Dancers eye cultural flow at Paytham Malkari
What happens when cultures collide? Party, song and celebration as Kawadji Wiimpa dancers welcomed troupes from Pormpuraaw and beyond for the two-day Paytham Malkari Festival in Lockhart River. Join the tradition – with its modern take – on Page 6.
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remained one of Australia’s most critical points for border protection due to its proximity to an international border and fragile marine reef ecology.
Iraci Ave, Evans Landing Mob: 0429 003 743 Ph: 4069 7183 Fax: 4069 7472 COOKTOWN DEPOT
Cnr of Endeavour Road and McMillan Streets, Cooktown Ph: 0419 759 892 CAIRNS OFFICE: Ph: 4035 4022 25 Redden St, Portsmith
THE challenges and opportunities to strengthen the security and wellbeing of the Torres Strait region took centre stage as mayors and council representatives from remote communities met with Queensland Police Service (QPS) last week.
Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) Deputy Mayor, Cr Ranetta Wosomo, told the First Nations Mayors Summit in Cairns her region
“While the Torres Strait Treaty has been instrumental in maintaining safe and cooperative border security, we must remain vigilant against emerging challenges, including illegal fishing, biosecurity threats and economic vulnerabilities,” Cr Wosomo said.
She also highlighted the need for a whole-of-government approach when implementing Blue Security and Safe Regions Strategic Plan, calling for collaboration between local mayors, DFAT, Border Force, Biosecurity QLD Health and all levels of police.
Cr Wosomo invited the
agencies to “look, listen and adapt” to co-design local solutions rather than just offering solutions used in other places.
“Domestic violence, drug trafficking, people smuggling, modern day slavery, stealing and illegal entry into our community are still major issues. It is essential for all agencies to work collaboratively to address the unique issues in the Strait.”
While acknowledging QPS improvements such as lower response times across many islands, she said opportunities to improve community safety included 24-hour availability of state police in each community, enforcement powers for liaison officers, and more community engagement and education, especially around ice [crystal methamphetamine].
“Our communities feel vulnerable and having fully sworn Queensland Police Service officers living in our communities would greatly increase safety and security. When families are comfortable with police they are more prone to report suspicious activities.”
The annual Commissioners Mayors Summit – this year held from 1-2 October – remains an important forum for First Nations leaders and QPS to engage, discuss pressing issues, and work together towards safer communities.
Outcomes from the summit will help guide future strategies and strengthen partnerships aimed at improving safety and wellbeing across Queensland’s Indigenous communities.
A study of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children has revealed what most of the Cape already knows – early cultural connections to Country, language and Mob are just as critical as preschool and playgroups in shaping wellbeing and success.
The Footprints in Time: Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children (LSIC) Early Childhood Report, led by QUT researchers and commissioned by the Australian Government Department of Social Services, draws on 14 years of data from more than 1700 children and families.
QUT Professor Kristin Laurens, from the QUT School of Psychology and Counselling and QUT Centre for Inclusive Education who co-led the report, said the longitudinal nature of the study provided unique insights.
The research showed children in remote areas were more likely to take part in cultural activities, speak Indigenous languages and maintain connections to Country, while children in urban and regional areas were more likely
to attend preschool and playgroups.
Both sets of experiences are said to be key, with cultural identity, family support and positive early learning opportunities all contributing to stronger outcomes later in life.
The report also found children thrived when parents felt supported and confident in their roles; positive teacher connections helped build confidence and engagement through primary and high school; and safe, early access to technology allowed children to learn confidence and essential skills.
The report includes children’s own reflections woven into a collective poem describing what it means to “grow up strong” and shines a light on real stories from communities across Australia.
It also puts forward a number of recommendations that highlight the need to expand culturally responsive playgroups and parenting programs, strengthen opportunities for Indigenous language learning, grow the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
education workforce, and ensure equitable digital access for families in all regions.
“This research shows that when children are supported to grow up strong in their culture, their families and their learning, they carry that strength into every part of life,” Professor Laurens said.
Read the full report online: https:// eprints.qut.edu.au/259312/
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
A toxic hitchhiker has been captured in one of the Cape’s most pristine islands.
The live cane toad discovered on Saibai Island in the Torres Strait marks the furthest north the pest has spread in Australia – sparking alarm and urgent action by local rangers.
‘This is a genuine call to action’
AN immediate, joint response is needed from the mainland to the islands, according to TSRA chairperson and former biosecurity officer George Nona (pictured)
While not a first for the region, it is the first time a cane toad has been found on the outer island of Saibai.
It is suspected the rogue toad hopped aboard a vessel and survived the sea voyage undetected.
Mura Buway Rangers from
“We must stop cane toads reaching the outer islands of the Torres Strait before it is too late,” Mr Nona says.
“This is a genuine call to action. Cane toads could devastate our island communities, wipe out native species and threaten our culture and way of life.
