Issuu

There was a big turnout at Anzac Day commemorations across the Cape, including at Cooktown. Photo: Stephanie Hook.

New Bamaga gym provides local fitness accessibility

by CHISA HASEGAWA

Need a reliable freight service to the Cape?

Tuxworth & Woods have all your refrigerated, dry & heavy haulage needs covered – from 20 grams to 20 tonnes

WEIPA DEPOT

Iraci Ave, Evans Landing Mob: 0429 003 743

Ph: 4069 7183 Fax: 4069 7472

COOKTOWN DEPOT

Cnr of Endeavour Road and McMillan Streets, Cooktown Ph: 0419 759 892

CAIRNS OFFICE: Ph: 4035 4022 25 Redden St, Portsmith

Get carried away with Tuxworth & Woods Carriers

FROM newbies picking up a dumbbell for the first time to veteran lifters racking up 100 kilograms on the squat bar, Bamaga residents are smashing goals at their new local gym.

The recently opened Hunter Fitness Centre has already seen strong community uptake, welcoming about 80 members keen to get stuck into their active lifestyles.

Run by the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC), the facility has offered a welcoming and inclusive space for people of all fitness levels.

Mayor Robert Poi Poi said the early response highlighted the importance of accessible, local facilities.

“It’s great to see so many community members already using the NPARC Bamaga Gym (Hunter Fitness Centre),” he said.

“This is a space for everyone — no matter your age, experience or fitness level — and we encourage anyone who’s been thinking about it to come down and give it a go.”

The facility currently has limited opening hours of Monday to Saturday, 6 to 8 am and 4 to 7 pm, while NPARC awaits a new secure entry system, expected by the end of April.

Once installed, inducted members will be able to access the gym daily from 5 am to 10 pm via the secure fob entry system.

Councillor Kitty Gebadi said the gym was about more than just fitness.

“The NPARC Bamaga Gym is about creating a safe and positive space where people can come together, build healthy habits and support one another,” she said.

“We’re already seeing strong community engagement, and look forward to welcoming even more people.”

Community members interested in running group fitness or other programs at the facility are encouraged to get in touch via gym@nparc.qld.gov.au.

Cheers to children: Fundraiser to bring boozy circus to town

by CHISA HASEGAWA

WHETHER a wine enthusiast or someone simply wanting an excuse to frock up for the night, Weipa community members will invest in the future generation at this year’s sold-out Wine by the Sea (WBTS) kindy fundraiser on 16 May.

Tickets were gone quicker than a bottle of sauvignon blanc in a drunk aunt’s hand when they went on sale last week, with the first release gone in mere minutes as the who’s who of Weipa clicked to secure their spots.

WBTS committee member Bethany King said as the Weipa Community Kindergarten’s major fundraiser, it was positive to see the community embrace the event year after year.

“We’re such a young community — everyone has young children — and all our kids go to kindy,” she said.

“It’s such an important step for our young kids, and over the years, Wine by the Sea has helped improve and upgrade the building on so many levels.

“As a mum, I just think it’s so important for their education and for learning to socialise with one another in a safe and comfortable environment.”

Thanks to various WBTS events, the

local kindergarten has seen upgrades such as an additional indoor area and shade cover on the playground, allowing children to learn and play safely in Weipa’s extreme heat conditions.

Special guest performers from the Weipa Gymnastics Club will bring this year’s theme, Cirque du Cabaret, to life with their mind-blowing acrobatic skills.

Ms King said while it was a fun opportunity for the people of Weipa to dress up and let loose, the event, at its core, was about the kids, making it all the more meaningful to provide the town’s young gymnasts a stage to showcase their hard work and talent.

With a cabaret performance from Maehem Productions and DJ duo, the Buzerk Brothers, also scheduled to keep attendees dancing the night away, Ms King said the unique format of the annual fundraiser was what made it so popular with the community.

“There’s not many events in Weipa that you can dress up and put those diamantes and that long, beautiful dress on,” she said.

“That Met Gala feel is something that Wine by the Sea has always offered people and there’s not really another event like this, so I think that’s one of the reasons why it’s so sought after.”

Weipa’s Met Gala, Wine by the Sea, is set to be another huge fundraiser for the local kindergarten after tickets sold out in a matter of days. Photo: Supplied (Angus Walker).

NPARC Mayor Robert Poi Poi and councillor Kitty Gebadi (centre) present Bamaga’s new local gym facility, Hunter Fitness Centre. Photo: Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council.

Cape airport in line for major revamp

by LUKE MORTIMER

LONG-AWAITED upgrades to Bamaga airport in the Northern Peninsula Area have been agged to begin in the coming months.

Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) has announced design work is underway on terminal upgrades at Northern Peninsula Airport

and construction is expected to begin in August.

Rehabilitation of the airport’s runway is due to start in July next year and construction on that project is expected to take about three months, weather permitting.

The Federal and Queensland governments provided $18.16 million for the runway upgrade, while the total cost of

the airport overhaul is about $32 million, according to a previous council statement.

Terminal upgrades include installing air conditioning, renovating ooring, closing in walls, painting, expanding the seating area and adding modern seating.

A new entrance and check-in area is also set to be built to enhance security.

The council con rmed there would be “no works on the runway in 2026 – with no disruption to travel in 2026”.

Community leaders and politicians have long been calling for the runway to be upgraded. In 2022, then-Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch said the runway was “dangerous and it’s only going to get worse”.

“There are a few thousand people living up there. They have every right to a safe, accessible airstrip. Are we going to wait until somebody dies?” he said.

The council said on 21 April it had gone to tender for the runway work following an expression of interest process and that two contractors were selected to submit for the project.

A site visit, part of the tender process, was scheduled for Thursday (23 April).

Contractors are due to meet with stakeholders, including local businesses that may be able to provide services.

NPARC Mayor Robert Poipoi said: “Once the tender process is nalised and a contractor is appointed, we will have a clearer understanding of the project timeline.”

“The council will then organise community information sessions across the Northern Peninsula Area to keep the community informed and engaged,” he said.

The council said it was committed to keeping the public updated “to ensure minimal disruption and maximum community bene t”.

Passengers should expect changes around check-in and departure procedures during the terminal upgrade. More details are due when the design phase concludes.

Forum to give update on PDR plans

by CHISA HASEGAWA

PENINSULA Developmental Road (PDR) stakeholders can get the latest on the project when the Cape York Region Package (CYRP) taskforce hosts a forum in Cairns next month.

The Regional Development Australia Tropical North (RDATN) and the Department of Transport and Main Roads event will provide an update on Stage 2 works, the Community Access Roads Program, and future CYRP stages on 8 May at the Cairns Regional Council.

The state government has committed $60 million of the $300 million for Stage 3 works, with all eyes now on the loom-

ing 2026-27 federal budget to see whether Canberra will add its 80 per cent to the existing co-funding agreement.

RDATN Chair Professor Hurriyet Babacan said the forum would provide an opportunity for stakeholders and the community to hear directly from project representatives.

“This session will provide an overview of current works and outline the next steps for the Cape York Region Package,” she said.

“Community engagement remains an important part of infrastructure planning and delivery across Far North Queensland.”

The forum will run from 12:15pm-2pm, with Cape York residents who won’t be in Cairns able to attend virtually by getting a meeting registration link at Eventbrite, or by emailing info@rdatropicalnorth.org.au.

