THE support of the community and standing side-by-side with her youngest daughter were what made the nal step to Australian citizenship so special for Esther Watson.
Ms Watson was one of ve new Australians welcomed by the Weipa community at last Wednesday’s Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony.
The Philippine-born woman arrived in Weipa in 2016 on a tourist visa, and wanted to call
the rst place she landed in Australia home. But the journey to citizenship was not the easiest one.
Going through an agency was going to be incredibly costly, so she set out to take on the process for herself and her two daughters,, one of whom is still waiting on approval.
“I was scared to submit because I thought there’s something wrong [with the application],” she said.
“I put it away for two years, but last year I needed to nish it, otherwise my visa is expired.
“I’m so happy, because we’re not worried about travelling, like getting a visitor visa to go somewhere. Next week, maybe we’ll apply for a passport.”
Ms Watson, who came to the western Cape York township to be with her now-husband Glenn, said she was proud to raise her daughters in the community.
“My eldest one graduated from WCC (Western Cape College) in 2021. She went to JCU for nursing, she’s nished now, and she’s working at Cairns Hospital,” she said proudly.
“My youngest one, she just graduated last November and she’s going to JCU too next week for teaching.
“The community here is good.”
Weipa Town Authority chairperson Jaime Gane said it was an honour to be part of their citizenship journeys.
“Citizenship ceremonies are one of the highlights of my job; I feel very privileged to be able to do that for people,” she said.
– Continued page 2
Weipa Town Authority Chair Jaime Gane (left) congratulates Weipa’s newest Australian citizens - Esther Watson, Angelica Dialogo, Lucas Henriques, Reboucas De Oliveira, Juanita Ceballos and Blessing Mapfumo. Photo: Weipa Town Authority.
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Cape’s newest citizens already feeling at home
From page 1
“I feel like it’s not enough of an event to recite a few lines and that’s it, they’re good to go.
“I’m sure it’s not a quick or easy process, so I feel it’s an honour to complete that final step for them so they can get their citizenship.”
She said it was always positive to see the tight-knit community welcome new citizens with open arms.
“Weipa is a great community; the many different cultures we have here is a really big part of what makes it such a great place to live,” she said.
“It’s a very welcoming community for people from other cultures, other countries.
“The people getting their citizenship will always bring some of their local friends to witness and support them, which is really lovely.”
Ms Gane congratulated the new citizens on 21 January, saying they truly understood what it meant to be Australian.
Cook Shire celebrates its best on Australia Day
by CHISA HASEGAWA
IT takes many different types stepping up to create a thriving community. That’s exactly what the Cook Shire Australia Day Awards highlighted on 26 January.
Residents, families and organisations came together on Monday morning to recognise their outstanding locals for their leadership and contribution to the community.
“Australia Day is about service, inclusion and community,” Cook Shire Council Mayor Robyn Holmes said.
“These awards recognise the people and groups who live those values every day and help make Cook Shire a strong, caring and connected place.”
The 2026 Citizen of the Year was presented to long-time resident Russell Bowman, often seen leading the way in community groups, advocating for his region, or saving lives on the water.
& Tourism, and supported local employment and community groups through his business.
When residents don’t see his face, they hear his voice providing weekly fishing and weather updates on Black Star Radio.
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“I think citizenship, for those who choose to come here and make this they’re home, is so much more special,” she said.
“I think a lot of Australian-born citizens take Australian citizenship for granted.
“Those who come here by choice and through effort are often some of the best examples of great Australians because they make the most of it and really value and appreciate what it means.”
Cooktown Shire congratulated new citizens Jenni James, Paul Caumban and Kate Smith at its citizenship ceremony and Australia Day Awards on 26 January.
As a member of the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard since 2007 and commander since 2017, Mr Bowman has been involved in more than 50 search and rescue activations.
During his 18 years of service, he has embodied the spirit of community and selflessness, often responding at all hours to assist those in distress at sea.
The high achiever has also served as president of the Cooktown Blue Water Club since 2021, promoted the region as part of the Cooktown Chamber of Commerce
“Russell’s contribution spans across incident response, community organisations, business and volunteering,” Mayor Holmes said.
“He is always willing to step up, put others first, and support Cooktown and the wider shire.”
Academic gun and aspiring midwife Kristin Slykerman was named 2026 Young Citizen of the Year in recognition of her achievements, volunteer work and leadership.
At just 15, Ms Slykerman has already travelled to Bangladesh with an Australian midwife volunteering with Symbiosis. She has also volunteered with the
Cooktown Reenactment Society for four years. Her educational drive earned her the Endeavour Christian College middle school dux title in 2024. She is currently balancing her role in the student council, multiple sports, two part-time jobs, and active participation in her church and community.
“Kristin demonstrated compassion, drive and commitment well beyond her years. Her achievements as a young citizen deserve recognition,” Mayor Holmes said.
