IN STEP WITH CULTURE
Festival celebrates past, present and future
Cultural celebration lies at the heart of the Winds of Zenadth Festival – just ask the Neguams Dance Troupe of Mer (Murray Island). The 2025 theme, Connecting Past, Present & Future, brought the Torres Strait to life as Mayor Elsie Seriat proudly sang the event’s praises. Join the celebration on Page 3.
The Neguams Dance Troupe of Mer (Murray Island). Photo: Lewis James Media.
More questions arise over Cook MP’s chartered helicopter
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By ANDREW MCLAUGHLIN
CONTROVERSY has erupted over the use of a chartered helicopter by Member for Cook and acting Queensland Parliamentary Speaker David Kempton to attend the opening of Cow Bay Primary Health Centre on 15 August.
Mr Kempton and his media adviser chartered the Robinson R44 helicopter to fl y from Cairns to Cow Bay to open the centre, stopping en route at Port Douglas to pick up a journalist.
wrote in a 21 August post on social media.
“As if that’s not bad enough, David Kempton decided to land his chartered helicopter on the new emergency helipad at Cow Bay Primary Heath Centre –without seeking approval from Queensland Health.”
Mr Kempton returned fi re, saying the charter was entirely within the parliamentary rules for travel according to the members’ remuneration handbook.
Mr Kempton said the helicopter was supposed to land in a sporting field adjacent to the centre.
“Upon arriving at the health centre, the pilot observed a horse and rider on the sports ground where he was scheduled to land,” he said.
“The pilot circled looking for an alternate site, and none being available, took the decision to touch down on the hospital helipad, disembark the passengers and land the helicopter outside the hospital perimeter.”
Mr Kempton said the helicopter was on the landing pad for less than one minute.
“The charter company broke no laws in touching down on the helipad,” he said.
“The total cost of the charter from my travel allowance was $650 as there was no return flight to Cairns.
“I make no apology for the enormous effort I am putting into representing the people of my electorate of Cook and the way I go about the electorate
considering the decade of neglect by Labor.”
In a more recent social media post, Mr Healy shifted his focus from Mr Kempton to the helicopter charter company.
“Did the landing on the emergency helipad comply with Civil Aviation Safety Authority regulations and civil aviation law?” he asked.
“Did the charter pilot hold the appropriate licences and endorsements? Was the aircraft airworthy?”
Despite Mr Kempton claiming the charter was within parliamentary rules, the matter has now been referred to an inquiry by Queensland’s Parliamentary Service which provides administrative support to and oversight of the state’s MPs.
“If a member makes their own travel arrangements, they are responsible for verifying the safety records of companies engaged and/or the maintenance of their own aeroplanes,” a Parliamentary services spokesman said in a statement.
THE Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) told Cape York Weekly it didn’t comment on investigations into individuals or operators that may or may not be underway.
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The helicopter landed at the health centre’s emergency helipad to let Mr Kempton and the journalist off, before taking off and landing in a nearby field to wait for the return journey.
The helicopter reportedly experienced an electrical fault and couldn’t make the return journey, forcing Mr Kempton to return to Cairns by road.
Labor member for Cairns Michael Healy accused Mr Kempton of being “out of touch” for using the chartered helicopter to attend an event two hours’ drive from Cairns.
“Who is he meeting with that he needs a chopper to get there, paid for by taxpayers, and why is he keeping it secret from Queenslanders?” Mr Healy
“I work tirelessly for the people of Cook, which is an enormous electorate of 200,000 square kilometres with no public transport and regular public flights only between major centres. Getting around has its challenges,” he said in a statement.
“Helicopters are used extensively to transport frontline workers, health workers, power providers, public servants etc, in their hundreds each year throughout Cape York and Torres Strait.
“As there are no scheduled flights to Cow Bay or an airstrip for conventional aircraft, having considered all factors, I decided to charter a small fourseater helicopter in respect of which the quote for the charter Cairns to Cow Bay and return was $1300.”
“It is inappropriate for CASA to comment on individual cases,” a CASA spokesman said in a statement, adding it would publish enforcement actions on its website once an investigation was complete.
“There is no CASA penalty associated with landing on emergency services helipads, provided the operation is conducted safely.
“However, it may result in legal action by the helipad’s owner or by state or local authorities.”
CASA doesn’t regulate the use of helipads nor is it against Australian air safety regulations for a private helicopter to land on a hospital landing pad.
In a statement, Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service (CHHHS) told Cape York Weekly the helipad at Cow Bay Regional Health Centre was for use by emergency aircraft.
“Specifically rescue helicopters, to enable rapid medical evacuations from the remote Daintree community,” CHHHS chief executive Leena Singh said.
“It is crucial for providing timely access to specialised care for critical patients in an area prone to emergencies and limited accessibility.
“We did not receive any requests for a private helicopter landing and the aircraft was parked beyond the Queensland Health facility boundary.”