NPARC Mayor Robert Poi Poi (second from right) at the airport with staff Mervyn Bond and Michael Babia, as well as airport manager Damien Elu. Photo: NPARC

M o n t h l y

C o m m u n i t y U p d a t e

Message from the Chair

Hi Weipa,

I hope everyone had a good Easter break, and is enjoying getting out and about after a very long wet season (even though it looks like it’s not quite over)

March was a busy month, and was definitely dominated by Tropical Cyclone Narelle

The Local Disaster Management Group (LMDG) did a fantastic job preparing for and responding to TC Narelle, and I am very grateful to work with such an awesome group of people here at the WTA, as well as all of the other members of the LDMG, who’s knowledge and expertise enabled us to bounce back from TC Narelle very, very quickly

The speed in which this community rallied to get things back online after the event was impressive to say the least I must give a special mention to the Evolution and EDC crews who were out at first light clearing trees off the roads to ensure access was safe

I must also give a special mention to Rio Tinto, who provided the bulk of the manpower and equipment to get us back up and

running Our critical services like power and water are always the priority to get restored after a Cyclone, and the Rio Tinto Electrical team did an outstanding job getting the power restored as quickly as they did to most of the town, and the Utilities team ensured that our water supply was maintained Thanks to all who contributed

I must also say a big thanks to the community for getting straight into recovery mode The sound of chainsaws rang out across town in the days following TC Narelle, and it just demonstrated how resilient this community is, and how you all just get on with it

Straight after TC Narelle, my CEO Tobias and I had a quick two night trip down to Brisbane to attend the LGAQ Civic Leaders conference, which brings together councils from all over the state This is a great opportunity for us to network, and make connections with people who become more familiar with our community, and our unique governance situation, which always creates interest and int ig

stallholders and comm groups, and a photo wi Easter Bunny always d the families

n om ity db ay off f

WTA held our first WTA Community Conversat definitely didn’t see as attendees as the Marke though was still great t conduct my first one to community We still ha chat with those who di and I was very apprecia those who made the ef come down, even though I know the timing wasn’t great with everything else that was going on We will try to do it again because I think it’s important to give more community members an opportunity to ask questions and give feedback, but we might try a Saturday morning and align it ith th ff

Report an Issue with Ease Using WTA's

Online Form

W h e t h e r i t ’ s a m a i n t e n a n c e c o n c e r n , o r a p o s i t i v e e x p e r i e n c e y o u ' d l i k e t o s h a r e , t h e ' R e p o r t a n I s s u e ' f o r m o n o u r w

t o g e t i n t o u c h w i t h W T A T h e p r

d m a d e g o o d s , o r r e p r e s e n t i n g a l o c a l g r o u p t h i s i s y o u r c h a n c e t o s h o w c a s e w h a t y o u d o b e s t !

Crazy ant infestations ‘like a scene out of a horror film’

by LUKE MORTIMER

ANOTHER chunk of land has been cleared of acid spraying yellow crazy ants threatening backyards, agriculture and the natural environment, the Wet Tropics Management Authority (WTMA) has announced.

Infestations of the foreign invader were initially so bad they resembled a horror movie, but the WTMA has made strides in the Cairns area and on 20 April declared eradication of yellow crazy ants at six locations and four suburbs over 180 hectares.

The dangerous ants have now been cleared from more than 1255 ha, and 2025 ha is being “actively managed” as part of a worldleading program to stop the ants spreading in the Wet Tropics.

Speaking about the milestone,

WTMA executive director Scott Buchanan said sites like Sandy Creek were challenging to work on. Guinea grass and other weeds grew up to three metres tall.

“The infestations here were really persistent and back in 2014,

NEWS IN BRIEF

Rio forks out following cyclone, flooding

RIO Tinto will donate $1.5 million to disaster relief efforts in Queensland and the Northern Territory following Tropical Cyclone Narelle and recent flooding.

The mining giant will provide $1 million to assist in Queensland through the Australian Red Cross and State Emergency Service (SES).

Rio Tinto Aluminium Pacific Operations managing director Armando Torres said: “We are proud to support these trusted organisations to deliver critical relief and resilience services and to bolster preparedness for future weather events.”

Rio is also matching any employee donations.

Financial aid for farmers

COOK Shire Council has advised affected primary producers they can apply for disaster recovery grants and loans following Tropical Cyclone Narelle and recent flooding events.

The financial aid is available through the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA).

Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants of up to $75,000 are available to help with clean-up and recovery, while Disaster Assistance Loans up to $2 million with an interest rate of 2.14 per cent are available to assist with reestablishing operations.

Disaster Assistance (Essential Working Capital) Loans of up to $100,000 with an interest rate of 2.14% are also available to help with working capital for expenses.

Personalised support is available to help farmers, small businesses and non-profits complete financial assistance application Weipa plan

in the making

THE Weipa Town Authority (WTA) has released its Draft 2026-2030 Corporate Plan following initial community and stakeholder engagement.

Residents can review the draft plan on the WTA website and provide feedback before submissions close 4 May.

The plan will help authorities “better understand the future needs of Weipa”, according to the WTA, which states the community wants a “more diversified economy” and “honest, transparent decisions”.

when we first discovered them, were so bad in places it looked like a scene out of a horror film,” he said.

“This is another significant achievement for WTMA, but more importantly a positive outcome

for residents and the wider community, whose continued support ensures our homes and businesses remain ant-free.

“This enables us to maintain a buffer to protect the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area – the best backyard in the world.”

The Wet Tropics, which first made the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988, covers almost 895,000 ha in a 450 kilometre strip between Cooktown and Townsville.

The Invasive Species Council describes the formic-acid spitting ants as “highly aggressive” and states they can “leave entire forests silent”. The pests arrived on Christmas Island sometime before 1934.

WTMA has cleared 79 ha in Bentley Park – the site of “one of the initial and largest infestations”

– leaving the suburb officially crazy ant free.

More than 1100 residential lots at Bentley Park were cleared, alongside work at Sandy Creek (42 ha) and Bana Gindarja Creek (64 ha).

Federal Leichhardt MP Matt Smith said the eradication of an invasive species in an area was almost unheard of.

“Yellow crazy ants may be small creatures, but they can have devastating impacts on wildlife, agriculture, and even the tourism industry,” he said.

“This is a huge achievement in wiping out this invasive species.”

WTMA manages the Yellow Crazy Ant Eradication Program, which is jointly funded by the federal Saving Native Species Program, and the Queensland Government.

WTMA executive director Scott Buchanan and senior technical officer Gareth Humphreys speaking to Leichhardt MP Matt Smith about the eradication of yellow crazy ants. Photo: Supplied.

Anzac Day commemorations

Community out in force for Anzac Day

by LUKE MORTIMER

RSL sub-branch leaders have described key Anzac Day services across the Cape as aweinspiring, thrilled by the large turnout.

Dawn services and other commemorative activities at Bamaga, Cooktown and Weipa drew hundreds of attendees, including schools and community leaders on Saturday (25 April), as did events at Thursday Island (Waiben) in the Torres Strait.

Cooktown RSL sub branch president Julie Oliver said the attendance and conduct of the crowd in her town was “marvellous”.

