Illegal vessel danger
LOCALS ALLEGEDLY THREATENED WITH FIREARMS
by CHISA HASEGAWA
THE incursion of illegal foreign shing in Torres Strait waters is “starting to sound more like an invasion”, according to Member for Cook David Kempton.
After visiting the Northern Peninsula Area and meeting with its local council last week, Mr Kempton claimed he had received reports of locals being threatened with rearms.
“With stories from locals of Indonesian shing boats attempting to land on Mabuiag Island, navigating Jackey
Jackey Creek near Bamaga on the mainland, and occupants of the boat threatening locals with rearms from a vessel at Crab Island, it appears the Federal Government is underestimating the seriousness of the threat,” he said.
“I have spoken to community leaders, locals, shermen, and traditional owners, and the incursions of these illegal boats are not only widespread, they have been visiting our waters for years.
“The arrival of these illegal shing vessels is of considerable concern to local commu-
nities and shermen who come into frequent contact with them, causing fear and insecurity.”
Mr Kempton slammed the Federal Government’s response to the situation, and urged Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke to visit the region to see the scale of the problem rsthand.
“The Federal Government is not prioritising the safety of Torres Strait Islanders and residents of Cape York because of their failure to fund these border security agencies adequately and build the
appropriate infrastructure to deter these threats,” he said.
“The inability to prevent foreign vessels, from dinghies to larger vessels, travelling unchecked through our northern waters not only poses obvious risks to our national security in times of geopolitical instability, but it may facilitate the spread of diseases, plant and animal pests threatening local inhabitants and our primary industries and enable drug, rearm and people smuggling.
– Continued page 2
Member for Cook David Kempton has met with the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council on the implications of illegal foreign fishing. Photo: Supplied.
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Locals allegedly threatened with firearms
From page 1
“This is a serious problem that will not go away, and cannot be controlled with the current level of resourcing.”
In addition to increasing Border Force capability and improving data sharing and collaboration between agencies, Mr Kempton said it was most important to engage with and employ local people in
surveillance and monitoring.
He said Mabuygiw Garkaziw Kupay TSI Corporation, a local Islander men’s group from Mabuiag, was already surveying vast expanses of sea country as part of its current work.
“They could be supported with boats and training to protect their waters from incursions,” he said.
“I was told that it was
Thursday Island police lay child exploitation charges
DETECTIVES from the Thursday Island Child Protection and Investigation Unit (CPIU) have charged a 32-year-old man with child exploitation offences on 2 February.
Of cers executed a search warrant at a Thursday Island address and seized several electronic devices before arresting the man.
It will be alleged he was in possession of, and distributed, child exploitation material.
The man was charged with three counts of distributing child exploitation material and one count of possessing child exploitation material.
He is due to appear in the Thursday Island Magistrates Court on 19 February.
in fact Mabuiag locals who stepped up to protect their community by making sure the Indonesian vessel and their crew remained on the beach while awaiting assistance from Border Force, who arrived hours later.
“Locals were left with no other choice but to protect themselves because of the inadequate resourcing and investment in the region.”
Alleged armed robber extradited from Cooktown
Of cer in Charge of the Thursday Island Child Protection and Investigation Unit Detective Sergeant Andrew Abraham said police were committed to investigating serious crimes against children in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area.
“We have a zero-tolerance approach to crimes involving children and are committed to bringing anyone causing harm to children before the court.”
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form at www. police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
by ALBERT McKNIGHT
A MANHUNT led police to Far North Queensland where they found a wanted man accused of joining a crime spree involving an armed robbery and a burglary where a 72-year-old woman was tied up.
The 49-year-old, who is from the ACT, was found in Cooktown and then extradited to the Territory.
He was refused bail when he faced court.
An ACT Policing spokesperson said a 72-year-old woman disturbed two people wearing masks inside her home in the southern Canberra suburb of Conder in early December 2025.
The intruders allegedly tied her up and forced her to give them her bank login details before eeing in her Mazda SUV. Police later recovered the car.
Police also received reports of an armed robbery at a currency exchange business in Dickson, in which several people were alleged to have gone inside and threatened staff with rearms before stealing cash.
The alleged robbers ed in a stolen Nissan Path nder, which was later found on re.
These two incidents were believed to be connected to burglaries in Macquarie and Gordon, as well as an attempted ram raid at a Kingston business around the same time.
Police believed three people were involved in the incidents. One of the suspects, a 24-year-old man, died from a head-on crash after a car chase with police in Canberra in December.
Later that month, ACT Policing publicly announced they were seeking the 49-year-old man.
Following inquiries by ACT Criminal Investigations of cers, he was found by the Queensland Police Service in Cooktown late last month.
“The man had a large sum of cash in his possession when arrested and police believe this is the proceeds of the alleged armed robbery in Dickson in December 2025,” a police spokesperson said.
He was extradited to the ACT and faced the ACT Magistrates Court on 31 January on numerous charges, including burglary, robbery and forcible con nement.
The man, who is not named at this time, will next appear in court on 24 February.
Police said their inquiries are continuing to identify the third man alleged to be involved in this crime spree.
Vessel sighted at Jackey Jackey Creek in February. Photo: Supplied.
The 49-year-old man arrived at Canberra Airport after being extradited from Queensland. Photo: ACT Policing.
Cape York leader steps
by CHISA HASEGAWA
the difference that access to quality education can make.
