You couldn’t take the smiles off the faces of Michael Collins and David Tuckwood after they finished their 825.57-kilometre fundraising run from Weipa to Cairns on Friday. Read what they had to say about their incredible effort on Page 5.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service
Visitors and residents to the far north of Cape York Peninsula are advised that officers from Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service will conduct surveillance patrols on Bramwell and Richardson Stations from Tuesday 16 September to Sunday 21 September 2025. Unlawful access to the properties during this period will be monitored.
For more information, contact CYPTRPTenure@detsi.qld.gov.au
HAMBELL PLUMBING
Third cancer diagnosis sparks Torres doctor’s stem cell plea
by CHISA HASEGAWA
HE’S dedicated his career to helping his community, but now, after his third cancer diagnosis, a Thursday Island doctor needs his community’s help.
After being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system, Dr Jake Parker’s best chance at recovery lies with a stem cell transplant, which is where the community’s support comes in.
“At the moment, we’re having trouble finding a match,” the 42-year-old said.
“None of my brothers or sisters are a match, which is about a 25 per cent chance, and so far, they haven’t found a match in Australia, so they’re starting to look overseas.”
Any adults aged 18-35 can register as a stem cell donor by simply requesting a cheek swab kit from Stem Cell Donors Australia to be mailed home, increasing the chances for a match for Dr Parker and hundreds of other people battling blood cancers.
PH: 4072 4010 E: admin@hambellps.com
TUXWORTH
& WOODS CARRIERS
Need a reliable freight service to the Cape?
Tuxworth & Woods have all your refrigerated, dry & heavy haulage needs covered – from 20 grams to 20 tonnes
“A lot of people know about blood donation, a lot of people know about organ donation, but stem cell donation is something that is not as well known,” Dr Parker said.
“In essence, I would call it like a semi-complicated blood donation process, where they take your blood, take out the stem cells and give the blood back to you.
“A lot of people think that it involves much more than that, and it’s a very simple process to go on the register.”
He was first diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2004 at just 21 years old, and again 17 years later, when he underwent an autologous stem cell transplant, a process where one’s own healthy cells are used.
Dr Parker received chemotherapy following his first two diagnoses, but is currently undergoing immunotherapy this
time while he waits for a donor match, which often has fewer side effects than other cancer treatments.
“I’ve been through chemotherapy twice, which kind of wipes you out for about six to 12 months, whereas I’ve been having immunotherapy for four months now, and I’m still at work, I’m still able to go and do everything,” he said.
“This time, it’s different for me in particular, because we’ve
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
got two boys now, a five- and three-year-old, so being able to still parent and be a part of the family, it’s much better than the last few times.”
In a trying time, Dr Parker said he remained hopeful of finding a match, adding it was important for people of all backgrounds to register as a donor.
“One of the things that I’ve learned about the registers is that they’re trying to encourage everyone who’s eligible, but par-
ticularly people from minority groups in Australia, especially Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders,” he said.
“One of the lucky things about me is being Caucasian, with my heritage from England and Ireland, so there’s a much higher potential that I’ll get a donor from overseas, whereas people from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds, for example, would be less likely to get donors from overseas.”
A stem cell transplant is the best chance for Jake Parker to kick his third cancer diagnosis to the curb and live a long life with his family.
Budby savours leadership success with historic Amrun appointment
DEDICATION on a professional journey of more than a decade has helped Weipa’s Shiona Budby make Rio Tinto history after she became the fi rst former Local Aboriginal Person (LAP) program trainee to take on a key management role at the mining giant’s Amrun operation this month.
Ms Budby, a proud Thanikwithi woman and long-serving team member, has been appointed as the new manager of Amrun mining and will lead more than 300 employees at the bauxite operations site.
A mother of three girls under the age of 11, Ms Budby began her career with Rio Tinto more than a decade ago as a trainee mine operator through the LAP traineeship program.
When Ms Budby joined Rio Tinto in 2015, she was a young mother seeking stability and a fresh start for her family, and quicky gained a reputation as a determined, focused and hard-working team member.
She credited her success with her ability to develop strong relationships, as well as the guidance of several mentors over her career with the miner.
“Building strong relationships through shared lived experiences is the foundation of productivity and success,” Ms Budby, who has worked in operator, grade controller, supervisor and production superintendent roles, said.
Ms Budby said she was focusing on fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace culture in her new role.
“To me, being a manager means creating strong foundations that enable people to succeed in their roles,” she said.
Her aim is to inspire future LAP leaders to feel confident in who they are and where they come from, and to empower them to lead with strength and pride in their culture.
General manager Weipa operations Steve Dunstone praised Ms Budby’s appointment and said it represented a significant achievement for both her personally, as well as Rio Tinto as an organisation.
“We are incredibly proud to announce Shiona’s appointment as mine manager – a historic milestone as the first local Aboriginal employee to step into a managerial role,” Mr Dunstone said.
“Her progression through the company reflects both her personal resilience and the strength of Rio Tinto’s commitment to nurturing local Indigenous talent; this achievement is not only a testament to Shiona’s leadership, dedication and deep connection to Country, but also a powerful symbol of progress for Rio Tinto.”
“Shiona’s appointment marks a significant step forward in building a more inclusive and representative future for our operations and our communities.”
NSW pair charged with alleged Kowanyama animal offences
POLICE have charged two New South Wales men following the alleged unlawful killing of livestock in Kowanyama on 11 September.
Police received information about two men from outside the community trespassing on registered Native Title lands.
Investigations led police to a Kowanyama address, where it is alleged officers located two scrub bull heads and a pig head in the trailer of a parked vehicle.
Police will also allege a crocodile tail was also located in an esky in the vehicle.
