PATIENTS and staff at Australia’s northernmost hospital will be tucking into a special roast meal with all the trimmings on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve.
Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) acting operational services manager (North), Clare Pickering, said Thursday Island Hospital’s kitchen would offer a Christmas lunch of roast turkey, chicken and pork or leg of ham.
The meats will be accompanied by roast pumpkin and potatoes, as well as green vegetables, all followed by a dessert of Christmas pudding and custard. Similar options will be available on New Year’s Eve.
Those on restricted meals, such as a soft or pureed menu, or who have other dietary or food allergy requirements, will also have special Christmas meal selections to choose from.
At Cooktown Multipurpose Health Service (MPHS) and Sunbird Lodge, patients, aged care residents and staff will be offered ham and eggs for breakfast, as well as normal options.
“It’s a special day and our inpatients and aged care consumers will be able to tuck into a festive- avoured breakfast, lunch and dinner,’’ operations manager (Eastern) Campbell Venables said.
For lunch, staff, inpatients
and aged care residents will be offered Christmas ham, or roast chicken or turkey and roast vegetables or salad. There’s also Christmas pudding for dessert.
Aged care residents at Sunbird Lodge will also be offered prawns for their Christmas lunch in addition to the main hospital menu items.
There’ll also be sticky date pudding for dessert at lunch and Christmas pudding for dessert at dinner.
For those with restricted or special dietary requirements, modi ed Christmas meals and desserts will be available.
Lighter meal options with a festive avour will be offered for Christmas dinner at Thurs-
day Island Hospital, Cooktown MPHS and Sunbird Lodge, generally cold meats and salads.
Eggs, baked beans and chipolata sausage are on the breakfast menu at Weipa Integrated Health Service. A selection of porridge or cereals will also be offered.
For Christmas lunch, most will be tucking in to leg ham and marinated chicken with a variety of vegetables. There’ll also be potato and macaroni salad.
And for dessert, fresh fruit with a choice of custard or chocolate mousse provides the perfect nish for Christmas. Special meals will be available for those with dietary restrictions or requirements.
Weipa Integrated Health Service kitchen staff are busily preparing for Christmas Day – cook Myra Adlawan, kitchen hand Nay Bunkhrong and cook/kitchen hand Rowena Bacay. Photo: TCHHS.
Thursday Island Hospital kitchen staff have been getting into the Christmas spirit – Henrietta Thompson, Lillian Bann, Eileen Sailor and Margaret Tabo. Photo: TCHHS.
Planning the Christmas menus: Cooktown Multipurpose Health Service kitchen staff – Jason Heke, Melanka Ackland, Alice Seagren and Lilly Rhodes. Photo: TCHHS.
Festive force delivers Christmas cheer
IT seems our forces are well armed with Christmas cheer as Santa draws closer to the Cape and Torres Strait.
Making its intentions clear from the outset of the twelfth month, mypolice Cape York rebadged its Facebook page with a Christmas-theme cover be tting the season.
And as one commenter posted: “Beachy Christmas vibes are the best!”
High above the sea and sands, carefully avoiding Rudolph and his mates taking test ights, the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has teamed with the Australian Army to visit 13 communities in our neck of the woods, including Weipa, Kowanyama, Badu Island, Horn Island, Masig Island, Pormpuraaw and Aurukun.
As well as delivering holiday happiness, the appropriately named Exercise Christmas Hop 2025 allows the C-27J Spartan and C-130 Hercules to y into remote civilian air elds and conduct airdrop
Aboriginal Land Act 1991
training to help army and air force operations across northern Australia.
In partnership with the Australian Olympic Team, the ights have delivered sporting
gear, clothing and Christmas joy to strengthen connections with remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
But while the exercise brings gifts and goodwill, and puts
Notice of Minister’s Intention to Appoint Grantee
The Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation intends to appoint:
The proposed grantee will hold the land in trust for the benefit of Aboriginal people particularly concerned with the land, their ancestors and descendants, pursuant to section 40 of the Aboriginal Land Act 1991
A map of the proposed transfer area is available from the office listed below.
Written representations must be received by 5.00 pm on 16 January 2026 and may be made to:
The Honourable Andrew Powell MP
Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation
Cape York Peninsula Tenure Resolution Program
Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation
5B Sheridan Street, CAIRNS QLD 4870 or PO Box 4597 CAIRNS QLD 4870 or CYPTRPTenure@DETSI.qld.gov.au
For further information, contact the Cape York Peninsula Tenure Resolution Program on (07) 4222 5185 during office hours.
smiles on the faces of children, families and crew, one highly anticipated visitor is still to arrive – he touches down early on the morning of 25 December. Ho! Ho! Ho!
the crucial news, local issues, and inspiring stories across the Cape, no matter how remote you are.
To subscribe to our once-a-week service, simply go to capeyorkweekly.com.au/subscribe and enter your email address.
Our boys and girls in blue turn to tinsel, reindeer antlers and red Santa hats and suit. Photo: myPolice Cape York, Facebook.
No 35 Squadron loadmasters, Corporal Ben Wadswoth (left) and Corporal Dean Forsythe, prepare to release a box containing presents during Exercise Christmas Hop 2025. Photo: RAAF Facebook.
One good tern deserves another so… KEEP OFF EAGLE ISLAND!
their chicks without being disturbed.
Part of Lizard Island National Park, the island on Eyrie Reef is also used by resident and migratory shorebirds.
– are closed until 1 March 2026.
The Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) has asked boaties and campers to respect the annual breeding season closures.
Expression of Interest Agent services – Aurukun
It marks the first time Eagle Island has been closed to protect a variety of nesting seabirds including crested, lesser crested, bridled, roseate and black-naped terns.
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) conservation officer Julie Dutoit said the annual closures were part of the islands’ management plans.
The Australian Government agency Services Australia is seeking Expressions of Interest from organisations to provide agent services for 37.5 hours per week in Aurukun.
We contract agents to deliver services and programs on our behalf. We provide training and equipment.
Agents help people in rural and remote Australia to access government services.
Agents provide a face to face information service and free self-help facilities. These include an internet enabled computer, Wi-Fi, phone and scanner/photocopier/printer to help people do their business with us.
We’ll pay the successful applicant in accordance with our fee structure. Each year we review the number of hours per week we need you to provide face to face customer service. The payment will change accordingly.
Go to servicesaustralia.gov.au/agentaccesspointhosts to view:
• the selection criteria
• general information on agent services
• how to obtain the terms and conditions for this opportunity.
For more information, please call 02 8440 2814 to speak with one of our agent coordinators.
Expressions of Interest close 5 pm, Monday 12 January 2026
Email your Expression of Interest to: Agent Coordinator, NAAPT.SERVICE.DELIVERY@servicesaustralia.gov.au with subject header: CNQLD Aurukun EOI
“These birds can fly thousands of kilometres to nest on the reef islands, and we need to protect them at the most crucial breeding times,” Ms Dutoit said.
“The closures allow the birds to raise their chicks without human intervention, which provides a significant boost to nesting success rates.
“The islands are incredibly important for nature conservation, and the seasonal closures also help protect areas of the marine park.” The islands will open in time for the Easter holidays in 2026. Fines can be issued to those who disregard the closures.
Visit: parks.qld.gov.au/parkalerts/25782
Eagle Island has been closed to protect its birdlife including the crested tern.
Photo: DETSI (Andrew McDougall, Heather Congram).
Lesser crested terns are among the nesting seabirds. Photo: DETSI (Andrew McDougall, Heather Congram).
EAGLE Island is closed to campers and day-trippers until 1 April 2026 as part of an annual push to ensure migratory birds can nest and raise
Three other islands in the northern Great Barrier Reef Coast Marine Park – Woody Island, Sisters Island and Taylor Cay
Unsafe Christmas toys no game
SUPPLIERS are on notice to display mandatory warning labels or face action by Office of Fair Trading inspection officers as part of a statewide compliance crackdown on Christmas toys and novelties.
It’s part of the 17th annual Operation Safe Christmas, which has seen 7050 products in 193 stores inspected across Queensland.
All compliance issues identified to date relate to button batteries, including:
• Six products not containing a mandatory button battery warning label
• Seventeen products not having the mandatory warning label and failing to have a child-resistant battery compartment, as required by law.
Seized items include flower-themed solar lights, mini piano toys, snow globes and plastic pinwheels.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said while these products had been removed from shelves, it was still important for all Queenslanders to remain vigilant when buying gifts for children.
“Christmas should be a time of joy and the last thing anybody wants to see is a
child injured because of an unsafe toy,” Ms Frecklington said.
“Sadly, every month in Australia we see a child seriously injured after swallowing or inserting a button battery, with some suffering lifelong injuries, which is devastating.”
She said Fair Trading inspectors did a tremendous job scouring retail stores and markets to ensure mandatory standards were being met.
“But it is important for everyone to be on the lookout for unsafe products – particularly button batteries.
“With an increase in online shopping, Queenslanders should also be mindful when purchasing products from overseas to make sure they meet Australia’s high safety standards.”
Products containing button and coin batteries need to have a secure battery compartment and include mandatory safety information and emergency advice, so consumers understand the risks associated with the products.
Concerns about unsafe toys should be reported to the OFT at: www.qld.gov.au/fairtrading or by calling 13 QGOV (13 74 68).
Visit: www.productsafety. gov.au
Products using button batteries sit high on the Office of Fair Trading watch list. Photo: Supplied.
AFL laces up new Rio Tinto deal
AFL CAPE York House has continued to grow its longstanding relationship with Rio Tinto’s Weipa operations.
The bond has reaffirmed a shared commitment to supporting young Indigenous people in the western Cape region.
Positive Pathways (Rio Tinto Weipa operations), a new partnership now formalised through a threeyear agreement, focuses on key communities across the Northern Peninsula Area, including Weipa, Aurukun, Old Mapoon and Napranum.
Built on a shared commitment to equity, inclusion and opportunities for young people across the communities, AFL Cape York House and Rio Tinto Weipa aim to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters leadership, social connection and personal development through sport.
Key program outcomes include increasing school attendance by leveraging the benefits of active participation, providing clear pathways
to boarding school, university or employment, and recognising youth leadership through events and celebrations.
This collaboration empowers Indigenous students to thrive in education and life through structured programs and meaningful mentorship, according to AFL Cape York House.
The relationship has been further solidified through regular visits by Rio Tinto Weipa representatives to AFL Cape York House boys’ and girls’ facilities in Cairns, as well as reciprocal student industry visits to Rio Tinto’s Weipa operations.
AFL Cape York House general manager Rick Hanlon said the long-term relationship with Rio Tinto in Weipa was “significant”.
“We’ve long had an association with the region up in the Weipa area. The continual, consistent work we’ve done in communities connected to Rio Tinto in Weipa has contributed to this,” he said.