She was particularly impressed by the signiﬁcant eﬀorts of local schoolchildren,

including kindergarten kids laying some impressive wreaths.

Weipa RSL sub branch president Lloyd Williams said Anzac Day at Cooktown was a “wonderful” occasion and went oﬀ without a hitch.

He estimated about 500 people attended the town’s dawn service to remember the men and women who served in wars, conﬂicts and peacekeeping operations, and those who made the ultimate sacriﬁce.

Ms Oliver said Anzac Day appeared more relevant to the community than ever, judging by the number of people paying respects and the strong ongoing participation of younger Cape residents.

Around 500 people attended the Weipa Anzac Day dawn service. Weipa photos: Rhonda Spence.

The new Queensland Government is delivering more health services right across Queensland.

It’s the largest investment in health Queensland has ever seen:

3 NEW HOSPITALS AND 10 MORE EXPANDED RIGHT ACROSS QUEENSLAND

2,600 NEW BEDS AN 18% INCREASE ACROSS QUEENSLAND

46,000 MORE HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

75% DOCTORS, NURSES AND FRONTLINE STAFF

We’re investing in our hospital and health services so you have access to health services when you need them.

Anzac Day at Thursday Island (Waiben). Photos (above): Torres Strait Regional Authority/Facebook.

Anzac Day at Bamaga. Photos (above): Supplied.

Anzac Day at Cooktown on Saturday. Photos (above): Stephanie Hook.

New name brings new optimism to Cooktown birthing

by CHISA HASEGAWA

A NEW and meaningful name for the Cooktown midwifery team is providing fresh optimism for the return of birthing services to the community.

Residents and stakeholders gathered to celebrate the newly titled Waterlily Midwifery Group Practice on Thursday (23 April), as Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) hopes to resume maternity services in Cooktown by the end of the year.

Midwifery director Michelle O’Connor said the oﬃcial naming was timely as Cooktown got closer to ﬁlling its team.

“We’ve had a midwifery group practice here for some time in Cooktown, providing antenatal and postnatal care, but we’ve had quite a few new positions recruited, including a new unit manager and senior First Nations health worker,” she said.

“We’ve been speaking with the community and with the idea that we will return to birthing services later this year, we thought it was timely to consult around a new name.”

Ms O’Connor said the name, Waterlily, was signiﬁcant as a homage to the plant present around the three rivers connect-

ing Cooktown and its surrounding communities.

“Often there’s a very spiritual connection to a name for a community, and I think it adds strength and meaning to a name when it’s chosen by that community,” she said.

“It allows the community itself to have that voice and attach the cultural meaning and the connection, because for our communities it’s about the holistic nature

of the care that they’re putting their trust in.

“The waterlily is a symbol of bringing together community, culture and care.”

Ms O’Connor said the name was also a nod to water as a “lifegiving” source often synonymous with birth

“While it was chosen by the community and by our Elders for the signiﬁcance it has in connecting our communities, it’s also quite

meaningful because water is often connected to birth,” she said.

“We often talk about the three rivers ﬂowing as one and how our community, our health service and our cultural knowledge all ﬂow together to create the strong foundation needed to support women, babies and families.”

The midwifery director said the conﬁdence local birthing would resume was palpable at the naming ceremony.

“A lot of the things we’ve been working on have come to fruition in stages. We do still have a few stages to go — we have a focus on safety, workforce and sustainability — but it is looking very positive for this year,” Ms O’Connor said.

“There’s been some really important recruitments in the last six months and it’s very motivating to see the team grow, and the uplifting collaboration between the teams has been great to watch.

“Historically, and over recent times, we have had quite a bit of recruitment diﬃculties. Getting the right people is really important for engagement and for teams to be working well together, and I think we have just got such an amazing team now in Cooktown.”

Local knowledge key in disaster prep workshops

by LUKE MORTIMER

COOK Shire Council has been hosting community disaster workshops due to the increasing frequency and unpredictability of extreme weather.

Local Disaster Plan workshops have been held at Cooktown, Lakeland, Rossville and Ayton to help prepare residents for future disasters such as cyclones.

More workshops at Laura, Coen and Portland Road are due to be scheduled later in the year.

The workshops – ﬁrst held about a month after Tropical Cyclone Narelle crossed the Cape and caused signiﬁcant damage – have given community members a chance to share their local knowledge, lived experience and practical ideas.

The Cape council said the sessions

“directly inform new local disaster plans tailored to the unique risks, challenges and priorities of communities across the shire”.

“With extreme weather events becoming more frequent and unpredictable, Cook Shire Council is working to ensure each community is better prepared, better informed and better connected when disaster strikes,” a statement reads.

Cook Shire Mayor Robyn Holmes said community input was critical to create eﬀ ective and realistic disaster plans.

“No one understands the risks better than the people who live here,” she said.

“We want to hear directly from our communities – what works, what doesn’t and what we need to do better, so these plans are grounded in real experience, not assumptions.

“The more people who get involved now, the better prepared we’ll be when it matters most.”

Workshop participants are given information on local risks, emergency processes and how to get households and properties ready for extreme weather.

The council urged residents, business owners and community groups to have their say.

Workshops were held at Cooktown Events Centre and Lakeland Community Hall on 19 April, Rossville Community Hall on 20 April and Ayton Library on 21 April.

The workshops have been funded through the joint federal and state Community Recovery and Resilience Oﬃcer Program.

Phone Cook Shire Council on (07) 4082 0500 for more information.

Cape York Weekly is the only media outlet covering news in every community on the Cape York Peninsula.

With 21,000 monthly readers, our Digital Edition gives you instant access to all the crucial news, local issues, and inspiring stories across the Cape, no matter how remote you are.

To subscribe to our once-a-week service, simply go to capeyorkweekly.com.au/subscribe and enter your email address.

Tender Number: PSA 2026-01 Occasional Plant Hire 2026-2028

Tenders are invited from Contractors wishing to be included in Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council’s Panel of Preferred Suppliers 2026–2028 for occasional plant hire, labor, and raw materials for roadworks.

Obtaining Documentation: Tenderers may register expressions of interest for the tender documentation by emailing tenders@blackm.com

Lodgement of Tenders: Tenders must be lodged via email to tenders@blackm.com

Closing Time: The closing time for lodgement of Tenders is 2.00pm Tuesday 12 May 2026.

Tenders are invited from Contractors wishing to be included in Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council’s Panel of Preferred Suppliers 2026–2028 for Trade Services.

Obtaining Documentation: Tenderers may register expressions of interest for the tender documentation by emailing tenders@blackm.com

Lodgement of Tenders: Tenders must be lodged via email to tenders@blackm.com

Time: The closing time for lodgement of Tenders is 2.00pm Tuesday 12 May 2026.

Tenders are invited from Contractors wishing to be included in Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council’s Panel of Preferred Suppliers 2026–2028 for Operational Services.

Obtaining Documentation: Tenderers may register expressions of interest for the tender documentation by emailing tenders@lockhart.qld.gov.au

Lodgement of Tenders: Tenders must be lodged via email to tenders@lockhart.qld.gov.au or lodged in the Tender Box at Council by the closing time. Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council 7 Anderson Street Manunda Cairns QLD 4870

Closing Time: The closing time for lodgement of Tenders is 2.00pm Tuesday 12 May 2026.