Member for Cook David Kempton (right) takes part in the opening of the Cow Bay Primary Health Centre on 15 August. Photo: David Kempton Facebook.
Winds of Zenadth Festival brings Torres Strait to life
by CHISA HASEGAWA
FROM cultural dances and storytelling to talks of politics and the final parade, the streets of Waiben (Thursday Island) came alive for the 2025 Winds of Zenadth Festival.
The four-day biennial event in celebration of Torres Strait Islander culture, identity and community pride brought together hundreds of residents from across the Islands and Cape, as well as visitors from around the country.
Torres Shire Council Mayor Elsie Seriat said she was proud
to see the festival grow in popularity while staying true to its roots. The event was founded in 1987 by respected community leader and linguist Adhi Ephraim Bani.
Families celebrated this year’s theme, Connecting Past, Present & Future
“The festival is about bringing together families from the Zenadth Kes region (Torres Strait Islands) to help celebrate our culture, whether it’s through singing, dancing, storytelling, or arts and crafts,” she said.
“It’s definitely grown over the years for us, especially with
the joys of having social media in your hands and being able to share this kind of stuff.
“We get to see more tourists who come up to this part of the world to see and experience our culture, our ways and means of living; we’ve had people here I’ve spoken to from as far as Broome, Western Australia and Adelaide, South Australia.”
Ms Seriat said she was just three years old when the iconic event became part of the Torres Strait calendar and always loved it.
Now, as a politician, she also had a newfound appreciation for
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
it as an opportunity to share the challenges of her people.
“As a politician, being able to talk about the struggles that are a priority for us in our regions, such as the high cost of living, climate change, and all these things we face up here has been important,” she said.
“We’ve been able to have all these media outlets covering these stories for us, and gaining the attention of mainland people but also other politicians.
“Just to be able to talk to the world and the nation through sharing our culture, but also our key issues up here, has been great.”
Colour, culture and imagination filled the festival.
Photo: Lewis James Media
Young people keep their culture alive through traditional dances. Photo: Lewis James Media.
The rythms of Torres Strait cultures set the tone for a lively celebration. Photo: Lewis James Media.
Mayor Elsie Seriat is proud to share the beauty and challenges of life on the Torres Strait Islands. Photo: Lewis James Media.
Festival goers take to the streets on day 4 for the final parade. Photo: Lewis James Media.
Basket weaving in the shade honours the traditional arts and crafts of the Torres Strait people. Photo: Lewis James Media.
Families come together in honour of this year’s theme, ‘Connecting Past, Present & Future’. Photo: Lewis James Media.
Adventurer to get good look at Cape coastline on fundraising voyage
ADVENTURE enthusiast Jamie Vogler will set off on an epic solo boating voyage next month to highlight the places and faces of remote Far North Queensland while raising funds for the Cowboys Community Foundation.
Mr Volger will embark on the Coast to Carpentaria Charity Challenge from Townsville in late October in a custom seven-metre vessel for the month-long journey around Cape York to Normanton in the southern Gulf of Carpentaria.
He said he was looking forward to showcasing some of Cape York’s remotest communities on his adventure.
“I can’t wait to be back on the water – it’s definitely going to be a challenging journey but extremely rewarding,” Mr Volger said.
“Many Aussies, and North Queenslanders themselves, have never had the opportunity to visit some of the amazing locations on my list, so we’ll be capturing and sharing stories and experiences along the way.
“By shining a light on the places and faces we encounter, we also hope to raise awareness and funds to support the Cowboys Community Foundation.”
Perth-based Mr Volger said he had been drawn to the breathtaking landscapes and waterways of the region while completing a 14day solo charity jet ski ride from Tweed Heads to Cape York earlier this year.
North Queensland Cowboys community engagement officer Tahlulah Tillett said the adventure would help showcase and build on the strong existing connections the club enjoyed with the people in remote communities.
“I’m privileged, in my role at the club, to have the opportunity to connect with students
and families in so many wonderful locations across the North and Far North,” she said.
“We’re excited to have Jamie join us for some of our community engagements including Try for 5! visits, which encourage increased school attendance for primary school students.”
The voyage will depart Townsville on 19 October and, on Cape York, will stop at Wujal Wujal, Cooktown, Cape Melville, Lockhart River, Captain Billy Landing, Bamaga, Mapoon, Weipa, Aurukun and Pormpuraaw.
Mr Volger has set a fundraising goal of $25,000 for the Cowboys Community Foundation, and you can donate at www.cowboysfoundation.org.au.
North Queensland Cowboys community engagement officer Tahlulah Tillett offers adventurer Jamie Volger some support ahead of his solo boating voyage from Townsville to Normanton.
The route Jamie Volger will take around Cape York during his epic voyage next month.
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
New cancer service to support Cape, Torres patients navigating new reality
by CHISA HASEGAWA
GETTING a cancer diagnosis can be frightening, especially when you have to be away from everything you know to undergo treatment, but a new program will offer additional support to Cape York and Torres Strait patients.
Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) and Mookai Rosie BiBayan announced the launch of their new Cancer Care Co-ordination Service earlier this month, which was designed to provide culturally safe social and emotional wellbeing care to First Nations people navigating their cancer journeys.
Cooktown woman Melissa Gibson, who was diagnosed with terminal lung and gastrointestinal cancer in 2023, and is now attending regular oncology appointments in Cairns, said additional support from people who understood Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture was vital.
“When I was diagnosed, I was shocked, and had no idea what to expect,” she said.
“I think any extra support you can get from people who understand our culture is going to be helpful, because it can be scary to leave community and come to Cairns, especially for older people.
“This new service is going to be a great support for a lot of people in our communities.”
Mookai Rosie Bi-Bayan chief executive officer Theresa Simpson said the primary role of the joint service, which was launched after the two organisations were successfully awarded an $880,000 grant over three years from Cancer Australia, was to support patients who travelled to Cairns for treatment.
“Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be life-changing, and we want to make sure
Gallery
these patients feel supported and understood while they navigate their health journey in a potentially unfamiliar environment,” she said.
“Our organisation will be able to deliver social and emotional wellbeing care to these patients through our dedicated and experienced social work team.”
TCHHS chief executive Rex O’Rourke said the service would aim to take on the entire cancer journey, starting with proactive engagement in First Nations communities about their health.
“The aim of this service is to offer person-centred, culturally appropriate care closer to home, empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across their cancer journey, whether that be prevention and early detection, through to treatment, survivorship and palliative care,” he said.
“We have launched this service with key goals to increase the number of patient referrals and follow-ups, and increase community engagement in screening, which will assist in reducing hospital admissions and emergency presentations.”
president hopes award shortlisting will attract volunteers
THEY may not have returned home with the silverware, but the president of the Vera Scarth-Johnson Gallery Association is hoping just having the Cooktown institution shortlisted for a prestigious award will help boost volunteer numbers.
The gallery, located at Nature’s Powerhouse, was in the running to bag the
Volunteer Museum/Gallery of the Year category of the 2025 Gallery and Museum Achievement Awards on 9 September after being announced as one of five finalists across Queensland.
While the prize ultimately went to the Queensland Air Museum at Caloundra, Bev Stone said she believed just being in the mix of finalists had paid dividends for
the south-eastern Cape York gallery.
“It was just great to be there, and to meet some incredible people and see what everyone else is doing in the museum and gallery world,” she said.
“When you’re competing against someone that’s got something like 200 volunteers, with our core group of about 16 or 20, it’s a bit of encouragement for what we’re doing to get that far.
“We certainly put Cooktown on the map.”
Ms Stone said she and her committee would love to see more Cooktown residents put their hand up to volunteer at the gallery, especially younger members of the community.
“It’s like every small town – every organisation is competing for volunteers,” she said.
“We’d just like to see, perhaps, the schools get a bit more involved in educating the kids that to come and see the exhibition, and learn what it’s all about.”
Cooktown woman Melissa Gibson says the new Cancer Care Co-ordination Service will be a great support for those navigating life with cancer like her.
Vera Scarth-Johnson Gallery Association president Bev Stone says she hopes recognition in a recent state museums and galleries awards will help boost volunteer numbers for the must-see Cooktown institution.
Containers for Change now open in all First Nations communities
EVERY First Nations community in Queensland now has access to a container refund scheme following the inclusion of Mornington Island and Woorabinda.
More than six million containers were returned through refund points in First Nations communities last financial year, generating $600,000 in 10 cent refunds.
Container Exchange (COEX), the not-for-profit organisation that runs Containers for Change, has codesigned each container
refund service in a First Nations community with local councils, rangers and leaders to reflect community needs and support local priorities.
Containers for Change aims to increase recycling rates and reduce litter by allowing Queenslanders to exchange eligible drink containers to either earn a 10 cent refund for each container returned or donate the proceeds to their nominated community group.
COEX chief executive officer Natalie Roach said 100
per cent coverage in First Nations communities was a significant milestone for the scheme.
“Ensuring First Nations communities have access to the scheme is a significant step forward in making recycling more inclusive, accessible and community driven,” Ms Roach said.
“Guided by local leadership, this milestone has only been made possible by working closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to build these services together.
“We will continue to proudly partner with local operators and councils to bring container refund services to rural and remote areas, ensuring no container goes to waste.”
More than 400 container refund points now operate across Queensland, including in metropolitan, regional and remote areas.