Cook Shire Council also recognised:
• Volunteer of the Year: Stefanie O’Kane and John Habermann
• Sports Award: Cooktown basketball –The Salties
• Arts and Culture Award: Cooktown Creative Arts Association
• Environment Award: Beau Peberdy
Esther Watson and daughter Angelica receive their Australian citizenship together at the Weipa Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony event. Photo: Supplied.
2026 Cook Shire Young Citizen of the Year Kristin Slykerman and Citizen of the Year Russell Bowman flank Mayor Robyn Holmes after receiving their honours on Australia Day. Photo: Supplied.
‘OUR COMMUNITY IS NOTHING WITHOUT VOLUNTEERS’
Weipa’s top citizens in the spotlight
by CHISA HASEGAWA
SELFLESS, welcoming, involved and awesome are just some of the words used to describe Weipa’s 2026 Community Spirit Award winner.
The Weipa Town Authority recognised the community’s top contributors at the 2026 Australia Day Awards on 21 January with a special dinner at Albatross Bay Resort to congratulate the three category winners.
Community Spirit champion Penelope Johnson said she was humbled by the recognition, but she received just as much as she gave.
As a nurse, mother and community member always willing to lend a hand, Ms Johnson has plenty on her plate, but said her cup was always lled as she poured out to others.
“I’ve lived in small towns my whole life. I feel you get out of a community what you put into a community,” she said.
“Our community is nothing without the volunteers who make it happen, so I feel I should be a part of that.
“I have a really amazing village, so that’s part of giving back. When you give so much to a community, you nd the people who are part of that village happy to help pick up your kids while you’re doing something else. It’s a team effort – none of this can be done on my own.”
Ms Johnson said one of her proudest efforts had been her role on the local kindergarten committee.
“Through that, I participated in Wine by the Sea. We have raised enough money to see some signi cant changes happen at kindy,” she said.
“With that role and through the years of being on the kindy committee, I’ve seen actual changes that have impacted our early childhood, which is so important in town.”
Weipa Town Authority chair Jaime Gane described Ms Johnson as the person
FEBRUARY 2026
“She is that person who will be involved in everything in one way or another. It’s never too much,” she said.
“She is one of those people who is selfless in the time she gives and what she puts into the community.
“It’s just the effort she puts into whatever she does. [The award] is about those people who epitomise what it means to have that strong community spirit.”
The Australia Day Awards also recognised Citizen of the Year Stephanie Neil, Young Citizen of the Year Emily Foy, and recently passed community member Frenchy Maujean for his years of tireless contribution to several local committees.
“I would like to thank the community and all the other nominees for the hard work they put in to make this community as great as it is,” Ms Johnson said.
Cook Shire Council is undertaking the following roadworks across the region throughout February. 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 more news and information, please visit: www.cook.qld.gov.au
Ongoing until end of March Cameron Creek Road (from Endeavour Valley Road) Drainage
of March Bloomfield Road (various locations) Roadside clearing and slashing of roadside vegetation.
Ongoing until end of March Charles & May Street, Cooktown Installation of safety improvements, drainage, sealing and parking. Be mindful of pedestrian traffic. Drive to conditions.
Late February until early March Cooktown (various locations) Road line marking.
Weather dependent Guszley Road, Keatings Lagoon Installation of causeway cap.
Weather dependent South Road, Cooktown Causeway replacement.
Weather dependent Cnr Power & Howard Street, Cooktown Culvert and causeway installation.
Crews in the area. Drive to conditions.
Detour will be in palce. Drive to conditions.
Detour will be in palce. Drive to conditions.
Road closure off Howard Street. Be mindful of signage and drive to conditions.
who baked a cake for someone after hearing it was their birthday.
Beaming 2026 Citizen of the Year Stephanie Neil and Community Spirit Award winner Penelope Johnson celebrate their Australia Day honours at the awards dinner. Photos: Weipa Town Authority.
Weipa Town Authority’s Jaime Gane presents Nathan Maujean a special certificate of appreciation dedicated to his late father Frenchy for his years of tireless contribution to the community.
Gun law reform ignores remote shooters’ needs
WITH hunting and feral animal control a huge part of the culture, remote community shooters argue they are getting the short end of the stick after new gun law reforms were passed in parliament.
Australian gun laws will undergo some of the most significant changes since the 1996 Port Arthur massacre in a move controversial to remote firearm owners.
Spurred by last month’s Bondi Beach attack, Federal Parliament voted for gun law reforms and a crackdown on hate speech.
The gun reform measures, which were passed by the House of Representatives and Senate on 20 January, include a national buy-back scheme and tighter background checks.
Sporting Shooters Association of Queensland (SSAA) Weipa Branch president David Rutherford said he was concerned the needs of remote communities had been ignored.
“On the Cape, all the stations have got firearms for pest control – pigs and dingoes and things like that. Sometimes you need to put down animals as well,” he said.