TCHHS midwifery director Michelle O’Connor and Waterlily Midwifery Group Practice’s Karen Binns, Jacqui Andrews, Georgia Gibson, Debbie Bannan and Seanie Hamilton celebrate being one step closer to the resumption of birthing services in Cooktown. Photo: Supplied.

Extent of huge Cape blaze laid bare in fire mapping report

by LUKE MORTIMER

MORE than 4500 square kilometres of land was burnt on Cape York during one of the nation’s most intense fires last year, according to an inaugural fire mapping report, which shows 2025 was the second worst year for fires in the past decade.

The enormous Cape fire started on 3 October and scorched 446,325 hectares of the peninsula over 32 days – an area more than twice as large as the Cairns local government area.

Based at Charles Darwin University (CDU), the North Australia and Rangelands Fire Information (NAFI) service released the first of its now-annual Fire Year Summary reports on Thursday (23 April).

The report details activity from

the country’s most comprehensive fire mapping database and it shows 2025 was a particularly bad year for fires due to severe weather and storm-related ignitions.

NAFI’s burnt area mapping covers 80 per cent of Australia and captures about 97 per cent of national fire areas.

The report states fire activity followed expected seasonal and regional patterns, but severe late dry

Funding boost for RFS volunteers

by CHISA HASEGAWA

INTEREST-BEARING bank accounts for Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) brigades will ensure every dollar raised locally stays local.

RFSQ brigades began to earn interest across all sub-accounts from 19 March, ensuring rightfully generated funds will go to volunteers on the ground.

The accrued interest will be paid into brigade sub-accounts on the first business day of each month.

RFSQ chief officer Kaylene Jones highlighted the importance of supporting the financial sustainability of RFSQ brigades.

“Our brigades are the backbone of fire safety in rural and regional Queensland, and these changes reflect our commitment to supporting them,” she said.

“The introduction of an interest-bearing account is one of the measures we are introducing to make it easier for brigades to manage their finances and focus on their core mission of protecting their communities.

“Funds raised by RFSQ brigades through local fundraising efforts, grants, levies, gifts, or donations are deposited into accounts maintained by Queensland Fire Department. These funds remain exclusively for the use of each individual brigade, now with the added benefit of earning interest.”

As volunteer numbers suffer, Rural Fire Brigades Association of Queensland CEO Justin Choveaux said this was a win for rural firefighters who donated their time to keeping their communities safe.

“We would like to thank the minister for personally ensuring that the interest that previously went into the government consolidated revenue is now being returned to rural fire brigades,” he said.

“This will mean more money for brigades to fund critical expenses such as feeding firefighters on the fire ground.”

Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers Ann Leahy said the additional funds would further support the vital work of RFSQ volunteers in protecting local communities.

“By enabling brigade accounts to be interest-bearing, volunteers will receive an additional financial boost to support their critical work in protecting Queenslanders,” she said.

“The Crisafulli Government is continuing to listen to our volunteers and ensuring every dollar raised locally stays local, supporting the needs of individual brigades.”

season conditions amplified fires in October.

The Northern Territory had the most fire activity with 29.6 million hectares burnt, followed by 19 million in Western Australia and 14.3 million in Queensland. Most of the fires occurred in October.

Fire activity in Queensland was heavily concentrated in northern savannas, according to the report.

The Cape fire which sparked on 3

Become a Field Oﬃcer

October was the country’s ninth largest fire of the year.

In total, the 10 largest fires of the past year burnt 9.7 million hectares and accounted for 15 per cent of the total area burnt.

CDU Northern Institute senior research fellow and mapping manager Rohan Fisher, who prepared the report, said the data underscored October as being the worst month for fires across much of the country.

“Fire is a natural and important part of our landscapes. As is the management of these fires which Australians have been doing for many thousands of years,” he said.

“First Nations rangers, pastoralists and other land managers are on the ground through the early part of the year preparing for the September-October season and they’re using NAFI data to do so.

“NAFI is one of the most accurate, regularly updated national scale data. Possibly the most accurate and robust fire dataset at this scale available for anywhere in the world.”

Much of Queensland experienced extensive and near-unprecedented rainfall over the past quarter.

Dr Fisher said rain increased fuel load across much of Australia.

“The most fire-prone areas are the northern savannas, but they’re also the most intensely managed,” he said.

“Whilst these far northern landscapes experienced the most fire over the last 15 years, we have seen an increase in proactive fire management led by Indigenous land managers.

“This has led to less fire overall and importantly less severe fires.”

Deliver Census letters and forms

money close to home

Cameron Hauff backburning on Mt Gibson Station at Lakeland as a bushfire approaches in 2023. Photo: Steve Ahlers.

Police scan thousands for weapons

First Nations designer centre stage at record CIAF showcase

by CHISA HASEGAWA

THIS year’s Cairns Indigenous Art Fair will showcase its biggest fashion oﬀering to date, featuring a record number of First Nations designers from Queensland and abroad at a historic timber mill on Yirrganydji Country in Stratford, Gimuy/Cairns.

The newly branded CIAF Fashion Performances at The Mill will spotlight 25 designers in a powerful intersection of culture, art, and contemporary design.

For the ﬁrst time, international collections from three Indigenous Taiwanese designers and a guest designer from Indigenous Fashion Week New York will join the line-up to present two immersive performances under the 2026 CIAF theme, Reclamation & Regeneration.

CIAF fashion curator Lynelle Flinders said the program embodied the strength and diversity of First Nations storytelling through fashion.

“This year’s fashion program brings together designers from across Queensland who are sharing stories of Reclamation and Regeneration — from climate resilience and connection to land to personal journeys of healing and identity,” she said.

“Across the program, designers amplify their perspectives through creativity, using fashion to honour cultural knowledge, challenge assumptions and express lived experiences.

“Together, they create a powerful collective narrative where fashion becomes a space for imagining new futures guided by First Nations voices.”

The unique fusion of fashion, movement, storytelling, digital projections and cultural programming has more than doubled in scale this year, with previous fairs featuring just 12 designers.

Minister for the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said Aboriginal and Zenadth Kes/Torres Strait Islander fash-

ion and textile designers in Queensland were sharing their creative talent with growing national and international audiences and markets.

“The Crisafulli Government proudly supports CIAF to showcase the incredible work of Indigenous artists and designers, providing Queenslanders and visitors with opportunities to engage with unique cultural experiences and purchase high-quality work.

“CIAF’s vibrant program helps deliver on Queensland’s Time to Shine, our 10-year strategy for arts and culture, by maximising economic opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creatives and reinforcing Queensland’s reputation as a vibrant cultural destination.”

Tickets are now available for the matinee and premiere performances on 9-10 July.

Cape York Region Package

by LUKE MORTIMER

POLICE have revealed 101 weapons were seized when 8902 people were searched without a warrant during Jack’s Law patrols across the Far North district since midJuly last year.

That means 1.13 per cent of the public scanned with handheld metal detectors were found to be carrying a weapon, or just more than one in every 100 people.

Jack’s Law was introduced by the previous Queensland Labor government following the fatal stabbing of 17-yearold Jack Beasley outside an IGA supermarket while he was enjoying a night out with friends on the Gold Coast in December 2019.