The First Nations communities involved:
• Aurukun Shire Council (Aurukun)
• Burke Shire Council (Doomadgee)
• Cherbourg Shire Council (Cherbourg)
• Cook Shire Council (Coen)
• Douglas Shire Council (Mossman Gorge)
• Hope Vale Shire Council (Hope Vale)
• Kowanyama Shire Council (Kowanyama)
• Lockhart River Shire Council (Lockhart River)
• Mapoon Shire Council (Mapoon)
• Mornington Shire Council (Mornington Island)
• Napranum Shire Council (Napranum)
• Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (Bamaga, Injinoo, Seisia, New Mapoon and Umagico)
• Palm Island Shire Council (Palm Island)
• Pormpuraaw Shire Council (Pormpuraaw)
• Torres Shire Council (Horn Island, Prince of Wales Island, Thursday Island and Hammond Island)
• Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) (Murray Island, Darnely Island, Stephen Island, Yorke Island, Coconut Island, Sue Island, Yam Island, Mabuiag Island, Badu Island, Moa Island, Saibai Island, Dauan Island and Boigu Island)
• Weipa Town Authority (Weipa)
• Woorabinda Shire Council (Woorabinda)
• Wujal Wujal Shire Council (Wujal Wujal)
• Yarrabah Shire Council (Yarrabah).
COEX runs the Containers for Change scheme in Queensland on behalf of the Queensland Government.
Renewable energy dream comes to life in Wujal Wujal
by CHISA HASEGAWA
A LONG-HELD vision of community-led renewable energy for the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people is becoming a reality with a new microgrid project in Wujal Wujal.
Arising from the devastating flooding impacts of Tropical Cyclone Jasper, the project was launched earlier this month at the site on the banks of the Bloomfield River by Member for Cook David Kempton.
The project is designed to deliver reliable, renewable and locally owned power to the southeastern Cape York community.
Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation chief executive officer Josh Paterson said the project would play a critical role in enhancing disaster resilience.
“This project was born out of the trauma and tragedy our people experienced during the Cyclone Jasper flooding event, and it is a powerful step towards a stronger, more resilient future,” he said.
“Critical utilities and infrastructure, such as internet, communications, sewerage
and water, are all reliant on power, and will now be far more secure.
“With the generation site located close to the community, the risk of failure during a disaster is minimal.”
Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation board member Trinity Clarke Nyunkul said
the launch was about more than just the current generation.
“It’s for future generations, not just for our children and grandchildren, but their greatgrandchildren,” she said.
“The journey to this point began tens of thousands of years ago, when our old people, our clans, had good governance and social structures focused on sustainability.”
Mr Kempton emphasised his hope the project could bring the community closer to those times of independent governance.
“Wouldn’t it be wonderful to see a day when the community can once again generate its own education, health services and food, no longer dependent on outside supply,” he said.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Paanja Festival time
THERE will be something for everyone when the 2025 Mapoon Paanja Festival gets underway on Friday.
The free community event will be held from 26-28 September and include a diverse range of activities to entertain patrons, including the cultural dance competition, which will have troupes from across Cape York and the Torres Strait competing for $10,000 in prizemoney.
Anglers will be vying to take home a new boat in the Barra Bash, which is being held in conjunction with the festival.
For more information, check out the Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council Facebook page.
Week left for Rio grants
CLUBS and community groups in Weipa, Napranum, Aurukun, Mapoon and the Northern Peninsula Area have just seven days left to submit an application for round two of Rio Tinto’s 2025 Sponsorships and Donations Program.
The program provides funding for local programs and initiatives that enrich the region and contribute to making it a vibrant place to live and work.
To request an application form before the 30 September deadline, email RTAWeipaFeedback@riotinto.com.
Disaster date set
RESIDENTS will be able to get a sneak peek next month at what Weipa’s evacuation centre would look like during an emergency situation.
Weipa Town Authority (WTA) has announced the 2025 Get Ready Weipa Disaster Expo will be held from 9-11am on 11 October at the Weipa Storm Surge Shelter (WSSS).
A spokesperson for the event said there would be a surprise for attendees when they walked through the doors of the WSSS.
“This year, we plan on showcasing the true reality of what the shelter would look like during an activation,” they said.
For more information, check out the WTA website or Facebook page.
The Wujal Wujal microgrid project launch is bringing a multi-generational dream of community-owned energy to life. Photo: Supplied.
The container scheme aims to help protect the environment and return funds to the community. Photo: Supplied.
Upgrading Barlow Park and the Manunda Sports Precinct
As well as upgrading Barlow Park and the Manunda Sports Precinct, here are some of the ways the new Queensland Government is delivering for Far North Queensland:
➡ Delivering a new Barron River Bridge
➡ Delivering a new youth justice school
➡ Upgrading the Edmonton Police Station
➡ Fixing the Bruce Highway and constructing the Rocky Ring Road
➡ Expanding Cairns Hospital with more beds and a multi-storey car park
➡ Backing tourism with the Wangetti Trail and the Smithfield Mountain Bike Trail
➡ Returning maternity services to Cooktown.
Find out what else we’re delivering for you.
Delivering for Queensland
Children to unleash inner rockstar at fun-filled Wallaby Creek Festival
by CHISA HASEGAWA
FROM a dedicated children’s festival to a rock band for kids, youngsters at this year’s Wallaby Creek Festival will have their entertainment dreams realised.