Cape York Leaders Program (CYLP) boarding students attended the annual back-toschool leadership camp late last month, preparing themselves to take on another year of learning new skills and gaining con dence.
CYLP alumnus Kieron Saunders, who recently graduated from the Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, attended the camp as a mentor.
After graduating as a secondary scholar in 2020, the Cooktown and Hope Vale man said he originally returned to the camps to reconnect with
old faces, but realised how much some students struggled in education — a struggle he knew all too well.
“Some students, they can ourish on their own. Some others, they struggle, and I completely understand that struggle,” he said.
“I always go back to let them know that even if they struggle, they can still succeed, considering even I managed to do it.
“You will fail in life, but don’t think that’s all life is going to be about; you will have your great moments.”
Mr Saunders said the camp also served as an opportunity to connect with younger students and offer them more help to break the cycle.
Through the camp, he was able to reconnect with a nephew who was facing the same
challenges he faced as a child.
“I heard he was struggling in school, and what I wanted to gure out was, he’s a good kid, so why is he struggling?” he said.
“I reached out to him and just told him bluntly, I want you to succeed, I want you to do well.
“He’s had some real issues in his life, so I understand, but I know that just like what happened with me, you just need someone who will stick through and believe in you.
“He’s probably in the moment where he doesn’t believe in himself, and that’s why I want to try and assist him the same way one of my teachers did for me.”
CYLP team leader Tamara Hunting said people like Mr Saunders demonstrated exactly what the program was
all about — young community kids growing up to mentor their own.
She said camp students ranged from Year 7 to Year 12, giving older students an opportunity to start stepping up for their younger peers.
“Year 7s get to meet new people that are going to be at their school before they go, so it’s not just a big culture shock,” she said.
“We do try and buddy them up, so we’re sending two grade 7s to a school, but they also have the older kids at the school that are looking out for them.
“Even at the camp, that’s how the rooms are set up, and that’s how the activity groups are set up, so they have mentors within their group, and they’re already on the front foot when they go to school.”
Bump in the road for Cooktown speed bumps
NEW speed bumps placed in response to concerns about child safety in Cooktown have been removed following a myriad of community complaints.
The devices previously installed at Ida Street and Webber Esplanade were described in words such as “quite savage”, “overkill” and “unnecessary” by residents.
Main complaints were regarding the shape of the speed bumps, especially the
steep and angular device on Ida Street.
“They are well-placed; however, they are too vertical,” local Sarah Greaves said.
“Different ones need to be installed that are more rounded, and won’t destroy people’s cars.”
The traf c calming measures were initially put in place to slow vehicles in areas heavily used by children, but upon further review, Council determined that
the devices installed were not the most appropriate long-term solution for either location.
Council of cers are now assessing alternative devices, which are to be consistent in type and design to ensure a standardised approach to traf c safety across town.
Council informed that replacement measures would be installed as soon as feasible.
The Cape York Leaders Program camp connected students from across communities before they went off to various boarding schools in the region.
Photo: Cape York Leaders Program.
Cape York Leaders Program graduate Kieron Saunders is inspiring kids and teens who are experiencing the same struggles he did as a student. Photo: Cape York Leaders Program.
Cooktown swimmer brings splash of happiness to sick kids
by CHISA HASEGAWA
A FORMER Cooktown swimmer is using her talent in the pool to raise money for sick children, and she needs your help.
Shaelanee Hegamaea will be diving into the Starlight Children’s Foundation Super Swim challenge this month, pledging 32 kilometres in the pool to bring a splash of happiness to children in hospital.
The 21-year-old, who is currently based in NSW with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), will be undertaking the challenge with her team.
“Our whole unit is raising money for these kids,” she said.
“We’re young and healthy, and it’s a good opportunity to show that even though we have busy lives, you can still push yourself and strive towards goals.
“I haven’t been swimming competitively in like six or seven years, so getting back into the routine is pretty hard, but it’s worth the challenge, especially for such a good cause.”
The Starlight Super Swim will run until 28 February, and features three levels: social, which is two kilometres, hero, which is 14 kilometres, and pro, which is 32 kilometres.
Currently, Hegamaea is fitting two kilometres per day into her schedule, and encouraged anyone following along to sponsor her swim and help her raise $500 for the foundation.
“I’ve been pretty tired, but it’s worth it,” she said.
“Back home, I used to coach a lot of the junior kids as well, so it’s nice to know that this money is going towards kids.”
To help Hegamaea reach her fundraising goal, visit https://superswim.org.au/s-hegamaea.
PUBLIC NOTICE
UBLIC
PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE COOK SHIRE COUNCIL PLANNING SCHEME
Cook Shire Council provides notice of public consultation on the proposed Major Amendment No. 3 to the Cook Shire Council Planning Scheme 2017.
The overall purpose and general effect of the proposed amendment is to reflect the changes of the recently endorsed Lakeland Master Plan and Infrastructure Plan 2023 which addresses future planning and infrastructure needs for the township of Lakeland.
PUBLIC CONSULTATION PERIOD
The consultation period for the proposed Major Amendment No. 3 is from 9 February to 7 March 2026.
During the public consultation period, any person can view and download a version of the planning scheme (with the proposed amendments clearly identified) on Council’s website at www.cook.qld.gov.au and/or view and purchase a copy of that same amended version of the planning scheme at Cook Shire Council’s Administration Office at 10 Furneaux Street, Cooktown QLD 4895.