First trialled in 2023, Jack’s Law allows police to use the metal detectors for searches in locations deemed high-risk without a warrant, including safe night precincts, transport hubs, shopping centres and sporting and entertainment venues.

Jack’s parents Brett and Belinda Beasley pushed hard for tougher knife laws state-wide after their son’s death.

Far North police said in a statement on 16 April that the weapons were found during searches undertaken since 18 July last year and the proactive

Join Regional Development Australia Tropical North and the Department of Transport and Main Roads for an update on the CYRP Peninsula Developmental Road Stages 2 and 3.

Registration at 12.15pm for a 12.30pm start to 2pm May 8

Cairns Regional Council Civic Reception Room

Jack’s Law work would continue to “disrupt and prevent knife crime”. Scans “are quick, averaging a minute or two and require no physical contact by police”.

“By scanning for, detecting and removing dangerous weapons from public places, police aim to reduce the harm these weapons cause in the community, while educating the public on the risks of unlawfully carrying a weapon,” the statement reads.

Acting Chief Superintendent Paul Hart said local oﬃcers would continue to take proactive measures to make sure the community was not harmed by dangerous weapons.

“Jack’s Law isn’t about invading your privacy on a night out, it’s about making sure dangerous weapons don’t cause lifelong trauma for victims, their families and the wider community.

“Everyone deserves to enjoy our public spaces safely and without fear,” he said.

Police warned anyone caught carrying a knife or other item considered a weapon in public risked a large ﬁne or even jail time.

In Queensland, items like knives can only be carried for “reasonable” and lawful uses including employment, duty, sport or recreation. Self-defence is not a valid reason.

Model Winifred Massey (garments featuring the frigate bird/wada) with Torres Strait Islander designer Lisa Lui.

Photo: Cristina Bevilacqua.

ICN 1163 | ABN 22 965 382 705

NOTICE OF PRE-AUTHORISATION INFORMATION MEETING ABOUT A NATIVE TITLE DETERMINATION AGREEMENT

EASTERN KUKU YALANJI NATIVE TITLE GROUP Cape York United # 1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014)

TUESDAY 12 MAY 2026 MOSSMAN

This notice is to advise that Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will convene a Pre-Authorisation Information Meeting on behalf of the Cape York United #1 (CYU#1) Claim Applicant to discuss the process for the Eastern Kuku Yalanji Native Title Group to authorise a proposed native title agreement for a determination of native title over the area shaded in purple shown on the map below

Date: Tuesday, 12 May 2026

Time: 9:30am – 3:30pm (Registration from 9am) Venue: Mossman Shire Hall, 8 Mill Street, Mossman

PURPOSE OF PRE-AUTHORISATION INFORMATION MEETING

The purpose of the pre-authorisation information meeting is to provide information to the Eastern Kuku Yalanji Native Title Group about the terms of a draft native title agreement for a determination of native title, before the Authorisation meeting.

A determination of native title involves a decision of the Federal Court on (1) who holds native title; (2) what the native title rights are; (3) the area to which the native title rights apply after any determination is made; and (4) which corporation (PBC) will represent the members of the determined native title group. These are the main matters that are included in the proposed native title agreement and will be discussed at the preauthorisation meeting.

Please note that no decisions are proposed to be made at this pre-authorisation information meeting.

On Wednesday 27 May 2026, there will be an Authorisation meeting in Wujal Wujal where the Eastern Kuku Yalanji Native Title Group will be asked to consider whether to authorise the proposed native title agreement for a determination of native title. If the Eastern Kuku Yalanji Native Title Group decides to authorise the proposed agreement, the determination will then be sought in the Federal Court.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO ATTEND?

All members of the Eastern Kuku Yalanji Native Title Group as described below are invited and eligible to attend the preauthorisation information meeting.

The Eastern Kuku Yalanji Native Title Group are the descendants by birth or adoption in accordance with traditional law and custom, of one or more of the following apical ancestors (listed alphabetically):

1. Alamandi Lizzie (Lilly) Dawson

2. Amulkaba Jimmy Johnson Snr*

3. Annie Mason (sister of Daisy)

4. Bagi Kari Mary Ann (sibling of Kalkamanangu (Billy King) and mother of Charlie Ball Dirrakari and Dugaldandi Leslie Yarry and Billy Collins)

