SELINA Newman puts her laces through this kick during a practice session on the Beenleigh Buffaloes home ground, watched by teammates Gia Aragu and Leandra Elu.
Part of a team from the Torres Strait region, the girls dropped in for the skills and drills clinic with AFL Queensland as part of their trip to compete in the two-day StreetSmarts AFLQ Schools Cup in Maroochydore.
Find out how the AFL Cape York Primary Girls team became fan favourites after travelling 2500 km to take on the state’s best.
See Page 18.
NATIVE CLAIM
ALMOST 915,000 hectares of land have been handed back to Guugu Yimidhirr, Yiithuwarra and Wuthathi Traditional Owners at a landmark Federal Court hearing in Cooktown.
“This is our land,” said Yiithuwarra Traditional Owner Des Rumble.
The determination was part of the Cape York United #1 Claim, filed 11 years ago on behalf of the Traditional Owners of Cape York, and covered almost 55 per cent of the region.
But the fight has spanned generations. Story Page 3.
MELBOURNE CUP
Tuxworth
WEIPA
Iraci Ave, Evans Landing
Mob: 0429 003 743
Ph: 4069 7183 Fax: 4069 7472
COOKTOWN
Cnr of Endeavour Road and McMillan Streets, Cooktown Ph: 0419 759 892
MORE than $17,000 has been raised for cancer care in a record-breaking year that has left organisers of the Weipa Pink Ribbon Charity Golf Day tickled pink.
More than a week after the Carpentaria Golf Club was cleared of golfers in imaginative pink garb, donations are still pouring in for the McGrath Foundation to add to the nine-hole, four-person Ambrose charity event on 18 October.
Last year’s event raised more than $10,500 with 80
players on the greens. This year, an increased capacity to 96 players, a “gung-ho” committee, and a $5000 grant from Rio Tinto boosted the figure towards double that of 2024.
“It’s really heartwarming – to nearly go up $7000 is an incredible feat,” co-organiser Melanie Turner said.
“In the last two years we’ve raised over $21,000. This one [2025] is the biggest we’ve raised in my time organising it over the last five years.”
She said this year’s event was made extra special by the attendance of
Jane McGrath nurse Vicki Rutten, whose speech provided a first-hand experience of the cause golfers were supporting.
“She got to jump in a buggy and go around and see all the teams and take photos. It was fantastic,” Ms Turner said.
“We had a waiting list of people and we got all the people in that wanted to
get in. So many said they didn’t realise this was so amazing and they’re coming back next year. It has really ramped up.
“It was just decorated pink everywhere; we had people setting up from six in the morning, others putting up tarps the night before lending a hand – it was a real community effort and spirit.”
Award shines light on CYW freight coverage
THE Cape York Weekly’s focus on crippling freight costs and their impact on communities across the region has won wide acclaim at a prestigious state journalism awards ceremony on the Gold Coast.
Judges awarded the CYW runner-up in the Bean Lockyer Ticehurst Award for Excellence in Regional Journalism during the 2025 Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Annual Conference from 20-22 October.
Award organisers highlighted the work of journalist Chisa
Mr & Mrs Albert Bond Snr & family would
extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to everyone who
support, and assistance during our time of loss following the passing of our beloved Leon Horace Bond. Your kindness through messages, visits, donations, cooking, and helping with funeral arrangements has brought us great comfort. A special thank you to our extended families, friends, local community, churches, organisations, and service providers who came together with compassion and care to honour Leon’s life and support us through this difficult time. Your generosity and presence will always be remembered with gratitude. With sincere thanks, The Bond Family
more than a year with a series of news stories, photos and editorial comments to highlight the importance to readers and hit home the issue in State Parliament.
Business leaders, politicians and community members have all been given a voice and promptly weighed in on the freight plight and potential alternatives.
Coverage included the region’s letter to Premier David Crisafulli after an eye-watering $31,000 quote to transport a new garbage truck to Weipa.
a grenade under the apathetic posteriors of our elected leaders in Brisbane and Canberra because it articulates perfectly what everyone who lives on Cape York or in the Torres Strait has been screaming for so long,” the editorial on 25 March 2025 read.
“The message is clear: we have zero chance of remote economic and social sustainability if we can’t get a helping hand to get the things we need to work and play here actually up here without breaking the bank.”
The LGAQ established the Bean Lockyer Ticehurst Award for Excellence in Regional Journalism to honour ABC cameraman John Bean, journalist Paul Lockyer and chopper pilot Gary Ticehurst, who died in a helicopter crash while on
assignment in 2011.
“The Bean Lockyer Ticehurst Award has again drawn high-calibre entries covering issues of critical importance to communities – everything from natural disasters to insurance, to a forensic look at why a major dam needs to be rebuilt to a history of the iconic Mount Isa Rodeo – and from media organisations of all sizes,” LGAQ chief executive officer Alison Smith said.
“Judging criteria includes newsworthiness, incisiveness, public benefit and impact on the understanding of the issues and challenges facing regional Queensland and this year’s entries again show how important is the doggedness and professionalism for which John, Paul and Gary were renowned.”
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
Pink Ribbon Charity Golf Day organisers celebrate their biggest fundraising figure yet with Jane McGrath nurse Vicki Rutten (centre). Photo: Supplied.
‘This is our land’ Native
title claimed in Cooktown
by CHISA HASEGAWA
AFTER a fight spanning generations, Guugu Yimidhirr, Yiithuwarra and Wuthathi people have been declared the rightful custodians of their traditional lands as part of one of Australia’s largest Native Title processes to date.
The nearly 915,000-hectare claim, which covered areas in the north-east and south-east regions of Cape York, took place in Cooktown on 23 October. It marked a defining moment in a story that began more than two-and-a-half centuries ago.