Heralded as “The Clash for kids”, Brisbane-based rock collective Blue Tac will take to the festival stage following a performance at the Cooktown Discovery Festival in June.
Blue Tac was born out of lead singer-songwriter Lachlan “Locky” Sykes’ dream of using music as a springboard for literacy development and connection with young people. He discovered this love for making music with the children of Lama Lama while based in Coen 10 years ago.
Bands coordinator Beck Payne said the act would feature a local twist with several community members set to fill in and young festival-goers invited to have their moment on stage.
“With usual bass player Ben Shaw unavailable, the capable hands of Cooktown State School music teach Sam Jeffries will again be taking the reins, and with the usual backing vocalists Katina and Harmonie unavailable, Cooktown locals, myself and Bell [Faber], will be stepping up,” she said.
“The main duty, other than singing and rocking out, is to support younger volunteers being invited up on stage to sing all the choruses, as well as dance during the verses.”
When they’re not busy rocking out to Blue Tac, children can engage in interactive activities under the Magic Fig Tree space, including potion making, cooking in the mud kitchen, putting on a puppet show, and much more.
“The children’s festival provides a beautiful opportunity for parents and guardians to spend quality time with their children, by helping them to navigate their own adventure, to encourage participation in activities and workshops of interest to them, and to assist with building on their musical, artistic, creative, cultural, and social skills and knowledge,” children’s festival coordinator Rachel Cunado said.
“[It is] a place to have fun and
NQBP Community Fund open for non-profits
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 $9500 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.
Weipa grows it locally
games, through genuine connections and creative expressions with both the land we share and with each other.
“Our vision is to invigorate, rejuvenate and nurture our children’s little bodies and their big minds and souls.”
The Wallaby Creek Festival runs 26-28 September. Saturday ticket $150 includes camping; $100 youth. Purchase at gate only. Details www.wallabycreekfestival.org.au
WEIPA residents now have the opportunity to show off their green thumb and embrace self-sustainability following the launch of the Grow It Local campaign last week.
Weipa Town Authority (WTA) has partnered with Grow It Local to promote residents growing their own fruit and vegetables, with heirloom cherry tomatoes, Genoa basil and Black Beauty eggplants currently available for those who register with the program.
For more information, check out the WTA website or Facebook page.
There will be something for all ages at the Wallaby Creek Festival, with children free to get as creative and muddy as they want underneath the Magic Fig Tree. Photo: Supplied.
$25,000 helping hand visits Bloomfield
by CHISA HASEGAWA
AFTER donating $25,000 to the Bloomfield community to help residents recover from the devastating impacts of the Tropical Cyclone Jasper flooding event, the Vero Insurance team decided it was time to pay a visit.
The group of young insurance brokers ditched the airconditioned offices for fourwheel drives and an outdoor barbecue as they dropped in on 20 September.
Bloomfield received the money for its Tin Shed Disaster Hub Project in Ayton in 2024 as part of the Vero Young Broker of the Year grant. The donation is given to a local community affected by a major weather event, chosen by the five state finalists of the award program.
A year on, 20 volunteers visited the community to see flooding sites, listen to the stories of those affected, and witness the impact of their donation.
Bloomfield River District Residents Association secretary Robyn Guedes said the Tin Shed in Ayton was a lifeline during the flooding disaster, but it needed improvements.
“For the first time, it was used as a disaster hub during
A year after donating $25,000 to the Bloomfield community in the aftermath of the Tropical Cyclone Jasper flooding event, Vero Insurance volunteers paid a visit to get to know the community they were helping. Photo: Supplied.
the floods,” she said. “But there was no kitchen facilities, there was a really rudimentary shower and a toilet, and no fans in the place.
“We needed to improve the Tin Shed and make it a better place for a disaster hub.
Ms Guedes said Vero staff also visited the community’s memorial rock for Ray Dark, who lost his life during the floods. Vero financed the memorial’s cementing, tiles and plaque.
“I took them down to Ray’s rock first, then to what was left of his house, just a slab with tiles on it near the rock,” she said.
“I took them there to give them a bit of an idea of the impact of the flood and what it had done.”
She said volunteers lis-
tened to residents’ stories over a barbecue, helped out with building modules for the Tin Shed kitchen, as well as enjoyed a day as part of the community with activities including weaving and a market day.
Ms Guedes said the donation and visit helped residents feel “seen” instead of being a small community often ignored.
“We felt extremely overlooked at the time of the flood; we had to really press to get help after the event – it was like we didn’t exist,” she said.
“They did come to the party, we did get assistance, we just had to make our voices heard to get it. But we were feeling a bit neglected at the time.”
Cape York on high alert for tick spike
by CHISA HASEGAWA
WITH another hot and wet few months to come on the Cape, tick prevention for dogs is becoming increasingly important to keep our furry friends healthy.
Claims made to PetSure, Australia’s leading pet insurer, showed a clear seasonal trend for tick paralysis cases, with October 2024 recording an 87 per cent rise in claims compared to the month prior.