Officers seized the animal parts, electronic equipment and bows and arrows.
A 21-year-old man and 23-year-old man were each charged with two counts of trespass, unlawful killing of an animal, and unlawfully taking a protected animal.
They are due to appear in Cairns Magistrates Court on 11 December.
Kowanyama officer in charge Senior Sergeant Damian Carroll said police would continue to work with the local community to ensure visitors coming into the area are doing so lawfully and safely.
“We have strategies in place to ensure anyone trespassing or unlawfully killing animals is found, charged and put before the court,” he said.
Two New South Wales men have been charged with a range of offences after police allegedly found scrub bull and pig heads, and a crocodile tail, in their vehicle in the western Cape York community of Kowanyama.
Weipa’s Shiona Budby has made history as the first Local Aboriginal Person trainee to be appointed to a management role at Rio Tinto’s Amrun operation.
NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS
Dear Shareholders
Your annual WCCCA Trusts and Sub-Regional Trusts Annual General Meetings will be held as follows:
WCCT Central Sub-Regional Trust Ltd ACN
102246042 as Trustee for the WCCT Central Sub-Regional Trust
Monday 13th October 2025
9:00am – 12:00pm
WCCT Administration Building (Achimbun)
Lot 21 Kamenjarin Drive, Evans Landing, WEIPA
WCCT Southern Sub-Regional Trust Ltd ACN
102246113 as Trustee for the WCCT Southern Sub-Regional Trust
Tuesday 14th October 2025
9:00am – 12:00pm
WCCT Administration Building (Achimbun)
Lot 21 Kamenjarin Drive, Evans Landing, WEIPA
WCCT Northern Sub-Regional Trust Ltd ACN
102245956 as Trustee for the WCCT Northern Sub-Regional Trust
Wednesday 15th October 2025
9:00am – 12:00pm
WCCT Administration Building (Achimbun)
Lot 21 Kamenjarin Drive, Evans Landing, WEIPA
Western Cape Communities Trust Pty Ltd ACN
102245607 as Trustee for the Western Cape Communities Trust, followed by Western Cape Communities Trust Pty Ltd ACN 102245607 as Trustee for the Western Cape Communities Property Trust
Thursday 16th October 2025
9:00am – 12:00pm
WCCT Administration Building (Achimbun)
Lot 21 Kamenjarin Drive, Evans Landing, WEIPA
All Shareholders are encouraged to attend. Morning tea will be provided. The Executive Officer looks forward to seeing you.
If you have any further enquiries or you want to RSVP please call the Administration Officer on (07) 4069 7945
Visiting battalion finds four-legged fans in Weipa
by LYNDON KEANE
THEY may be better known as part of our country’s frontline defence, but members of 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (3 RAR) showed their softer side when they lent a hand to some of Weipa’s cutest residents last week.
While in the region as part of Exercise Kapyong Wanderer 25, members from the Armoured Logistics Company within the Townsville-based 3 RAR reached out to support the Cape Animal Protection Shelter (CAPS) in Weipa, with two of the key outcomes of the exercise being engaging with local communities, and the development of the battalion’s junior leaders in the ranks of Private to Lance Corporal.
As part of her allocated 24-hour leadership stand, Lance Corporal Clancy O’Connell decided helping CAPS would be an excellent way to get out in the Weipa community and volunteer the battalion’s time in a fun and rewarding way – walking the dogs and spending time with them.
CAPS president Shayna Reeves said she had been overwhelmed by the generosity of the soldiers.
“It’s the first time anything like this has happened, so, when Clancy reached out, I was sort of amazed that they had thought of us,” she explained.
“And when she said about how many volunteers they had, that meant that every dog got out when they came down.
“Having so many volunteers from the battalion come down, you just really see that lift in the dogs.”
The dogs were not the only ones who thoroughly enjoyed the engagement, with Craftsman Joel Ford describing it as “one of the highlights” of the exercise.
“Meeting the rescue animals in Weipa and
taking them for a walk was really special,” he said.
“They all had their own little quirks and personalities, and you could tell how much love and care they’ve been given.”
Private Scott Wilson said it had been an opportunity to witness the work CAPS did in the Weipa community.
“Getting to meet some of Weipa’s rescue animals was such a special experience,” he said.
“The staff were warm and welcoming, and it was clear how much they care for every animal; I had the chance to take a beautiful dog named Elli for a walk, and she was such a gentle, friendly soul.
“It was heart-warming to see her enjoying the fresh air and wagging her tail the whole way.
“Spending time with her really made my visit memorable, and I left feeling grateful for the work the shelter does for these animals.”
The visit to CAPS provided an opportunity for 3 RAR to engage with the Weipa community and contribute to the development of the battalion’s junior leaders.
meeting.
Members of Townsville-based 3 RAR’s Armoured Logistics Company made friends for life when they met the residents of the Cape Animal Protection Shelter last week.
22-day fundraising journey comes to end for Weipa pair
By LYNDON KEANE
THEIR bodies may be blistered, bruised and battered, but no one was removing the beaming smiles from the faces of David Tuckwood and Michael Collins when they crossed the finish line in their mammoth fundraising run from Weipa to Cairns on 12 September.
After 22 days and 825.57 kilometres, the pair took the final steps in their journey at 9:43am on Friday morning, surrounded by family, friends, members of the Weipa running community and complete strangers applauding their remarkable effort.
The journey most people prefer to do in a plane or as a 10-hour road trip was in aid of the Cape Animal Protection Shelter (CAPS) and the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS), and the men stripped off their shoes and waded into the welcoming water of the Cairns Esplanade lagoon moments after they ran through an improvised finish line.