Yiithuwarra Traditional Owner Des Rumble, who attended the Federal Court hearing as a claimant on behalf of his grandmother, said the determinations were about “more than just being recognised”.
“This is our land and we’ve always known that, and continue to hold that,” he said.
“At the end of the day, it was
just great to see the pure emotion that was flowing and the happiness of the people to come here and to know the struggles of their forefathers were finally being recognised in Australian law.
“We’ve lost a lot of our old people who were here at the very beginning of these processes, whose passion had actually started those conversations.”
The determination was part of the Cape York United #1 Claim, filed 11 years ago on
behalf of the Traditional Owners of Cape York, and covered almost 55 per cent of the region.
But the fight for land reclamation has spanned generations.
“I’ve been fighting for our Country since the 1970s,” Yiithuwarra Elder Hans Pearson said.
“After all these years, it feels good to know our hard work wasn’t in vain.
“This recognition shows our connection has never ended – it’s been there from the beginning.”
Cape York Land Council chair Clara Day paid tribute to the Elders who carried the struggle across generations.
“Many who started this journey aren’t here to see it finished, but their children and grandchildren walk in their footsteps today. They worked hard for this,” she said.
“This is what coexistence looks like – Native Title working alongside local communities, tourism and conservation, protecting culture while supporting shared prosperity.”
Let’s return the message home
GUUGU Yimidhirr Elders believe the long overdue decision is one for past, present and future generations.
“This recognition makes official what our families have always known – that we are the Traditional Owners of this Country,” Guugu Yimidhirr Elder Erica Deeral said.
Elder Maude Olbar said it was now time to take the message home.
“Native Title means getting our Country back and being recognised for who we are and where we belong.
“We can go back on Country and teach our young ones.”
The Hope Vale Yimbala dancers mark the Cape York United #1 Claim hearing in Cooktown with a traditional celebration dance. Photo: Supplied.
The Guugu Yimidhirr
in Cooktown. Photo: Supplied.
Family-focused funding: Mayor
HOPE Vale Aboriginal Shire Council has welcomed $791,000 in funding to provide a safer community for residents.
Hope Vale Mayor Bruce Gibson said the funds would help council install CCTV and critical precinct lighting across the town.
“Whilst Hope Vale is a community that is welcoming people back, it is no different to any other community that suffers from minor crime and vandalism,” Mr Gibson said.
“This funding will go a long way to securing the safety of our community and providing an environment that people will participate in and enjoy.
“It will go a long way to providing for a commonsense range of deterrents that will grow our community as a safe place for our older residents and develop a lifestyle that is family focused and child friendly.”
The funding forms part of the State Government’s three-year $40 million Secure Communities Partnership Program to provide councils and small businesses with resources to deter crime, improve safety, and foster stronger, more resilient communities.
Robotic surgery lasers in
Donors prime DaNi’s drive
by CHISA HASEGAWA
A GAME-CHANGING $4.3 million robotic surgery project in Far North Queensland is in its final stretch – and needs the community’s support to hit the target.
Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation’s (FNQHF) Donate for DaNi campaign, running since May 2024, will bring the state’s first surgical robot to the public health sector outside of southeast Queensland.
Funds for the cutting-edge robot, affectionately named DaNi, will be doubled at Cairns Base Hospital for a limited time. Generous donors Ellis and Denise Richardson have pledged to match every dollar donated by the public up to $100,000 until 10 November.
FNQHF chief executive officer Gina Hogan said DaNi would make robotic surgery more accessible to patients, including Cape York residents who often had to travel long distances for healthcare needs.
“It’s all about equity of care,” she said.
“There is another surgical robot in Cairns in the private health system; some patients have access to that, but not absolutely everyone.
“We want the best care for everyone in the region. They will have to travel to have access to a surgical robot, but they’re still staying within the region.”
Ms Hogan said the campaign had slightly more than $500,000 to go, which organisers hoped to raise by the end of the year.
“The community has been so engaged with this appeal. We’ve been able to raise over $3.6 million, so we’ve come a long way,” she said.
“DaNi is less invasive, so it means a patient is less likely to have complications and quicker recovery times. It also helps us attract and retain the best possible surgeons in the region because a lot of them now only train on those surgical robots.
“We’re at the exciting, pointy end of the appeal. We’re really fortunate to have donors like Denise and Ellis, who’ve come to the party to help us get there.”
Based in Weipa, the Western Cape Centre Limited (WCCL) is a Company limited by guarantee. The Company sits within the overall governance framework of the WCCCA Trusts structure however it is a separate and distinct legal entity from the Main Trust and the Western Cape Communities Property Trust.
The WCCL currently primarily manages the business of the use, maintenance and management of the Western Cape Centre based at Rocky Point in Weipa.
The WCCL is responsible for ensuring that the operation of the facility are commercially sound through the activities of meeting venue hire, provision of office and residential accommodation and the provision of a secure environment for indigenous training. Future commercial activities are planned that the WCCL would also manage.
ADMINISTRATION OFFICER – CULTURAL CENTRE
Reporting to the WCCL Manager/Executive Officer, the Administration Officer – Cultural Centre provides daily cultural and administrative support to the Manager. This role is responsible for assisting with the Cultural Awareness Training program, liaising with Indigenous employees, and assisting at the Western Cape Cultural Centre as required.
We anticipate that applicants will have a minimum four (4) years of experience in an administration based role, demonstrated experience in providing high level customer service, IT knowledge and experience, and a class ‘C’ manual driver’s licence. A minimum Year 12 education and Certificate level qualifications in Business/Administration or higher would be advantageous.
Traditional Owners and Aboriginal people are strongly encouraged to apply
For further information including a position description contact: Executive Officer
PO Box 106
Weipa Qld. 4874
eo@westercape.com.au 07 4069 7945
CLOSING DATE: 5PM Friday 7th November 2025
We reserve the right to interview and close the vacancy prior to the specified closing date.