SUBMISSIONS
Any person may make a submission about any aspect of the proposed Major Amendment No. 3 within the consultation period. A properly made submission must: be in writing (including by electronic means); include the full name and residential or business address of each person making the submission; state a postal or electronic address for service of a response to the submission; be signed by each person making the submission (unless made electronically); state the grounds of the submission and the facts and circumstances relied on in support of the grounds; be made to Cook Shire Council; and be received by Council on or before 7 March 2026.
SUBMISSIONS CAN BE LODGED:
By email to mail@cook.qld.gov.au By post to PO Box 3 Cooktown QLD 4895
In person at Cook Shire Council’s Administration Office - 10 Furneaux Street, Cooktown QLD 4895
ENQUIRIES
For enquiries about proposed Major Amendment No. 3, contact Council on (07) 4082 0500 or mail@cook.qld.gov.au, or visit Council’s website www.council.qld.gov.au
Brian Joiner Chief Executive Officer –
Cook Shire Council
As a former juniors swimming coach, kids hold a special part in Hegamaea’s heart. Photo: Supplied.
Former Cooktown swimmer Shaelanee Hegamaea will dive into the Starlight Super Swim challenge this month to fundraise for sick children. Photo: Supplied.
o n t h l y
Message from the Chair
Hi Weipa,
HAPPY NEW YEAR!! I hope you all enjoyed the festive season and were able to enjoy some time off with your favourite people
This is my first update for 2026, and so far, I'm feeling like it's going to be a great year! It's early days I know, but I'm eternally optimistic, and a big believer that positive energy is contagious, so I'm hoping that everyone catches it!
All the kids are back to school now, but over the holidays, the WTA team ran another successful school holiday program, with lots of activities in the Library and at the WASP Big thanks to our awesome staff members who do such a great job to ensure that the kids have organised activities to look forward to I'm sure all the parents are also very appreciative
Our first WTA event for the year was our Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony dinner which was a great night It's one of the highlights on my calendar of
official duties, because I get to welcome our newest Australian Citizens, and pay tribute to those members of our community who go the extra mile Not surprisingly there are always a lot of familiar faces in the room for the Australia Day Awards, because these people are often the ones who volunteer on multiple committees and help at multiple events Our community wouldn't be the same without this small group of people, so we owe them a great debt of gratitude for all they do
I would also like to throw down a challenge to the rest of you who may not have volunteered yet, to put your hand up and get involved in something We have multiple event committees which would absolutely love your help, and if you are new to town (or have been here for years) it's a really great way to meet new people! If you are signing your child up for any of the organised sporting competitions after the wet season, ask how you can help These activities are only available if people volunteer to run them, and every little bit helps
for Kids
Weipa Hibberd Library is excited to be running the STEAM program again in 2026
STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, art and maths These five key concepts are a way of boosting creativity, collaboration, critical thinking and communication
Young children are hands-on learners and learn best by being actively involved Because of this they are natural scientists and investigators and are already involved in STEAM activities STEAM also builds early foundational maths and science skills like critical thinking, problem solving and hypothesizing
Come along to Weipa Hibberd Library Thursday 3 15pm-4 00pm during the school term
creating opportunities f community
On the weather front, w called the 'wet' season f reason This year we hav exceptionally high rainf January, with over 1m o still more to come Altho are getting a lot of rain, nothing forecasted in te cyclone activity at this s which is always welcom Wet season is a fun tim out doing day trips whil bush is bright green an creeks are flowing, but i its risks If you are out an please take care, and don t drive into swollen rivers or floodwaters
As I said at the start, I have big expectations for 2026 I'm looking
Australia Day Awards 2026
Weipa Town Authority is proud to announce our 2026 Award Recipients! We are thrilled to recognise the incredible contributions of the following community members:
Penelope McAthur – Community Spirit Award
Emily Foy – Young Citizen of the Year
Stephanie Neil – Citizen of the Year
These outstanding individuals have gone above and beyond not only in the past year, but over many years making a lasting and meaningful impact on the Weipa community
On behalf of Weipa Town Authority, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all nominees and award recipients We look forward to seeing their continued passion, leadership, and contributions throughout 2026 and beyond
Market & Showcase
The Weipa Town Authority is now accepting Expressions of Interest for the Community Easter Markets & Showcase on Saturday, 28 March 2026! This is your chance to sell goods, promote your group, run an activity, or even perform a demo at one of Weipa’s biggest family-friendly events
Community Groups can enter our social media video competition Eventgoers can also take part in the passport competition, with one lucky participant winning a bonus voucher for their favourite community group Spaces are limited, and EOIs close Wednesday, 11 March 2026 Don’t miss out scan the QR code to secure your spot today!
Project pair aims to clear the air about smoking
NEED to quit? Here are the faces at Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) to help.
Program manager Toni Fell and program officer Rebecca Wosomo have been appointed to champion the Torres and Cape Smoking and Vaping Cessation Project for the next 18 months.
The project aims to reduce the amount of tobacco smoking and vaping amongst First Nations communities across the Torres and Cape regions.
Smoking remains a leading risk factor in TCHHS communities and among First Nations people statewide.
And that includes vapes which contain nicotine to harm brain development.
TCHHS says vapes also car-
ry chemicals found in nail polish remover, weed killer, cleaning products and bug spray. These include acrolein, formaldehyde and propylene glycol.
