email lkeepa@cylc.org.au.

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 12 August 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.

Yimidhirr Native

State of Queensland. The descendants of Charles Palmer are invited and

All systems go for Weipa’s fundraising 80s revival

by LYNDON KEANE

THEY may not be able to agree on what the best ﬂicks and tunes to emerge from the 1980s were, but Michael Collins and David Tuckwood will be singing from the same song sheet on Saturday when they step back 40 years ahead of their mammoth Weipa-Cairns fundraising run.

The pair are hosting a Run Back to the 80s party at the Weipa Bowls Club on 16 August, with a big crowd tipped to rock out with

their best denim and neon clothing combinations as they dig deep for a good cause.

Six days after Saturday’s bash, Mr Collins and Mr Tuckwood will run 820 kilometres between Weipa and Cairns over 17 days to raise money for the Cape Animal Protection Shelter (CAPS) and the Royal Flying Doctor Service’s (RFDS) Far North Queensland service.

With a swag of prizes donated by local and Far North Queensland businesses, Mr Tuckwood said the

party was shaping up as an event not to miss.

“There will be lucky door prizes, the best dressed prize, as well as an auction for a few great items,” he said.

“Also, there will be face painting for the kids and some good music.”

On the topic of the best movies and songs from the 80s, Mr Collins was quick to point out he was the younger of the fundraising super duo and had no ﬁrsthand experience about history’s greatest decade.

“I never spent a day in the 80s and I was not alive when it was happening, although it seems like it was a pretty radical time to be around,” he laughed.

“For me, my movie would be between The Land Before Time and The NeverEnding Story, both of which highly impacted my childhood during the 90s.

“My song would be Toto’s Africa.”

Mr Tuckwood threw out some classics in his 80s best-of list, with his song choice at the opposite end

of the musical spectrum to his running partner.

“There are a lot of good movies from the 80s,” he said.

“You have the Goonies, Star Wars, Gremlins and The Naked Gun; my favourite would have to be The Lost Boys

“My favourite song would be AC/DC’s You Shook Me All Night Long.”

Let the lads know what you think about their choices, and what your own 80s favourites are, when the fun gets under way from 4pm on Saturday.

There is no doubt there will be some questionable ensembles on display on Saturday when Weipa steps back 40 years to help Michael Collins and David Tuckwood fundraise for their Weipa-Cairns run.

National recognition for Weipa marine rescue president

by LYNDON KEANE

IN a true demonstration of community spirit, the president of Weipa’s Volunteer Marine Rescue unit has used being awarded a national service honour as a chance to help bolster the group’s ranks.

On 2 August, Weipa Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) president Brendon Fay and vice-president Jake May attended a meeting with the heads of Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) and other government representatives to discuss the progress of the organisation’s transition under the MRQ umbrella.

During the meeting, Mr Fay was presented with the National Medal, a highly conspicuous commendation recognising his more than 15 years of selﬂess service to boaties and the western Cape York community.

The medal recognises “long and diligent service by members of recognised government and voluntary organisations that risk their lives or safety to protect or assist the community in enforcement of the law or in times of emergency or natural disaster”.

Mr Fay said it was an honour to receive the award, and said it reﬂected the eﬀorts and dedication of his entire team.

“It’s an honour to receive such a prestigious medal – I didn’t even know it existed until I received one,” he told Cape York Weekly

“It’s a dedicated team that I have; a volunteer is a very special type of person; we are diﬀerent, and we don’t do it for the accolades or any recognition – we do it because we have the compassion to help people, and we do it in our spare time.

“It’s an honour to serve the community, even though we’re quite hidden out the back, and people don’t really hear us or see us until there’s an issue and they need us.”

He added the transition from VMR to MRQ would “open up a whole world of opportunities”, and urged Weipa residents of all ages to consider volunteering their time.

“There is going to be a whole lot more funding behind us for training, and opportunities for people to be able to obtain their

coxswains, so that they can be skilled and use that coxswains in the commercial sense for employment opportunities as well,” he explained.

“We’re going to be, hopefully, venturing into schools, and grabbing and training the schoolkids to learn how to come and rescue people, and upskill them and give them employment opportunities in the future.”

Weipa Volunteer Marine Rescue president Brendon Fay receives his National Medal from Marine Rescue Queensland chief ofﬁcer Tony Wullf.

WEIPA RODEO

Friday 22nd & Saturday 23rd August, 2025

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Thursday 21st August

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ORIGIN EVENTS

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Nominations to open for annual western Cape feral pig pursuit

HUNTERS across western Cape York are gearing up to do their part to protect the region’s pristine environment and bag some serious bragging rights in doing so.