“Rio Tinto is supporting
that work by coming on as a major partner to our programs in these communities.
“It’s a significant relationship.”
Mr Hanlon said seven AFL
Cape York House graduates were currently employed with Rio Tinto in Weipa, a powerful testament to the program’s success in creating real-world opportunities.
Our final edition for 2025
THIS is the final digital/ print edition of the Cape York Weekly for 2025. The first edition back in the new year will be on Tuesday 13 January 2026. Our website will continue over the Christmas/ New Year period: www.capeyorkweekly.com.au
Holiday support changes
CENTRELINK, Medicare and child support customers are encouraged to prepare for payment and service changes over the holiday season.
Services Australia says its regular payment and reporting dates may change due to public holidays in December and January.
All Services Australia service centres and most call centres will also close on public holidays on 25, 26 and 29 December and on Thursday 1 January 2026.
Services Australia’s online and selfservice options will continue 24/7 over the holiday period.
Claiming Medicare benefits at the doctor’s or registering as an organ donor online will also continue as normal. Medicare services for health professionals will remain uninterrupted.
Visit: servicesaustralia.gov.au/holidays Mistletoe op underway
WITH 289 lives already lost on Queensland roads in 2025, motorists are urged to make safe choices this festive season.
Operation X-Ray Mistletoe – a highvisibility police operation to reduce road fatalities – began on Saturday, 13 December and will run across the entire holiday period with a targeted crackdown on speeding and impaired driving, including drink and drug driving on roads and waterways.
Police will conduct thousands of roadside and on-water drug and alcohol tests throughout the operation, supported by specialist officers, mobile patrols and targeted enforcement activities across high-risk locations.
Seven AFL Cape York House graduates are currently employed with Rio Tinto in Weipa. Photo: AFL Cape York House.
Reciprocal visits keep the longstanding relationship moving. Photo: AFL Cape York House.
M o n t h l y C o m m u n i t y U p d a t e
Message from the Chair
G'day Weipa,
The countdown to Christmas is on, and the awesome team at WTA have been in full festive mode to bring Christmas cheer to the community This will be my last update for 2025, and I was going to try and do a wrap up for the year calling out significant events, but there is just way too much to mention in this short update, so I'll stick to the usual monthly brief
As usual, the Christmas markets were a great success, with an awesome turnout from stallholders who had lots of great stuff on offer, and great attendance from the community One of the highlights of the markets is the photo op with Santa and Mrs Claus, who once again did an amazing job and made lots of kids very happy and excited (and some, not so much haha) Thanks so much to Glenn & Judey for going above and beyond to do something special for the community, we truly appreciate everything you do!
The Australia Day award nominations have now closed We had a great response from the community this year with 11 people nominated The Australia Day awards dinner hosted by WTA, is a great way to recognise and thank those in the community who give their time and energy for the benefit of us all If you have been nominated for an award, congratulations, and thanks for all that you do
The festive season also means Cyclone season for us, so the Weipa Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) have commenced their seasonal preparations and meetings, and will be keeping an eye on the weather conditions over the wet season We encourage everyone to do your wet season preparations at home, which might mean doing a dump run to tidy up the yard and get rid of anything that could become a projectile if it gets windy
I’d like to take this opportunity to gi Ro W w im tim O G co
various committees, to together some of your m events, and support mu sporting groups and clu thanks for being Deput over the last couple of y well as the Chair of the and for being such a gr the team We will miss professionalism, dedica great sense of humour have been an invaluabl of the WTA staff, always above and beyond the s your role to support com groups and events The and commitment you h brought to this community has been inspiring, and you leave big shoes to fill On behalf of the community, thank you both for
will see you all in 2026!
WASP members with after-hours access will still be able to use the gym during the closure
The Weipa Aquatic Centre will close on Christmas Day (25 December), Boxing Day (26 December), and New Year’s Day (1 January), and will operate as normal on all other days The WTA thanks the community for their understanding and wishes everyone a safe and happy festive season
y g take place on Monday, 22 December and Tuesday, 23 December, with no collection on Christmas Eve (24 December) or Christmas Day (25 December) A full Weipa collection will occur on Friday, 26 December, after which normal services will resume from Monday, 29 December, through to Friday, 2 January 2026 Residents are reminded to place their bins on the kerb by 6:00am to ensure they are serviced
The Evans Landing Landfill will be closed on Christmas Day and open 8am–4pm on Boxing Day
Families looking to keep the kids entertained this January are in luck, the WTA s School Holiday Program is back and bursting with activities Running from 12 January to 23 January 2026, the program offers everything from indoor inflatables and sports at the WASP to pool inflatables at the Weipa Aquatic Centre, plus plenty of hands-on creativity at the Hibberd Library
Engaging activities, including LEGO building challenges, jigsaw puzzle days, and an enchanting Harry Potter Week for young witches and wizards
Whether your child loves to build, craft, play or explore, there’s something for every age and interest Families are encouraged to check session times and register early to secure their spots
Don’t spoil your festive feed: TCHHS
CHRISTMAS, hot weather and upset tummies don’t have to go together if we follow a few simple food safety tips this festive season.
Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) public health medical officer Dr Helen Pedgrift said the Queensland heat posed a risk to food safety if not managed properly.
“We can expect many more gatherings of family and friends and sharing of food to occur during the festive season,’’ she said. “We want people to enjoy themselves but also make sure there are no unfortunate after-effects.