Toni and Rebecca will be visiting each primary healthcare centre and working with clinical and non-clinical staff, community services, clients and patients to achieve better health outcomes for our communities.
According to the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, among First Nations people tobacco smoking is:
• the most preventable cause of ill health and early death
• responsible for about one in five deaths
• directly responsible for one-third of cancer and cardiovascular disease.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Rio Tinto says merger off the table
FURTHER to the announcement of 8 January 2026, Rio Tinto has announced it is no longer considering a possible merger or other business combination with Glencore plc.
In a statement, Rio Tinto said it had determined it could not reach an agreement that would deliver value to its shareholders.
“Rio Tinto assessed the opportunity and came to this view through the disciplined lens set out at its Capital Markets Day in December 2025 – prioritising long-term value and delivering leading shareholder returns,” the statement said.
Increased mackerel allowance
A SPANISH mackerel stock assessment has found the population is likely to have increased to 34 per cent of un-fished biomass.
The results has led the Department of Primary Industries to raise the recreational boat limit from two fish per boat to a maximum of four; the individual bag limit will remain at one per person.
For commercial fishers, the increase represents a 51.5 per cent growth in allowable catch, the annual commercial limit increasing from 165 tonnes to 250 tonnes.
A new biomass target of 48 per cent has also been set to allow greater access to this productive stock, while ensuring sustainability.
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the changes to catch limits were based on science and informed by data.
“As a government, to ensure sustainable fishing continues into the future, we must make our decisions based on the facts – and that’s what we’ve done here,” Mr Perrett said.
“We estimate this increase to the annual commercial catch limit will boost the Queensland economy by approximately $3.5 million in gross value of production.
“That means more jobs for Queenslanders and more Spanish mack on plates around the state, whether that be at home or showcased across our world-class tourism and hospitality sectors.”
Rebecca Wosomo and Toni Fell will hit the road this year to help decrease the life-threatening dangers of tobacco smoking and vaping amongst our First Nations communities. Photo: TCHHS (Facebook).
Waibene abuzz with first EV
A NOT-FOR-PROFIT remote store operator has marked an historic milestone for the Torres Strait by launching the first 100 per cent electric vehicle (EV) on Waibene (Thursday Island).
Representing a step forward for sustainable transport in the region, the new Volkswagen ID. Buzz EV van has been unveiled with a blessing from Father Stephen.
Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) chief executive officer Michael Dykes said the launch was about more than transport and getting from A to B.
“The introduction of electric vehicles into the Torres Strait is a powerful symbol of progress and sustainability,” Mr Dykes said.
“Our hope for the future is that we can give confidence to others to do likewise and we can inspire individuals to create infrastructure that supports EVs across the Torres Strait.
“This EV demonstrates that even in remote regions, we can all play our part in reducing emissions and building climate resilience.”
The ID. Buzz EV will be used for daily CEQ operations, including:
• Waibene store daily activities
• regional store visits
• pick-ups from ferries
• general business and transporting team members between stores.
As part of the launch, CEQ also announced plans to install a public EV charging station on Waibene in 2026.
This will not only support CEQ’s new vehicle, but be available for other electric vehicles as they become more popular in the region.
Mr Dykes said the EV initiative aligned with CEQ’s commitment to Closing the Gap reforms by investing in infrastructure that empowered communities while
NEWS IN BRIEF
TSRA scholarships open for short time
THE Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) has opened its 2026 Assistance with Tertiary Education Scheme (ATES) scholarships to kickstart the university year.
TSRA chairperson George Nona said the TSRA scholarships worth up to $6000 each per year would help ease financial pressure on students from the Torres Strait region, including Bamaga and Seisia.
“TSRA’s popular ATES scholarships mean university students can worry less and focus more on their studies,” Mr Nona said.
“We hope these TSRA scholarships support students in their studies and encourage them to one day return to the region to give back to community.”
The scholarships are open to Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal people from the region studying their first bachelor’s degree.
Students must be undertaking full-time study on university campus, externally or by mixed-mode.
Applications close 5pm Friday 20 February.
Learn more and apply at: www.tsra.gov. au/scholarships
Cook Shire calling
APPLICATIONS for up to $6000 to support arts and culture in the Cook Shire region close 12 pm, Thursday 26 February.
The Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) is open to eligible organisations, groups and individuals.
Artists and organisations do not need to live in Cook Shire to apply. Applicants based outside the region are eligible, provided their project is delivered in Cook Shire or clearly benefits the local community.
Council encourages prospective applicants to speak with the RADF liaison officer. Contact Cook Shire Council on 4082 0500 or email communitygrants@ cook.qld.gov.au
Application guidelines and online submissions are available at: www.cook. qld.gov.au/radf
protecting land and sea for future generations.
“Every EV on our roads means cleaner air for local families, reduced reliance on imported fuels, and greater protection of our marine ecosystems,” he said.
“This shift honours the long legacy of Torres Strait people as caretakers of Country and culture, while ensuring our communities remain strong and resilient.”
CEQ selected the VW ID. Buzz EV over other options because of the need for reliability and the retro style combi-van look suited the island culture.
“CEQ team members are already getting feedback that the Buzz is a welcome new resident and it’s certainly generated community interest with people wanting to buy their own,” Mr Dykes said.
The new EV comes just months
Australian Government
after the IBIS Bamaga store received new solar energy infrastructure, further strengthening CEQ’s push towards cleaner, renewable and more sustainable solutions across the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area.