“It’s also a sport that you don’t get to do much in the cities, because it’s restricted.
“We’ve got a good range set up here; it’s been there for nearly 15 years and it’s mainly people who come to Weipa for the outdoor life,
for somewhere to go and safely shoot their firearms.”
New figures released on 18 January from the Department of Home
Affairs revealed a record number of firearms in Australia, 4,113,735. However, there are only 929,741 firearm licences across the country.
Queensland held the second-highest number of firearms at 1,143,895, yet only 231,732 firearm licences.
“It’s crazy to think they’re going to tighten up the laws … the tight laws they had didn’t work; they need to look at what went wrong there first,” Mr Rutherford said.
“The last buy-back scheme didn’t work that well; there’s a lot of firearms out there that aren’t registered still, in the hands of people who haven’t got a licence.”
Queensland is expected to oppose the national buy-back scheme. Member for Cook David Kempton said the focus of the reforms were misplaced.
“The Crisafulli Government does not plan to support the Federal Government’s proposed buy-back schemes as it sends the wrong message,” he said.
“I believe the focus should be on stamping out antisemitism and keeping firearms from those who clearly should not have access to them, rather than victimising honest farmers and legitimate licence holders, including recreational shooters.”
Million-dollar makeover activates PCYC Aurukun
by CHISA HASEGAWA
MORE space means more fun and more engagement as Aurukun youth enjoy the milliondollar upgrade to their local PCYC.
Whether it is a deadly game of basketball, a youth leadership discussion, or simply a space to yarn and connect, the club’s expansion and addition of a dedicated youth space have allowed popular PCYC Aurukun programs to thrive.
“This club is a linchpin of
Rio Tinto Weipa is dedicated to the sustainable development and growth of local signatory communities.
Our Sponsorships and Donations Program provides funding for local programs, initiatives, activities, and events that enrich community life and contribute to making the region a vibrant place to live and work. The program's catchment area includes Weipa, Napranum, Aurukun, Mapoon, and the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA).
Do
the community, with the team
offering young people a positive space to spend time making connections and participating in sport and other activities,”
PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schultz said.
“These upgrades will allow more young people to enjoy the great things our youth programs have to offer.”
The expanded youth space has already begun supporting programs such as After Dark, Club and Culture, Cadet Club, Team Up and Kang
No�ce of applica�ons for determina�on of na�ve �tle in Queensland No�fica�on day: 11 February 2026
Kang Youth Leadership - all designed to boost confidence and resilience in Aurukun’s next generation.
Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games
Tim Mander said the expanded youth space would make a positive impact on the lives of young people in Aurukun.
“Our PCYCs offer quality facilities and programs which provide transformative opportunities for people of all ages,” he said.
These are applica�ons by na�ve �tle claim groups which are asking the Federal Court of Australia (Federal Court) to determine that they hold na�ve �tle in the areas described below.
If you want to become a party to any of these applica�ons, you must file a Form 5 (No�ce of Inten�on to become a Party) with the Federal Court, on or before 11 May 2026. Further informa�on regarding how to file a Form 5 is available from www.fedcourt.gov.au. A�er 11 May 2026, you will need to seek leave from the Federal Court to become a party.
Under the Na�ve Title Act 1993 (Cth) there can be only one determina�on of na�ve �tle for a par�cular area. If a person with na�ve �tle rights and interests does not become a party to any of these applica�ons, there may be no other opportunity for the Federal Court, in making its determina�ons, to take into account those na�ve �tle rights and interests in rela�on to the areas concerned.
Applica�on name: Ankamuthi People Sea Claim
Federal Court File No: QUD356/2025
Date filed: 30 May 2025
Registra�on test status: The Na�ve Title Registrar has accepted this applica�on for registra�on
Descrip�on of area: The applica�on area covers about 389 sq km and is located over the land and waters of the Endeavour Strait adjoining Cape York Peninsula, approximately 5km northwest of Bamaga
Relevant LGAs: Torres Shire Council and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council
Applica�on name: Gudang Yadhaykenu People
Sea Claim
Federal Court File No: QUD357/2025
Date filed: 30 May 2025
Registra�on test status: The Na�ve Title Registrar has accepted this applica�on for registra�on
Descrip�on of area: The applica�on area covers about 389 sq km and is located over the land and waters of the Endeavour Strait adjoining Cape York Peninsula, approximately 5km northwest of Bamaga
Relevant LGAs: Torres Shire Council and Northern Peninsula
PCYC Aurukun youth take advantage of their new space. Photo: PCYC Aurukun.
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Hope Vale
Hope for endangered quoll after first sighting in more than 80 years
by CHISA HASEGAWA
RESEARCHERS were close to giving up hope on one of Australia’s most endangered marsupials when a sighting on Cape York following a hunch changed everything.