For the Richardsons, who divide their time between Melbourne and Cairns, giving back to the hospital was personal after Denise faced a medical emergency.
“My wife had a major issue and had to come to Cairns Base Hospital; it was a life-or-death emergency issue,” Mr Richardson said.
Healthy future shops again for traditional ways
A NOT-FOR-PROFIT remote store operator has introduced a new health and wellbeing campaign across its network to celebrate the strength, wisdom and traditions that have supported Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities for generations.
The Healthy Ways – Old Ways are Our Future Ways campaign launched in collaboration with Health and Wellbeing Queensland to coincide with National Nutrition Week.
Reflecting the spirit of this year’s Nutrition Week theme, Healthy Ways shines a light on the power of whole foods, family meals, and connection to culture as the foundations of strong, healthy living.
Throughout the campaign, Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) stores across the Torres Strait and Cape York Peninsula will feature vibrant in-store displays, local artwork, family stories, competitions, and digital resources designed to help customers make healthier choices.
“The service and support she received from the hospital was first class, so we’re delighted to be able to give back in this way.”
Support the Donate for DaNi campaign and bring Far North Queensland closer to robotic surgery: https://fundraising. fnqhf.org.au/donate/ donate-for-dani
CEQ board member Dr Mark Wenitong, a leading advocate for First Nations health, said the campaign recognised Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples had long known the key to living well.
“Healthy Ways is about recognising our people already know what keeps us strong – our food, our family, and our connection to land and sea,” Dr Wenitong said.
“Our ancestors lived long, healthy lives through balance, activity, and nourishment from the land. This campaign celebrates that wisdom and brings those lessons into our stores and homes today.”
For more information on CEQ, visit www.ceqld.org.au
Donor Ellis Richardson and FNQHF chief executive officer Gina Hogan call on the community to rally for cutting-edge robotic surgery in the region. Photo: Chisa Hasegawa.
Mayor Bruce Gibson with his mother Wanda. Photo: File.
Parents David and Katrina Pearson from Waibene (Thursday Island) with children Ronald, Jack, Adira and Elijah visit the campaign launch at the IBIS Waibene store. Photo: Supplied.
Palm of our hands
by CHISA HASEGAWA
A CAPE York conservation project recognised for its work on the national stage this week has provided new-found hope for Australia’s largest parrot species.
The palm cockatoo is iconic to the vast rainforests and savannas of the Cape York Peninsula, but a critical shortage of old tree hollows needed for breeding has put the unique bird on the endangered species list.
People for Wildlife’s (PFW) Palm Cockatoo Breeding Habitat Restoration project, which works with the Apudthama Land Trust of the Northern Peninsula Area, was named a bronze tier winner of the Australian Geographic Society’s Awards for Nature on Thursday 23 October.
The project will receive $20,000 to help it create artificial hollows, secure firebreaks and monitor nests with cameras and acoustic recorders to increase the bird’s population.
PFW executive director Dr Daniel Natusch said experts estimated fewer than 2000 palm cockatoos remained due to habitat loss from issues such as land clearing, inappropriate fire management, and increasing wildfires.
Because of their size, palm cockatoos rely on 200 to 300-yearold trees for their habitat.
Dr Natusch said this involved a complex process of trees being hollowed out by termites and fungi, before needing a cyclone to twist off the top to expose the trunk’s centre which was then slowly eroded by rain.
The process is estimated to take more than 100 years. But with the centre of the tree gone, it becomes more vulnerable to intense fires and strong winds, making palm cockatoo real estate difficult to maintain and heavily fought over.
“We’re creating artificial hollows made of resin, putting in place hollows from fallen-down timber that we hoist up into the tree. Then we’re augmenting existing hollows and manipulating them so they better resemble ones that have been naturally created,” Dr Natusch said.
“This funding will allow us to create more trial hollows and continue monitoring them over the long term because these are not dumb birds.
“They’re only going to begin using those hollows, we suspect, after they really familiarise themselves and understand they’re not a threat. So long-term monitoring
is key to figuring out the efficacy of the different types of hollows we’re trying.”
He said since the project began in 2023, the artificial habitats had been used as part of the palm cockatoos’ unique mating process, in which males rhythmically tapped on tree trunks with sticks to court the females. But as yet none of the habitats had been used for breeding.
Despite palm cockatoos having the lowest reported breeding success rates of any parrot species –typically one egg every two years – Dr Natusch said there was still hope the birds would utilise the man-made habitats for breeding.
“We haven’t had any eggs deposited in the hollows we’ve created, but certainly the fact they’re in consideration by the birds is a good first step,” he said.
“Those artificial hollows went in about three weeks before the breeding season started, so given we’ve only had one breeding season since, it’s still relatively early days.”
Watch this video to better understand the award-winning Palm Cockatoo Breeding Habitat Restoration project in our own backyard: https://tinyurl.com/2hhjv3hh
The palm cockatoos are slowly accepting the artificial hollows as part of their mating ritual, boosting hopes they will use them
breeding. Photo: Supplied.
People For Wildlife’s Sophie Buckman, Dr Daniel Natusch, Dr Ben Muller, and Apudthama Traditional Owner Thomas Savage briefly reflect on their project’s national recognition to save the iconic palm cockatoo. Photo: Supplied.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Health check-up
NORTHERN Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) will launch its Joint Regional Wellbeing Plan (JRWP) over the next month.
It will visit Cooktown on Tuesday 28 October and Weipa on Tuesday 4 November followed by Bamaga on Wednesday 19 November and Thursday Island on Thursday 20 November.
The JRWP is designed to address gaps, deliver on regional priorities, and meet each region’s specific needs.
Through collaborative regional planning and drawing on input from lived experience, the plan will provide the opportunity to strengthen mental health, alcohol and other drug services, and suicide prevention across the Cape region.