“Preparing food for a lot of people can be risky, especially at this time of the year when several generations get togeth-
er, the weather is hot, and the fridge is overloaded.
“All these factors can conspire to provide perfect conditions for food poisoning bacteria to multiply in our food.’’
Dr Pedgrift said food-borne illnesses affected an estimated 4.1 million Australians each year.
“While most recover within a few days, the illness can be particularly serious for the very young, the elderly, those with existing health problems and pregnant women,’’ she said.
Symptoms of gastrointestinal diseases include headache, fever, stomach cramps, diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting. They usually start six to 72 hours after exposure to the
bacteria and typically last four to seven days.
“If symptoms persist for more than a few days or are severe, always see a doctor,’’ Dr Pedgrift said.
“People should also stay home from work, school or other activities until symptoms have ceased for at least 24 hours to avoid passing the illness on to others.’’
She said many types of bugs could cause food poisoning –the two most common: campylObacter and salmonella.
“But food poisoning can be avoided at any time of year, not just during the festive season, if all Torres Strait, Cape York and Northern Peninsula Area residents adopt good food safety habits.”
Food safety tips
• Cook poultry, chicken, turkey, rolled and stuffed roasts, sausages and mince dishes fully.
• Hams will keep for several days with proper handling by removing them from plastic wraps, covering with clean cloth to stop them drying out and by following instructions on the packaging.
• Store raw Christmas meats at the bottom of your fridge so juices can’t drip on to readyto-eat food such as salads and desserts.
• Refrigerate your leftovers immediately after a meal or when food has stopped steaming.
• Heat leftovers to at least 70 degrees Celsius for at least two minutes and steaming all the way through.
MORE than $3.2 million was raised last financial year to improve health care, advance medical research and education, and upgrade hospital facilities across the region – thanks to the efforts of the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation. The results have been released after the foundation’s annual report 2024-2025 was tabled in State Parliament.
The foundation invested $1.5 million in health care this year, including $1.19 million for equipment and $319,775 for research and education.
This year’s projects included vital medical equipment upgrades in hospitals from Cairns to the Cape, including new ultrasound systems, patient monitors, chemotherapy chairs, cardiac outreach tools, and the Donate for DaNi campaign which successfully raised its $4.3 million target.
Fries
with that degree?
WHAT if your first job at Macca’s could fast-track you to a university degree?
McDonald’s Australia has launched Archways to Opportunity – a national program available in all its Queensland restaurants.
It allows thousands of employees to convert workplace skills and training into verified university credits with leading Australian universities, including James Cook University.
For the first time, Macca’s crew coaches and managers can earn micro-credentials just by doing their jobs – and use them for credit towards degrees in business, commerce, management, HR, tech and more.
RURAL PROPERTIES
WANTED – BUYERS WAITING
We have qualified buyers actively looking to purchase rural land and lifestyle properties now. After a number of recent sales, motivated buyers have missed out and are still searching.
• Acreage (cleared or uncleared) • Rural blocks with or without sheds/homes. • Lifestyle properties
larger landholdings and properties with water
If anyone is considering selling, now is the time. Demand is high and stock is low. We have buyers ready.
Incorrect food layering in the fridge can lead to dangerous drips. Photo: TCHHS.
Food preparation and storage is key in our warmer climates. Photo: TCHHS.
2026 Ely Bursary Education Assistance Scheme
Applications close at 5pm on Friday 16 January, 2026.
As part of the Ely Bauxite Mining Project Agreement, Rio Tinto is offering education support and scholarships for Aboriginal people, with a traditional or historical connection to the Mapoon, Napranum and New Mapoon communities and from the following Traditional Owner groups:
• The Taepithiggi People • The Tjungundji People
• The Thanakwith People • The Warrangku People
• The Yupungathi People • The Dulhunty People
Open to those attending boarding school or tertiary education.
To apply
You can request an application form by downloading from this link: https://form.jotform.com/252249152801048. Alternatively, please email: ebmpabursary@riotinto.com or visit your local council for a copy. For more information
Please contact Weipa Community Feedback on 1800 820 711.
19 December 2025 8.00am-12.00pm (4hrs)
community connect
December 2025
From the general manager
As we reach the end of the year, it’s a great moment to look back on the many milestones and achievements we’ve reached together.
We’ve had some standout moments— stable safety performance, a record production year, growing our local aboriginal employment levels, increasing local spending, and strengthening our community engagement. I’m grateful for the hard work and dedication shown by teams across every area. Your efforts truly make Weipa a better place to live and work.
I’d also like to congratulate the inspiring winners and nominees from the Western Cape Training Awards in November. These awards aren’t just about taking home a trophy— they’re about recognising the effort, growth, and courage it takes to try something new and give it your best.
A big shoutout to our Movember team, The Great Northern Flavour Savers, for another impressive fundraising effort this year. Thank you to everyone who supported men’s health awareness across our sites and in the community.
Our Inclusion, Equity, and Diversity committee, We Belong, also hosted a well-received BBQ for International Men’s Day, with fantastic community support. Mental health and wellbeing remain top priorities for us, and I’m proud of everyone who helped create space for these important conversations.
This year, we invested more than $550,000 into local communities through our agreements, along with in-kind support for local events and festivals. A highlight was supporting the Mapoon Paanja Festival in September—an event that celebrates the resilience, culture, art, and pride of the Mapoon community.
We also continued to prioritise spending with Indigenous and local businesses, keeping our investment close to home whenever possible. We are working hard on strategy for the coming years to significantly increase our local spend.