CEQ provides goods and essential services to the Torres Strait, Cape York Peninsula and
in Doomadgee and on Palm Island through its 31 stores.
It manages the Islanders Board of Industry and Service (IBIS) and Aboriginal Business, Industry and Service (ABIS) stores, as well as other stores including Col Jones and Community Home and Hardware, and Mona’s Bazaar and Mitre 10 on Waibene.
Notice of proposed agreement under section 47C of the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth)
The Australian Government is proposing to make an agreement that would allow for the prior extinguishment of native title to be disregarded on Albany Rock and Eastern Hannibal Islet in the waters east of far-north Queensland. The proposed agreement is one contemplated by section 47C of the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth).
Before the agreement can be made, the proposed agreement is required to be publicly notified and interested persons must be provided an opportunity to comment. The period for comment must be at least 3 months.
Proposed agreement area
The proposed agreement area covers Albany Rock and Eastern Hannibal Islet and is within the area of the North Eastern Peninsula Sea Claim Group native title claim (QUD115/2017).
The property descriptions for the proposed agreement areas are: Lot 1 on JD1, Lot 11 on RP898338 and Lot 12 on RP898338.
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is the registered holder of the freehold titles on Albany Rock and Eastern Hannibal Islet listed above.
Effect of the proposed agreement
If the proposed agreement is made and the Federal Court of Australia subsequently makes a determination of native title in accordance with it, any historical extinguishment of native title will be disregarded in the proposed agreement area. However, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority will continue to hold the freehold title to the land in the agreement area and its rights and interests will not be affected.
In addition, the rights and interests of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority that underpin aids to navigation located in the proposed agreement area will not be affected. The determination will also not affect any existing public access to the agreement area.
After the notification period ends
At the end of the notification period, comments received will be taken into consideration when deciding whether to make the proposed agreement and the terms of it.
Comment on the proposed agreement
You can comment on the proposed agreement before 11:59 pm on Monday 18 May 2026
You may make a comment on the proposed agreement using the online form available at consultations.ag.gov.au.
For information or assistance, contact us at nativetitle.engagement@ag.gov.au.
The fully electric Volkswagen ID. Buzz EV’s retro style is already turning heads on the island. Photo: CEQ.
Mission River Bridge and Andoom Creek Bridge Load Limits of Trucks and Cranes
The load signs at each end of the bridge show the maximum loads that can normally cross the bridges without an additional approval. Trucks and other machinery under these limits on the signs must obey the speed limit of 40km/hr for vehicles over 5t gross.
Operators of trucks must ensure that their vehicle does not exceed the gross mass on the sign, or for permit vehicles, the mass on the permit.
Permit vehicles are required to travel at 8km/hr, which will require 6 minutes to cross Mission River Bridge. Other drivers must not close up behind slow travelling vehicles. Contact RTAWeipaBridge@riotinto.com for approval applications.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
Please call our feedback hotline 1800 820 711 or email RTAWeipaFeedback@riotinto.com
Australia offers NDIS Support Coordination, Plan Management and face to face Allied Health services in the following Cape York communities: Weipa, Napranum, Mapoon, Aurukun, Kowanyama and Pormpuraaw.
Huge win for endangered flying fox near Lockhart River
by CHISA HASEGAWA
CULTURAL knowledge on Lockhart River is contributing to a hopeful future for the endangered spectacled flying foxes.
Last year, Cape York Natural Resource Management (NRM), in partnership with traditional owners, land managers, scientists and government, took on a four-year project to support the recovery of the megabat, which is listed nationally as one of 110 priority threatened species.
Through engagement with the Lockhart River community, Northern Kuuku Ya’u Land and Sea Rangers, traditional owners, and Queens-
land Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS), several possible camps were identified.
In October, the team embarked on a five-day trip to the Kutini-Payamu (Iron Range) National Park after training in Habitat Condition Assessment methods, discussing reported flying fox sightings and plant species that made up their diet.
On the final day, they discovered an active spectacled flying fox camp using a hand-drawn mud map from one of the rangers.
The team involved Cape York NRM project officer Maree Coulson, Northern Kuuku Ya’u Land and Sea Rangers coordinator Shimona Walsh and ranger Colin Pascoe, and QPWS
ranger-in-charge Karl Goetze and colleague Efrin Dagami.
“Monitoring was sometimes through thick vegetation and offtrack, with a GPS guiding us through wait-a-while and dense bush, up and down dried creek beds, through rainforest and into open woodland,” Ms Coulson said.
“We had a variety of terrain, and some surveys were a challenge to get to, and in particular, Shimona and Efrin’s local knowledge and support were essential.”
She said discovering the roost within the national park was a significant milestone, and the focus was now on locating more camps across Cape York.
Throughout the program, they have called on members of the public to report any sightings of the endangered species, which forage in eucalypt, melaleuca and mangrove forests.
“We need to know more about their presence on Cape York , and we need the community’s help with this,” Ms Coulson said.
“There is limited information known about their presence on Cape York, so the information we’re looking for from the community is the time, place and number of bats seen. Photographs are also great.
“Spectacled flying foxes are considered a rainforest specialist among the Australian flying foxes; they play an important role in seed dispersal and rainforest regeneration.”
Cooktown Capers help bust cane toad record
CAPE hunters have played their part in the crackdown to collect 250,000 cane toads, tadpoles and eggs.