5. Balmbarra aka Billy Bloomfield (father of George Doughboy, Toby Bloomfield and Doolma Peter Bloomfield)

6. Baral-Baral (spouse of Bluja King Nia-iman)

7. Bijun Dungarra (spouse of Mujinija Walker Nandy)

8. Biru (mother of George Doughboy, Toby Bloomfield and Doolma Peter Bloomfield)

9. Bluja King Nia-iman

10. Buji (mother of Polly Kangkwiyin and others)

11. Bujilkabu

12. Burradi

13. Charlie Denman Snr

14. Charlie Redheart Wawujabba

15. Daisy (sister of Annie Mason)

16. Dickie Springvale Kukujika

17. Dimbanga Sandy

18. Dinah Dalkeith

19. Duraja (mother of Olbar and Nellie Nambaji)

20. Friday (mother of Lily Bertha and others)

21. Friday Wauwaga (brother of Bluja King)

22. Harry Beche-De-Mer

23. Harry Shuan

24. Henry Bloomfield

25. Isabella Henderson (Wawu-kuwa)

26. Jalbanmun Peter (grandfather of Lizzie Big Jack)

27. Jeannie ‘Ginny’ Bamboo

28. Jennie Douglas

29. Jerry Wotton

30. Jessie Buchanan (Babi Milbija Narrijinya)

31. Jimmy Blanket

32. Jimmy Johnson Snr (grandfather of Rene Johnson and others)

33. Jimmy Mossman Snr

34. Jinabaji aka Ginabundgee Ayton

35. Jinjirrba (Old Man Toby)

36. Jubby Lily Burchill

37. Jukurra Polly

38. Juwalba Willie Wiltia Cross-eye

39. Kalkabinda

40. Kalkamanangu (Billy King)

41. Kalkamanangu (father of Olbar and Nellie Nambaji)

42. Kalkaymba (mother of Doris Jinamul and others)

43. Kilkil (Gilgil) Punda

44. King Toby

45. Kubukubu (Old Billy Corporal)*

46. Kulka (Gulga) (mother of Polly Black Gibson)

47. Kuruwuja

48. Lily Kajakaja

49. Lora aka Laura (mother of Charlie and Hilda McLean)

50. Maggie (mother of Charlie Collins)

51. Maggie (mother of Muriel Minnie Rossville)

52. Maggie (spouse of Charlie Ogilvie)

53. Maggie Queen

54. Mandilba Jimmy Rossville (brother of Old Bamboo)

55. Mara Baril Baril

56. Marray-Marray Murranbi Jinakulur (three toes) aka Peter Smith

57. Maudie (aka Maudie Johnson)*

58. Maymi Kitty (spouse of Bujilkabu Wulbar)

59. Mijinba Nellie (spouse of Mandilba Jimmy Rossville)*

60. Miliji

61. Mindil (father of Charlie Ogilvie)

62. Minnie (spouse of Bamboo)

63. Molly (mother of Jessie Brown)

64. Moongabuyan Ngamu-Ngulmbay Friday (father of Rosie Redheart and Jimmy Winkle)

65. Mujala (sister of Rosie)

66. Munari Billy Gibson Snr

67. Mundy Nunn Pui-Alnganga

68. Nambaji (aka Numbudgee Ayton)

69. Narrakinna Annie Lox (mother of Eileen Crowley)*

70. Nellie (mother of Paddy Mossman)

71. Nellie ‘Anana’ Fisher (spouse of Jimmy Mossman Snr)

72. Ngamu Milimilinga

73. Ngingkibaji Polly (spouse of Bluja King Nia-iman)

74. Ngingkibaji Wawuwida Nellie (spouse of Bluja King Niaiman)

75. Old Bamboo (brother of Mandilba Jimmy Rossville)

76. Old Kokoe (Koka) aka Curley Kooka

77. Old Man Kooka (aka Kogal Coker)

78. Old Man Yorkey

79. Paddy (father of George Mirror aka George Mero)

80. Paddy Missionary

81. Paddy Shuan

82. Panakalbi (Bankalbi) Rachel aka Bunnagulkay

83. Peter Mossman

84. Polly Mugalbaru

85. Roseann (Rosie Rosie) aka Louisa

86. Rosie (sister of Mujala)

87. Rosie (spouse of Old Man Yorkey)*

88. Rosie Gurrmurragudgee

89. Rosie Neil

90. Ruby (mother of Rosie Redheart and Jimmy Winkle)

91. Tommy Hides Buchanan*

92. Topsy (mother of Harry Mossman)

93. Wabaji (mother of Johnny Jones)

94. Wampie (Wambi) Nuggett

95. Wawooamittan King Charlie (Donald) Diamond

96. Wawu Dimbi

97. Wawu Yilkinga

98. Wawu-Darra Jack (father of Charlie Ball Dirrakari and Dugaldandi Leslie Yarry and Billy Collins) 99. Wawunga Jambi Stumpy

100. Willy Ngamu-Darrba

101. Woko Jeannie (mother of Binda Brenda Maggie Solomon and others)

102. Wulbar (father of Tiger Tableland)

103. Wunbu Cross-eye

104. Wuynkul-baka Nellie

105. Yanbun (spouse of Mijili)

106. Yangki (father of Lizzie Big Jack)

107. Yangki (father of Polly Kangkwiyin and others)

108. Yimaday (aka Kate)

Agreement by the State of Queensland as to the addition of the proposed apical ancestors with an asterisk (*) above is not yet confirmed. Descendants of these apicals are invited to attend the preauthorisation information meeting and will be advised of the State’s decision in advance of the meeting.

To enquire as to whether you are a member of the Eastern Kuku Yalanji Native Title Group as described above and are eligible to attend, please contact CYLC Anthropologist Tara Zaicz by email TZaicz@cylc.org.au or on free call number 1800 623 548

If you have any queries about the purpose of the meeting, please contact CYLC Deputy Principal Legal Officer Louise Keepa by email LKeepa@cylc.org.au or on the free call number. For all other enquiries, please contact CYLC Personal Assistant to the Principal Legal Officer Marijke Walker by email MWalker@cylc.org.au or on the free call number.

IMPORTANT - Attendance, Travel Assistance & Teleconferencing

For travel assistance, to confirm your attendance or for any general queries about the meeting, please contact Marijke Walker at CYLC on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email MWalker@ cylc.org.au. Note that there is limited funding available for travel assistance and requests must be made by 4 May 2026 Teleconferencing facilities will also be made available at the meeting. If you would like CYLC to arrange a teleconference from your location into the meeting, whether you live at the location of the meeting or elsewhere, please contact Marijke Walker at CYLC. CYLC is committed to providing every opportunity for eligible persons to attend the meeting.

Map of Proposed Eastern Kuku Yalanji Determination Area under the CYU#1 Claim

ICN 1163 | ABN 22 965 382 705

NOTICE OF PRE-AUTHORISATION INFORMATION MEETING ABOUT A NATIVE TITLE DETERMINATION AGREEMENT WESTERN YALANJI NATIVE TITLE GROUP Cape York United # 1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014)

FRIDAY 15 MAY 2026 CAIRNS

This notice is to advise that Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will convene a Pre-Authorisation Information Meeting on behalf of the Cape York United #1 (CYU#1) Claim Applicant to discuss the process for the Western Yalanji Native Title Group to authorise a proposed native title agreement for a determination of native title over the area shaded in blue shown on the map below.

Date: Friday, 15 May 2026

Time: 9:30am – 3:30pm (Registration from 9am)

Venue: Rydges Esplanade Resort, 209-217 Abbott Street, Cairns

PURPOSE OF PRE-AUTHORISATION INFORMATION MEETING

Please note that no decisions are proposed to be made at this pre-authorisation information meeting.

On Tuesday 26 May 2026, there will be an Authorisation meeting where the Western Yalanji Native Title Group will be asked to consider whether to authorise the proposed native title agreement for a determination of native title. If the Western Yalanji Native Title Group decides to authorise the proposed agreement, the determination will then be sought in the Federal Court.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO ATTEND?

All members of the Western Yalanji Native Title Group as described below are invited and eligible to attend the preauthorisation information meeting.

The Western Yalanji Native Title Group are the descendants by birth or adoption in accordance with traditional law and custom, of one or more of the following apical ancestors (listed alphabetically):

1. Alena Ida (mother of Bernard Castors)

2. Biddy Mango (aka Biddy Looney)

3. Billy (father of Jimmy Riley and others)

4. Buiku Buiku

5. Bula Burton

6. Charlie Curraghmore

7. Charlie Fox

8. Charlie Jubilee

9. Charlie Lee Cheu

10. Danyulgulga Lizzie

11. Dianna (Dinah) (sister of Mary (Maggie) Anderson)

12. Dolly (mother of Alice Roberts and others)

13. Dolly (mother of Charlotte Palmer and others)

14. George Dodd (aka George Maytown)

15. Hilda (mother of Jessie Pauletta Davis and others)

16. Jack Burton

17. Jangga Dolo (aka George Maytown)

18. Jimmy (father of Jack Lawyer and others)

19. Jimmy Snider

20. Johnnie Cake (aka Johnny Stewart)

21. Jukumu George Pegus

22. Kitty (mother of Jimmy Riley and others)

Map of Proposed Western Yalanji Determination Area under the CYU#1 Claim

23. Maggie (mother of Dave Crowley and others)

24. Maggie (mother of George Sibley Snr and others)

25. Maggie (mother of James Andrew Mossman and others)

26. Mary (Maggie) Anderson

27. Molly (mother of Annie Green and Dolly Walker)

28. Mother of Rosie Simpson nee Murray

29. Mujilabu Sandy Tippo (aka Deppo King)

30. Nellie (mother of Doris Choikee and others)

31. Ngamu Minkidji

32. Ngamu Yarrkin Mitchell Earl

33. Ngamukaia Billy Carroll

34. Palmer McLean (aka Old Palmer)

35. Railu aka Mary

36. Rob Miller Snr

37. Rosie (Ross) Palmer

38. Ruby Barney Maytown (aka Ruby Meldrum)

39. Sambo (father of Dave Crowley and others)

40. Wautalunggu Maggie

41. Wur’purdam (aka Ngarrabulga)

To enquire as to whether you are a member of the Western Yalanji Native Title Group as described above and are eligible to attend, please contact CYLC Anthropologist Hannah Nott by email HNott@cylc.org.au or on free call number 1800 623 548

If you have any queries about the purpose of the meeting, please contact CYLC Deputy Principal Legal Officer Louise Keepa by email LKeepa@cylc.org.au or on the free call number. For all other enquiries, please contact CYLC Senior Business Support Officer Clementine Rushford by email CRushford@cylc.org.au or on the free call number.