With Cape York’s humid climate and vast bushland, Cape Animal Protection Shelter (CAPS) president Shayna Reeves said ticks were a year-round problem in the region.
“Ticks and fleas are common in Cape York all year round, especially because there’s so much bushland,” she said.
“Because we get so much rain, the ticks are then looking for somewhere else to live, because they generally live in the ground … they need to move, and that’s when they latch onto the host.”
Ms Reeves said the dogs taken in at CAPS were often in bad shape due to issues such as ticks, and treatment was costly.
“We have had several dogs that have come in severely anemic, and they’re in really poor condition,” she said.
“The ticks are drawing blood ... they can also have heartworms that are also drawing blood, and that’s two and a half thousand dollars to treat.
“We’ve had to have dogs that [need] blood transfusions and all sorts of treatments, and it’s definitely costly.”
Prevention showed to be significantly cheaper than treatment after the fact, with PetSure reporting a $3320 average claim for tick paralysis and a $57,480 maximum claim.
Ms Reeves said CAPS had found tick, flea and worm protection Simpartica Trio to be an effective prevention measure.
“We’ve tried several different preventions, and Simpartica Trio has definitely been, by far, one of the better ones that we’ve used, just by shown results,” she said.
“That’s administered monthly, and roughly for the dogs that we have in here, we can spend anywhere between $500 to $700 (per month).”
Community rescue Benny was covered in ticks when taken in by Cape Animal Protection Shelter. Photo: Supplied.
by CHISA HASEGAWA
IN a remote community where in-person services are few and far between, Cooktown residents relying on disability services can breathe a sigh of relief after Centacare FNQ announced it will not be pulling back on support.
The reassurance comes after media reports about Centacare Brisbane’s withdrawal from some disability services in the area, sparking concern in Cooktown, Cairns and Atherton, which are covered by the FNQ branch.
Centacare FNQ mental health and wellbeing manager Gillian Donkers said locally based, face-to-face support was irreplaceable.
“I know a lot of services would do the virtual support to the community, or fly-in, fly-out kind of thing, but I think one of the big things is that we actually are based in the local community,” she said.
“Our worker there
is fulltime, and they do also go south to Wujal Wujal as well as north to Hope Vale, so they have a bit of a reach as well to other, more remote communities.”
Ms Donkers said Centacare FNQ offered support coordination services to the region, making rapport with clients and working relationships with other disability support providers in the area invaluable, which would not be possible if support were pulled from small communities such as Cooktown.
“I guess the biggest barrier would just be that lack of knowledge of how the community works, what providers are in the community, and relationships within the community,” she said.
“A big part of that is building trust with different providers, and building those working relationships by talking to them face-to-face, and ensure the best support for community members.”
Kidney care teamwork results in dramatic life changes in Cape York
THE findings are in – the Cape York Kidney Care (CYKC) team’s dialysis results and the region’s fight against serious kidney disease are clear for all to see.
Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) Dr Natalie Pink presented the data during the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service Research Symposium on Friday, 12 September.
The study found the number of patients starting dialysis in the Western Cape had more than halved since the start of the CYKC service in 2020.
The Weipa-based clinicians deliver culturally centred kidney care to residents in six communities of the Western Cape region.
The CYKC team is made up of a rural generalist doctor, renal nurse practitioner, dietitian and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health worker. They currently see about 400 patients across six communities – Aurukun, Pormpuraaw, Kowanyama, Napranum, Weipa and Mapoon.
Tertiary-based nephrologist, Dr Janelle Prunster supports the team remotely.
Dr Pink, a proud Nyikina woman, said the team’s unique transdisciplinary model, focusing on cultural safety and relationship building through clinical yarning, was a key driver to success.
“This service has been built on engagement with community members and key stakeholders about ways of de-
livering this service, so we have really good engagement and outcomes,” she said.
“We try and create a safe space where we can sit and yarn with the patient, talk about their life stories which gives comfort to open up about their health journey.
“It is often about us learning from their life experience, culture and knowledge of traditional ways of knowing and doing, rather than the other way around.”
The study found almost 40 people in the region from 2016 to 2019 started dialysis, compared to 18 since the CYKC program began.
Dr Pink said team members had been able to engage with patients on a down-
ward trajectory with their kidney function and stabilise their condition.
The team travels to each community regularly throughout the year and Dr Pink is hopeful the program will expand to other regions of the Cape.
TCHHS executive director Medical Services Dr Marlow Coates said the program had been incredibly successful since its inception.
“As a health service we are focused on closing the gap and programs such as Cape York Kidney Care are a key way we can achieve this,” he said.
“The way this team has partnered with their communities to develop a culturally safe model which increases community engagement is fundamental in our region.”
Staff from the successful Cape York Kidney Care team: nurse practitioner Kimberley Withers, dietitian Kaylah Schroeter, Dr Natalie Pink and program manager Natasha Wellby. Photo: Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service.