Santa will be doing his annual lolly run on Wednesday, 24 December, with our Emergency Services team visiting Weipa and Napranum. Keep an eye on the Rio Tinto Weipa Facebook
Highlights from this edition...
page for live updates. Please remember to stay clear of moving vehicles and keep children off the road.
Finally, I want to wish everyone a happy and safe festive season. Whether you’re travelling, staying local, or working through the holidays, please look after yourselves and each other. See you in 2026!
Steve Dunstone General Manager, Weipa Operations
High achievers win big at the Western Cape Training Awards:
Rio Tinto was proud to host the Western Cape Training Awards, dedicated to recognising high achieving apprentices and trainees in the Western Cape region. These exceptional individuals represent a bright future as skilled tradespeople, professionals and leaders in our region.
Congratulations to Tayla Cardelli from Evolution Mining and Civil who won the Trainee of the Year award. Her determination, hard work and resilience is an inspiration to all young people. Another winner from the evening was Pana Nawakie, winner of the Murphy Rehn Outstanding First Year Apprentice.
In 2025, Rio Tinto offered over 40 Apprenticeships and Traineeships across a wide range of disciplines and we are proud to announce that our workforce comprises over 30.6% women, 17.9% LAP participants and 33.9% Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander team members.
All nominees and winners should be very proud of what they have achieved as they are not just building careers, they are building the future of our communities.
Workplace diversity
Expansion Update
The Kangwinan (pronounced Caarng-winan) feasibility study has reached its six-month milestone, with planning well underway to define the technical and design requirements of the proposed project.
The 19Mtpa operation would include a mine centre south of Amrun near Norman Creek, an overland conveyor between the mine centre and export wharf, upgrading of the wharf to accommodate larger Cape sized vessels and water supply from the East Weipa mine bore field.
If approved by Rio Tinto, a 30-month construction period would follow with production targeted for commencement in 2029.
Key works undertaken to date include advancement of regulatory approvals; cultural heritage surveys; progress of site designs; commencement of geotechnical investigations at proposed infrastructure locations; consultation with Traditional Owners and the commencement of the project’s engineering, procurement and construction manager (EPCM), Bechtel.
The study also includes some early works projects such as a 252-bed expansion of the existing Amrun
village and a temporary project access road.
The study is supported by a nine-person Operational Readiness team and three person Communities team based in Weipa. The teams are responsible for ensuring community consultation is effective, the project safely and efficiently transitions through concept design and construction and, upon completion, is successfully transferred to operations.
General Manager Weipa Operations Steve Dunstone said the project is an exciting development for the Western Cape that would secure the future of mining in the region.
“Kangwinan is proposed to operate for around 30 years which further cements Rio Tinto’s commitment to the region and the local community in Weipa,” Steve said.
There has been considerable progress on the feasibility study, and we are grateful to everyone involved, from Traditional Owners to our site teams to the workers on the ground. We look forward to seeing the study progress and continue consultation with stakeholders through 2026.
For more information on the Kangwinan feasibility study, contact RTAWfeedback@riotinto.com
From Belly Dumps to Contract Management - Jess’s Weipa Journey
When Jess left Brisbane for Weipa, she kicked off her mining career driving belly dump trucks at Andoom. It didn’t take long for her drive to show—she knocked over a Cert IV in Training and Assessment while working onsite, which opened the door to a local dispatch role.
When dispatch later moved back to Brisbane, relocating wasn’t an option. Instead of calling it quits, Jess switched gears and joined one of Rio Tinto Weipa’s major contractors. That decision turned out to be a game-changer, giving her a whole new perspective on operations and sparking a passion for Contractor Management.
Ely Bursary now open
Applications for the Ely Bursary Education Assistance Scheme is now open for 2026. The scheme provides financial support for local Aboriginal people attending boarding school or higher education, like TAFE or university, and can be used for things such as tuition fees, school resources, uniforms, and IT equipment.
Bursaries are available to local Aboriginal people from, or currently living within the vicinity of Mapoon, Napranum, and New Mapoon communities who have a traditional or historical affiliation with that community.
To find out more about this program, please reach out to Tania Johnson on 0400 564 207. Applications close on Friday, 16 January 2026.
Jess eventually made her way back to Rio Tinto— first as an Advisor in Contract Mining and now as a Contractor Management Specialist. Her focus today is all about strengthening relationships, improving collaboration, and driving excellence across the business.
Life in Weipa with two young kids hasn’t always been easy, but it pushed her to keep learning, keep growing, and back herself. Working directly with contractors taught her how to navigate complex contracts and set her up for success in her current role. Her advice? Say yes to opportunities—even the tough ones. They’ll take you further than you expect.
With Weipa gearing up for expansion, the future of Contractor Management is looking big. Hundreds of new contractors are expected to come onboard, and Jess is excited about what that means for lifting support, refining processes, and building stronger partnerships.
“It’s a real chance to make an impact,” she says. “The next chapter is shaping up to be an exciting one.”
Wednesday 24 at 12pm to Monday 5 January 2026.
Bursaries Now Open Applications are now open until Friday 16 January 2026. Visit our Facebook page for more information. For planned power outages and live updates on unplanned outages please visit: https://weipaelectricity.riotinto.com or our Facebook page facebook.com/RioTintoWeipa
Santa’s Annual Lolly Run Santa will be visiting on Christmas Eve from 2.30pm in Weipa and Napranum. Refer to the Rio Tinto Weipa Facebook page for live updates.