An endangered northern quoll was detected at Piccaninny Plains Wildlife Sanctuary for the first time in more than 80 years after ecologists feared the species had vanished from the property.
The cat-sized quoll was captured on a motion-sensor camera on the eastern side of the 164,850-hectare sanctuary, jointly owned by Australian Wildlife Conservancy (AWC) and The Tony & Lisette Lewis Foundation.
“It was a fantastic surprise,”
AWC wildlife ecologist Dr Helena Stokes said.
“After years of no sightings, to finally confirm a northern quoll on the sanctuary is hugely uplifting for our team.
“It reinforces the importance of persistence, good science, and managing threats across large landscapes.”
The nearest detection of the species was in 2017, when a quoll was captured on a trail camera on the neighbouring Indigenousmanaged Kaanju Ngaachi Wenlock and Pascoe River IPA by Chuulangun Rangers.
Once widespread across northern and eastern Australia, northern quoll populations have collapsed due to toxic cane toads, feral predators including cats, inappropriate fire regimes and habitat loss.
Surveys on Piccaninny Plains Wildlife Sanctuary since 2008, including targeted camera deployments in 2015, 2021 and 2023, failed to detect the elusive marsupial.
That changed late last year when sanctuary manager Nick Stock, following a hunch about an isolated rocky outcrop spotted from a helicopter, deployed a single camera.
Within days, it captured unmistakable evidence of a quoll.
“Every rediscovery matters,” he said.
“Just when we were close to giving up hope, this little quoll reminds us why we keep searching, and why protecting these landscapes at scale is essential.”
Dr Stokes said the rediscovery provided a crucial foothold for understanding how the
species might be surviving on Cape York, with early indications suggesting the outcrop remained largely unburnt as a result of AWC’s long-term fire management, and so far, showed no evidence of feral cats on surveillance cameras.
“This record gives us a roadmap — we now have a clear starting point for future surveys and research,” she said.
“It’s possible this quoll, and hopefully others, have adapted their behaviour in response to the presence of cane toads.
“Understanding that resilience could be vital for the species’ long-term survival.”
AWC hopes to expand survey efforts across Piccaninny Plains this year to determine the extent of the population and inform next steps for recovery.
New year, new opportunity for community funds
THE Queensland Government has opened applications for the first round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund this year, with grants of up to $35,000 available to support community organisations.
The Gambling Community Benefit Fund is Queensland’s largest one-off community grants program and supports not-for-profit groups to deliver a range of projects including:
• Renovating community facilities
• Running local events and training sessions
• Installing solar systems and shade sails
• Upgrading equipment and vehicles
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice
and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said the strong support for the Gambling Community Benefit Fund showed the difference this program made for local communities.
“Whether it’s a small charity, a much-loved footy club, or a service in one of the most remote parts of our state, every dollar awarded from the Gambling Community Benefit Fund helps support the work these organisations do and the role they play in their local community,” the Attorney-General said.
“No matter the size of the project or idea, I encourage all eligible not-for-profit groups
to consider applying for a grant in Round 126 - because how good would it be to start off the year with a $35,000 boost for your local community initiative?
“I’ve seen the impact this funding can have when I’ve visited some of the successful recipients from previous rounds, from the Far North to the South East, and I’m looking forward to sharing more of those grassroot community stories in 2026.”
Applications are now open at www.justice.qld.gov.au and will close at midnight on 28 February 2026. Successful applicants will be announced in July.
Indigenous Governance Awards up for grabs
RECONCILIATION Australia and the Australian Indigenous Governance Institute have launched this year’s Indigenous Governance Awards.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and groups are encouraged to apply, with prizes including a share in $60,000, plus professional development, media and networking opportunities.
There are three awards categories celebrating outstanding examples of governance:
• Indigenous-led unincorporated organisations and groups
• Indigenous-led small to medium incorporated organisations, with under $1 million in annual revenue
• Large Indigenous-led incorporated organisations with $1 million and over in annual revenue.
Applications and nominations close on 6 March 2026. Find out more at www. reconciliation.org.au.
Rio Tinto releases fourth quarter results
RIO Tinto has released its fourth quarter production results for 2025, with chief executive Simon Trott describing them as “exceptional”.
“Our operations delivered exceptional production performance, both on a quarteron-quarter and full year basis, as we leverage our strong foundation of operating excellence and project delivery across our portfolio,” Mr Trott said.
“We achieved record quarterly iron ore production in the Pilbara, with a strong recovery from the extreme weather interruptions earlier in the year. At Simandou, we celebrated the major milestone of first shipment from the port; a testament to our ability to deliver major growth projects.
“Record copper production continues following delivery of our Oyu Tolgoi underground project, another demonstration of our unique and diverse project capabilities.
“A step change in bauxite production through the year once again highlights the ongoing maturation of our operational excellence.
“In lithium, we achieved production growth from our operations and in-flight projects as planned in 2025, as we build out our high-quality portfolio with discipline.”