The fundraiser was born from an idea Mr Tuckwood had that he could run from western Cape York to the Far North Queensland capital, and he said he still could not believe the pair had actually achieved it.
“God, I’m happy it’s done,” he laughed.
“It’s been awesome; it’s the biggest thing I’ve ever done, and I don’t think it’s kicked in yet.”
Mr Collins praised everyone who had donated to their effort, whether to CAPS or the RFDS, or by supplying them snacks, drinks and moral support.
“It would not have even been possible without everyone stop-
ping to help us and cheering us on,” he said.
“A big thanks to Nicole (Pritchard, who helped co-ordinate the event) and the roadhouses and stations that jumped in and helped us out as well.”
CAPS president Shayna Reeves said she was still coming to terms with the scope of the pair’s commitment to fundraising for the organisation.
“I’m honestly amazed, and like I said right from the very start, I thought the boys were crazy, but they just had this willpower and drive to get it done, despite the ups and downs that we’ve had along the track,” she said.
“They have pushed on and pushed on, and just achieved their goal, and we couldn’t be any more grateful for them and everything that they’ve done.”
And just how much time off their feet were the pair planning after their 22-day odyssey? Well, less than 12 hours, as it turns out.
The dynamic – and some would suggest crazy – duo backed up for Run Port Douglas on 13 September, with Mr Collins tackling the “it’s only a short run” half marathon, while Mr Tuckwood laced up his shoes to run the 10km event with his son, Tyrone.
After 22 days, David Tuckwood and Michael Collins reach the end of the road on the Cairns Esplanade at 9:43am on Friday.
Family, friends and members of the Weipa running community celebrate with David Tuckwood and Michael Collins after their 825.57-kilometre fundraising run.
Aurukun sets rally record for child protection
by CHISA HASEGAWA
AS National Child Protection Week came to a close, a stunning display of solidarity in Aurukun reminds us that change comes from a whole-of-community effort.
The innocence of children and the determination of adults filled the streets when PCYC Aurukun held its biggest National Child Protection Week march yet on 9 September, showcasing the growing drive for change in community.
Club manager Sergeant Steve Arm-
strong-Ravula said for this year’s march, which is the fourth since 2022, they focused on including locals outside of the PCYC.
“We got a lot of buy-in, which was great, and [Tuesday] was the biggest march we’ve ever had,” he said.
“In the first year we were here, we were still building those relationships and getting to know community, and now, our goal for this year was to have more youth and community members than uniformed people.
“Last year, we had more organisations and people in uniforms than we did local community members, and don’t get me wrong, we love that, but we also need the community to want to bring that change as well.”
Sergeant Armstrong-Ravula said this year’s theme, Every Conversation Matters: Shifting Conversation to Action, served as a reminder that words alone were never enough.
“We talked about the theme, and that was good, because it highlights that while dis-
cussions are crucial and words are important, we need the action to follow that,” he explained.
“We went around and talked to a number of families and discussed how much impact they have in community, and how this would be another step to show how much impact and strength they have.
“It’s like a statement when we do our banner march through the community, bringing everyone together and telling everyone we’ve had enough of child abuse, and we want to look after the kids for the future.”
Pictured: Mackay Surf Life Saving Club.
The Aurukun community gathers in solidarity on 9 September during National Child Protection Week for its biggest march yet.
Western Cape hunters take aim at feral invaders
THERE will be some incredibly nervous pigs, cats and cane toads around western Cape York this weekend as competitors gear up to do their bit for feral animal control.
The 2025 Western Cape Feral Animal Control hunt will be held on 1920 September, with group treasurer Mia Waite telling Cape York Weekly it would be another year of broken records.
“We have a record number again this year, with numbers nearing our 150 full competitor limit,” she said.
“We even had a number of tourists show interest and support – one lovely couple even gave a donation; although tourists can’t nominate, it’s great to chat to people with similar concerns about feral pig and cats.”
While senior competitors will tackle pigs and cats to do their bit for environmental management, all eyes will be on pintsized hunters to see what creative avenues they embrace with the Toad Busters showdown.
Royston returns
“The hunters are always so keen to be getting out in support of the cause,” she said.
“Hunting with mates is one thing, but doing it with so many other teams at the same time is a special moment to be a part of and to witness.
“The kids doing the Toad Busters are especially excited; who would have thought that doing something so gross could be so fun, whilst also helping the environment?”
The Albatross Bay Resort will be the only place to be on 20 September, with the Toad Busters presentations set to begin at 5pm, before the main event from about 6-6:30pm following the afternoon weigh-in.
“The weigh-in event is definitely something to come and enjoy … with the hard work and determination from all of the teams definitely shown off during this time,” Ms Waite said.
“Everyone is welcome; come on down from 1-4pm to be a part of the fun.”
Ms Waite said the success of the annual event demonstrated just how committed western Cape York residents were to ensure the impact of feral animals on the landscape and environment around them was minimised.
Weipa couple celebrates $1m lotto win
A WEIPA couple is celebrating matrimonial teamwork after they landed a $1 million lotto win last week.
The woman, who usually sticks to her own favourite lottery numbers, let her husband contribute to her ticket for the 8 September draw, with the decision resulting in a bumper Weekday Windfall win.
The couple had one of the two division one winning entries nationally in Weekday Windfall draw 4596.
Speaking to an official from The Lott after the win, the woman admitted she had tossed and turned all night after learning she had just become a millionaire.
“It’s so surreal,” the lucky woman said.
“I didn’t sleep a wink last night; we won $98 on our Saturday Gold Lotto ticket from the weekend and decided to use some of those winnings to buy a ticket into Weekday Windfall.
“I was sitting on the couch with my
hubby yesterday, and I turned to him and asked him to choose five numbers; I normally mark my own numbers, but decided to let him contribute.