Road to better Cape
WEIGH in on Cape York’s Peninsular Developmental Road (PDR) and join the discussion on future priorities for stage 3.
The open forum meeting, including a Q&A, will hear the latest progress from the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR).
The State Government wants to hear from councils, business leaders and communities to better understand the Cape’s priorities in preparation for future budget cycles.
THE new $35.4 million Pormpuraaw Primary Health Care Centre (PHCC) is taking shape with the roof and external wall structure now in place.
Work to complete the complex lining of the external walls, as well as the general internal fitout is now under way.
Part of the State Government’s Building Rural and Remote Health Program, completion of all works, including landscaping and demolition of the existing facility, is expected by mid-2027.
The centre is being built on the grounds of the existing health facility complex, while allowing the existing PHCC to continue serving the community until the new facility is ready.
Construction is being undertaken by Cairns-based company, WIP Constructions.
Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS)
acting chief executive Michael Catt said community consultation and engagement prior to the final design of the Pormpuraaw project ensured the new centre met all clinical and community needs.
The new facility will provide a comprehensive range of services, including:
• A resuscitation room and treatment room, multi-purpose medical imaging room including X-ray and ultrasound, and clinical support spaces.
• Six dedicated outpatient mixed-use consult rooms, allowing for current and future demand, as well as the needs
of visiting health partners such as the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
• A dental suite with consultation and clinical work areas, a pathology room for specimen collection, a medical records area and a new, culturally appropriate morgue.
• Accessible toilets, staff offices with a meeting room, necessary storage rooms, and an enclosed ambulance bay.
Mr Catt said given its status as a vital health and government facility in an isolated area, the new Pormpuraaw PHCC was being built to the Australian Importance Level 4 (IL4) standard.
“This is a structural standard in Australia designated for post-disaster recovery for structures like hospitals and
Ongoing until
Cook Shire Council is undertaking the following roadworks across the region throughout November. Where delays are expected, please allow extra travel time. Follow all signage and drive to conditions. Thank you for your patience as we continue improving roads across the Shire.
For
news and information, please visit: www.cook.qld.gov.au
Ongoing until 22 November
emergency shelters that must remain functional immediately after a major disaster,’’ Mr Catt said.
“For instance, the lining of the external walls comprises multiple layers of highstrength materials for maximum structural integrity, unlike your normal residential house walls.
“IL4 buildings are crucial for the immediate survival and long-term recovery of a community following a disaster, as well as playing a vital role in the overall emergency response.
“These structures are subject to more stringent design requirements than other buildings to guarantee their operational integrity during and after a critical event.’’
Ongoing until late November Deighton Road
Ongoing
Join the event at Cairns Regional Council – Civic Reception Room – from 11 am to 12:30 pm on Thursday 13 November or online. Contact Lainie Poon at engage@ rdatropicalnorth.org.au or phone 07 4041 1729.
Northern ban almost over FIRE bans for residents in the Torres, Torres Strait Island and Northern Peninsula local government areas are expected to end at midnight this Friday 31 October.
Current fire conditions are perfect for bushfires to ignite and spread quickly, according to the Queensland Fire Department (QFD).
Under a local fire ban all open fires are prohibited and all Permits to Light Fire issued in the designated areas have been suspended for the duration of the ban.
Find information on fire bans and exemptions that apply on the QFD website: fire.qld.gov.au/firebans
Ongoing until early December Cameron Creek Road Pavement works, grading, rolling and trimming, various locations. Possible delays.
Ongoing until Christmas
Ongoing until
(Ayton
Ongoing until late November Home Rule Road Minor maintenance of causeway approaches.
Ongoing until early December Charles & May Streets
Installation of traffic island, drainage, sealing and parking.
Ongoing until early December Charlotte Street (from Green Street to the Wharf) Installation of road lighting
Changed traffic conditions. Possible delays.
Be mindful of pedestrian traffic.
Changed parking arrangements.
The roof’s on and the new $35.4 million Pormpuraaw Primary Health Care Centre is taking shape. Photo: Supplied.
Holy mackerel! Limits unfair
PROPOSED changes to pulling in one of Cape York’s prime catches unfairly favours the commercial sector, according to the Australian Fishing Trade Association (AFTA).
Representing Australia’s $11 billion recreational fishing industry, AFTA has formally responded to the Department of Primary Industries’ proposed changes to the East Coast Spanish mackerel harvest strategy.
While recent data suggests Spanish mackerel stocks have improved, AFTA warns the proposed 51.5 per cent increase in the Total Allowable Commercial Catch (TACC) – from 165 to 250 tonnes – unfairly favours the commercial sector.
It says recreational fishers, who faced a 66 per cent reduction in bag limits in 2023, are offered no real relief under the new strategy.
“This imbalance risks undermining the viability of Queensland’s recreational fishing sector, which contributes $2.52 billion to the state economy and supports over 23,000 jobs, far exceeding the commercial sector’s $558 million and 4576 jobs, underscoring the need for equitable management,” AFTA chairperson Bob Baldwin says.
AFTA has urged the Queensland Government to increase recreational bag limits to two fish per person and six per boat, still a 33 per cent reduction from pre-2023 levels, balancing sustainability with access for recreational fishers.
The association has also raised concerns about the reliability of recreational fishing data and called for improved measurement systems to inform sustainable policy.
Dive in to protect reef’s future
TAKE the plunge and have your say about the health quality of the Great Barrier Reef’s catchment areas.
The Queensland and Commonwealth governments are consulting on a new draft Reef 2050 Catchment Water Quality Strategy to help support healthy reef water.
The strategy is being developed on the latest scientific research, including the
independent 2022 Scientific Consensus Statement. Its research shows improving water quality in reef catchment areas is crucial to the Great Barrier Reef’s resilience and ensuring it can recover from coral bleaching and crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) outbreaks. Plus, it provides a clear link between a healthier reef and healthier landscapes.
The Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation’s deputy director general Mary-Anne Curtis said the new draft strategy was built on two decades of collaboration between reef catchment communities, landholders, industry and Traditional Owners.
“We want to get the Reef 2050 Catchment Water Quality Strategy right to protect and
conserve the reef ecosystem by supporting landholders and community as environmental stewards, while continuing to attract national and international visitors who come to Queensland specifically to see its splendour,” Ms Curtis said. Have Your Say on the draft at: https://intheloop.des.qld. gov.au/reef2050-strategy Consultation is open until 19 November 2025.
Independent research shows improving water quality in reef catchment areas is crucial to the Great Barrier Reef’s resilience. Photo: Erick Morales Oyola.
Japan welcomes Hope Vale
Art, culture centre stage in Osaka
by CHISA HASEGAWA
AN invitation to the World Expo 2025 has brought Hope Vale Arts and Culture Centre’s intricate textile designs to the eyes of more than 25 million international enthusiasts.
The World Expo, in Osaka, Japan this year from April to October, is held around the globe once every five years.
The six-month-long event gives countries the opportunity to showcase their cultures, technologies and innovations, fostering global cooperation and the exchange of new ideas.
Centre manager Melanie Gibson, who travelled to Osaka with her team earlier this month, said it was a privilege to represent our country and its rich history.
“Being selected for the Australian Pavilion, for a global event, is huge for the Hope Vale Arts Centre and our Indigenous culture,” she said.
“It was an honour they wanted to hear our stories and see our culture and textiles; it was like [an acknowledgement] Indigenous people matter.”
In true World Expo spirit, Ms Gibson said the team shared fashion techniques and history with international artists, learning from each other while honouring traditional ways.
She said one of the many memorable high points was a display by a world-renowned indigo dye textile artist who shared techniques passed down through 10 generations.
“We’re learning from each
other because they were interested in what we do as well, and how we produce our fabrics,” she said.
“We’re bringing the thousands of years of culture we already have. But at the same time, we’re evolving and bringing it into a more contemporary world, where it has a bigger platform.
“We still use our own natural bush dye, but we shift the techniques here and there.”
Ms Gibson said honouring tradition while staying open to evolution kept culture and its art alive for generations.
“We are headed off to India in January doing block printing and natural root dyeing on scarves.
“We’re going to have a look at how they prepare their natural dyes for fabrics and paint with them, but we’re also going to show them our textile designs.”
NEWS IN BRIEF
RAAF touches down
THE Royal Australian Air Force has embarked on its annual community health program in Australia’s top end.
Exercise Kummundoo 2025 marks the 11th iteration of an annual month-long project in which RAAF personnel deliver health services to remote communities.
It’s hoped this year’s initiative will allow the RAAF to build closer ties with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders across Far North Queensland.
Delivered in partnership with the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO), the exercise runs until 6 November. It supports the RAAF’s reconciliation commitments while contributing to better health outcomes in regional and remote Indigenous communities, including Cape York.
This year’s exercise centres on Mareeba with outreach services extending to Atherton and Kuranda.
Help shape our nation
CAPE residents are invited to have their say in the 2025 Shaping Australia Awards, celebrating life-changing innovations and initiatives that help build a stronger, fairer nation.
From programs transforming communication access for deaf and deafblind Australians to pioneering black soldier fly farming to reduce landfill and transform food waste – this year’s 15 finalists highlight how universities are solving real-world problems.
Public voting is now open at shapingaustraliaawards.com.au, where you can explore the projects and help choose a winner in this year’s People’s Choice Awards. Voting is open until 19 January 2026. Winners will be announced at Parliament House, Canberra on 25 February 2026.
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• Spacious covered veranda ideal for entertaining and alfresco dining
• Balinese-inspired outdoor bathroom – a luxurious, spa-like sanctuary
• Thoughtfully landscaped surrounds create a private tropical escape
• A home that offers space to entertain, unwind, or create
• Inspect to truly appreciate the lifestyle on offer
Hope Vale Arts and Culture Centre manager Melanie Gibson and gallery assistant and artist Teneille Nuggins share Indigenous culture and history at the World Expo in Osaka. Photo: Supplied.
Every sunbird needs a garden
Cooktown residents
revel outdoors
AN outdoor garden area for Cooktown aged care residents has bloomed into a hub for psycho-social wellness.
The move to plant a garden for Sunbird Cottage at the Cooktown Multipurpose Health Service follows the recent facelift to the dining and living spaces, officially opened in late June.
“The residents are really engaged in their own space, they have been very active in developing the area and have given input about the dining area and repotting plants outside,” clinical aged care nurse Michelle Geitz said.
The 11 residents at Sunbird have been encouraged to use the outdoor area as much as possible – with encouraging results.
“They are going for walks externally and often end up sitting in the area for afternoon tea,” Michelle said.
“It has been beautiful to watch the conversations taking place, our residents are learning more about each other and sharing stories at the same time, and we are learning
about them.”
Studies have shown a direct correlation between home and community gardening, and older adults’ psychosocial and physical wellbeing.
A 2020 study surveyed 331 Australian gardeners aged between 60-95 and reported positive outcomes for participants, who found therapeutic benefits by simply being in a garden.
The results showed that for this sample of gardeners a number of psychological, physical and social benefits were obtained through regular contact with nature in their gardens.
The results suggest the home garden may provide an outlet for mental and physical activity as well as engagement in social and productive activity.
Vegetables, flowers, fruit, herbs as well as psychological and physical benefits were the proceeds of gardening for these older adults.
The Cooktown outdoor area has already been put through its paces with a barbecue for residents.