The endangered northern quoll thought to have disappeared from Piccaninny Plains Wildlife Sanctuary was spotted after more than eight decades. Photo: Brad Leue.
Northern quoll caught on camera at Piccaninny Plains Wildlife Sanctuary. Photo: Supplied.
Pacific’s partnership of power TORRES STRAIT, SOLOMONS AIR ISLAND WISDOM
A POWERFUL, First Nations-led ranger exchange spanning the lush rainforests of the Solomon Islands to the blue waters of Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait) will feature in an upcoming eight-part documentary series on ABC TV.
The series, expected to air in the first half of 2026, will showcase how Australia’s far north and its Pacific neighbour are celebrating and sharing island wisdom.
The growing bond underlines the old adage: knowledge is power.
The unique First Nations to First Nations International Knowledge Exchange began in February 2025 when Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Rangers visited Solomon Islands Rangers Association (SIRA) in South Malaita. Its focus: long-lasting
environmental outcomes and cultural ties.
SIRA hosted TSRA Rangers in four remote communities as part of Indigenous Pathways, an Indigenous-led component of the Australian Government-funded Australian Volunteers Program. The TSRA Rangers visited Takataka, Apunepara, Waihau and Nasi with additional conservation sites joining at each location.
TSRA – one of Australia’s most remote, unique and culturally strong public service agencies – returned the island hospitality when it hosted SIRA Rangers for three weeks in August in the Torres Strait.
The reciprocal visit further strengthened the relationships formed and the Traditional Ecological Knowledge
The Western Cape Communities Co-Existence Agreement (WCCCA) is an Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) over the Rio Tinto mining lease areas of the Western Cape York region of Northern Queensland. The Agreement is between the eleven Traditional Owner Groups, four Shire Councils (Aurukun, Napranum, Mapoon and New Mapoon), Rio Tinto, the Queensland State Government and the Cape York Land Council on behalf of the Native Title Parties.
The Western Cape Communities Coordinating Committee (WCCCC) and its five Sub-Committees transparently monitor, implement and review the objectives of the WCCCA to ensure that all parties’ obligations under the Agreement are met. The WCCT office is the administration arm for all Trusts and the WCCCC. It manages the overall business of the company, including servicing, assisting and supporting the above entities. WCCT is committed to providing high quality services to our Traditional Owners, and we recognize the importance of employing the most suitable candidates. Currently we are seeking applications for the position of:
OFFICE MANAGER
Reporting to the Executive Officer, the Office Manager is responsible for the efficient and effective functioning of the WCCT Office in order to meet organisational objectives. This includes demonstrating appropriate and professional workplace behaviours, performing their responsibilities in a manner which reflects and responds to continuous improvement, managing Administration staff, managing IT and communications systems and other office equipment, and providing support to the Executive Officer. The Office Manager is also responsible for the coordination and planning of all WCCT, WCCCC, Sub-Regional Trusts and Sub-Committees meetings scheduled throughout the year.
We anticipate the applicants will have completed a formal training in Business Administration or a similar field and have experience in a similar role where they have been responsible for the efficient and effective functioning of an office, managing administration staff, document control, managing IT and communications systems as well as compliance with organisation policies and procedures and workplace health and safety regulations. A current C class driver’s license is also required for this role.
Prior experience with MYOB, centralized database, and a sound knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island protocols are highly desired. Traditional Owners and Aboriginal people are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants must have the right to work in Australia.
For further information, including a position description please contact the Executive Officer directly.
All applications should be clearly marked “Private and Confidential” and addressed as follows: Executive Officer PO Box 106
(TEK) shared in the first phase of the exchange.
Visiting rangers were welcomed on Waiben (Thursday Island) with a traditional gift ceremony, Welcome to Country by Traditional Owner Aunty Enid Tom and performances by Eip Karem Beizam - Meriam Cultural Group at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre – the region’s cultural heart.
Rangers connected with respected culture leader, Uncle Gabriel Bani, to learn about local language conservation and revival and joined local yarns on TSIMA Radio 4MW and sessions with Biosecurity Queensland.
Rangers also visited Horn Island and Boigu Island, meeting local communities, exchanging conservation practices and learning about TSRA’s world-class,
Indigenous-led environmental management approach – where Traditional Knowledge meets western science to care for land, sea and culture.
Hosted by TSRA’s Land and Sea Management Unit (LSMU), the local and visiting rangers learnt about and shared lived experiences in environmental activities including:
• community-led turtle and dugong management
• seagrass monitoring
• invasive species management strategies
• TEK product development
• island monitoring and cultural site visits.
A day spent on Kaiwalagal Country with Traditional Owners Aunty Enid and Barbara Miskin at Irrki on Muralag,
Indigenous program Australian Volunteers ice Tamang, said that made the exchange was “the way knowledge through cultural protocol, spect and relational
“The bonds formed Strait and Solomon Islands carry forward efforts environment and safeguard Knowledge for future Cape York Weekly monitor this growing tuned to see the partnership ally on the ABC.