“Hubby went to work as usual, but we’re still in so much shock.”
Cape York Weekly understands the couple intends to use their winnings to pay off loans and head into the end of 2025 debt free.
The winning entry was purchased online.
THE 2025 Paanja Festival will feature one of Mapoon’s favourite performers returning to home soil to help the community celebrate this month.
Royston Noell, best known for winning the eighth season of Australian Idol in 2023, will head back to western Cape York to headline the festival, which will be held from 26-28 September.
There will be plenty of great prizes on offer over the three days, with the top cultural dance troupe taking home $10,000 and the winner of the annual Barra Bash set to hook a new boat.
For more information about the event, check out the Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council Facebook page.
NQBP Community Fund opens
APPLICATIONS for the 2025-26 North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) Community Fund are now open for non-profit organisations in Weipa.
In total, $100,000 is available to help local groups this year, with funding of up to $9,500 available for individual initiatives.
Funding is available for projects, initiatives and events that align with NQBP’s strategic themes and values, as well as those that embrace the principles of diversity and inclusion.
Applications close on 3 October.
To check your eligibility, or to apply to the fund, visit www.nqbp.com.au.
WCC turns green
WESTERN Cape College transformed into a sea of green on 12 September as the school community celebrated Double Expectation Day.
The event helped celebrate the WCC expectation of We are Respectful, with students and staff donning green to show their commitment to the value in a memorable day of fun and positivity.
Students who went above and beyond to demonstrate respectful behaviours earned themselves double RESPECT LaSeR tickets.
The creativity of junior Toad Busters is set to be a highlight of the 2025 Western Cape Feral Animal Control pig, cat and toad hunt this weekend.
Strong Cape, Torres Strait presence for 18th Big Talk
by CHISA HASEGAWA
FROM traditional headdresses, dance, paintings and more, the presence of Cape York and Torres Strait cultures continues to strengthen following a popular First Nations art festival in Cairns over the weekend.
The 18th edition of UMI Arts’ Big Talk One Fire festival brought together more Cape and Torres storytellers than ever before, with community members making up a large portion of performers, workshop facilitators and stallholders at Munro Martin Parklands on 13 September.
UMI Arts artistic director Lisa Michl Ko-manggén said the event had become more of a “music festival” in past years, but they chose to curate the lineup differently this year.
“What we’ve done is we’ve taken it back to its roots,” she said.
“The original Big Talk One Fire festival was a coming together of Elders and senior cultural practitioners from regional and remote communities, as well as local artists and families.
“[We are] really going with a more, I guess, culturally authentic experience for visitors ... for visitors to Cairns to come along and see dancing they wouldn’t normally see unless
they go to, for example, Laura Festival.”
Murray (Mer) Island artist Tatipai Barsa, who presented a series of intricate headdresses, fish traps and artworks, said he hoped the works could keep culture alive by inspiring young people.
He said the headdresses, which took him roughly three to four months to make, were traditionally used for a dance called Kab Kar, but it was not performed often anymore.
“It’s mainly for a lot of young people to come and see, because normally, they see it on the Torres Strait flag, you see the headdress, but to actually see one in person [is different],” he said.
“If I can just get one or two people to take up doing art, that’s what I want to do.”
UMI Arts chair and WidiWorks stallholder Connie Rovina said the growing engagement from young people was one of the event’s highlights.
“We’re really happy that we’ve got younger people coming in, and with that, we get a lot more excitement and a lot more vibrancy,” she said.
“It’s the connection between all of the people, that passing on of culture from the Elders to the younger people, and seeing it just vibrate.”
The Western Cape Communities Co-Existence Agreement (WCCCA) is an Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) over the Rio Tinto mining lease areas of the Western Cape York region of Northern Queensland. The Agreement is between the eleven Traditional Owner Groups, four Shire Councils (Aurukun, Napranum, Mapoon and New Mapoon), Rio Tinto, the Queensland State Government and the Cape York Land Council on behalf of the Native Title Parties.
The Western Cape Communities Coordinating Committee (WCCCC) and its five Sub-Committees transparently monitor, implement and review the objectives of the WCCCA to ensure that all parties’ obligations under the Agreement are met. The WCCT office is the administration arm for all Trusts and the WCCCC. It manages the overall business of the company, including servicing, assisting and supporting the above entities.
WCCT is committed to providing high quality services to our Traditional Owners, and we recognize the importance of employing the most suitable candidates. Currently we are seeking applications for the position of:
OFFICE MANAGER
Reporting to the Executive Officer, the Office Manager is responsible for the efficient and effective functioning of the WCCT Office in order to meet organisational objectives. This includes demonstrating appropriate and professional workplace behaviours, performing their responsibilities in a manner which reflects and responds to continuous improvement, managing Administration staff, managing IT and communications systems and other office equipment, and providing support to the Executive Officer. The Office Manager is also responsible for the coordination and planning of all WCCT, WCCCC, Sub-Regional Trusts and Sub-Committees meetings scheduled throughout the year.
We anticipate the applicants will have completed a formal training in Business Administration or a similar field and have experience in a similar role where they have been responsible for the efficient and effective functioning of an office, managing administration staff, document control, managing IT and communications systems as well as compliance with organisation policies and procedures and workplace health and safety regulations. A current C class driver’s license is also required for this role.
Prior experience with MYOB, centralized database, and a sound knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island protocols are highly desired.
Traditional Owners and Aboriginal people are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants must have the right to work in Australia.
For further information, including a position description please contact the Executive Officer directly.