IMPORTANT - Attendance, Travel Assistance & Teleconferencing

For travel assistance, to confirm your attendance or for any general queries about the meeting, please contact Clementine Rushford at CYLC on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email CRushford@cylc.org.au Note that there is limited funding available for travel assistance and requests must be made by 8 May 2026. Teleconferencing facilities will also be made available at the meeting. If you would like CYLC to arrange a teleconference from your location into the meeting, whether you live at the location of the meeting or elsewhere, please contact Clementine Rushford at CYLC. CYLC is committed to providing every opportunity for eligible persons to attend the meeting.

Aged care boost as clock ticks on hospital revamp

by LUKE MORTIMER

AGED care services are set to be improved in Cook Shire after Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) locked in $4.6 million for upgrades.

The Federal Government has chipped in half of the money to improve facilities at Sunbird Cottage as the Queensland Government is investing $200 million into a wider redevelopment of Cooktown Multipurpose Health Service hospital.

Sunbird Cottage residential aged care is located in the hospital, which also oﬀers

emergency, inpatient and palliative care, as well as opportunities to see visiting specialists and clinics.

The Cooktown Multipurpose Health Service redevelopment is now due to be ﬁnished in the 2029/30 ﬁnancial year, according to the health service.

TCHHS chief executive Rex O’Rourke said the Sunbird Cottage upgrade was “ultimately about people”.

“It strengthens local aged care, supports our workforce and helps ensure Cooktown remains a community where people can live and age with dignity,” he said.

Closure of Country

Paiden Countr y

Please be advised that access to Paiden Country is closed until further notice, due to sorry business It is important that we acknowledge and respect the advice from Traditional Owners so that cultural customs can be observed and practiced Rio Tinto personnel, contractors and the public are not to enter the area until further notice

This includes the following areas: Amban Road South (inclusive of the road), Beagle Road (inclusive of the road), Possum Creek, Sandy Creek, Ward River, Obon (Ward River Side), Yagalmungkan, Coastal areas from Big Horse Creek to Alechin Point including Ikleth, Six Ti Tree, and Awelombok (Waterfall)

Extensive construction and refurbishments will be carried out at the 11-bed Sunbird Cottage facility to improve accessibility, amenities, safety and security. Furniture and equipment will be upgraded, as will landscaping and fencing.

The health service said the upgrades would improve comfort, safety and facility functionality for residents, visitors and staﬀ.

The project builds on recent improvements already made at Sunbird Cottage. Upgraded dining and living spaces were opened in the middle of last year to make

the areas more comfortable for residents and their visitors.

Mr Rourke said the $2.3 million contributed by the Federal Government as part of the Aged Care Capital Assistance Program recognised the work of Sunbird Cottage and the importance of investing in aged care in remote communities.

“By investing in our local facilities and workforce we’re helping ensure older Cooktown residents can continue to receive high-quality care in a familiar and supportive environment, close to family, culture and community,” he said.

Closure of Country Peppan Countr y

Please be advised that access to Peppan Country is closed until further notice, due to sorry business It is important that we acknowledge and respect the advice from Traditional Owners so

and

The Cooktown Multipurpose Health Service upgrade is due to be completed in the 2029/30 ﬁnancial year. Photo: Lyndon Keane.

Remote communities at end of global fuel supply chains

by LUKE MORTIMER

THE Federal Government has launched a working group to support remote First Nations communities facing soaring everyday living costs due to the ongoing fuel crisis, including those in the Torres Strait.

The Working Group on Fuel, Energy and Food Security in Remote Communities, established under the Joint Council on Closing the Gap, brings together representatives from Indigenous peak bodies, industry and service providers.

Issues raised at the group’s rst meeting on 9 April included the reliance on diesel for electricity and the high costs of air, sea and road freight for food and essential supplies, which increases cost pressures on families and service providers.

The group was created for communities to share experiences and to allow government, industry and service providers to work together to make sure fuel and access to essentials continues.

The Torres Strait Islands has been deemed one area of immediate priority.

Joint council co-chairs Indigenous Australians Minister Malarndirri McCarthy and Coalition of Peaks lead convenor Donnella Mills convened a second meeting of the group on 23 April.

Ms McCarthy said: “The Albanese Government continues to closely monitor fuel supply and food security in remote

communities to help ensure ongoing access to essential services and supplies.

“This Working Group ensures the experiences and needs of First Nations remote communities are heard, understood and included in the government’s response,” she said.

Special Envoy for Remote Communities Marion Scrymgour said remote Indigenous communities were particularly susceptible to adverse world events – such

as the war in Iran and resulting fuel supply problems.

“Remote First Nations communities sit at the very end of supply chains that span across the globe and as a result our communities are very vulnerable to disruptions,” she said.

“Our government is taking an active role to understand the needs of our remote communities and work to ensure vital services remain supplied.”

TRADING

Ms Mills said the group would ensure the government was across the realities of living in isolated locations amid fuel concerns.

“This Working Group brings the unique realities of remote Australia to government so that they are clearly understood and acted on,” she said.

“Fuel supply in remote communities is not just an economic issue – it impacts health, safety and essential services.

“Food security and access to healthcare along with supporting localised industries in remote communities including the Torres Strait Islands are areas of immediate priorities for the Coalition of Peaks.

“Fuel costs and energy needs in remote Australia ow into everything – food prices, freight, power generation and service delivery.

“When supply is disrupted the impacts are immediate and profound for our people.”

The group came to be under clause 64 of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, which states governments must engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives before, during, and after emergencies.

Decisions must not disproportionately affect First Nations communities and they must be able to recover from social and economic impacts as quickly as any other Australians.

Joint Council on Closing the Gap co-chair and Indigenous Australians Minister Malarndirri McCarthy. Photo: Supplied.

Joint Council on Closing the Gap co-chair and Coalition of Peaks lead convenor Donnella Mills. Photo: NACCHO.

Bestseller impresses at intimate Cooktown event

by LUKE MORTIMER

BESTSELLING Queensland author and journalist Trent Dalton has dropped into Cooktown Library for a special event over livestream, much to the delight of Cook Shire bookworms.

The Walkley Award-winner and author of Boy Swallows Universe – which was adapted into a popular Netflix series – held An Evening With Trent Dalton which was streamed at the Helen St library on 21 April.

The intimate Cooktown event was attended by just 15 people, who heard about Dalton’s latest novel Gravity Let Me Go, as well as reflections on Boy Swallows Universe. An online audience watched from across the country and participated in a Q&A.

The council praised the author in a statement and said Dalton’s “warmth and authenticity resonated strongly” and he created “a meaningful and personal experience despite the virtual format”.

Dalton shared insights into his life, career and creative journey and spoke at length about his work as a novelist and journalist, as well as his inspirations.

The council said the event “provided an opportunity for readers to connect, share their love of literature and be part of a broader national conversation”.