At Rio Tinto, we seek to strengthen the local economies in the communities in which we operate, and we do this by continuously providing procurement opportunities for local and Indigenous businesses.
Register Today Register via our dedicated Expression of Interest (EOI) portal. Here you can view and submit responses for the goods and services we need across our operations, Australia wide.
CLOSING DATE – FRIDAY 6th FEBRUARY 2026 Scan the QR code for more information on Rio Tinto Buy Local and to register for
Weipa, QLD, 4874
Phone: (07) 4069 7945
Email: eo@westerncape.com.au
Setting sail in the Solomon Islands: Indigenous Pathways Australian Volunteers and TSRA Rangers Ethel Loretta Glanville flank Clerah Maenuia. Photo: Bella Laifoo – Australian Volunteers Program.
alongside Kaurareg Junior Tagai College Waybeni pay Mudh, proved highlights.
`Celebration of shared values’
TSRA chairperson George Nona said the exchange was a powerful, global example of Indigenous collaboration and unity.
“We are proud to share TSRA’s world-class ranger program led by our people, for our people, with our brothers and sisters from the Solomon Islands,” Mr Nona said.
“This exchange is more than a learning opportunity – it’s a celebration of our shared values and a reaffirmation of our commitment to protecting our lands, seas and cultures.
“This is a significant step in strengthening ties between communities across Australia and the Pacific, building resilience through shared knowledge and honouring the deep ties between island communities.
“When we walk together, combining traditional wisdom and western science, we strengthen our ability as First Nations people to care for Country.
“United by common challenges, connected by cultural values and driven by opportunity, this exchange reflects the strength of working First Nations to First Nations, side by side together.”
Junior Rangers from Waybeni Koey Ngurone of the visit’s program manager at the Volunteers Program, Alone of the factors exchange so successful knowledge was shared: protocol, mutual relearning”. formed between Torres Islands Rangers will orts to conserve the safeguard Traditional future generations.” Weekly will continue to growing bond in 2026. Stay partnership air nation-
`Respect in the community’
FOUNDING SIRA member Albert Kwatelae said the connection between community and ranger groups was inspiring.
“It’s been so impressive to see the respect in the community and amongst the people,” Mr Kwatelae said.
“Connectivity with nature and wildlife is a paramount thing and the Torres Strait people are so proud of it and take ownership of it.”
SIRA’S administration and finance officer Christina Raenaitoro said the exchange highlighted new and different opportunities to share back home.
“Big eso (thank you) to the LSMU team for the wonderful experience and learning environment,” Ms Raenaitoro said.
“You have truly shared with us how a well-structured team works together to achieve its outcomes.
“You’ve shown us there will always be challenges, but that by working together it’s possible to maintain focus and momentum for community outcomes.”
SIRA program manager Eddie Huitarau and TSRA’s Bradley Pabai shake hands on the strong bonds being forged.
Photo: Torres Strait Regional Authority.
Sharing experiences: Boigu Island welcomes the delegation, before sharing stories of local conservation and community leadership.
Aunty Enid Tom and SIRA’S administration and finance officer Christina Raenaitoro exchange thanks during the historic visits between Torres Strait Regional Authority Rangers and Solomon Islands Rangers Association.
Photo: TSRA.
Maiem, Sew Ngapa! (Welcome): TSRA and Eip Karem BeizamMeriam Cultural Group welcome the Solomon Islands Rangers Association (SIRA). Photo: Torres Strait Regional Authority.
Onboard for opportunity: TSRA’s Simon Tedder and Alice Manas with Seth Seden (filming the experience), Eve Aihunu (Australian Volunteers Program) and Naitoro Felix (SIRA).
Cooktown family discovers 20-million-year-old fossil
by CHISA HASEGAWA
A STROKE of luck has seen a Cooktown man and his family discover a 20-million-year-old whale fossil on a Victorian beach while holidaying in the area.
Nick Davidson was enjoying a cooldown on Ocean Grove Beach just before Christmas when his wife Kristina came across a fossilised section of vertebrae.
“The sands had shifted in such a way to expose it in a way it wasn’t usually exposed,” he said.
“It was luck of the draw to be there at the right place and time, and to have some understanding of what we were looking at.”
Mr Davidson excitedly shared the find with his brother Matt, who had been interested in palaeontology since childhood, and had a few contacts at Museums Victoria.
It was only when a museum representative estimated the specimen to be 20 million years old that the family realised just how big a discovery they had made.
“We knew it was special, but we probably didn’t realise quite how special,” he said.
By the next morning, the Davidson family was back
on the beach with a museum representative to get the coordinates of the artefact’s location, but the vertebrae was nowhere to be seen.