“These uninvited guests can hitch a ride in dinghies, hide in workboots and jump on commercial ships transporting goods, including building material.
“We need everyone travelling between the mainland and the Torres Strait including locals, tourists, tradies and transport companies to check for cane toads.”
He says island communities are also key in the battle against the introduced pest.
“Our strength is that communities and rangers are the eyes and ears of Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait),” he says.
“I urge yumpla (everyone)
the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) spotted the hitchhiking pest at the local wharf and captured it to stop the spread.
The discovery marks a troubling – and unwanted – milestone for the remote region ahead of wet season.
While there are toads on inner islands, it is one of the rare incidents cane toads – an invasive, introduced species – have reached any of the 14 outer islands of the Torres Strait.
TSRA Mura Buway Ranger David Garama said teams had been working day and night since the toad was caught in September.
“This cane toad is a first for us on Saibai but not the kind we celebrate,” Mr Garama said.
“TSRA Rangers jumped straight into action by alerting the community, running night
to keep an eye out and report any cane toad sightings to TSRA rangers, Biosecurity Queensland or local council straight away.
“Please help keep our beautiful islands cane toad-free.”
‘We’re exploring strategies’
RANGERS are using a growing toolkit of scientific techniques, including eDNA kits to get on the front foot in the fight, says TSRA Environmental Management Program manager Billie Roberts (pictured)
“eDNA sampling has been used in the Torres Strait for nearly a decade and has become a valuable tool for our rangers in the early detection of invasive species like cane toads and invasive fish (snakehead),” Dr Roberts says.
“We’re also working
patrols and stepping up cane toad monitoring beyond our regular schedule.
“Our islands are precious and we know once cane toads impact our environment, the damage can’t be undone.”
Adding to the alarm, a recent water sample has detected cane toads on Ugar Island.
Further tests are underway to confirm the result while rangers carry out night surveys to check for adult toads and signs of breeding.
Concerns have arisen the pest may be silently spreading across the culturally and environmentally rich region.
Culturally significant species such as the crocodile, frilled-neck lizard, goanna (Australian varanids), great egret and Papuan black snake are feared to be among the most at risk if cane toads spread to the islands.
closely with Biosecurity Queensland and local councils to explore strategies beyond trapping and night surveillance – looking at how we can respond quickly and prevent cane toads from establishing in new areas.”
Cane toads were first officially recorded on the inner islands of the Torres Strait in the 2000s, but are yet to establish themselves on the pristine outer islands.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised this story relates to a deceased person.
POLICE believe there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the discovery of a skull in remote country earlier this year.
A spokesperson said police investigated after human remains were located at King Creek, about 100 km north of Pormpuraaw on 3 July.
The remains were analysed and determined to be a traditional ancestral burial.
The spokesperson said officers were consulting with community leaders and Traditional Owners to conduct an appropriate repatriation of the remains.
It’s believed campers found the remains while on an annual trip to the Cape.
Further north at Mapoon, archaeologists found ancient human remains interred in sand burial mounds in 2018. They were thought to be up to 6000 years old.
POLICE are investigating a fatal helicopter crash near Kowanyama.
A search and rescue operation started about 7:30 pm on Thursday, 9 October, after a Robinson R22 helicopter failed to return to a homestead at Yagoonya, near Kowanyama, on the west coast of the Cape.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) Challenger Jet and Rescue 510 helicopter were deployed.
Searchers found the helicopter about 7 km south-east of Yagoonya about 8:30 am Friday.
The pilot and sole occupant, a 27-year-old man, was found dead at the scene.
The Forensic Crash Unit will prepare a report for the Coroner.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is also investigating the crash.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24 hours a day at www.police.qld.gov.au/ reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
Cape residents will now likely wait until next year for findings of a report into the benefits of e-mobility and safety issues surrounding the ever-popular mode of transport.
The State Development, Infrastructure and Works Committee public hearing into the inquiry on e-mobility safety and use in Queensland heard from FNQ community members in Cairns on 8 October.
The report is now due no later than Monday 30 March 2026.
It will report on:
1. Benefits of e-mobility (including Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs), such as e-scooters and e-skateboards, as well as e-bikes) for Queensland.
2. Safety issues associated with e-mobility use, including increasing crashes, injuries, fatalities, and community concerns.
3. Issues associated with e-mobility ownership, such as risk of fire, storage and disposal of lithium batteries used in e-mobility, and any consideration of mitigants or controls.
4. Suitability of current regulatory frameworks for PMDs and e-bikes.
5. Effectiveness of current enforcement approaches and powers to address
dangerous riding behaviours and the use of illegal devices.
6. Gaps between Commonwealth and Queensland laws that allow illegal devices to be imported and used.
7. Communication and education about device requirements, rules, and consequences for unsafe use.
8. Broad stakeholder perspectives, including from community members, road user groups, disability advocates, health and trauma experts, academia, the e-mobility industry, and all levels of government.