Nominations for the 2025 Western Cape Feral Animal Control pig and cat hunt will open next week, with eager hunters able to put their name down to compete at the Albatross Bay Resort on 21 and 28 August, and 4 September from 5:30-7pm.

Toad busters aged 13 and younger can register on 4 and 11 September.

The event continues to grow in popularity each year, and a spokesperson said they believed community pride in the region played a pivotal role in the hunt’s success.

“It’s one of the only events in Weipa that enforces a rule that incorporates not only our community, but also our local and surrounding districts, including Napranum, Mapoon, Scherger, Aurukun, and now also extending into Coen,” they said.

“This is important for not only environmental preservation, but for the safety or our local ﬂ ora and fauna, and the people that access and visit these areas.

“Additionally, it provides a sense of achievement for the members of our local community, as they can contribute greatly to ensuring that the western Cape retains its natural beauty, and to protect those species under threat from feral animal activities.

“We are proud of the inclusion of the cat and toad categories, which are both national issues, adding to the push for feral animal control to expand into including new hunters of all ages.”

Event organisers are aiming for at least 350 pigs, 70 cats and 500 kilograms of

toads to be removed from the environment during the 2025 hunt, with six of the amphibians tagged to give junior hunters a chance to win $100 for catching one.

Cat and toad hunters can begin from the day they nominate, and there will be a

reading of the rules at 10am on 19 September before competitors hit the ﬁ eld from 11am.

For more information about the event, check out the Western Cape Feral Animal Control Facebook page.

There will be some extremely nervous feral animals between Coen and Mapoon on 19-20 September when competitors battle for bragging rights in the 2025 Western Cape Feral Animal Control pig hunt. Photo: Facebook (Western Cape Feral Animal Control).

Hearts to pump as cyclists take on Cape cardiac fundraiser

by CHISA HASEGAWA

MORE than 200 hearts will be pumping on the road to Cooktown next month as cyclists gear up to pedal towards a healthier tomorrow for the 19th Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation (FNQHF) QSuper Cardiac Challenge.

Registrations for the monstrous Cairns to Cooktown ride – a 333-kilometre eﬀort –have closed, and at T-minus six weeks, fundraisers have already managed to raise more than $95,000 towards life-saving cardiac services in the FNQ region.

FNQHF fundraising and marketing manager Glenys Duncombe said the challenge brought together all kinds of people who had been aﬀected by cardiac health.

“We have patients that have had cardiac issues, we’ve had family members who have loved ones who’ve had cardiac issues, so they’re doing it in support of that person,” she said.

“We have a lot of medical practitioners that also do it; they do it because they love it, they love getting out there and they enjoy being with people who support the work that they do.”

With 24 rider teams, as well as individual supporters, Ms Duncombe said the 2025 fundraising goal was $400,000.

“A number of teams have done really well with their fundraising at the moment,” she said.

“When they get into it, as we get closer to the event, they can raise anything up to an average of $2,000 per rider.”

She said over the past 19 years, the event had allowed patients to receive care close to home, with the funding helping to equip the cardiac outreach team with equipment to travel to remote communities, including those on Cape York.

“We funded equipment that actually allows the outreach team to travel to places like Weipa, Atherton and Yarrabah,” she said.

“We also funded a vehicle for that cardiac outreach team, which people might’ve seen drive into Cooktown, and they’ve even thought about taking it up to Weipa.”

The QSuper Cardiac Challenge will take place over three days from 20-22 September.

Torres and Cape outreach cardiologists Dr Steve Sutcliffe and Dr Sean Nguyen take on the QSuper Cardiac Challenge in 2024.

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Torres Strait scholars set course for Oxford

by CHISA HASEGAWA

TWO Torres Strait Islander academics are bringing pride to their communities as they prepare to head to the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom later this year.

Aurora Education Foundation announced the recipients of its 2025 international scholarships, with ﬁve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scholars set to study at some of the world’s top universities.

In a historic ﬁrst, two Torres Strait Islander scholars have been awarded the competitive Charlie Perkins Chevening Scholarship after being accepted into the University of Oxford.

Isobel Loban Yorkston, who spent her childhood on Thursday Island before moving to Cairns, will be pursuing a Master of Science (International Health and Tropical Medicine) from October.

“I’ve always had very fond memories of living up there and going to Tagai State School,” she said.