“We went back the next day to find that overnight, the tide had buried it again,” Mr Davidson said.
“We had four photos of the kids digging up this thing
with a bit of background in them, and those four photos gave us enough information to sort of triangulate a position.
“In total, I think we spent about five hours digging holes in the vicinity of where the fossil was.”
The hot and sweaty effort was completely worth it
for Mr Davidson, who used to fantasise about finding treasures from the past as a child - an adventurous side he has passed down to his own children.
“As kids, we’d spend our summers around those coastlines, and you’d wander along, always looking for fossils,” he said.
“We never really did find anything, so to find this was astounding, because not only was it substantial in size, but the preservation was just amazing.
“We spend a bit of time in Cooktown looking for relics - pennies and old artefacts from the turn of the last century or during the
war, so that sort of stuff is definitely of interest, and I think that’s flowed through to the kids.”
The fossil, which has been dubbed the “Davidson’s whale” for the time being, is safely buried in the sand again as the museum begins the process of retrieval and research this year.
A 20-million-year-old whale vertebrae fossil has been named after the Cooktown family who discovered the specimen while on holiday. Photo: Supplied.
Museums Victoria will launch a full-scale investigation of the fossilised vertebrae section this year. Photo: Supplied.
Cape York Weekly Puzzles Page
Quick Workout
Fit the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same. No number is repeated in any hexagon.
2 Fit the numbers 1-6 once into every hexagon so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers are the same. No number is repeated in any single hexagon.
AFL Premiership Cup tour keeps remote dreams
by CHISA HASEGAWA
A RARE opportunity to see the AFL Premiership Cup is keeping sporting dreams alive for young athletes in Napranum, Weipa and Thursday Island.
Organised by AFL Cape York, the coveted trophy – won by the Brisbane Lions at the 2025 grand final – made its way to the three communities on 22-23 January.
AFL Cape York general manager Rick Hanlon said it marked the first time the Premiership Cup tour had come to the Cape and Torres Strait.
“It’s historic – the first time it’s ever gone past Cairns,” he said.
“I think it’s about dreaming. It’s about seeing something that’s physically there instead of something you see on the TV.
“It’s about the opportunity to say you’ve seen the cup, you’ve had your photo with the cup, and it’s historical because we don’t know when the next opportunity might come – it might never come again.”
Fans also met AFLW Brisbane Lions superstars Ally Anderson and Cathy Svarc, and were given a chance to up their skills on the field with an AFL super clinic.
Rookies underline ’26 parkrun popularity
A DOZEN new Weipa parkrun participants in Saturday’s 455th edition have further signalled the event’s successful start to the new year.
Rohan Anderson led home the rookies, posting 22:18 to grab second place on the day behind winner Chrisden Russ (20:45). Ryder Street (22:43) grabbed third in the 66-strong field.
Other first-timers to compete: Sam Bartsch, Spencer Wain, Emma Chaplyn, Amelia Cowley, Colin Wei, Hadley Fielding, Riley Oswald, Brooke McCallum, Ellie Parker, Isabella McLeod-Whiting and Catalina Caballero.
Ashleigh Lievore recorded the week’s sole personal best, hitting the tape in 36:37.
Representatives of three clubs took part on the day.
The event was made possible with the support of seven volunteers: Amanda Allender, Lisa May, Chris Blythe, David Tuckwood, Calvin Waia, Emma Eyre and Luke O’Day.
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.
Rains clear for Jamie’s sub-40 Dawnies assault
AFTER a week of inclement weather, golfers took full advantage of the clear blue sky on offer for the Dawnbusters Australia Day Cup on 25 January.
Sunday morning started with showers that dissipated just before tee-off of the 11th round of the season, allowing for uninterrupted matches as participants brought their A game.
Despite a heavy course after a week of continuous showers, Jamie Hutton snagged the overall win after hitting a sub-40 round.
But his 39 off the stick came at a cost to his handicap which will plummet from 22 to 3 for his next round.
Assassin” Triffit could only manage a 46 on the day, but his handicap allowed him to claim Bridesmaid.
Chelsea Buckley continued her hold on the Hoffmans for the second week in a row. Despite shooting two strokes less than last week, it was still good enough to claim the prize.
“We’re showing our thanks by working with the Lions to get the cup out of Cairns and as far north as possible,” he said.
Mr Hanlon said the tour was a show of gratitude to the Cape York and Torres Strait communities’ ongoing partnership with AFL Cape York.
“When Collingwood won (2023), it came to Cairns for one night, and then it was gone again. Prior to that, it was way back in the early 2000s when Brisbane won their premiership.
“This is a big commitment from the Lions to actually free it up for a couple of days and get it out to people in the remote areas.”
Hutton, who also took out the men’s longest drive, dedicated the morning’s win to fellow competitor Paiwan Lui, who had thrown down the gauntlet and offered a challenge the night before –one he graciously accepted.