The figure for Watergum Community’s Great Cane Toad Bust now sits less than 10,000 from its goal thanks to groups across the north.
The Cooktown Cane Toad Capers joined the bust, removing 81 cane toads/tadpoles from existence in one night of drizzling conditions perfect for the invasive creature.
The bust event from 1725 January attracted hundreds of hunters across dozens of sites from as far south as northern NSW.
As this year’s figures continue to update, last year’s record of 199,231 cane toads in just one week has been left long behind.
Since cane toads were introduced in 1935 as a failed attempt to control cane beetles, their populations have grown from 102 individuals to more than 200 million across Australia.
With no natural predators, they pose a major threat to biodiversity and agriculture.
See the latest results on Watergum Community’s Great Cane Toad Bust webpage: watergum.org/greatcanetoadbust/
A months-long search for the spectacled flying fox is bringing hope of recovery for the endangered species. Photo: Cape York Natural Resource Management.
The Cooktown Cane Toad Capers bagged 81 invaders on 23 January. Photo: Great Cane Toad Bust website.
ICN 1163 | ABN 22 965 382 705
NOTICE OF IMPORTANT PRE-AUTHORISATION MEETINGS ABOUT A PROPOSED NATIVE TITLE DETERMINATION APPLICATION
Proposed Kuuku Ya’u, Uutaalnganu & Umpila Sea Claim Group
Monday 2 March 2026, Coen
Tuesday 3 March 2026, Cairns
Thursday 5 March 2026, Lockhart River
This notice is to advise that Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will hold meetings on Monday 2 March 2026 in Coen, Tuesday 3 March 2026 in Cairns and on Thursday 5 March 2026 in Lockhart River for all members of the Kuuku Ya’u, Uutaalnganu and Umpila Native Title Groups. The purpose of each of these meetings is to discuss a proposed native title determination application (a native title claim) on behalf of the Kuuku Ya’u, Uutaalnganu and Umpila Native Title Groups, jointly as the “Kuuku Ya’u, Uutaalnganu and Umpila Sea Claim Group”, over the areas of sea country and islands as depicted on the map below. CYLC will facilitate each of the meetings.
The Pre-Authorisation Meeting in Coen will be held as follows
Date: Monday 2 March 2026
Venue: Wunthulpu Centre, Coen
Time: 12.00pm – 2.00pm (refreshments provided)
The Pre-Authorisation Meeting in Cairns will be held as follows
Date: Tuesday 3 March 2026
Venue: Cairns Colonial Club Resort, 18-26 Cannon Street, Cairns
Time: 1.00pm – 3.00pm (refreshments provided)
The Pre-Authorisation Meeting in Lockhart River will be held as follows
Date: Thursday 5 March 2026
Venue: Lockhart River Social Club, Piiramo Street, Lockhart River Time: 8.30am – 10.30am (refreshments provided)
Purpose of the meetings:
A CYLC lawyer will discuss with the members of the Kuuku Ya’u, Uutaalnganu and Umpila Native Title Groups the process for authorising the proposed native title claim over the proposed claim area. Discussion of the authorisation process for the proposed claim will also include discussion about: (1) the external boundaries of the proposed claim area, (2) which members of the Kuuku Ya’u, Uutaalnganu and Umpila Native Title Groups should be nominated as members of the Applicant for the proposed native title claim, and so be authorised to make, and to deal with matters arising in relation to the proposed application, and (3) if authorised, the conditions that should be placed on the authority of the members of the Applicant, including conditions to ensure that decisions affecting country are made by the traditional owners that speak for that country. Following the pre-authorisation meetings, there will be a meeting of the Kuuku Ya’u, Uutaalnganu and Umpila Native Title Groups on a date to be notified to consider whether to authorise the making of the proposed native title claim for the proposed claim area and those other matters outlined above.
Who is invited to attend the meetings?
Each of the pre-authorisation meetings is open to all members of the Kuuku Ya’u, Uutaalnganu and Umpila Native Title Groups as defined in the respective determinations of native title made by the Federal Court in Ross on behalf of the Cape York United #1 Claim Group v State of Queensland (No 2) (Kuuku Ya’u determination) [2021] FCA 1464, Ross on behalf of the Cape York United #1 Claim Group v State of Queensland (No 3) (Uutaalnganu (Night Island) determination) [2021] FCA 1465, and Ross on behalf of the Cape York United #1 Claim Group v State of Queensland (No 17) (Umpila determination) [2023] FCA 734. Please contact CYLC if you would like to confirm whether you are eligible to attend.
Confirmation of attendance and attendance by video-conference
To confirm attendance, please contact Jasmin Schubert on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email at jschubert@ cylc.org.au. Note that there is limited funding available for travel assistance If you have queries about this meeting, please contact Parky Wirrick on 0409 548 569 or pwirrick@cylc.org.au. Video-conferencing facilities will be made available at the meetings. If you would like CYLC to arrange a video-conference from your location into the meetings, whether you live at the location of the meetings or elsewhere, please contact CYLC on the free call number above.
Flooding unveils wet season killer
QUEENSLAND Health is reminding our residents to take precautions against melioidosis this wet season.
A disease caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei found in soil and water in northern Australia and South East Asia, melioidosis cases usually occur after heavy rain and flooding.
The 2024-25 wet season saw the highest number of cases since the disease became notifiable in Queensland in the 1980s.