Submissions have closed, but you can write to the commission at: sdiwc@parliament.qld.gov.au
A woman can thank a coordinated emergency effort for winching her to safety after she broke her ankle at Pajinka in the Cape’s far north last Wednesday. Officers from Bamaga Police Station initially came to the woman’s aid before a Queensland Ambulance Service chopper crew airlifted her from the remote location. PHOTO: Facebook.
A 29-year-old Bamaga man was fined $3170 after Cairns Highway Patrol officers intercepted a Toyota Landcruiser in Laura on Friday, 3 October.
Police allegedly detected the vehicle driving 142 km/h in a 100 km/h zone about 4:30pm.
It is further alleged a three-year-old passenger was not properly restrained in the vehicle.
The man was issued two traffic infringement notices for exceeding the speed limit by more than 40 km/h ($1919) and driving a motor vehicle while a passenger under four years was unrestrained ($1251). He received 12 demerit points and his licence was suspended.
‘It’s about celebrating where we come from’
by CHISA HASEGAWA
FROM traditional moves to something a little more modern, Lockhart River dancers honoured their cultural continuity at the Paytham Malkari Festival.
Hours of practice came to fruition as Lockhart River Kawadji Wiimpa Dance Group members took to the Quintell Beach sand on 3-4 October to showcase pride in their community.
“It’s a very creative community – we’ve got art, music and dance – we’re particularly famous for dance, having taken out many Laura (Quinkan Dance) Festival prizes,” Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council chief executive officer David Clarke said.
“It’s a source of pride and it brings the community together in the same way our sport does.”
Mr Clarke said the festival
also welcomed dance troupes from Pormpuraaw and Yarrabah, providing a great opportunity to showcase Lockhart River culture while appreciating others.
“It’s about celebrating where we come from and celebrating traditional dance culture,” he said.
“Some of the young ones were working on some new things, but they also very much borrowed from traditionality. So
there were some interesting bits and pieces.”
Singer and Cape-lover Pere Paul, aka Big Pups, returned to Lockhart River to volunteer his time for the event after the conclusion of his Cape York tour earlier this year.
Big Pup stepped into audio production when he wasn’t entertaining the crowd with his smooth voice and guitar.
“When I started music, I
wanted to bring it to remote areas and even be a part of events just to advertise the area,” he said.
“I’m a professional singer, but we’ve hired a professional sound technician to come up and do the job. We’re learning as well, so it’s great.
“This is our second year. I would love to return every year. It’s just great seeing all the locals here coming to say hello, seeing their faces and smiles.”
CLOSE to 200 participants, some on horseback, stepped out for better mental health as part of the 11th annual Conquer the Corrugations walk.
Co-founder Emma Jackson said walkers trudged more than 44 km over two days from 4-5 October, sending a message of hope for people struggling with mental health issues.
They were inspired by many things – the loss of a loved one,
personal struggles, a sense of community or a simple desire to do their bit.
This year’s theme Be the Light highlighted the role we can all play in helping each other tackle mental health issues.
“We can all help somebody, and we can light the way,” Mrs Jackson said.
“This year we invited Lifeline, 13YARN and Standby
– this was fabulous as our participants learned more about their organisations and also more about their role, value and how to use them if a friend or loved one is struggling.
“Health and Wellbeing Queensland came on board as a sponsor incorporating steps challenges and prizes over the weekend to nicely link together emotional and physical health and wellbeing.”
Mrs Jackson said each year Conquer the Corrugations brought walkers together to connect and celebrate.
“This year was a huge success with a pizza night and glow party. We saw everyone come together on the Sunday chatting, connecting and sharing their weekend’s highlights,” she said.
“Lots of new friendships were formed over the weekend and having around 100 fewer walkers than last year meant it was a much smaller, intimate group.
“We had almost 20 people attending from Queensland Health, RFDS, Health and Wellbeing Qld, Lifeline, 13YARN and Standby which brought great value – from people having one-on-one chats about their own challenges to activities being provided at the camp location.
“Lifeline carried out a telephone simulation activity which showed everyone what happens when you make a call whether in crisis or seeking some advice. They brought a light and sometimes funny approach to the often difficult conversations.”
More photos: capeyorkweekly.com.au
Health groups put end to measles warning watch
HOSPITAL and health services have declared the measles outbreak in Cairns –and potential danger to regions including Cape York – is over.
Three weeks have passed since the last acquired case was confirmed within the region.
Twelve cases were initially identified by the Cairns and Hinterland Health Service. Another case in Brisbane prompted a public health alert.
No confirmed cases were reported in the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) region. But the TCHHS urged residents to remain vigilant at the time.
WORKS will temporarily close Mission River Bridge this week.
The bridge will be closed from 8 am to 4pm from Tuesday to Thursday, 1416 October.
Mapoon residents should be mindful of this closure if flying out of Weipa. Emergency services are aware of the procedure should access be required during these closures.