Lui went on to hit a 53 following a meltdown on the 8th fairway.
Runner-up Scott “Silent
Vivian Chan once again stamped her mark on the women’s longest drive, while Helen Sabatino took nearest the pin for the day.
The Dawnbuster crew will take on the back 9 on Sunday 1 February; the expected teeoff time is 6:30 am.
It was all smiles at PCYC Napranum when the AFL Premiership Cup tour arrived in all of its glory. Photo: Supplied.
lovers. Photo:
Dawnbusters Australia Day Cup winner and runner-up
Jamie Hutton and Scott Triffit. Photo: Supplied.
Grand final glory for Cooktown Crocs
by CHISA HASEGAWA
THREE Cooktown Crocs players have been dubbed some of the top players in the country after a thrilling grand final round at the 2026 Australian Underwater Hockey National Championships.
Cooktown was well represented in five of the six grand final rounds Queensland contested at the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre in Southport from 11-19 January. And the players excelled in the showdowns, bringing home the hardware for themselves, their community and their state.
It was a big step up for player Rocco Thomason who, after only recently moving up to the Elite division, helped the team get its first gold in decades.
“It’s the first time the Elite men’s A have won in over 40 years,” coach Scott Thomason said.
“Rocco was a part of that team, which was pretty special, and that was his first year playing Elite.”
Sienna Thomason also played in the Elite division, helping the women’s A team snatch silver in an extremely close game.
“The two finals both went into double extra time,” Scott said.
“The Elite women’s and men’s, they’re some of the most amazing games of hockey you would ever see; they were down to seconds.”
In the B grade, Scott competed as part of the Masters men’s team in the bronze medal match, while youngsters Eli Carol, Sam Ryder and Josh McDermott com-
peted in the 5th vs 6th match against Tasmania.
“Overall, it was an amazing tournament for Queensland,” he said.
“We won the overall champion state, which was very impressive; Queensland haven’t done that too often, so that was really cool.”
Eli, Sienna and Rocco were selected for the Australian team trial for the 2026 CMAS World Championship Underwater Hockey Age Group.
“Throughout the competition, there were selectors that went and watched their games, and there’s a criteria that each player is judged on,” Scott said.
“I think it’s the top 16, and they will pick the squad in March; they’ll cut it down to 12 to take away to Turkey.”
Scott congratulated the Crocs on the amazing results despite the logistical challenges of nationals being held in the peak of the wet season, and added that community support had been integral to their success.
“To be honest, without the community, we wouldn’t have been able to get where we’ve gotten to with our hockey,” he said.
“We had one of our councillors turn up to the nationals down on the Gold Coast, and it was so cool. Marilyn Morris came down and supported the Cooktown kids, and I’ll guarantee you not one other councillor from anywhere else in Australia was there doing that.
“They’re the things that make this little town and little club so special.”
The Elite women’s Queensland team took silver in the grand final game that came down to seconds. Photo: Australian Underwater Hockey National Championships.
Cooktown’s Rocco Thomason celebrates a gold medal win for Queensland in the Elite men’s division. Photo: Australian Underwater Hockey National Championships.
Join the Region team.
Are you a wordsmith with a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail? Do you thrive in a dynamic environment, eager to be the voice of the community? Are you a senior journalist looking to take the next step in your career? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you.
About Us:
Region is a growing tech/media company based in Canberra but with publications in Cape York, Canberra, the Illawarra, Riverina and Capital region. We pride ourselves on telling local stories and providing a trusted source of news.
What You’ll Do:
→ Source, edit, and create engaging articles that resonate with our diverse readership.
→ Attend local events, forge relationships, and be the eyes and ears of our newspaper within the community.
→ Mentor and lead a small team of journalists.
About The Role:
As our Editor, you’ll be at the forefront of shaping the narrative of Cape York through the Cape York Weekly, online and in print. You’ll be responsible for curating compelling stories that capture the essence of our community, from the latest local events to the fascinating individuals who call this region home. Your editorial prowess will ensure our newspaper remains a trusted source of information and a must-read for residents and visitors alike.
What You Bring:
→ A genuine love for local news and a knack for turning everyday stories into captivating yarns.
→ Proven editing skills with an eagle eye for grammar, punctuation, and style.
→ A deep understanding of the unique dynamics and culture of Far North Queensland.
→ A thirst for adventure and an ability to juggle multiple tasks without compromising on quality.
How to Apply:
Why Join Us:
→ Be the voice of Far North Queensland and make a tangible impact on the community.
→ Bring your ideas to the table and contribute to the evolution of our newspaper and online site.
→ Enjoy the tropical lifestyle while working in a supportive and collaborative environment.
If you’re ready to take the helm of a local newspaper and tell the stories of Far North Queensland, send your resume, a cover letter, and samples of your editing work to ktreasure@region.com.au. Be sure to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Applications close 15 February 2026.
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