Rio Tinto Community Relations Office Closure The Rio Tinto Community Relations Office will be closed from
Wathayn Traditional Owners discussing Kangwinan designs at the Wathayn outstation.
Peppan Traditional Owners visit Willem Swamp, a key culturally important site at East Weipa.
Starting the Conversation
We Belong is our site-based equity and diversity committee, dedicated to making our workplaces more inclusive. On 19 November they hosted the International Men’s Day BBQ. Despite the wet and early start, Tim Ryan opened the event and guests enjoyed a delicious BBQ breakfast.
The event offered the opportunity to share their experiences, get to know each other and have a yarn about the unique challenges men face. This year’s theme, “Celebrating Men and Boys,” focused on acknowledging the positive contributions men make to the world, their families, and their communities.
A huge thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to this important conversation. A special shout-out to the We Belong Committee and to BSS for your continued support.
Peer Support members welcomed
Our Peer Support Program is a key initiative that supports our business-wide mental health strategy. Through training, our peer supporters are equipped with the tools to support their teammates through stressful times, promoting a culture of inclusion and belonging.
Recently, ten new Rio Tinto employees completed their Peer Support Training and are now ready to make a positive impact on site. Their development included a two-day training session followed by a powerful oneday Cultural Safety Workshop, equipping them with valuable skills and confidence to support meaningful conversations.
We’re excited to welcome them to the program, where every new Peer Supporter helps us create a safer, supportive and more connected workplace.
Social Investment
Are you part of a local not for profit group or club that is looking for funding or in-kind support from Rio Tinto? We have several social investment programs available:
Sponsorships and Donations Program
If you’re interested in applying for funding through our 2026 Sponsorships and Donations program, applications for round one open 1 March 2026.
RioGivers Program
Receive $500 per Rio Tinto employee who volunteers 50 hours for your organisation.
Community Development Fund Expressions of interest opened in March and are ongoing throughout the year.
Conditions apply for each program to find out more, please reach out to our social investment team at RTAWeipaFeedback@riotinto.com.
In 2025, we invested over $550,000 through our Community Development Fund (CDF) and our Sponsorships and Donations Program into communities across the Cape.
From community festivals and events to laser equipment, development workshops, and silk arts, we’ve supported a diverse range of activities.
Every year, our incredible Movember team, The Great Northern Flavour Savers, come together to raise awareness and support for men’s health issues, including mental health, suicide prevention, prostate and testicular cancer.
They’ve raised an impressive $28,891 for men’s health and walked a combined 505.4km in distance as a team in 2025.
The team recently hosted their main fundraising event at the Albatross Bay Resort, led by their Movember team captain Fiona Langsdorf. Congratulations to everyone involved as they organized a legendary event that really brought the community together.
Huge shout out to the Operational Readiness Team as every employee joined the Movember efforts, using the experience as a team building exercise.
For more on the Movember movement, visit movember.com.
Resilience and Culture - Mapoon Paanja Festival
Rio Tinto was proud to support the 2025 Mapoon Paanja Festival in September celebrating resilience, culture, art and local pride.
The event featured a range of activites and entertainment including the Barra Bash Fishing Competition, Cultural Dance Competitions, Colouring In Competition, Touch Football Competition, live music, art workshops and so much more.
To add to the action the Rio Tinto’s communities team hosted their own laser tag obstacle course, adding some extra fun to the program of event. We were so excited to be a part of this epic weekend that helped bring the whole community together.
Train track and bridge safety
School holidays are in full swing, and while we love seeing kids enjoy the Cape, we remind parents to talk with their children about the dangers of trespassing on train tracks and fishing from the Mission River Bridge.
Oncoming trains can be hard to hear and often can’t stop in time—sometimes needing nearly a kilometre, the length of the bridge, to come to a halt. If your children are riding out to fish, please remind them to follow the signs near the Mission River Bridge and stay clear of the bridge and traffic.
We also ask everyone to avoid throwing fish frames off the bridge, as divers are working in the water and their safety depends on reducing the risk of attracting predators.
Folow our Rio Tinto Facebook page for more local safety tips.
Please scan the QR code for more information on Rio Tinto Buy Local and to register for updates.
Torres Strait maritime grads set sail on next chapter
* Student surnames have been withheld on request.
THE Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) has celebrated a major milestone with nine proud Tagai State College graduates also completing the Growing Our Own project.
The initiative connects students with training, skills and career pathways to confidently step into the next stage of their lives.
The TSRA-funded project is a vital part of the organisation’s mission to drive sustainable economic opportunities – including for young people – and preserve the region’s proud maritime heritage.
In 2025, the Growing Our Own Tagai Transitions Maritime Project with Tagai State College, TAFE Queensland and UAV Industries enabled 75 students in years 10-12 to undertake maritime operations, first aid and essential elements of shipboard safety-certified courses.
On behalf of the class, 2025 Coxswains Award recipient Robert thanked those involved for the opportunity to obtain “important licences that put us in a really good position to get work”.
“The best part for me was being on the boats,” he said.
“We all grew through the program and could put the theory into practice doing skills and drills.”
Acting TSRA chairperson Patrick Mooka, who attended the school graduation, said the Growing Our Own project delivered real outcomes and opportunities for young people.
“The project is about more than certificates, it is building confidence, leadership and career opportunities for our young people to take into the future,” Mr Mooka said.
“These inspiring nine graduates balanced their school, study, time and commitments to complete the program and show what is possible when our young people are supported to
dream, achieve and succeed.”