NPA market day takes learning beyond classroom
by CHISA HASEGAWA
WHEN you are busy going to class and doing homework, it can be hard to understand when it all comes together, but a market day in the Northern Peninsula Area has connected school subjects for students.
Northern Peninsula Area State College (NPASC) junior secondary students took their skills from Economics and Business, English, Science, Maths and the Arts to create a collaborative community event earlier this month, creating a variety of handmade goods to sell to local buyers.
Although the market day had previously been run through the school, the event was student-led for the first time this year.
“The purpose of this multi-disciplinary learning experience in junior secondary school is to provide students with opportunities to make meaningful connections across subject areas while engaging with an authentic real-world context,” an NPASC staff member said.
“Students can move beyond learning in isolation
by applying knowledge and skills from multiple disciplines to a common project.
“The market day also allows students to incorporate local culture and community knowledge in their learning.”
The staff member said the students worked hard throughout the term to create a variety of products, from scrumptious foods to goods that could be used in the home by everybody.
term three, the stu-
“Throughout term three, the students worked on designing, planning and making homemade food, beauty products, hand-printed bags, wooden chopping boards and handmade cards,” the staff member explained.
“Students also created advertising and marketing material, while developing customer service skills through speaking and listening activities in English.” porate local culture and throughout
“While cooking, many scientific processes were analysed and applied, so students can understand chemical and physical changes.
Pictured: Mackay Surf Life Saving Club.
Ellen Mosby and Moira Ingui show off their cooking skills with a homemade baked goods stall. Photo: Supplied.
Fresh hot dogs off the grill prepare community members for a day of market day shopping. Photo: Supplied.
Esther Yoelu cools down the community on a hot day with homemade ice cream. Photo: Supplied.
Mervinah Salee, Rhianna Kepa, and Altovise Sailor. Photo: Supplied.
Retail Manager – Bottle Shop
Sovereign Resort Hotel Cooktown
Retail manager Bottle Shop
Full time 38 hours
Salary subject to hrs and experience $93000- $100,000. FTE
The Sovereign Resort Hotel Cooktown is a 4-star resort based in Tropical Far North Queensland. We are seeking a driven & experienced Retail bottle shop Manager to lead the operations of a successful bottle shop in Cooktown.
As Retail bottle shop manager, you will be responsible for day-to-day store operations, including team leadership, stock control, visual merchandising, ensuring compliance with liquor licencing laws. Your focus will be creating a welcoming customer experience while driving performance & profitability.
Responsibilities
• Oversee daily operations across the venue to ensure smooth, efficient service
• Manage liquor inventory, ordering, stocktake processes, and supplier relationships
• Ensure strict compliance with local liquor laws and licensing requirements
• Train, lead, and motivate FOH staff to deliver exceptional guest experiences
• Implement and refine SOPs to improve efficiency, safety, and profitability
• Monitor sales and performance data to support growth and service excellence
• Act as a key contact for licensing bodies and local authorities
Skills and Experience
• Proven experience in retail liquor or hospitality management
• Strong leadership, organisation & communication skills
• Proven stock and inventory management capabilities
• Monday to Friday Roster, Manage own hours
• Current RSA and understanding of liquor licensing regulations
• Computer literacy
• Experience with POS system, inventory software and reporting tools
Please email your resume to: rachael.webber@sovereignresort.com.au
Resumes only accepted by email
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
ugh your calendar
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.
Whillier
Qxpress:
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.
AFL Cape York medallists show strength on and off field
by CHISA HASEGAWA
YOUNG AFL stars in the making are following in the footsteps of their predecessors as they shine on and off the field.
The Cape York Crusaders, a team made up of AFL Cape York boarding students from across the region, were invited to the Under 17 Pacific Nations Challenge in Cairns earlier this month and the Crusaders girls took top spot as carnival champions.
Two standout players were selected by the AFL Cape York coaching staff to be awarded the Kathleen Peter Medal (female) and Thomas Holland Medal (male).
AFL Cape York regional development coordinator Kieran Sciberras said each medal carried the name of a legendary alumnus who had excelled after going through the Crusaders program.
“They’re named after two former players who’ve come through the pathway,” he said.
“Tommy Holland, one of the original Crusaders, and Kathleen Peter, one of the first female players who made it all the way up to Queensland when it was only boys really playing the sport.”
Ashandra Bond was this year named Kathleen Peter Medallist, Corey Anderson received the Thomas Holland Medal.
“As well as displaying responsibility, pride and respect, Tommy’s physicality and mental toughness during his playing days were something Corey emulated really well,” Sciberras said.
“He was a standout among his peers. He played very well throughout the carnival and did all the right things.”
He said the Kathleen Peter Medal was especially important in showing girls they had the potential to excel in the sport as much as the boys.
“You can’t be what you can’t see,” he said.
“It’s really good to see, especially in the women’s space, more female footballers taking to the game and being able to emulate role models like Kathleen Peter who have paved the way.