All applications should be clearly marked “Private and Confidential” and addressed as follows: Executive Officer PO Box 106
Weipa, QLD, 4874
Phone: (07) 4069 7945
Email: eo@westerncape.com.au
CLOSING DATE – FRIDAY 3rd October 2025
Connie Rovina, Tatipai Barsa and Lisa Michl Ko-manggén celebrate a strong Cape and Torres presence at Big Talk One Fire.
Premier makes Lakeland visit for exotic opening
BY LYNDON KEANE
PREMIER David Crisafulli
made a flying trip to southern Cape York last week to attend the opening of an exotic mushroom farm at Lakeland.
The Inderbitzin family developed and built the 9,600-square metre, climate-controlled facility at Red Valley that is now the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere.
The Premier attended the opening with Cook MP David Kempton and thanked the Inderbitzin family for their contribution to Queensland in bringing innovation to the region.
“That’s why I wanted to come today,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“On behalf of David (Kempton) and me, thank you for your investment.
“To see what you’ve invested here is an incredible leap of faith in a new industry, one that’s not your background and, ladies and gentlemen, we officially declare Red Valley Mushroom Facility open.”
The facility, which has been operational for the past two years, produces about two tonnes of exotic mushrooms each week, supplying cities including Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide with a diverse range of varieties.
Mr Kempton said he had a long association with the Inderbitzin family.
“I have followed this family for two generations as it has brought new technology, investment and creativity to one of Queensland’s richest farming areas,” he said.
“It is wonderful to see this facility come to fruition, as it is the beginning of an incredible opportunity for this region when sufficient water is made available.”
Red Valley general manager Peter Inderbitzin Jnr said the facility had significant scope for growth.
“The project involved three years of planning, one year of construction, and two years of production before reaching its current stage,” he explained.
“We are now operating at
$2m for reef projects
THE State Government says it has delivered a boost to Great Barrier Reef protection and restoration after providing 11 projects with a combined $2 million through the new Reef Assist Traditional Owner Grant Program.
The grant program supports Traditional Owner organisations to lead on-Country projects that improve the health of the Great Barrier Reef and build long-term capacity for Indigenous-led environmental management.
Minister for Tourism and the Environment Andrew Powell said “this program assists in preserving one of the world’s most precious ecosystems, while also creating pathways for jobs, skills, and future project delivery”.
Grants of up to $200,000 per project were available to eligible applicants across Great Barrier Reef catchments.
Den turns 150
IT is one of the best-known watering holes in Australia, and Lion’s Den Hotel is gearing up to celebrate a milestone birthday in true Cape York style in October.
The pub is getting ready to notch up 150 years of serving thirsty patrons and will celebrate with a three-day party from 17-19 October, with live music from artists including the Roadtrippers, Ella Hartwig and Shannon Hunter.
On the Saturday, guests will be asked to turn back the fashion clock and return to the 1800s to celebrate in the style of the era.
Peter Inderbitzin Jnr and Andrew Inderbitzin are congratulated by Premier David Crisafulli and Member for Cook David Kempton at the opening of the family’s exotic mushroom facility on 9 September.
25 per cent capacity, producing more than two tonnes of mushrooms each week.”
The Lakeland facility produces two tonnes of exotic mushrooms each week.
Monthly Community Update
Message from the Chair
Hi
Weipa
I hope everyone is keeping well. Much has happened since my last community update, and I wanted to give a shout out to Deputy Chair Geoff Robins for filling in while I had some time off.
While I was away, our awesome staff co-ordinated and held a byelection (which is no small task) to fill the WTA member vacancy, and the community elected Tacita De Tournouer as their newest WTA representative. We are very excited to welcome Tacita to the team, and look forward to working together to achieve positive outcomes for the community.
Luckily I arrived back in Weipa just in time for the 20th Weipa Rodeo, which was an absolutely fantastic event. It really was the best one yet, and I'm already looking forward to next year! Hats off to the committee who spend countless hours volunteering to put on this event for the
community, and do such a professional job! Organising events of this scale are a mammoth effort, and these volunteers pull it all together on top of their day jobs.
The spirit of volunteering in this community is a big part of what makes it such a great place to live, and I would highly recommend getting involved in any of the major events or community groups, because it is a great way to meet great people and give back to the community.
Speaking of events, the next one on the calendar is the Western Cape Feral Animal Control event on the 19th & 20th September. Feral pigs and cats especially do a great amount of damage to our natural environment and native wildlife, so this event is a great way to combat these problem animals while making it a bit of fun for the family.
I also wanted to give a shout out
to Mapoon, who will be hosting the Paanja Festival and Barra Bash on the 26th-28th September. This will be an awesome event for the family, and I highly recommend a trip to Mapoon for what will be a great weekend of culture, entertainment, food and fishing, with some great prizes up for grabs! Let’s gets behind this event and support our fellow Western Cape communities.
Down to WTA business now. We just held our last Sunset Markets for the year, and despite the very windy conditions, we still had a great turnout. Big thanks to all of the stallholders who braved the conditions, and the community members who came down to support the event. Maybe we should incorporate a Kite flying competition at the markets this time next year?
Finally, we have just launched an exciting new 'Grow it Local' campaign, where community members will be able to register,
Thanks for reading, and I'll see you out and about.
School Holiday Fun for All Ages
The September school holidays are set to be packed with fun in Weipa, with something for everyone to enjoy. The Hibberd Library will host a range of exciting crafts, plus a special Ancient Egypt Week, where kids can make their own headpiece, write their name in hieroglyphics, get creative with themed crafts, and join the Pharaoh’s Quest adventure.
Families can also head to Kumrumja for a screening of Smurfs the Movie, or make a splash at the Weipa Aquatic Centre with inflatables at the pool.
Tickets are available now – don’t miss out on a holiday filled with creativity, adventure, and family fun!