Some students will work in the Torres Strait, others will build their careers and qualifications on the mainland first.
Graduates William, Joey, Lenny and Tyrell plan to explore options in the region, including in trades, maritime and as local rangers.
Shakyah and school captain Emily have gained early offers to study at James Cook University.
Liteah and Robert intend on using the qualifications to gain mainland experience including in Cairns and Western Australia, while Kalisha hopes to take a gap year for travel before starting her work.
Maritime milestone: TSRA’s Arianne Laifoo, acting chairperson Patrick Mooka, CEO Charlie Kaddy and Nancy Cook celebrate with Growing Our Own graduates. Photo: Supplied.
Preserving Mapoon’s proud history
THE history of Old Mapoon is one of trial and resilience, and the significant cultural sites that record it.
These include parts of the original Mapoon settlement razed in the 1960s, now being actively explored and protected by Community Owned Enterprises’ (COE) latest Skilling Queenslanders for Work (SQW) project.
Six dedicated participants, led by local supervisor Addi Mamoose and Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council’s (MASC) infrastructure executive manager Victor Mills, started the Queensland Government-funded program four weeks ago.
They began with work on fenc-
ing and drainage around the site of the original mission buildings.
The SQW program grows employable skills through certificate-level qualifications and real employment experience over six months while participants work on important community projects.
For remote Mapoon, skills in construction and trades are highly sought by the community of about 450 residents.
COE project support officer Kami Samson-Narara said abilities gained in the Certificate 1 in Construction would make participants highly employable locally and across the wider region. Their work to assist MASC would also leave a lasting legacy.
“Mapoon suffers a skills drain as our young people move away to chase trades and careers after finishing school,” Kami said.
“But with pressure on council to not only maintain our community infrastructure, but also to protect our historic sites and to build new housing, we desperately need skilled tradies here in Mapoon.
“It’s great to see all six so actively engaged and showing up keen to work every day.”
She said participants were learning valuable skills while performing important work for the council and community.
“With more and more people visiting the historic sites at Cullen Point each year, it’s vital we
preserve and protect these important relics of our history so we can show future generations the sites that have formed our community.”
Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council interim CEO Amanda Ewart said the project would help council deliver more works.
“It’s very positive to see residents of Mapoon being involved in the training project,” she said.
“Council has many construction and civil works projects commencing in 2026 and 2027; we will need a capable and qualified team of workers from Mapoon to get the work done.”
COE runs SQW projects in remote communities throughout Cape York. This marks the sec-
ond hosted by Mapoon Aboriginal Shire Council following a successful venture in 2021-2022.
COE staff ensure participants progress through the program, offering daily supervision and support to the team and council. The organisation also equips teams with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and tools, setting participants up for future roles and opportunities.
With the wet season setting in and Christmas breaks days away, the Mapoon team will take a couple of weeks to rest and enjoy time with family and friends. Participants will return early in the new year to begin their dedicated training modules and assist new council projects.
The group takes a brief break at the historic Mapoon site: Georgeston Ling, Richard Parry, supervisor Addi Mamoose, Michael Nolan, Robert Savo, James Peter and Dominic Sagigi-Doolah.
Photo: COE.
The Mapoon team members have been working on drainage at Thunghu alongside other construction projects during the first four weeks. Photo: COE.
1,050
Your support kept the Cape informed, connected, and celebrated in 2025. Because of you, local voices were heard. We couldn’t do it without you. We return to print Tuesday, 13 January 2026. Until you can get your hands on a paper, head to www.capeyorkweekly.com.au or scan the QR code to keep up with the latest news.
StatesmanclassondaytwooftheFNQDirtKart
Cape York Weekly is part of the Region Group capeyorkweekly.com.au facebook.com/capeyorkweekly
Cape York Weekly Puzzles Page
the 5 Differences Fill in the blank cells using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row,
Good: 11 words FOCUS Very good: 18 words Excellent: 31 words
Quick
Workout Fit the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same. No number is repeated in any hexagon.
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.
Hey Sport...what a year!
JULY
Ausburn eyes off three-peat as record runners have festival fun Aurukun runner Jarrod Ausburn says he is already turning his mind to a cheeky trifecta after securing back-to-back wins in the men’s marathon at the 2025 Weipa Running Festival.
AUGUST
Moa’s Kris impresses in maroon with AFL selection
Col Vallance and Jim Fletcher struggle for visibility as they power through a corner on day two of the FNQ Dirt Kart Titles. The red dirt – and mud – flew as motorsport fans were on the edge of their seats at the Weipa Dirt Kart Club event.
Despite not having access to a regular footy field on her Moa Island home, young AFL player Lucinda Kris has been selected to don maroon for the under-12 Australian Football League National Championships.
He may have 10 Golden Guitars to his name, but there’s a chance not even James Blundell’s most evocative lyrics could accurately describe the enormous smile on his face at the Weipa Rodeo.
SEPTEMBER
Weipa fighter leaves it all in the ring for first Mareeba bout Cape York boxing champion Billy Reynolds is landing blows across the state after dominating the competition in Mareeba.
This week we conclude our salute to Cape sport in 2025 with a few memorable moments from July to December this year.
OCTOBER
Billfishers embrace conditions in fight for Weipa bragging rights
Anglers are renowned for telling a tall tale or two, but those battling in the 2025 Carpentaria Marine Services Weipa Billfish Tournament would be lying if they said it was all about bragging rights.