“Several residents took part in preparing the feast. With the
According to this sample being a member of a garden club or group magnified the positive benefits of gardening, such as restoration, attachment, physical, social and identity benefits.
guidance and support of our dedicated staff these small tasks became moments of pride, joy and engagement,” Michelle said.
“These moments matter in aged care. I firmly believe joy
Are you a local small business owner, community group, or organisation with an idea for a project, activity or event that will add to the vibrancy and economic development of our community?
APPLY NOW FOR ROUND ONE OF COOK SHIRE COUNCIL’S COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GRANTS PROGRAM FOR 2025!
Eligible local businesses, organisations, groups and individuals can apply for up to $6,000 in funding to support the delivery of community-focused projects, activities, or events.
APPLICATIONS MUST CLOSE 5PM TUESDAY 4 NOVEMBER 2025
For more information and to apply, scan the QR Code or contact Council’s Grants Officer by emailing mail@cook.qld.gov.au or calling 4082 0500.
and the warmth of being seen and included.”
Michelle said the residents were proactively planting and tending to herbs and plants which would be raf-
YOU’RE INVITED
PNature’s
3 0 SUNDAY
A celebration, marking twenty-f ive years of art, culture, and community at Nature’s Powerhouse
With live performances by Loni Fitzpatrick and Stu Harcourt, inspiring guest speakers, exquisite catering, cash bar, the Vera ScarthJohnson Art Exhibition, and a curated historic display honouring our journey.
Raise a glass to a quarter-century of creativity and connection in this landmark celebration
Dress: Cocktail attire
The results are in – elderly Australians get real benefits from being out in the garden. Sunbird Cottage residents in Cooktown agree.
Photo: Supplied.
Categories:
• Chic Ladies (20-49)
• Magic Millinery
• Fashionista Kids (3-12)
• Lady of the Day (50+)
• Best Suited of the Day (20+)
• Most Stylish Duo
THEME – BOLD SUMMER
• Young Teen Ladies & Gents (13-19)
• Clan Chaos (best/funniest dressed family or group) For Fashions on the Field queries phone Jacinta 0416 450 628
Tickets at TryBooking (https://www.trybooking.com/DEAF) or general entry at the gate For general races queries contact: P: 0475 230 886 E: cooktownturfclub@outlook.com W: www.cooktownraces.com.au FB: Cooktown Amateur Turf Club
Trick or treat Cooktown?
Bellahdi Babes a-knockin’
this haunted Halloween
by CHISA HASEGAWA
AS Halloween creeps closer, trick-or-treat and tassels will combine when Cooktown’s favourite burlesque dancers return to the stage for two nights of spooky and sassy entertainment.
Tickets are flying out faster than a witch on her broom for Bellahdi Dance Troupe’s third self-produced show this Friday and Saturday, 31 October and 1 November.
After two sold-out shows, the group is once again expecting a full house at the Shire Hall for Frightnight Follies.
“We’re leaning heavily into the spooky and the wacky and the weird, because Halloween’s a great excuse for that,” troupe leader Jasmine “Madam Maeham” Sieverding said.
“We’ve got a few girls using Halloween as an excuse to push themselves and try out new props, new characters and new costumes.
“So we’re pushing the envelope a little bit and leaning away from more traditional burlesque and cabaret.”
Since the group took the leap and put on its first self-produced
show earlier this year, it’s quickly grown in popularity.
The troupe was recently seen in a string of performances at the Cairns Festival.
Ms Sieverding said the opportunity to perform outside Cape York had helped the performers feel more comfortable in experimenting their styles.
“When you’re in Cooktown, you’ve got a safety net... I know people are going to be there supporting, I know I’m not going to be performing to an empty house. But I have to see these people at the IGA,” she laughed.
“If we hadn’t had the chance to go to Cairns and be full-send stupid, we probably wouldn’t have been comfortable trying out something like burlesque grotesque, a bit of a weird genre, in Cooktown.”
She said trying new things without fear of judgement had helped them come up with a completely new show experience for Cooktown.
“We want to make sure every show we give Cooktown is a completely different experience, not just a slight change of music and some different coloured feathers,” she said.
“We want every show to tell a different story, so people can come and be surprised and amazed every time.
“Looking at the lineup of the
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show for Halloween, I think this is definitely going to be the best show yet and will be completely different to anything Cooktown has seen from us before.”
Cape bands join Aussie icons
CAPE York talent shone brightly alongside international stars and Aussie music legends as Savannah in the Round 2025 proved to be another unforgettable event.
As news filters through about a $1 million funding boost for the event in Mareeba over the next four years, the Savannah earlier this month showcased some of our best in front of thousands of music lovers.
Cooktown’s Roadtrippers played not once, but twice, culminating in a powerful set on the main Cape Stage. Black Image performed alongside the legendary Neil Murray, celebrated songwriter of My Island Home, a track made famous by Christine Anu. The Ella Hartwig Band also delivered a standout performance that sent the crowd to its feet.
This year’s lineup boasted legendary acts Baby Animals, James Reyne, Rose Tattoo, Daryl Braithwaite, and The Black Sorrows. Festival favourites Chocolate Starfish, Hussy Hicks, and 19-Twenty also kept the
energy high.
Country music fans were treated to performances by US artist Jackson Dean, as well as homegrown stars Casey Barnes, Beccy Cole, Kasey Chambers, Lane Pittman, Max Jackson, Wade Foster and Luke O’Shea,
among many others. With Cape talent holding its own on a national stage, Savannah in the Round 2025 was not only a celebration of music, but a proud moment for the region.
– Ant Ritz
Buy tickets for Frightnight Follies at the Shire Hall in person at Bektopia, via the Bellahdi Dance Troupe’s Facebook page or Humanitix.
Boo One, Mae De Fleur, Morticia Marrow, Madame Maehem, Boo Two, and Vivienne Velveteen (front) are ready to entertain.