Join us for our annual disaster expo to get ready for the cyclone season. The expo will provide valuable information on how to prepare for extreme weather events, including practical tips on safeguarding your home, family, and property.
Date: 11 October 2025
Time: 9am - 11am
Location: Weipa Storm Surge Shelter
Sausage sizzle
Kids collect all disaster stickers for their disaster map & win a prize
Let’s work together to get Weipa ready for the upcoming cyclone season.
The Hibberd Library invites the community to a special after-hours event on Tuesday, 14 October, from 6.30pm - 8pm, to showcase everything the library has to offer. From a wide range of programs and services to online memberships, digital resources, and community activities, there’s something for everyone to explore.
Guests can enjoy light refreshments while taking a look around the library, chatting with staff, and learning about the exciting ways the library can support you and your family. Whether you’re a regular visitor or haven’t stepped inside for years, this is the perfect chance to see what’s new and reconnect.
School Holiday Program @ Hibberd Library & WAC
Western Cape Get Ready Expo @ Weipa Storm Surge Shelter
WASP Survivor 6 Week Fitness Challenge Commences
‘How Do You Library’
CHAIR JAIME GANE
14 October 2025
October 2025
THIS is my final missive at the helm of the Cape York Weekly
I’ve never been big on ostentatious goodbyes, especially when they take the focus away on what should be front and centre – in this case, telling the stories of those who call Cape York and the Torres Strait home.
I’m sure my imminent departure from the editor’s seat will be celebrated in certain political circles, just as it will be heralded by elements of our community who, if the commentary on some of their anonymous social media pages are to be believed, think I’ve been doing a ghastly job for the past 81 editions.
Unfortunately for them, I’m not leaving the Cape. I’ll still have my toes firmly planted in the bauxiterich soil and antagonising from a different angle to ensure the needs and aspirations of our remote backyards are acknowledged and acted upon by those we’ve elected in Canberra and Brisbane to do just that.
Even though I’m exiting stage right from the land of headlines, bylines and deadlines, nothing will lessen my belief that impassioned, local journalism is more important now than it ever has been. For community newspapers and their
digital stepsiblings to be successful community advocates, they must be championed by media companies with a strong presence on the ground and an unwavering commitment to championing the causes you, the community, believe need to be splashed across the front page each week.
We’ve all seen what happens when Cape York’s victories, challenges and tragedies are reported on by media outlets without a foot on the ground and finger on the pulse of our communities. More often than not, the story is twisted into sensationalised clickbait that morphs the facts into whatever
will shift the most newspapers or get maximum eyes on screens. Without a strong media voice to hold our elected leaders to account, many of their remote visits will become nothing more than junkets on the taxpayer’s dollar to visit party donors and political allies before an announcement that – surprise,
surprise – directly benefits the very same people. Our politicians work for us, and having local journalists who are prepared to ask the hard questions without fear or favour helps remind them of that.
Without a strong media voice to celebrate the wins in our communities, how do we share the successes and triumphs of our friends, family and neighbours, whether on the sporting field, classroom or in the spotlight of the awards stage? They may not be deemed pressstopping news by the mainstream media but, for many Cape York and Torres Strait residents, these achievements are significant life events that deserve to be applauded from the rooftops.
To our journalist, Chisa, and graphic design guru, Gee – who have been my left and right arms to make the paper look as good as it does every Monday afternoon – thank you for your dedication to not only the masthead, but to every event we cover and story we tell. It’s because of you the reputation of the paper is stronger than it ever has been, and our team is welcomed with open arms in every community we roll into.
Cape York, it’s been an absolute pleasure ensuring your voice has been heard by those who needed to hear it for the best part of the past two years. It’s without doubt been one of the privileges and highlights of my journalism career.
It has been an absolute pleasure and privilege ensuring the stories that matter to Cape York and the Torres Strait get told during my time at the helm of the Cape York Weekly – including the one about two mates who decided to run from Weipa to Cairns as a fundraiser.
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.
* No verb forms or plurals ending in
* No proper nouns and no hyphenated words
Good: 11 words
Very good: 16 words Excellent: 25
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.
WESTERN CAPE FERAL ANIMAL CONTROL
EVENT
WEIGH-IN & PRESENTATION NIGHT
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 FROM 1PM @ THE ALBATROSS BAY
Spectators come on down & check it out!
• Toad Buster weigh-in 2-4pm
• Main Event weigh-in 1-4pm
• Presentations 5-8pm ATGIVEAWAYS THE EVENT!
Toad Buster sponsors: ENTERTAINMENT: JAYSON WATKIN & SUPPORTING BAND
Main Event sponsors: Cape York Weekly
NORTON Collins made the most of his first Weipa parkrun when participants took to the 5-kilometre circuit on Saturday morning.
With many parkrun regulars on Run Port Douglas duty, 12 newbies dominated the field of 41 for the 436th edition of the weekly event.
Collins finished more than two minutes clear of the next participant to be the first home in 20 minutes, 5 seconds, with Jordyn Mulherin recording a personal best effort of 22:39 to be the first female across the finish line.
Rose-Beth Orman and Silvie Hines were the other runners to set PB times.
Many hands made light work of volunteering duty, with Chris Blythe, Claire Dore, Danielle Rodda, Julie Dor, Luther Freiberg, Matthew Bakes, Olivia Taylor, Phoebe Sceresini, Vide Freiberg and Zig Freidberg sharing the load.
Weipa parkrun is held from 7am each Saturday at the hospital roundabout shelter in Nanum.
Swimmers dive into vehicle washing mode for teammate
IT was an all-hands-on-deck community effort to help a Cooktown swimmer shine on the national stage on 13 September.