The team at the library thanked attendees and event partner BorrowBox for supporting the livestream experience. They encouraged anyone yet to discover Dalton’s work, or literary gems from other authors, to check out the library’s collection.

Advertise Across the Entire Cape York Peninsula

Readers at Cooktown Library for An Evening with Trent Dalton. Photo: Supplied.

Cape York Weekly Puzzles Page

the 5 Differences Fill in the blank cells using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and 3x3 block.

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.

4107 TODAY’S Good: 11 words FOCUS Very good: 19 words Excellent: 29 words

the Dots

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.

Big hits and bribery in ﬁght for Dawnbusters podium

by CHISA HASEGAWA

MAGNIFICENT weather and an immaculate course greeted 18 Dawnbusters when golfers took on the Carpentaria Golf Club back 9 on Sunday (26 April).

Jamie Hutton (39), Matt Byrne (41), Scott Triﬃtt (42) and Vivian Chan (43) were the top hitters of the day, with Chan managing to come out on top with a nett score of 10.

The win came at a cost and slashed her handicap to seven, but also earned her a brand new Dawnbusters polo shirt in maroon for her troubles.

Harrie Ginate, allegedly seen dropping money from his pockets to bribe officials for a podium finish, took home the Bridesmaid with a 54 off the stick.

Beth Dall returned with a bang after a week oﬀ, showing everyone who’s boss when it comes to the Hoﬀmans trophy.

Awards came in pairs when Paiwan Lui brought out the big guns to take out the

men’s longest drive for the second time in three weeks, Mandy Crawford took the women’s longest drive for the second time, and Scott Triﬃtt claimed his second pin prize of the season.

Dawnbusters will take a break on 3 May as golfers battle it out on the Carpentaria Goodline Open course next weekend, but will be back on 10 May on the front 9 with an expected tee-oﬀ time of about 6:45 am.

Stalwart Dawson claims Anzac Day parkrun

by CHISA HASEGAWA

SIX ﬁrst timers were amongst the ﬁeld of 53 that laced up their shoes to participate in Weipa parkrun #467 on Anzac Day.

With representatives from three clubs in the throng when the starter’s pistol fired, parkrun veteran Ross Dawson led by example over the 5-kilometre course to be the first participant across the finish line in 22 minutes, 5 seconds.

Clayton Morrison dug deep to deliver a personal best time of 22:53 to ﬁnish in second spot, while Jordyn Mulherin was the ﬁrst female to greet the timekeepers and third home overall in 23:14.

Billy Reynolds, Rose Tickner,

Hadley Fielding and Edwin Oribin were the other parkrunners to start their Saturday morning with a PB performance.

The event was made possible by seven passionate volunteers, with Camille Freiberg, Susie Tuckwood, Fiona Dyer, Emma Eyre, Stephanie Kurz, Jemma Collins and Edison Eyre taking their turn rocking the hi-vis vests.

For statistics fans, since Weipa parkrun launched on 23 July 2016, 2,405 eager participants have chalked up a staggering 94,745km around the weekly circuit.

If you want to join the Weipa parkrun family, make sure you are at the shelter next to the hospital roundabout in Nanum by 7am each and every Saturday morning.

SPORTS BRIEFS

Triff eyes Open ace

SCOTT Trifﬁtt produced the best nett scorecard of the group of 16 golfers who contested Wackers in Weipa on 22 April with 42 off the stick, and the 18th pin prize to add to his haul.

With his eye on an ace in the 2026 Weipa Goodline Open, Trifﬁtt’s fellow Wackers have regularly heard him boasting his winning speech is already penned.

He didn’t get to practice the speech on Wednesday, however, with Carolyn Head taking home the chocolates with a oneshot victory over the in-form Dave Sands.

The 15th pin prize went begging, with an extremely hydrated Pete Moore getting his hands on the Bradman’s gong.

Hetaraka steals Stableford

WITH early gusting winds, slow greens and magnet-like bunkers, competitors were challenged from their ﬁrst shot until their last in a Stableford event at Cooktown Golf Club on 25 April.

El Presidente and former perpetual bridesmaid Brent Hetaraka snatched victory with 32 points, with Lance Jennings claiming second spot on the leaderboard with 29 points.

There was a three-way tie for third, with visiting golfer Stephen Nelson prevailing on countback.

Hetaraka also collected the pin prize on 2/11, while Terry Young bagging bragging rights on 9/18.

Blast into Cooktown cricket

JUNIOR players will have a chance to develop their skills with bat and ball when Cooktown Cricket Blast starts from 11 May.

The six-week program is for cricketers of all abilities aged 7-12, and the $60 registration fee covers weekly games and a Cricket Blast pack.

The action will commence from 5pm on Monday afternoons at the Queens Park Cricket Oval in Cooktown.

To register, visit www.playhq.com/ cricket-australia/register/53257c.

There were smiles for miles – well, mainly at the ﬁnish line – when 53 participants tackled Weipa parkrun #467 on Saturday (25 April). Photo: Weipa parkrun/Facebook

Podium ﬁnishes for Vivian Chan and Harrie Ginate, though Cape York Weekly has heard allegations of bribery surrounding Sunday’s Bridesmaid. Photo: Supplied.

Rivalries to be settled at Cooktown Golf Open

by CHISA HASEGAWA

THERE are some tremendous rivalries among players who call the Walker Bay course home, and they will be put on the line when competitors tee off in the 2026 Cooktown Golf Open in June.

The annual event is the jewel in the crown of eastern Cape York golf competitions, with more than $6000 in prize money on offer for top performers, in addition to a $10,000 payday for any player who can dial in their irons to card a holein-one.

The Open will have players tackling the fairways and greens for three days, kicking off with the much-loved institution that is the Stableford Prawn Run on 26 June before golfers battle over 36 holes for Cooktown’s top bragging rights.

On 27-28 June, players will tee off in five divisions – Men’s Open, A-grade, Bgrade and C-grade, and Women’s.

A spokesman for the club urged visiting golfers to make the trip to Cooktown for the event, no matter how seriously they rated their game.

“Whether you’re chasing a win, a week-

end away, or just a good hit with great people, this is one you want to be a part of,” they said.

“Get your name in early, lock in your friends and, as always, a reminder that in Cooktown, it’s not always about how you get there, just that you do.”

A notorious Cooktown golfer, who spoke to Cape York Weekly on the condition of anonymity, said they expected a few egos to be checked when some local competitors headed to the 19th hole on the Sunday afternoon.

“Some of these boys are talking up big

performances already, but they forget the rest of us can see how they’re hitting them each week,” the golfer – whose last 18hole score could have been mistaken for a phone number – scoffed.

“That’s what we love about Open time –it’s a chance to remind some players that even though they love telling everyone they’re an A-grader, we all know they should be teeing up at least one division down.”

Those wanting to tee off for Cooktown golfing glory can do so by emailing cooktowngccaptain@gmail.com before 5 pm on 24 June.

Cape York Weekly is part of the

capeyorkweekly.com.au

With players teeing off in five divisions, the on-course action will be fast and furious at Cooktown Golf Club as competitors vie for more than $6000 in prizes, plus the chance to score $10,000 for a hole-in-one. Photos: Cape York Weekly.

The Walker Bay course will challenge golfers from across Far North Queensland on 27-28 June.