“My mum and dad have always been very supportive of education, so I think moving, they also had the intention of making sure that I had access to a good education.”

She said that studying internationally at a well-known university like Oxford had not necessarily been a life-long dream of hers, but it became a goal when she studied at the University of Queensland in Brisbane.

“I actually got sick in high school, so I wasn’t able to ﬁnish high school, and I went through a phase of, will I get into university, and I ended up doing a bridging course,” she said.

“It wasn’t even really on the cards for me until I got into university, and I came across the opportunity in my ﬁnal year, but when I heard of it, I was like, I want it.”

Ms Yorkston said the experience of falling ill in her teenage years inspired her passion for health in remote communities.

“My intention is to go back and work on the ground and, if not, most certainly research with my community,” she said.

“Our health is our wealth, in a way, and we are the future generation, and we need to

be okay and good and well to be able to pass on our culture, our traditions, and be able to grow those future generations to carry on our legacies.”

Bhosten Savage, who also spent his formative years on Thursday Island, said his family had moved around Queensland quite a bit in chase of economic and educational opportunities.

“My grandparents moved from the Torres Strait to the mainland to make sure that their kids and my dad had opportunities, whereas, if they stayed on the islands, their life might not have improved back then, so they made that sacriﬁce,” he said.

“I guess it’s a bit of responsibility to make sure that everyone that’s sacrificed for me to be in the position that I am, I honour them properly, and make sure that I’m not just saying stuff, but doing stuff that affects the community that my people belong to.”

Mr Savage will be commencing a Master of Business Administration in September, with a goal to bring essential connectivity improvements to regional and remote communities.

“Families shouldn’t be expected to uproot themselves just to get a good job or get a good education, just because they live where they always have lived,” he said.

With a background in construction and engineering, Mr Savage found himself wanting to be in the room of the decisionmakers who aﬀected the outcomes of his community.

One of his turning points was working on the Archer River bridge in 2022.

“You sort of realise that the people that are making the decisions, even though the bridge is being built up in Archer River, those people are making decisions from Cairns or Melbourne, and the engineers are ﬂown from Melbourne, because there’s not enough engineers that are local to the Cape,” he said.

“I want to make sure that kids can get an education from where they grew up, and then they can work where they grew up; it’s one of the driving things in making sure that things happen long term.”

Torres Strait Islander scholars Bhosten Savage and Isobel Loban Yorkston are packing their bags for the University of Oxford after being awarded a highly competitive scholarship. Photo: Supplied.

I WAS going to write my editorial about something completely different this week, but, after enduring several flights on big and little planes, and airports in a variety of sizes over the past seven days, I thought it more pressing to focus on an issue of critical importance.

What the hell is it about airports and flying that transform us into the worst versions of ourselves?

I’m not talking about a minor personality change here – I mean the Jekyll-and-Hyde transformation that seems to inflict most of us the moment we pass through airport security into a place from the imagination of William Golding, where there are no rules and only the fittest will survive to make their connecting flight.

Here are the top three eyebrowraising behaviours I’m hoping someone a lot smarter than me can provide a sensical explanation for when it comes to humanity and air travel.

1. Involuntary security guilt

Even if you’ve got nothing to hide, it’s almost impossible not to feel like a common criminal when going through those swanky new airport scanners while half a dozen security staff assess the scan result, all the while keeping judgemental

side glances on you standing there with your arms splayed.

The guilt ratchets up exponentially if you happen to lock eyes with the security officer doing random explosives scans, even if you’ve never been anywhere near such a substance in your life. When they get you in their sights, beckon you over and ask if it’s okay for them to do a clothing swab –I’ve never been brave enough to joke they could get stuffed if they thought they were going to wave their wand of doom over me – you suddenly feel like Ted Kaczynski’s Cape York cousin and find your-

self involuntarily asking, “when was the last time I handled highgrade explosives?”

If you do cop an explosives test, you can guarantee your fellow travellers will be eyeballing you as if mentally preparing to describe you to a police sketch artist or news anchor in the near future.

2. Paying extortionate prices

I’m ashamed to admit I did something horrific on Wednesday. I paid $18.70 for a pint of domestic beer while waiting for a flight. Actually, since we’re among friends, I paid it twice, because I’m clearly a thirsty idiot. That, and Qantas

Club apparently doesn’t serve alcohol before midday anymore.

Why do companies operating inside airports think we’ll tolerate their legalised, modern-day highway robbery? Granted, the fact I went back for a second beer probably aids their economic arrogance, but the maths on airport beverages is truly terrifying.