The Cooktown Amateur Swimming Club (CASA) held a car wash and sausage sizzle at Cooktown Hardware to help fundraise to get 10-year-old Maiika Hegamaea to Ballarat for the 2025 School Sport Australia Swimming Championships in October, with her teammates and
the community turning out in force to show support.
CASA members traded swimming for soapy vehicles for the morning, and club president Melissa Gunton praised their commitment to their teammate.
“These kids here today, they just do it for their teammates,” she said.
“We’ve had a lot of support, especially the RSL’s been a big support, the council, Lions Club, and the schools have chipped in as well.”
Ms Gunton said getting Hegamaea to the national titles would be an incredible achievement for the small Cape York club.
“Swimming from a 25-metre, six-lane pool down to a 10-lane, 50m pool is a big thing when you’re competing,” she said.
“These kids are only training two to three days a week, where other kids are swimming from seven to 10 times, on average, so it’s amazing to get to states and nationals.”
Weipa parkrun first timer Norton Collins powers across the finish line in 20:05 on Saturday morning.
It was all hands on deck on Saturday as the Cooktown Amateur Swimming Club dug deep with the buckets and sponges to help Maiika Hegamaea get to the 2025 School Sport Australia Swimming Championships in Ballarat next month.
Grogan prepares for green-and-gold assault with Aussie Wanderers
DESPITE only playing the sport since 2021, Timmirri Grogan is only weeks away from pulling on the green and gold to represent her country on the rugby league paddock.
Sixteen-year-old Grogan has been selected as part of the Wanderers Australia team that will tour the United Kingdom and France from late September, an opportunity she said she was still pinching herself about.
“As a proud Kuku Yalani Jalbu, it is a blessing to play overseas as a young Indigenous lady,” she said.
“I am so honoured to be representing our country overseas – it has always been my dream to play in green and gold, and to make my family proud.”
After starting out in the game as a 12-year-old four years ago, Grogan has made a name for herself as a versatile front rower who can adapt to the rear of the pack if required.
“The position I play is prop, but, if needed, I do play lock and second row as well,” she said.
Away from the football field, Grogan said she was looking forward to seeing some iconic European landmarks during her trip.
“I am most looking forward to visiting the Big Ben in London and the Eiffel Tower in Paris,” she said.
“Although I have not been abroad before, I have travelled around Australia, and this opportunity to travel internationally while playing my favourite sport makes me incredibly proud of my achievements.”
To help fundraise for her trip, Grogan is running a $10-per-ticket raffle with some fantastic prizes, set to be drawn on 20 September.
To secure your ticket, drop into Claude Cater Mensland or the Western Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation office in Mareeba, or text 0484 951 425.
SPORT IN BRIEF
New NPA boxing venue
BOXING in the Northern Peninsula Area has a new home.
NPA Boxing has announced it has moved its training venue from Yusia Ginau Oval to the Green Shed near the Bamaga hall due to an increase in popularity in the new club.
Training will still be held every Wednesday, with boxers aged 7-12 donning the gloves from 4:30-5:30pm, and senior participants aged 12 and over from 5:30-6:30pm.
It is free to attend as you get fit, learn boxing skills and meet likeminded people.
Pormpuraaw set to buck
ALL rodeo roads across Cape York will lead to Pormpuraaw this weekend.
The 2025 Pormpuraaw Rodeo is being held on 20-21 September and will feature calf, juvenile and open classes, meaning competitors of all ages and abilities will be able to experience the thrill of trying to tame a beast for eight seconds.
Registrations are open until 19 September, and aspiring cowboys and cowgirls can throw their hat in the ring at the council office from 8am-4pm this week, or at the community hall from 4-7pm on Friday.
Kuku Yalanji woman Timmirri Grogan will don the green and gold on the rugby league paddock after being selected to travel to the United Kingdom and France with the Wanderers Australia team.
Big Dawnbusters win for ‘Lefty Loosey’ Lucas
A FIELD of 16 battled hot, blustery conditions when they vied for Dawnbusters honours on the Carpentaria Golf Club front nine on 14 September.
Three new members of the Dawnbusters family – Kindee Lawty, Paiwan Lui and Braidy Smith – were in the field as the Sunday morning fun continues to attract curious golfers wanting a pre-dawn glimpse of the Scorebook Czar, Jon Dall.
Jim Lucas, despite carding an average 53 off the stick, made the most of his ridiculously generous handicap to post nett 18 and put his name on the winner’s polo shirt for the week.
Scott Triffitt, Grant Crossley and Matt Byrne all recorded 46 to share gross round of the day bragging rights.
Leroy Ahmat, playing his sixth game of Dawnbusters, returned to the clubhouse with 51/23 to pip Beth Dall for runnerup honours by a single stroke, with the latter having to settle for the Hoffman’s instead.
Ahmat added to his collection of balls for the day by claiming the men’s long drive, while Viv Chan refused to be outdone by being both the biggest hitting woman, and the winner of the round’s pin prize on the 9th hole.
When asked about his five-stroke win, “Lefty Loosey” Lucas mentioned something about his perseverance finally paying off after chalking up his last victory on 16 March, almost six months to the day.
Dawnbusters will contest the back nine on 21 September, with the first group getting away from about 6:45am.
THE boys from bauxite country will be aiming to return home with something decidedly more silver than the soil they normally train on when they head to Cairns seeking Far North Queensland soccer glory this month.
The Weipa Junior Soccer Club team will travel south on 26-28 September for the 2025
Bomben Carnival, a community football event that allows teams to showcase their talents on the pitch against clubs from across the region.
The western Cape York lineup is a mix of old and new faces, with Kayd Rennie, Riley Fay, Tanyn Christie, Archie Thomas, Levi Rennie, Riley Wright, Freddie Thomas and
Ratu Poi Poi set to lace up their boots during the carnival.