Call 1800 820 711 or email RTAWeipaFeedback@riotinto.com for details.
A 34-lot residential land subdivision in Napranum will support the delivery of 38 new social homes.
The project is part of a statewide program to build new social housing, develop residential land lots for new housing and upgrade existing social housing in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island local government areas.
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson said improved access to secure housing for Queensland’s First Peoples was critical to wellbeing and dignity.
“The Crisafulli Government is committed to Closing The Gap by delivering projects which provide measurable improvements in housing, as well as health and education,” Ms Simpson said.
Gda’y Weipa
I hope everyone enjoyed the School Holidays, or at least got to do something fun on the long weekend. The fabulous WTA Library and WASP staff were kept busy with lots of fun school holiday activities for the kids.
You might have spotted some fresh and colourful artwork on the Skate Park recently, thanks to the WTA School Holiday Program. It was a great creative project for our local youth and has really brightened up the area!
The Library team had great attendance for their activities as usual, which is a huge credit to Miss Ali and Miss Polly who, go above and beyond to make the Library such a fabulous facility for our community. If you are not familiar with the many resources and activities the Library facilitates, they are holding a "How Do You Library?' after-hours event on the 21st of this month.
Everyone is welcome to attend and discover what the Library has to offer.
The Grow It Local campaign has had a great response throughout the community, with over 90 registrations already! For those who have already registered, the first round of seeds will be eggplant, cherry tomatoes and basil. For those who are yet to register – it’s not too late! Register via the WTA website to be included in the next round, which will be coming up in December. A huge shout-out to the fabulous Kate from the WTA team for bringing this project to life!
With the wet season just around the corner, it’s time to do your part and GET READY by taking part in our annual pre-cyclone season cleanup. This is a great excuse to get stuck into the garden and tidy up the yard before the wet season. Green Waste collections will kick
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond for our community? Now’s your chance to recognise them! Nominations are officially open for the 2026 Weipa Australia Day Awards. Celebrating the incredible individuals and groups who make a positive difference in our town. Categories include Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and the Community Spirit Award.
Help us shine a light on those who make Weipa a better place to live, work, and play. Nominate a local legend before Sunday, 30 November 2025, and they could be honoured at the Australia Day Awards Ceremony in January. Visit the WTA website to submit your nomination today!
off next week, starting in Trunding.
Finally, a couple of other brief mentions:
currently open with limited vouchers still available, s sure to call or email the office to secure a spot for your furry friend on the program.
Australia Day Awards nominations are now open, so if you know someone who goes above and beyond in the community, be sure to give them a shout out and nominate them for an award. The next Weipa Community forum is on the 14th October at the Golf Club, 5:30pm. All community members are welcome to attend, updates will be given from Rio, WTA, and Weipa Integrated Health Service.
I'd also just like to remind you that
WTA’s annual free residential cyclone clean-up is just around the corner, helping residents prepare for the upcoming wet season. The collection will begin in Trunding from 20–24 October, followed by Rocky Point from 27–31 October, Golf Links from 3–7 November, and finishing in Nanum from 10–14 November
Residents are reminded to place green waste only, such as branches, palm fronds, and garden clippings, on the verge side no earlier than two weeks before and no later than the day before their area’s collection week begins.
This annual service is a great opportunity to tidy up yards and reduce potential hazards before cyclone season.
The festive season is just around the corner, and WTA is calling on local creators, foodies, and businesses to be part of this year’s Christmas Market! If you sell handmade gifts, festive treats, home décor, or unique local products, this is your chance to join in the fun and showcase your goods to the community.
The markets will be held on Saturday, 29 November 2025, at the Storm Surge Shelter, bringing together families, friends, and visitors for a morning of Christmas cheer, live entertainment, and delicious food.
Stallholders are encouraged to submit their Expressions of Interest early to secure a spot at one of Weipa’s most anticipated community events.
CONSTRUCTION of a new Noah Creek Bridge set to begin in July 2026 will pave the way to better conditions for Cape York travellers through the Daintree.
The bridge will be built to withstand future disasters, providing a stronger, more resilient connection for Far North communities after Tropical Cyclone Jasper severely damaged the
structure in late 2023.
Douglas Shire Council Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said the announcement marked a significant milestone for the region.
“This is a long-awaited project and I’m pleased we now have a confirmed start date,”
Mayor Scomazzon said.
“The bridge is a key link between Cape Tribulation, Wujal Wujal and other Daintree
communities. It supports the delivery of goods, tourism operations and everyday travel for locals.”
To maintain access during construction, scheduled for completion in late 2026, a temporary bypass will be built alongside the existing bridge.
In the meantime, upgrades to the current bridge will continue. Large, purpose-built, timber girders are expected to arrive onsite in coming weeks and be installed by the end of October.
This work will return the bridge’s minimum 16-tonne load rating and allow service vehicles such as waste collection trucks and emergency services to resume access.