“Going from not having an under-12s allgirls team to now having under-12s, under-14s and under-17s girls ... they’re getting the same opportunities as the boys now, which is really promising.”
Craven fires 39 but second gamer grabs Dawnbusters handicap honours
A SMALLER than usual number of Dawnbusters tackled the Back 9 of the Carpentaria Golf Club in what could only be described as elevated temperatures.
Ross Craven showed the way on the day with a 39 off the stick. But with handicaps in place Kindy Lawty took the win and the highly sought-after polo shirt after just her second game of Dawnbusters. Kindy posted a 49 to take victory.
Despite his round, Ross had to be content with runnerup on the day. But he took longest drive and nearest the pin. Hoffmans was bagged by Steve Kennett while neither of the two women wanted to keep their drives on the first fairway to secure the women’s longest drive which went begging for another week.
Next week will see Dawnbusters attempt to assert its ownership of the Front 9 when players tee off on 28 September at about 6.45am.
New players are welcome.
Ashandra Bond (middle) received this year’s Kathleen Peter Medal after emulating the AFL Cape York alumnus at the Under 17 Pacific Nations Challenge in Cairns.
Photo: Supplied.
Thomas Holland Medalist Corey Anderson (left) stands alongside award namesake and original Crusader player Thomas Holland. Photo: Supplied.
Weipa fighter leaves it all in the ring for first Mareeba bout
A CAPE York boxing champion is landing blows across the state after dominating the competition in Mareeba earlier this month.
The pressure was on Cape York Boxing Weipa’s Billy Reynolds as the only fighter to represent his region at the Mareeba Amateur Boxing Club fight night on 13 September. But he beat the heat and came out on top as the 63kg champ across three rounds.
Though the fight ended in a split decision, Reynolds said he was satisfied with his performance in the ring and the result motivated him to keep pushing.
“I felt happy, I left everything in there,” he said.
“It’s good when it’s a split decision; it means the fight was a good fight where the other fella is the exact same level and he’s hard to beat.”
Cape York Boxing Weipa founder and coach Scott Wallace said Reynolds was the uncontested champion in his eyes.
“I think he won every round fairly, but it’s hard to come from 800 kilometres away and get a unanimous decision,” he said.
“Even if he’d lost, we knew that we’d won, so that’s the way you’ve got to look at some competitions.”
Reynolds, with teammate Samson Poi Poi, is now travelling to Mt Isa to train with Fortitude Boxing Gym founder Steve Deller and former NRL star-turned-boxer Justin Hodges, who appeared as a special guest at Weipa Fight Night 2.0 earlier this year.
“That’s going to be amazing, seeing what the boys learn off the best coaches in Australia,” Wallace said.
He said the travelling was helping to grow boxing in the small community by building relationships and Weipa, Thursday Island, Northern Peninsula Area, Yarrabah and Mareeba were all working together to ensure remote athletes get as many opportunities as possible.
SPORT IN BRIEF
PCYC’s new punch in Cooktown
COOKTOWN’S PCYC will benefit from funding to deliver activities for at-risk young people.
The $1.4 million State Government investment in sport-based programs is designed to reduce youth crime across Queensland.
Mayor for Cook Shire Robyn Holmes welcomed the opportunity to work with local police in delivering programs to engage youth in positive activities.
“Tackling youth crime starts with creating opportunities, and programs like Young People Shaping Futures give our young people positive pathways, keeping them connected to sport, culture and community instead of crime,” Mayor Holmes said.
“Supporting opportunities for police to build relationships and respect with our youth is an important step forward.”
Vote of confidence for Suns
PUT your hand up to help with the continuing growth of the Central Cape Suns when all executive positions are declared vacant at next month’s annual general meeting.
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 in the Albatross Bay Resort conference room on 8 October starts at 6pm. All welcome.
Weipa Touch grand final glory
C GRADE: Scrambled Legs 9 v Can’t Touch This 0.
B Grade: Pisswrecks 10 v Cape Candies 2.
A Grade: Top End Taggers 16 v The OG’s 6. Wackers golf
Next month, fighters are off to Yarrabah to participate in the local tournament.
“Both the boys will fight in Mt Isa, and next month, to reciprocate Yarrabah coming up and fighting at our fight night, we’re going to their fight night,” Wallace said.
BACK 9 (17 players)
“You’ve got those clubs now that are supporting each other with their fight nights to ensure their boxers are getting some time in the ring.”
Matt Byrne returned a great round of 41. Winner – Grant Crossley 40/29.5. Runner-up – Carolyn Head 58/33. NTP 15th – Rhiannan Crossley. NTP 18th – Scott Triffitt. Bradman’s – Rhiannan Crossley.
Dad Kaz Reynolds (left) and coach Scott Wallace (right) celebrate Billy Reynolds as the 63kg champion of the Mareeba Amateur Boxing Club fight night. Photo: Facebook (Cape York Boxing Weipa).