The players have been training three times a week to work on their tactics and formation, and coach Jamie Thomas said they would be joined by some Cairns-based footballers ahead of their first match of the carnival.
“We will be joined by three
other boys from Cairns clubs to make up our full team of nine players and two subs,” he said.
“We would like to say a huge thank you to Rio Tinto and the Weipa Bowls Club for their generous donations to help us get to the tournament.
“We hope to do the Weipa soccer club proud and bring home a trophy.”
Kayd Rennie, Riley Fay, Tanyn Christie, Archie Thomas, Levi Rennie, Riley Wright, Freddie Thomas and Ratu Poi Poi, along with coach Jamie Thomas (back), are hoping to bring the soccer silverware back to Weipa when they contest the 2025 John Bomben Carnival in Cairns this month.
John
Mini Cape cowboys buck their way to USA
by CHISA HASEGAWA
CAPE YORK is rolling out the welcome mats for two little champions as they step back onto Australian soil after competing at the 2025 International Miniature Bullriders Association World Finals.
Kowanyama’s Carl “Marno” Douglas Jnr and Hope Vale’s Tyson “TJ” Ford got their taste of the world stage in Utah earlier this month as part of team Borghero Mini Buckers representing Australia, with Douglas Jnr and Ford both putting Cape York on the map as some of the best mini bull riders in the world.
Also recruited for the team was Hope Vale cowboy Kaileb Kyle, who unfortunately had to pull out following an injury at August’s Mount Isa Rodeo.
Ten-year-old Douglas Jnr was welcomed back to community with a parade last week after placing third in the finals and ranking seventh in the world.
“It’s massive, and sometimes I’m speechless,” mum Valma Lawrence said.
“It was a really different feeling [watching him], because the international rodeo was something really big, and it was a whole different scenery for us.”
Although it was a whole new ball game, she said her mini cowboy did not let the international competition pressure get to him.
“I’ve never, ever seen him nervous; he doesn’t get scared of riding mini bulls or jumping on a steer, because he trusts himself when he’s riding,” she said.
Ms Lawrence said she was impressed with how he performed, with Douglas Jnr only having started bull riding two years ago, and dealing with the challenges of practice in a remote community.
“You could say it’s natural talent, all of my kids are gifted,” she said.
She said the tournament in Utah was an incredible experience, both for the young riders and for the parents.
“He found a good rodeo family ... all the boys knew each other from chasing the rodeos around here in Australia, and they all felt comfortable around each other,” Ms Lawrence said.
“It was a really good experience for us [as parents] as well, going to the other side of the world, and to see your child competing at this level, especially being so young, it’s a dream come true.”
Although 11-year-old Ford was bucked off before the eight second buzzer on day one, his stellar performance in other rounds, including a win on day two, ranked the cowboy at fifth in the world.
“His nerves definitely got the better of him on the first day; you could see the size difference and the speed difference in the bulls, and I think that may have contributed to a little bit of stage fright,” mum Ashleigh Oberluter said.
“By the second day, everybody’s nerves sort of started to fade ... TJ, he was very lucky and he had a very good ride, so well that he ended up taking out the second round.”
Ms Oberluter said she could not accompany Ford on the trip, who instead went with his aunt, adding the experience had helped her young son gain confidence and independence.
“I think it’s served him really well to grow, to be able to ride in a whole new country without his support network, which is his immediate family,” she said.
The Hope Vale School will celebrate Ford’s achievement with a special parade and community barbeque on 10 October from 8:30am.
SPORT IN BRIEF
Suns to tackle AGM
ALL executive positions will be declared vacant when the Central Cape Suns hold an annual general meeting next month.
After a stellar 2025 season, the AGM will select a new president, secretary and treasurer as the club aims to build on the strength of the foundation left by the outgoing executive committee.
The meeting will be held in the Albatross Bay Resort conference room from 6pm on 8 October, and is open to anyone interested in putting their hand up to help with the continuing growth of the Suns.
Lucas takes chocolates
JIM Lucas has come back from his road trip a new golfer after posting a convincing Wackers win on 10 September.
Lucas (49/31.5) was the best of the 16 players around the front nine, with Mick Cerneka (42/33) securing runner-up on a countback with Grant Crossley.
Steve Kennett and Paiwan Lui took home the pin prizes for their respective efforts on the 7th and 9th holes.
Hedu was the weekly Bradman’s winner.
Billfish anglers keen
ANGLERS wanting to get an early bird registration in for Weipa’s premier billfishing showdown only have 10 days left to do so.
Early nominations for the 2025 Carpentaria Marine Services Weipa Billfish Tournament close at 5pm on 26 September, with competitors set to go head-to-head from 3-7 October.
For more information about registering, call Duncan Hockey on 0477 277 428 or email weipabillfishclub@gmail.com.
In just two years, mini cowboy Carl Douglas Junior has gone from small Kowanyama rodeos to being ranked seventh in the world.
Hope Vale’s Tyson “TJ” Ford celebrates a win on day two after a shaky start at the 2025 International Miniature Bullriders Association World Finals.
• Only furniture and electrical business in Weipa
• Established for over 10 years & run locally • Partnered with three great buying groups, Furniture Court, Beds R Us & Bi-Rite • Established relationships with all local government departments, community trusts & businesses within Weipa & surrounds • Premises currently leased until September 2026
• Price includes 2021 Isuzu NPR truck & a 2005 Isuzu truck + 5 storage containers behind the store front
• Stock is at value
• Opportunity to purchase or lease a 24 x 14 metre shed, located at Evans Landing on a 1588 square meter industrial block • Last three years trading figures are available after the signing of a confidentially agreement