The $12 million reconstruction and betterment project is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA)
with co-contributions from Douglas Shire Council.
Member for Cook David Kempton said the critical funding was key to strengthening the state against disasters of increased frequency and severity.
“This bridge has been way overdue for a replacement for a decade and I’m pleased to confirm we are able to get on with the job,” he said.
“With this announcement, residents across the Far North can look forward to safe and reliable access across Noah Creek on a bridge that will serve the region for many years to come.”
Daytime works on Noah Creek Bridge will now give way to a 10-day repair schedule planned for overnight to minimise traffic impact. The bridge will close 6:30 pm to 6 am from Monday 13 October to Wednesday 22 October 2025 during this work.
COOK Shire Council is this week continuing a series of seminars designed to boost business disaster resilience in the wake of devastating events.
Free two-hour sessions in the Lakeland Hall start at 9:30 am on Tuesday, 14 October; Portland Roads Hall at 11:30 am on Wednesday, 15 October; and Coen Hall, at 8:30 am on Thursday, 16 October. It follows sessions on Monday at Cooktown Events Centre and Ayton Library. The aim of the workshops is to help small businesses and community groups strengthen their disaster preparedness, recovery, and resilience capabilities. For more information or to register, email DMO@cook.qld.gov.au.
Funding up for grabs
YOU can now apply for up to $300,000, with no co-contribution required, in the Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund. Applications close on 12 November. Successful applicants will be advised in February 2026.
The Tourism Icons Investment Fund has also reopened for up to $5 million on a 1:1 co-contribution basis. Applicants must contribute at least 50 per cent of the total eligible project costs.
Contact Cook Shire Council for information about a letter of support. Details: www.cook.qld.gov.au.
Chamber members can contact Cooktown Chamber of Commerce and Tourism secretary Will Peck at cooktownchamberofcommerce@gmail.com Guidelines and details about eligible funding projects: www.detsi.qld.gov.au.
FOR 150 years, the Lions Den Hotel has survived everything that time – and mother nature –could throw at it. Now it’s time to celebrate.
The iconic hotel was nearly wiped from the map by the Annan River in December 2023 but, spearheaded by a Rossville and Helenvale community effort, it reopened on Australia Day 2024 in a reduced capacity.
“The pub filled up like a bucket with holes,” publican
Judy Fry recalled.
“Every ceiling in the back part of the building was gone and we had to redo all the ceilings in the pub; in the kitchen, everything had to go out.”
More than three metres of water gushed through the hotel, leaving just the roof and walls standing. A massive cleanup and million-dollar rebuild followed and the landmark hotel fully reopened for business five months later.
Now Judy, her sister Linda and Linda’s husband Darryl Paradise, are busy preparing for birthday celebrations on 1719 October.
Jack Ross and his wife Annie founded the pub in 1875. Various stories about its name exist, including a claim it was named after the Lions Den tin mine in the area.
Made of timber and iron, the hotel is famous for its quirky decorations and walls adorned with visitors’ signatures.
Its anniversary celebrations will include live music, markets, raffles and plenty of family fun.
On Saturday night, patrons are being asked to turn back the fashion clock and dress in 1800s style with prizes to be won.
Entertainers include Ella Hartwig, Shannon Hunter, Rough N Ready, Anthony Taylor, Patrick Nandy, the Roadtrippers, and the Jeremy Fletcher Band.
“It will be a big event for the pub,” Darryl said.
“We’ve had a lot of bookings. We had a couple of people in here travelling through
from Melbourne the other day; they’re now going to come back for the weekend celebrations.
“We’re expecting a good crowd.”
Darryl said assistant manager River Stanley and the team’s great staff had been key to putting the celebrations in place.
He said the pub was now fully operational after the devastating 2023 flood.
“For 150 years we’d never been burnt, flooded or blown away by a cyclone, then that happened,” he said.
“It created a lot of work for us and a lot of expenditure but it’s up and running now. We
have everything back except the fuel, we are still getting that organised.”
Darryl said running the historic hotel was a pleasure.
“It’s like a book – you meet so many lovely people and they all have a story,” he said.
“You find out a lot of history. There’s always someone who wants to have a bit of yarn and I like to talk to people.”
by CHISA HASEGAWA
COOKTOWN’S resident town crier is usually seen leading the annual Discovery Festival parade, greeting tourists as they come off the boat or reciting a poem. But his infectious personality has now been showcased on the gallery wall for the first time.
Robert “Robbo” Greenwood was one of the many faces curated at the Elizabeth Guzsley Gallery when the third Cooktown School
of Art Society (CSAS) Archies exhibition opened on 26 September.
With the Archies exhibition all about celebrating Cooktown characters, artist Hazel Moore said Mr Greenwood’s town crier garb piqued her interest.
“I really like seeing him dressed up and thought I’d like to paint him in a way that showed his personality. I think this does,” she said.