Up to the start of this summer, 249 cases of melioidosis were reported in Queensland in 2025. Of these, 36 deaths were either directly caused by or associated with the disease.
Infection can occur by walking through floodwaters or muddy waters with an open cut, or while using a highpressure hose on muddy surfaces and breathing in contaminated droplets.
Melioidosis does not spread from person to person.
People at highest risk include those with diabetes, cancer, chronic lung or kidney disease, older people and people who drink heavily or binge drink.
The infection can be life threatening and requires prompt medical attention.
Almost all (98 per cent) melioidosis cases in 2025 were admitted to hospital, many needing intensive care treatment.
Steps to prevent infection include:
• Avoid contact with soil or muddy water after heavy rain or flooding. Never walk through floodwaters or muddy water in bare feet or thongs. Wear waterproof boots and gloves when working outdoors.
• If you are in an at-risk group, stay inside during heavy downpours.
• Cover cuts, sores or burns with wa-
terproof dressings before working outdoors. Wash skin thoroughly if contact occurs.
• Foot and wound care is important for those with diabetes.
• Consider wearing a mask when using a high-pressure hose or spraying bore water.
Symptoms may include fever, cough and difficulty breathing as a sign of a lung infection (pneumonia).
If not treated quickly, the infection can spread to other areas of the body, causing severe illness including sepsis (blood poisoning) and sometimes death.
Melioidosis can also cause ulcers or skin sores that do not heal.
Symptoms can appear within a few days or weeks after exposure to the bacteria, or sometimes months later.
Visit: www.health.qld.gov.au
2026 Pormpuraaw Aboriginal Shire Council by-election
ELECTION INFORMATION
Health risk warning
CAPE York, Torres Strait, and Northern Peninsula Area residents should ensure they look after their safety and health as wet conditions prevail across the region.
Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service
Public Health Medical Officer Dr Helen Pedgrift said residents should be aware of the increased risk of infection if they came into direct contact with polluted waters.
Wound infections, dermatitis, conjunctivitis, and ear, nose and throat infections can occur. All wounds should be immediately cleaned, disinfected, and kept covered.
Dr Pedgrift said floods may also increase the risk of diarrhoeal conditions and bacterial diseases such as leptospirosis and melioidosis.
A by-election is being held to elect a new Councillor for Pormpuraaw Aboriginal Shire Council on Saturday 14 March 2026.
DO YOU WANT TO BE A COUNCILLOR?
To nominate as a councillor, you must:
• complete a free online training course
• have a dedicated bank account for campaign expenses
• provide a $250 candidate deposit by cash, bank cheque or BPoint
• be enrolled in Pormpuraaw Aboriginal Shire Council
Nominations close: 12pm Thursday 19 February 2026.
For more information, contact the Returning Officer:
Name: Anne Becka
Email: anne.becka@elections.qld.gov.au
Phone: 1300 881 665
Scan or visit check.aec.gov.au to check you’re enrolled
Flashback to flooding … A ute is pulled from floodwater after attempting to cross the Laura River Bridge. Sodden conditions are now perfect for melioidosis. Photo: Bobby Woodsy.
Above are some steps to protect yourself against melioidosis. Image: Queensland Health.
Cape York Weekly Puzzles Page
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.
Tributes flow for respected Laura Races legend
by CHISA HASEGAWA
LAURA Races icon Leonard
“Slick” Douglas Davies is being remembered as a passionate gentleman who always kept the grounds in immaculate condition.
Friends and family gathered to celebrate a life lived to the fullest at his funeral service on 5 February, sharing memories of his time as the Laura Racecourse caretaker, jockey, avid fisherman and family man.
Slick passed away peacefully at home on 24 January at 80 years of age.
Son Phillip Davies spoke about him with great pride, saying that he and his brother Terry inherited their father’s love of horses.
“Being a jockey, he was pretty successful at it, and training as well; he was the first dual licensed trainerjockey in Queensland,” he said.
“All our lives, it was horses, and my brother and myself followed in his footsteps — Terry was a trainer, and I was a jockey.
“Dad [also] loved fishing. His love of fishing and the racing industry lives on in a lot of close friends and family at the Laura Racecourse and rodeo grounds.”
Mr Davies said one of his fondest memories with his father was beating the man who taught him everything he knew at a Cairns race meet.
“He was on Storyline, and I was on a horse called More Spirit,” he said.
“Dad was the leader, and I come around the outside of him. He just looked at me and said, ‘go get ’em, son’, and I just cheekily grinned at him and said ‘catch me if you can’.”
Laura Amateur Turf Club president Phil Holloway thanked Slick for his decades of work at the race grounds.
“I’m most grateful for all the years that Slick was our caretaker at Laura, and he did that job for us for a matter of 30 years,” he said.
“We’ve totally relied on Slick to keep the racetrack, all of the camp-
ing grounds area, the water supply in A1 condition.
“He looked after it like it was his own personal yard. It’s a huge loss for the club, absolutely huge.”
Veteran race caller Bluey Forsyth recalled a humorous moment of accidentally knocking down a fence Slick had put up at the grounds.
The handbrake was not properly engaged when he parked on race day morning, causing his car to roll down the hill and into the new fence.
“Slick said to me, ‘I’ve not had the fence up 24 hours and you’ve knocked it down on me’,” he laughed.
“I put a dint in my car and I put a lean on the pole, and he never let me forget that.