NOVEMBER
A talented all-girls football team from Torres Strait region takes on Queensland’s best and quickly wins them over with their dashing approach to the game.
Maiika posts PB during testing first nationals
Ten-year-old Cooktown swimmer Maiika Hegamaea showcases her mental and physical strength when she overcomes challenging conditions at her first national competition.
DECEMBER
Players light up for Wackers championships A field of 17 battles it out on the front 9 of Carpentaria Golf Club for the 2025 Weipa Wednesday Wackers championships. Winners are awarded engraved Zippo lighter trophies, welcomed by recipients who agree they’ll be a great addition to the camping kit.
MONDAY & TUESDAY
A passion and talent fostered in Weipa is taking a young runner all the way to the United States on a scholarship. Bridie Mahr signs to the track and cross-country team at
Canisius University in Buffalo, New York.
Zach Paradise blasts out of the chute as Pormpuraaw riders finally jumped back on board on their home arena when the local rodeo returned after a six-year hiatus.
Apprentice hoop Lauren Guernier on Vincenzo (on the rails) pulls away from the field during the closing stages of the 2025 Cooktown Cup.
HOWDY PARTNERS Cowboys’ northern exposure
THE North Queensland Cowboys club has reaffirmed its strong links to the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) by completing a three-day community engagement and game participation tour on Thursday Island and at Bamaga.
Part of the Cowboys’ ongoing community commitment, the trip helped deliver football, education and training programs across the NRL’s largest geographic footprint. It also brought the club’s year-round player and ambassador engagement for 2025 to more than 1700 hours.
The northern tour began at Tagai College’s Junior Campus where years 4, 5, and 6 students participated in skill-building sessions and games led by the Cowboys community team, including game participation coach Joe Cockshott and community engagement officer Krystal Blackwell.
Lunchtime touch football brought plenty of energy and laughter, followed by afternoon drills that kept spirits high until the final bell.
Day one concluded at Ken Brown Oval with a vibrant community event, supported by Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSRIC).
Students from Horn Island State School joined in, creating a joyful atmosphere of play and connection.
The team visited Tagai College’s Secondary Campus on day two, delivering a mix of fun activities alongside
the Try Time! Road to Success module, which included lessons on the safe use of personal mobility devices (PMDs).
The afternoon was spent rotating through classrooms at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart before wrapping up with a lively session at Kaziwa Meta boarding facility.
Warmly welcomed in Bamaga on day three, the team visited Bamaga State High School, Ama Mary Eseli Injinoo Junior Campus and Bamaga Secondary
School, sharing the excitement of rugby league in one of Australia’s northernmost regions.
Cowboys programs manager Ray Thompson said the tour underscored the club’s unwavering commitment to connecting with communities across North Queensland.
“Everywhere the team visited, the reception was outstanding. From school sessions to community events, the enthusiasm and energy from students, staff and lo-
cals was truly inspiring,” he said.
“These communities are deeply passionate about rugby league and are part of the Cowboys extended family. Given their remote location, they can sometimes feel disconnected which is why these visits are so important.
“A trip like this one strengthens relationships and delivers positive messages of respect, gratitude and participation, inspiring the next generation through rugby league.”
SPORTS BRIEFS
Grant conquers course
ONLY a handful of the 15 Dawnbuster-field managed to tame Carpentaria Golf Club’s back 9 on Sunday amid humid, stifling conditions.
Winner Grant Crossley posted 40 (nett 15) and will see his handicap plummet to four next week. He beat home Jamie Hutton with a 40.
Brandon Waretini (nett 19) took out the Bridesmaid while Jamie proved his accuracy with the NTP on the 9th green. Grant also took out the men’s longest drive; Vivian Chan won the women’s longest drive. Beth Dall won the Hoffmans. Grant put his victory down to some lucky shots, accurate scoring and the appreciation of rival Jim Lucas.
Dawnbusters continues through the Christmas period every Sunday morning, starting about 6 am, including this Sunday 21 December with its Christmas Ham Day.
In this final print/digital edition of the Cape York Weekly for 2025, Dawnbusters wishes staff and its readers a very Merry Christmas and prosperous and Happy New Year.
Dawson delivers again
ROSS Dawson lowered last week’s mark by five seconds to grab his second consecutive Weipa parkrun on Saturday.
The WTF (Where’s The Finish) club runner finished the 5 km course in 23:02, ahead of Kathleen Love (25:48) and Ryder Street (25:54).
Females again dominated the leaderboard with six competitors finishing in the top 10.
The full results and a complete event history can be found on the Weipa parkrun results page.
Weipa parkrun is a fun, free event organised by volunteers for the benefit of everyone. It starts 7 am every Saturday at the hospital roundabout shelter in Nanum.
Gary grabs victory
GARY Head won the day as 14 players took on the back 9 at Carpentaria Golf Club in Wednesday’s Wackers.
His 47 (nett 28.5) beat in-form Leeroy Ahmat who hit another fine 44 (nett 31). There was no pin shot on the 15th, but Gary managed a close shot on the 18th. Wackers welcomed new player Codie who took the Bradman’s category.
Plenty of characters keep the action going at Tagai College. Photos: Cowboys Community Foundation.
Students from Horn Island State School joined in at the Ken Brown Oval event.
Excitement remains high at Ama Mary Eseli Injinoo Junior Campus during the North Queensland Cowboys visit.
The team meets Our Lady of the Sacred Heart students during a memorable afternoon.
Bamaga State High School welcomes the Cowboys team on day three.