“He’s a larger-than-life, extroverted person, always
cheerful, he’s got a lot of character in his face... I thought he’d make a good subject.”
Ms Moore said portraiture was her favourite style because it provided a challenge.
“I think everybody’s face is beautiful. When you’re painting it, you always see something really interesting or good about it,” she said.
“Trying to recreate that in light and shade, and hoping you get it right, is the challenge. It’s a very
personal point of view, and of course, everybody sees things a little bit differently.
“You can draw a tree or a hill and nobody can really say whether it’s right or wrong. But we’re so used to looking at people’s faces in much more detail than we realise – even an eye a fraction out of place or a slightly larger or smaller nose is immediately noticed.”
In true “Robbo” spirit, Mr Greenwood attended the opening night in full costume and treated guests to one of his poetry readings, convincing Cooktown School of Art Society (CSAS) president Jane Dennis to incorporate poetry in future exhibitions.
“I left this year’s theme as Cooktown Characters or Cape Characters, but I think there’ll be a bit more of a guiding theme next year,” she said.
“Inspired by Robbo, I thought we should get the word out we’d do poets and musicians.”
2025 Cooktown
Archies winners
Youth 7 yrs to 13 yrs
1st: Mia Auld
Encouragement: Ezra Jones, Zyra Jones
Youth 14 yrs to 18 yrs
1st: Holly Clarke
Encouragement: Sienna
Russell, James Jarmyn
Adult – Realistic
1st: Daniel Hodgson
Encouragement: Jane
Dennis
Adult – Abstract
1st: Jane Dennis
Encouragement: Ejypt
Reuben
Adult – Other
1st: Diana Burns
Encouragement: Renee
Schneider
The Elizabeth Guzsely Gallery is home to the Cooktown School of Art Society Inc. Art & Workshops. It’s located at 125 Charlotte St, Cooktown.
by CHISA HASEGAWA
RESILIENCE and cultural pride shone at the Mapoon Paanja Festival as the community came together in celebration of 50 years since returning to their homeland.
Elders and children remembered a fragmented and traumatic history, honouring those who fought to claim back the land after they were forcibly removed.
Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council Mayor Ronaldo Guivarra said the event from 2628 September underlined the importance of restoring and strengthening culture.
“It’s all about coming back and refocusing, revival in all that we do, especially the cultural heritage of the place, the history, and being able to promote the true history of the happenings here in Mapoon,” he said.
“People have been able to start understanding more of their own personal cultural heritage, going back to their cultural sites, understanding their totems, and finding their language.
“It’s about personal identity, and we can’t [find] that when we’re out on other people’s land, they’re not speaking our language, and they have different ways and processes.”
A range of activities and entertainment kept the community busy, including the Barra Bash Fishing Competition, competitions in cultural dance and touch football, as well as live music, art exhibitions and fireworks.
Leichhardt MP Matt Smith joined the celebration, reflecting on the history behind the event and the Mapoon mission forcibly closed in 1963-64, during which some houses were burned to the ground to stop the return of community members.
For 10 years, former residents continued to lobby for the reopening of their community. In 1974, several families
returned, but it was another 10 years before the Marpuna Community Aboriginal Corporation was established.
Marpuna gradually built up the community at Rugapayn (Red Beach) to help its permanent resettlement; government recognition followed.
“It is really bringing the community together and I congratulate Mayor Ronaldo on what has been put together here on the 50th anniversary of people coming home,” Mr Smith said.
“This is a very important story in Australian history and a very important part of our culture and future.
“The legacy of Mapoon is really one of strength, resilience and beauty.”
SCHOOLS in Hope Vale and Lakeland were treated to the full check-up when James Cook University (JCU) dentistry students ran hands-on oral health workshops.
From brushing and flossing demonstrations, the students helped break down fear around dental visits – while gaining the confidence to consider rural practice.
Third-year JCU Dentistry student Parshast Sumbria said the initiative was designed to make oral health simple, approachable, and less intimidating.
“We showed school kids what a dental visit involves to help remove that stigma of it being loud and scary,” he said.
The team provided a fun and accessible way for children to engage in the oral health message, including storytelling using dental animal puppets and large teeth costumes.
This year also marked the first outreach engagement with members of the 60s and Better program at Cooktown Community Centre.
“We talked about age-adaptive brushing techniques, denture care and dry mouth management, which is a consequence of taking lots of medications,” Mr Sumbria said.
“And they asked questions around what kind of sweeteners they could use in their tea and coffee and what products they would be able to find in Cooktown to brush their teeth because things like water flossers aren’t readily available.”
The visit in September also gave students insight into the
challenges and rewards of regional health care. A tour of the Cooktown Multipurpose Health Service revealed there only 14 dental chairs and five dentists servicing the region of Cooktown up to Thursday Island.
“It was humbling to see even though there’s so many advancements going on in dentistry and medicine, there’s still that huge barrier to access them for people who live in rural and remote communities,” Mr Sumbria said.