My Great Northern Original pint equated to $20.45 a litre. At Cairns beer prices, a 30-can pack of the same drop costs somewhere in the vicinity of $6.20 for 1,000 ice-cold millilitres. Pound-forpound, the airport White Fish costs

almost double what you’d pay for even the most expensive slab on Cape York.

And imported beer? I have no idea. I didn’t feel like an impromptu kidney operation to fund a Peroni before boarding my flight.

3. Immediately standing up on the plane

There’s a special place in a fiery afterlife for people who feel compelled to jump to their feet the moment the plane comes to rest on the tarmac.

Everyone around you is still strapped into their seat, the door of your aluminium flying Uber is yet to be disarmed, and the ground crew are still positioning the aerobridge, but you’re so important you can’t stand to remain seated for even another second.

I’ve often wondered where you were in such a hurry to go. Business meeting? Hot date? Urgent bathroom visit?

Fun fact: 100 per cent of the people on your flight that aren’t you think you’re an utter tosser if you bound to your feet and then spend the next five minutes with your neck craned under the overhead compartment while looking impatiently at your watch and glaring at the cabin crew.

The immediately-stand-upwhen-the-plane-stops guy – it’s almost always a bloke – has been scientifically proven to be one of the two worst kinds of people on the planet.

Cape York Weekly Puzzles Page

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.

Reference: Macquarie Concise Dictionary Focus No. 4074 TODAY’S Good: 10 words FOCUS Very good: 19 words Excellent: 30 words

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.

Toomey CrossFit’s best ever with eighth world crown

FORMER Weipa resident

Tia-Clair Toomey had an electrified western Cape York fan base in her corner when she made history by claiming her eighth CrossFit Games crown last week.

The win makes the former Western Cape College student the undisputed greatest CrossFit athlete of all time, and she said in a social media post she was thrilled to

finish her 10th Games with her eighth championship and 10 podium finishes.

“What an incredible 10th year it’s been for me, filled with growth, grit, and unforgettable moments,” she said.

“To have stood on the podium every single year is something I’ll never take for granted … and to walk away with 8 championships! That was never the plan, but it’s

Tiemens takes handicap haircut after maiden Dawnbusters win

Runner-up Laurie Turner and winner Eddy Tiemens both shot 51 off the stick when a field of 13 contested Dawnbusters in Weipa on 10 August.

THIRTEEN Dawnbusters took advantage of winter temperatures under the watchful eye of the full moon (this is getting very poetic, Mr Crossley) when they teed off in Weipa on 10 August.

Sunday morning newcomer Eddy Tiemens, in just his ninth appearance on the tee block, returned to the Carpentaria Golf Club bar with 51 off the stick for a chocolate-winning nett 16 and his first Dawnbusters winner’s polo shirt.

Runner-up Laurie Turner also carded a gross 51 but had to settle for bridesmaid honours and nett 21 once handicaps were applied.

Helen Sabatino, who hasn’t been seen on a Sunday morning since mid-May, reminded players of why she is one to watch on the course after carding the round of the day with 44 off the stick.

Julie Howard finished her Sunday round with the women’s long drive and Hoffman’s, while veteran Dawnbuster Jim Hoffman took the men’s gong after being the only bloke to keep his tee shot on the fairway.

The pin prize was hotly contested, with Peter Kenny putting his name on the marker only to have Brandon Waretini swoop from the group behind and claim bragging rights.

Dawnbusters will take on the front nine on 17 August, with new players welcome to join from about 6:45am.

Participants lace up for personal parkrun challenge

SIX first timers had their inaugural Weipa parkrun experience when a field of 41 participants pounded the pavement on Saturday morning.

Chrisden Russ mirrored his effort from the previous weekend to be the first parkrunner home in 19 minutes, 59 seconds, with newbie Steve Macintyre (22:52) beating Michael Collins (23:09) to the finish line to round out the first three.

Leanne Cordero set a personal best effort of 25:42 to be the first female to wave good morning to the timekeepers.

a dream I’m still trying to wrap my head around.

“To the athletes, what a show! Congratulations to all the athletes that took the floor and gave it their all.”

Toomey’s 182-point lead over the other podium finishers – Brit Lucy Campbell and American Olivia Kerstetter – was her fourbiggest victory of her eight championships.

Matthew Bakes and Annie Kabamba were the other participants to complete the circuit with a new PB time.