Photo: Supplied.
Black Image performed alongside the legendary Neil Murray.
Cooktown’s Road Trippers headed south for the Savannah party.
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in the blank cells using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and 3x3 block.
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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.
SmartLynx Cairns Schedule
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.
Senoritas, senoras angle for 13th Ladies Gamefish Day success
WEIPA anglers will take the pink party to the deep blue when the Carpentaria Marine Services Ladies Gamefish Day begins on Saturday 1 November.
Tournament coordinator Fifi Down said this year’s Mexican Fiesta should be another colourful weekend with the fish biting, especially with the addition of a new charity organisation to the roster.
“It’s just a great day out on the water, providing the weather gods play the game,” she said.
“Hope the fish are out there as well — they were in nice and close for the [Weipa Billfish Tournament] a month ago, so that’s always a good thing.
Olivia, Lyndsey mark parkrun 442 with PBs
THE top two female finishers in Weipa parkrun number 442 celebrated personal bests as they crossed the line on Saturday.
Olivia Taylor (27:19) and Lyndsey Fielding (29:44) finished ahead of third-placed females Louise Jones and Julie Zeimer (both 37:29) in the 29-participant field.
Chrisden Russ (21:33) from Western Cape College – Flinders won the day ahead of Barry Cronin (22.45) and Joshua Stanek (23:42).
Sally McCallum took part in the 5 km event for the first time
Thanks to 25 October volunteers Amanda Allender, Camille Freiberg, Fiona Dyer, Debra Hamilton, Julie Dore, Nanthini Kanthan and Mia Dore.
On the previous Saturday, the sign said it all – and the result was inevitable. Zigmund Freiberg celebrated in style as he won Weipa parkrun’s 441st edition.
Zig (23:14) beat home Ross Dawson by a second with third placegetter and first female, Jordyn Mulherin a further 30 seconds back.
Sixty-seven participants took on the five-kilometre course, which hosted 11 first-timers and saw six personal best times. Eva Ginn (24:52) led the PBs followed by Susan Tuckwood (28:54), Lyndsey Fielding (30:21), Jarrod Ginger (30:48), Kate van den Heuvel (38:53) and Maia Hawes (45:46).
Newcomers to the event: Liam Stephen, Riley Weidman, Liz Weidman, Ashley Ginn, Tamara Redding, Adam McCluand, Emily
Green, Brendan O’Hara, Maddy Cowdery, Tahnee Fewtrell and Crystal Anderlini.
Thanks to 18 October volunteers Chris Blythe, Emma Eyre, Keira Fogarty, Vide Freiberg, Nanthini Kanthan, Karishma Maganlal, Rose Robins, Richelle Ryan and Ali Scott.
Weipa parkrun is a fun, free event organised by volunteers for the benefit of everyone. It starts 7am every Saturday at the hospital roundabout shelter in Nanum.
“We’re sponsoring the Glenn McGrath Foundation, as we have done for many years, but we’re also adding Kids with Cancer this year to our portfolio of sponsorship options.”
Teams can showcase their decked-out vessels for the Best Dressed Boat competition at 6:30 am, before fishing starts at 7 am.
The tournament winner will be crowned at the presentation luncheon on Sunday 2 November when raffles and auctions in support of the two charity foundations will take place.
Details on the Weipa Billfish Club Facebook page.
Vivian edges out
‘Apples’
to take Dawnbusters
‘THE Silent Assassin’ Scott Triffit fired a mean 41 for best score off the stick but the Dawnbusters prize fell to Vivian Chan after Sunday’s match.
Vivian completed Carpentaria Golf Course’s front 9 with a highly respectable 43 to set up a one-shot win over Mick ‘Magic Apples’ Cerneka.
Mick also hit a 43 but could not get all his apples to fall in one basket and had to be content with Bridesmaid. This chalks up two wins and two runners-up for Mick so far this season.
Fifteen players greeted another hot and still morning.
Credit to Leroy Ahmat who pulled out the big guns to take out the longest drive on the 9th fairway and came in a close third
one stroke off the pace. But he’s still left chasing the illusive Dawnbuster polo shirt.
Beth Dall has taken a liking to the Hoffmans award and refused to relinquish it for another week.
Accuracy was not the name of the game for players as each failed to land on the green of the short par 3 9th to send the nearest the pin begging for another week. The women’s longest drive was also left wanting as the three ladies failed to keep their drives on the 1st fairway.
This Sunday 2 November marks the last game in the Dawnbuster season; it starts at about 6:15 am. Then on Sunday 9 November, qualifying and non-qualifying players line up for the 2025 Dawnbuster Championships.
Sombreros will replace pink afros at this year’s Ladies Gamefish Day on 1 November. Photo: File.
Olivia Taylor (left) and Lyndsey Fielding (right) finish the Weipa parkrun in personal bests on Saturday. Photos: Facebook.
Torres Strait flair offensive
Our girls wow south’s best
A TALENTED all-girls football team from Torres Strait region took on Queensland’s best earlier this month and quickly won them over with their dashing approach to the game.
The most northern and remote team in the competition took multiple flights, ferry and bus – covering about 2500 kilometres to reach the oval in Maroochydore – to tackle the two-day StreetSmarts AFLQ Schools Cup - Hall of Fame Primary Division.
AFL Cape York region coordinator Kieran Sciberras said the team’s journey to the Sunshine Coast tournament on 17-18 October showed the players’ commitment and enthusiasm.
“Our players are picked firstly on school attendance and positive behaviour, followed by sporting ability,” Mr Sciberras said.
“School children in the region do not have the same access as down south to sporting facilities and AFL ovals, regular training or club football.
“Yet with their grit, determination and natural ability they are always right up there with the best teams.”