Between sessions students explored local landmarks, including Grassy Hill Lookout, Finch Bay and the Botanic Gardens, fostering a deeper connection to the regional communities and towns.
Mr Sumbria said the initiative
reduced fear on both sides and proved a positive experience for everyone involved.
“For the community, it showed dental care doesn’t have to be scary,” he said.
“For us as students, it removed the fear of the unknown about working in rural and remote places – we saw how rewarding it can be.”
The community outreach initiative is part of JCU Dentistry’s broader focus of improving the oral health of our northern Queensland communities. To date, JCU has produced 836 dentists, the majority now working in regional, rural and remote locations, where they are most needed.
SOCIAL challenges and student attend-
ance at local schools in Bamaga and Injinoo formed part of discussions when NPA Regional Council and state college leaders met recently with Queensland’s Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek.
The minister visited the Northern Peninsula Area for the first-time meeting to understand learning challenges in the far north of Cape York.
NPARC CEO Dalassa Yorkston and councillors met in Bamaga with Mr Langbroek, Department of Education Director-General Sharon Schimming and Northern Peninsula Area State College (NPASC) principal Andrea Killen to discuss the
area’s unique issues of education delivery.
Mr Langbroek said he was aware of cultural protocols that required students to observe family needs, such as funerals and ‘sorry business’, that may restrict school attendance and create obstacles to educational excellence in the region.
“It is up to the community,” he said, stating respect for Elders, culture and traditions was important but students needed to attend school “more than a quarter of the time” to best achieve results.
Ms Yorkston said council would look to contribute potential solutions toward a successful future for the region’s students.
“We are keen to map out, unpack
reasons, strategise and produce evidence for outcomes,” Ms Yorkston said.
Ms Killen discussed plans to reintroduce dance, arts, and religious instruction back into the school curriculums.
“We see culture as part of the school community and will strategise to increase attendance.”
Councillor for Bamaga, Kitty Gebadi, also a member of the NPASC School Board – thanked Mr Langbroek and department leaders for their visit to the Northern Peninsula.
“It is important to see what we are talking about, the reality we are facing, to support a better future for our next generation.”
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by CHISA HASEGAWA
THE greens at Carpentaria Golf Club are set to be flooded in pink when the Weipa community again takes to the course for the Pink Ribbon Charity Golf Day.
After raising more than $10,500 for the McGrath Foundation last year and being invited to attend the organisation’s coveted annual high tea in Sydney, the committee is preparing for its biggest and best day of nine-hole, four-person Ambrose on 18 October.
Co-organiser Melanie Turner said the yearly fundraiser was a testament to the community’s support for a good cause and everyone had always been incredibly generous with their donations.
She said the committee team had this year increased the maximum number of players from 80 to 96 to keep up
with demand.
“We’ve actually got people on a waiting list and [the tickets] went very quickly,” she said.
“The teams filled up in about a week. That was pretty impressive.
“Even if they can’t come and play golf, everyone is very welcome to come down at 12:30 pm for the DJ and raffle.”
She said this year’s
attendees would be treated to a speech by Jane McGrath nurse Vicki Rutten – a meaningful way for golfers to hear first-hand about the cause they’re supporting.
The team was also boosted this year by a $5000 grant from Rio Tinto to cover event costs, leaving more to be donated to the McGrath Foundation.
Fresh energy and additional support has provided even
more excitement.
“It doesn’t happen without everybody, the Pink Ribbon committee giving up its time and going around and asking for donations,” Ms Turner said.
“I call them the Ambrose Angels/Army. They were angels, but this year I added `army’ because we’ve got a few new people on board and they’ve been really gung-ho at getting donations.”
TWENTY-THREE
Carpentaria Golf Club.
Flies were not in short supply for the five groups, nor was tight scoring as nine players kept in the grouping of 42 to 44 shots.
Chelsea Buckley, who hit a 55 off the stick netting at 6, took out the morning. Chelsea has just returned from an eightweek break due to a finger injury which resulted in her DNF (did not finish) last week when she attempted to rejoin Dawnbusters a little early.
Rewarded this week for her perseverance, Chelsea said her persistence and resilience in the face of adversity sealed victory – this and her handicap!
PK (Peter Kenny) took out the Bridesmaid to grab second position with a 43 off the stick netting an 11.
Les Sariman proved the left handers can mix it with the best and put in the longest drive for the men‚‘ on the 1st fairway with Vivian Chan winning the women‚‘ longest drive.
Beth Dall took out the highly sought-after Hoffman‚‘ award beating her nearest competitor Kate Kennett by four shots.
Vivian showed her abilities as she double dipped the prizes by taking out the Nearest the Pin on the 9th.
The Dawnbusters next week take on the back 9; groups are expected to tee off from about 6:15 am. New players are welcome.
Only three games remain before the Dawnbuster Championships on Sunday 9 November.