“Everybody was laughing, he had a real sense of humor, and he was a real old-fashioned, hard doing, great character of the races. You love him because he was such a bit of a scallywag, you always had a bit of fun, and anything like that happened, you always have a laugh after.”
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Slick (middle) celebrated his 80th birthday surrounded by his family and racing community. Photo: Supplied.
After retiring as an awardwinning jockey, Slick took care of the Laura race grounds for the next generation.
Photo: Supplied.
When he wasn’t on the racecourse, Slick was an avid lover of fishing. Photo: Supplied.
Slick (right) with his sons Terry and Phillip, and granddaughter Stephanie. Photo: Supplied.
Slick and son Terry celebrate their Red Dome Cup challenge win. Photo: Supplied.
NBA star inspires Aurukun youth to shoot for the top
by CHISA HASEGAWA
A VISIT from a legendary basketball star who got his start on the Cape has left Aurukun kids determined to shoot for the stars.
Former professional basketball player Nate Jawai bounced into PCYC Aurukun to share his skills on and off the court with community youth.
Jawai served as an inspiration for the young people as the first Indigenous Australian to play in the NBA.
“It was very exciting to have Nate visit, and the anticipation was high before he landed at Aurukun Airport,” club manager Sergeant Steve ArmstrongRavula said.
“It was almost unbelievable for the youth to see photos and videos of Nate playing with and against NBA stars.
“With Nate being raised in
Bamaga, it is extremely important for youth in remote Cape York to see and hear from successful people who have come from similar environments as them.”
He said Jawai also engaged in a leadership yarn with the young people, tying sport and
Byrne fires to put away foggy field
social topics together with reallife examples.
“The leadership yarns were effective and beneficial because the youth were very engaged and keen to hear about Nate’s life so far,” he said.
“They had many questions for Nate, and he was more than
PLAYERS had to contend with limited visibility for the first half of their round when Dawnbusters teed off in foggy conditions at Carpentaria Golf Club on Sunday morning.
With the course blanketed in fog, some golfers struggled to find balls that went up the middle of the fairway until Mother Nature decided to play the game and the sun emerged.
When the field of 17 returned to the clubhouse, it was Mat Byrne (46/21) who delivered the most scintillating performance to claim winner’s bragging rights over an underdone Jon Dall (51/23), who, despite still being in holiday mode, burgled Eddy Tiemens on countback to take home the weekly runner-up prize.
There was controversy when a
happy to share his experiences abroad.
“He spoke about both the ups and downs of his NBA and basketball career.”
Sergeant Armstrong-Ravula said since meeting Jawai, the young people had grown in confidence, and there was an increased air of determination and possibility at the club.
“I have observed quite a few youth grow immensely with belief on and off the basketball court since meeting Nate and listening to what he had to share,” he said.
“One young person in particular is now taking rebounds and hitting three-point shots, when before, they were much more conservative in games.
“The confidence has definitely increased, knowing that if Nate can make it to the top level, then perhaps they can too.”
visiting golfer missed the tee time by almost two hours due to an alarm malfunction and was unable to convince the stewards to allow him to submit a score.
Nine marker Matt Slade shot the gross round of the day with 37 off the stick, and also secured the men’s long drive gong.
Viv Chan was the biggest hitting woman on the course, with Beth Dall stamping her name on the Hoffman’s for the round.
The pin prize was left unclaimed due to none of the field being able to find the green on the ninth hole.
Dawnbusters tee off every Sunday from about 6:30am, with new players always welcome – unless you miss your alarm and show up late, that is.
SPORTS BRIEFS
Play on to apply for $200 sports voucher
QUEENSLAND families can apply for a $200 voucher for each eligible child aged between 5 to 17 to help cover the cost of membership, registration or participation fees with registered sporting clubs.
Each eligible child can receive one voucher per financial year; a portion of vouchers are reserved for children living with a disability and those living in regional and rural areas.
Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander urged families to take advantage of round 2 of the Play On! Sports Vouchers program.
“Queensland is the home of Australian sport, and the start of a new school year is a great time for children to get active or try a new sport,” Mr Mander said.
“We know cost of living is a real concern for Queensland families and we don’t want that to be a barrier to children being active.
“I encourage eligible parents, carers and guardians to apply as soon as possible for round 2 and to kick off the school year being active and healthy.”
Children who received a voucher in round 1 are not eligible to receive another voucher in round 2.
More information about Play On! is available at: www.qld.gov.au/recreation/ sports/funding/playon
$5000 post-cyclone sports funding now open
SPORTING groups across the Cape can apply for help to restore their facilities impacted by Tropical Cyclone Koji.
The program provides grants of up to $5000 to not-for-profit organisations to help re-establish facilities and resume activities following floods, cyclones and severe storm events.
Funding can be used to support cleanup efforts, replace damaged equipment and cover insurance excess costs, helping organisations get back on their feet and return to delivering activities for their communities.
Applications are now open until April.
Local clubs and organisations are encouraged to contact their nearest local regional office for advice on eligibility, required evidence and the application process.
Visit: www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/ funding/disaster-recovery
PCYC Aurukun enjoyed an inspiring skills session with basketball legend Nate Jawai. Photo: Supplied.
Jon Dall and Mat Byrne claimed the runner-up and winner’s chocolates when a field of 17 Dawnbusters hit the Carpentaria Golf Club fairways in foggy conditions on 8 February. Photo: Supplied.
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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