Chris Blythe, Donna Jewell, Georgi Jenkins, Georgia Stoddart, Jemma Collins, Karishma Maganlal, Rose Robins and Vandana Chaturvedi volunteered to ensure the 431st instalment of the weekly event went off without a hitch.

Weipa parkrun is held every Saturday morning at 7am at the shelter opposite the hospital roundabout on the corner of John Evans and Kerr Point drives.

Former Weipa resident Tia-Clair Toomey has made history by winning the CrossFit Games for the eighth time this month. Photo: Instagram (tiaclair1).

Tyrone Tuckwood stretches out over the final stages of parkrun #431 on Saturday.

Moa’s Kris impresses in maroon with AFL selection

by CHISA HASEGAWA

DESPITE not having access to a regular footy field on her Moa Island home, a young AFL player has been selected to don maroon for the under-12 Australian Football League National Championships.

Lucinda Kris represented Queensland with wins against South Australia and the ACT, and a tough game against Victoria, last week after finding a passion for footy through AFL Cape York’s development program.

AFL Cape York game development co-ordinator Kieran Sciberras said to be selected to play at the national level was a huge achievement.

“She played for the Crusaders at the State School Championships in June and, from there, got selected to play for Queensland, which is huge,” he said.

“She’s the only player from the 44 we had go down to play at this level, and she’s probably the first one in the under-12 girls side to play for Queensland since 2022.”

Mr Sciberras said although Kris was most likely the only one who did not have regular engagement in club sport in the team, he was confident in her ability to shine on the field.

“She’s just a really hard worker, she’s coachable, and she’s a really strong leader as well,” he said.

“Our job is to give the opportunity, and it’s up to the kids to take, and it’s really rewarding for everyone involved to see Lucinda and other young people like her make the most of those opportunities to go down south and represent their community, their family, their culture, and where they’re from.”

Scorpions put sting into competition to claim league decider

REMOTE rugby league fans were treated to some quality clashes when teams squared off to challenge for the 2025 Southern Cape Cluster premiership on 9 August.

Teams and supporters travelled to Cooktown’s John Street Oval from Hope Vale, Coen, Pormpuraaw and Lockhart River for the showdown after a season of lopsided results that had the Colts and Scorpions swapping places at the top of the ladder.

The Coen Colts and Hope Vale Warriors

faced one another in the first semi-final of the day, with the former demonstrating why it had been one of the dominant teams of the season by booking a ticket into the grand final with a 30-16 win. In the second semifinal, the Lockhart Scorpions and Pormpuraaw Crocs put on an entertaining battle, but it was the Lockhart River line-up that prevailed 22-16 to secure the team’s spot in the 2025 decider.

When players took to the field for the grand final, the Scorpi-

SPORT IN BRIEF

NPA marathon

SEASONED and budding runners will have a lot of fun testing their limits when a full marathon social run is held in the Northern Peninsula Area on 23 August.

The 42-kilometre run, which will include a visit to Pajinka, will allow participants to travel at their own pace as they experience the feeling of conquering a marathondistance event.

“Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a new challenge, this is your chance to get active and make memories along the way,” a run spokesperson said.

The event will commence at 6am at the Northern Peninsula Airport.

For more information, check out the NPA Sports Facebook page.

Weipa touch results

CHEERS for Beers and Lacking Stamina played out a thrilling 2-all draw when teams took to the paddock for round 13 of the Weipa Touch Association premiership on 6 August.

The OGs toppled Scrambled Legs 10-2, while Untouchables touched up Can’t Touch This 19-4.

Villains defeated Cape Candies 14-9 in their clash, while Res Strong put on one of the biggest thumpings of the season in a 23-nil result against Weipa Weapons.

Top End Taggers beat Spartans 19-3 in their game.

Future Immortals return

RUGBY league fans in Kowanyama are set for a treat this week as the Arthur Beetson Foundation Future Immortals tour returns to the community.

Former greats of the sport will be in Kowanyama from 14-18 August to help raise money for the community and support grassroots rugby league.

This will be the third Future Immortals visit to the western Cape York community, with a spokesperson saying “our team cannot wait to return to this beautiful country”.

ons proved too strong and put the sting into the Colts, and when the

full-time siren sounded, the men from Lockhart River were able to hold

the grand final cup aloft after recording a 38-28 win.

The Lockhart Scorpions are the 2025 Southern Cape Cluster champions after a 38-28 grand final win over the Coen Colts in Cooktown on 9 August. Photo: Facebook (Remote Areas Rugby League - North QLD).