SIXTY-ONE participants, eight first-timers, five new personal bests and four clubs represented – Weipa parkrun’s 440th edition proved the event’s for all ages and experience.
Barry Cronin led the pack home over the 5 km course on Saturday in 21:35, followed by Ross Dawson (WTF – Where’s The Finish) in 22:17 and Hayden Verschuure (23:39).
The first female to finish Kathleen Love recorded 25:51 followed by Amanda Haines (26:53) and Jane Ostler (27:17).
Runners notching PBs: Wilkee Querubin (26:15), Chantelle McEnroe (30:09), Lyndsey Fielding (31:38), Matthew Moon (42:06), Kate van den Heuvel (51:53).
Adrian Foxcroft (23:40) finished fourth to head home other first-timers Nick Shaw, Nick Lloyd, MunkhErdene Erdene-Ochir, Narangarav Mend-Amar, Annabelle McCullagh, Maia Hawes and Chloe Smith.
Weipa parkrun is a fun, free event organised by volunteers for the benefit of everyone.
Thanks to 11 October volunteers Leigh Jewell, Michael Reinke, Ali Scott, Camille Freiberg, Chris Blythe, Fiona Dyer, Zigmund Freiberg and Jason Smith.
Weipa parkrun starts 7am every Saturday at the hospital roundabout shelter in Nanum.
Wackers beat the heat TRIFF and Grant Crossley hit 42 each off the stick as 14 Wackers braved the heat on Wednesday to record some great scores on the front 9.
Winner on the day Carolyn Head hit 54 with a nett score of 30 – good enough to edge out Pete Moore’s fine 46 off the stick. Scott Triffit made a great pin shot on the7th, while Pom landed on the 9th to grab that prize. Rhi Crossley walked away the happy Bradman’s winner.
annual Western Cape York billfish showdown last week (3-6 October).
“The boats brought in around 60 fish, which made it a really good competition,” Mr Roberts said.
“The champion boat caught 12.
“We had no marlin this year, only sailfish. Marlin usually grow bigger than sailfish so the size was a little down.”
Although the gulf turned a bit lumpy on Sunday, Mr Roberts said the weather gods had largely smiled on the annual tag and release event.
“Overall you couldn’t ask for better weather,” he said.
NO Bull has claimed bragging rights in this year’s Carpentaria Marine Services Weipa Billfish Tournament, taking out the Champion Boat title after three days of solid fishing.
Weipa Billfish Club president Gaven Roberts was more than happy with the results after 14 boats contested the
Teams returned to the Port of Weipa on Sunday afternoon and then rocked up for the presentation night on Tuesday, 7 October.
Weipa Billfish Club treasurer Alistair Thorogood said despite the action on the water, the competition’s high point came after fishing ceased each day when all boats gathered in Boyd’s Bay to share their successes and
failures over a drink.
“It is so inclusive, the leading boats always share exactly where, when and how they are fishing,” Mr Thorogood said.
“This is how we managed to get all competing 14 boats, three juniors and four females to tag a sailfish.
“By the second or third day all the boats were trolling circles around each other, using nearly identical equipment and sharing plenty of banter.
“There are absolutely no secrets and the results come down to angling skill and of course a little bit of luck.”
Mr Thorogood said he couldn’t imagine catching a good barramundi or coral trout in another fishing competition then getting on the radio to tell other fishers to join him on the spot.
“There is no other type of fishing like it, this is exactly what got me hooked a few years ago.”
The event also plays a critical role in understanding the region’s fishery. A sailfish tagged
in 2023 was detected off Groote Eylandt five months later, making it the first confirmed record of one crossing the Gulf.
“It adds another piece to the puzzle as we wonder about the life cycle of Weipa’s sailfish,” Weipa Billfish Club spokesperson Ben Bright said.
“While information like this is always super interesting, we will have to wait and see what statistics come from this year’s tournament.”
WINNERS of the 2025 Carpentaria Marine Services Weipa Billfish Tournament:
• CHAMPION boat – No Bull – 12 tagged sailfish
• RUNNER–UP boat – Black Pearl – 8 tagged sailfish
• THIRD–PLACED boat – Get N Any – 6 tagged sailfish
• CHAMPION Male Angler – Chris Bolton – 6 tagged sailfish
• RUNNER–UP Male – Tom Hockey – 6 tagged sailfish (decided on a countback – Chris tagged his sixth fish just before Tom.)
• THIRD–PLACED Male – Jonathan Hofmeister
• CHAMPION Female – Linda Jay –3 tagged sailfish
• RUNNER–UP Female – Tracey Small 2 tagged sailfish
• THIRD–PLACED Female – Steph Kurz – 1 tagged sailfish
• CHAMPION Junior – Owen Brooks – 3 tagged sailfish
• RUNNER–UP Junior – Sonny Brooks – 2 tagged sailfish
• THIRD–PLACED Junior – Jack Mazlin – 1 tagged sailfish