It also left the southerners wanting more as the Torres Strait side – students in grades 5 and 6 – quickly became fan favourites with their speed and style.
Even though the team needed to provide some of their competitors with a geography lesson!
“Our players proudly represented the region, including explaining where the Torres Strait is and how far they travelled to play football,” Mr Sciberras said.
“Despite the distance, the team was highly competitive and undefeated on the second day of competition.”
Frances Mosby from Tagai State College was awarded the team’s leadership award for her inspiring performance and team encouragement across both days.
“I love showing my skills, playing
2025 AFLQ Schools Cup –Hall of Fame
AFL Cape York Primary Girls AFL team: Gia Aragu, Gracie Cook, Leandra Elu, Tevern’ya Ketchell, May-Esther Nona, Jaylyn Nona, Tei’ya Lee Mosby-Loban, Ella-Rose Mooka, Alenka Morseu, Rannetha Mosby, Frances Mosby, Selina Newman, Sasha Pearson-Garnier, Zayda Pearson-Garnier, Taye Sagigi, Laila Volavola.
with my friends and enjoying it,” Frances said.
The trip included a visit to the Beenleigh Buffaloes home ground hosted by juniors president Zane Jackson.
Players participated in a skills and drills clinic with AFL Queensland, further enhancing their development and connection to the sport.
Despite Torres Strait not being home to one AFL club or hosting regular games – Badu is the only island with an AFL oval – AFL Cape York runs in-school football clinics, gala days and inter-school carnivals across the region. They inform student selection into representative sides to play in competitions down south.
AFL Cape York programs provide the only opportunities for students from the region to play and experience competition-level AFL on ovals against the best sides in Queensland, including through the AFLQ Schools Cup.
This year alone, AFL Cape York has supported more than 100 First Nations players from remote communities to play in the AFLQ Schools Cup, providing exposure to competition-level football and positive on- and offfield encounters.
It marks a new record for AFL Cape York, which each year visits more than 40 schools from Laura to Saibai Island bordering Papua New Guinea to Doomadgee near the Northern Territory border.
Lee Mosby-
to a teammate; Taye Sagigi smashes the speed and agility test; leadership award winner Frances Mosby; Ella-Rose Mooka; Gracie Cook (front) and Rannetha Mosby take a break.
Anti-clockwise from right: The Cape York region team; coach Kieran Sciberras and runner George Nona; May-Esther Nona takes in the team talk; Gia Aragu enjoys the skills clinic; Tei’ya
Loban handballs
Photos: Supplied.
Unleash the beast
by CHISA HASEGAWA
AN estimated 1800-strong crowd came together for a bucking good time at the Wujal Wujal Rodeo as riders from across the region took to the arena on the back of adrenaline-charged bulls.
Eighty-eight riders took on the biennial Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council (WWASC) event earlier this month, making it the state’s third largest rodeo of the year.
Riders fought out titles in novice, junior and open bull
ride categories.
WWASC community services manager Kesa Strieby said it was an incredible turnout of riders and supporters.
“It really is a credit to the community; there was so much respect from everyone. It was good to see the resilience after what happened in the flood and cyclone (Jasper),” she said.
“I ordered 100 polo shirts and they were all gone in three days – that’s how exciting the event was for the community.”
When not on the edge of
their seats watching the action-packed arena, attendees enjoyed a range of food stalls, activities and live entertainment including local bands Dalkan and Cold Water Band.
Ms Strieby congratulated the council team for its efforts behind organising such a successful and smoothly run event.
“It was really good teamwork from everyone, they were so committed and dedicated to their tasks,” she said.
“We’re already preparing for the next one in two years.”
3rd:
Under 15
1st: Ridy Riley
Junior Bull Rider
1st: Wendell Bowen
Under 11
Tyson Ford
Carl Douglas
Tyson Smiler
*Organisers could not confirm final placings
Open Bull Riders
1st: Patrick Hart
2nd: Travis Koolatha
SPORT IN BRIEF
Four! Wackers on the tee
A number of rebounds almost took out some of the 11 Wackers who battled it out on Wednesday on the front 9.
Teeing off the first, Paiwan hit a palm and his ball ricocheted hard into the colourbond fence beside him.
Not to be outdone, PK smashed his ball into a solid tree on the 4th. It flew back and scattered his mates. Unfortunately for PK, his audience on the other fairway won’t let him forget it.
Leeroy Ahmat won the day with a steady 47 (nett 32). Scott Triffitt played a great round, shooting 41 (nett 35) to finish runner-up. No pin shot was awarded on the 7th, but Mick Foy claimed nearest to the pin on the 9th.
Unsurprisingly, PK with a 60 secured Bradman’s.
Punters’ paradise
FANCY hobnobbing at the sport of royals or just taking a good punt on the ponies?
Saddle up for the Cooktown races on Saturday 8 November. Gates for the sixrace program open at 10 am. The first race jumps at noon.
It is in with the new and out with the old for this year’s races with a new fashion guideline to spice up the classic spring style of race day.
The Seaview Fashions on the Field will embrace the November heat with a Bold Summer theme, calling for the retirement of the usual pastel spring look.
“The idea is to wear fashion that is unapologetically bold and summery, making a statement both visually and in terms of self-expression,” Fashions on the Field co-ordinator Jacinta McCosh said.
“It’s all about standing out with vivid colours, striking silhouettes, and daring designs that exude personality and flair.”
Visit the Cooktown Amateur Turf Club for details: www.cooktownraces.com.au
Saddle up horse sports
DON’T miss next month’s 2025 Cooktown Horse Sports AGM.
The current committee is standing down and all positions need to be filled.
The annual general meeting at Cooktown Race Track on 19 November starts at 5 pm.
The action-packed Wujal Wujal arena hosted 88 riders fighting for cowboy glory. Photo: Facebook (Wujal Wujal Rodeo 2025).
