THE Cape York Biosecurity Centre at Coen is set to be re-established more than three years after it was shuttered amid overwhelming criticism from the agricultural sector and biosecurity experts. Full story Page 5.
A WEIPA woman says it feels like her “life is starting again” after she received a new kidney in a life-saving operation. Becky Nai is now keen to help others living with diabetes and has applied to become an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health worker. Full story Page 3.
The Cape York Biosecurity Centre before it stopped operating in June 2023. Photo: Supplied.
by LUKE MORTIMER
A THURSDAY Island elder has spent four years mentoring young Indigenous people as they pursue careers in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) – and says the rewarding work supporting recruits makes her “feel complete”.
Petty Of cer Frances Visini’s important work with the Navy Indigenous Development Program (NIDP) has come about decades after serving with the Women’s Royal Australian Naval Service (WRANS).
The NIDP, which launched in 2010, is a ve-month training scheme aimed at equipping young First Nations Australians with skills, knowledge and con dence, as well as bolstering ADF ranks. Program graduates complete a TAFE course and can pursue further study or employment.
Ms Visini, known as “Aunty Fran” by Royal Australian Navy staff and recruits, joined WRANS in 1970.
She said she experienced equality from her very rst day at HMAS Cerberus.
“We were all treated as one team, like family,” Ms Visini said in a pro le by the ADF.
She was born on Thursday Island and has connections to Mer, Mua and Mabuyag in the Torres Strait. Ms Visini is also linked to the Yupungathi Clan from Western Cape York.
Her WRANS service was relatively short, but Ms Visini said she gained friendships, values and con dence which stayed with her for life.
“Those foundations later supported me to raise four children, complete university studies and spend nearly 25 years as an educator in both child care and state schools,” she said.
Ms Visini said her work as an NIDP Elder alongside Warrant Of cer Jeremiah (Jerry) Savage came unexpectedly, but
offered a unique opportunity to reconnect with the Navy after more than ve decades.
“This is where our young men and women walk in two worlds: honouring their culture and heritage, and contributing to the defence of and service to our nation,” she said.
Ms Visini said mentoring recruits gave her a profound sense of belonging and pride.
“This realisation inspired me deeply and I became genuinely motivated to make a positive impact,” she said.
“I have now had the honour of supporting and mentoring our young people as they walk their own paths into the ADF for four years. NIDP 25 marks my eighth intake into the NIDP.”
Ms Visini said NIDP educational opportunities opened up ADF pathways for young Indigenous people.
“It is a bridge connecting our communities to opportunity, education and new skills,” she said.
“It is also a partnership
built on respect and understanding.”
Ms Visini said she enjoyed the unique nature of each intake and looked forward to meeting new recruits.
“Throughout my time in this role I have had the privilege of witnessing recruits discover their own strengths, embrace new opportunities, form strong friendships and pursue the pathway of their choice,” she said.
“Having come back after nearly 50 years, I now feel complete.”
Navy Indigenous Development Program Elder Petty Officer Frances Visini (Aunty Fran) at HMAS Cairns.
Photos: Australian Defence Force.
Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Minister Matt Keogh addresses intake 25, their families and guests during the NIDP 25 graduation ceremony.
‘I’M SO THANKFUL’:
Cape kidney transplant recipient keen to give back
by LUKE MORTIMER
A WEIPA woman who received a life-saving kidney transplant is keen to help others living with diabetes and has applied to become an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health worker.
Becky Nai, originally from Masig (Yorke) Island in the Torres Strait was diagnosed with diabetes when she was 18.
In February, Ms Nai underwent the operation through the North Queensland Kidney Transplant Service at Townsville, three years after she started dialysis and was placed on the transplant waiting list.
The 40-year-old shared her story ahead of Donate Life Week from 26 July to 2 August, which encourages Australians to register as organ and tissue donors.
While Ms Nai was working as a teacher aide and studying teaching, she began caring for her unwell parents and then found out her kidney was failing.
The diagnosis in her early 30s was devastating for Ms Nai and her family, including her four older brothers.
“I hadn’t been managing my diabetes properly because I was looking after mum and dad,” she said.
“I was on dialysis for three years. The hospital staff talked to me about a transplant at the beginning and I was a bit sceptical, but they said ‘think about the outcome’. They said it could take five years before I could get a transplant, but I got it in three years.
“The day I found out came with mixed emotions. I was screaming and crying and I remember the moment getting on the plane and going down to Townsville it really hit me.”
Ms Nai will not find out
who donated her kidney due to patient confidentiality.
“I’m so thankful for whoever it was for this. If it wasn’t for that person, I would still be sitting on a dialysis machine,” she said.
“It feels like it must have been a younger person because I feel energetic. I feel like a little kid having to learn a few things again. It’s like my life is starting again.
“You’re able to do things you couldn’t do anymore. Now I can go back to work too.”
Ms Nai travelled about 1100 km to Townsville for the operation through the North Queensland Kidney Transplant Service.
Torres and Cape patients previously had to travel to Brisbane, often for extended periods, placing significant strain on families, cultural obligations and community connections.
The service is a collaboration between Queensland Health’s Cape, Townsville and Cairns hospital and health services and was designed to ensure patients receive transplant care closer to home.
Ms Nai said: “I was happy because Brisbane is a bit too far away from home. Townsville is a bit closer and I have a lot of family there, so everyone came to see me when I was in hospital.”
Next, Ms Nai hopes to work with Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS).
“Taking my experience and seeing what is going on in my community I want to go back and help educate people,” she said.
“I would like to help prevent young people from ending up on dialysis like I did.”
Alongside the service at Townsville, TCHHS has launched its own dedicated
support service for pre and post-surgery care, which includes a consultant nephrologist and two kidney transplant nurses working at Cooktown and Thursday Island.
TCHHS medical services executive director Marlow Coates said the service at Townsville had so far helped half-a-dozen patients from the Torres Strait and Cape to receive kidney transplants since launching about a year ago.
Almost 30 patients have received a kidney transplant and post-transplant care through TCHHS since 2018.
“We know there is unfortu-
nately a high burden of kidney disease in our region so this service, alongside our multidisciplinary primary care teams, are vital in proactively identifying, educating and supporting patients who are at higher risk,” Dr Coates said.
“It is fantastic our patients can receive these services closer to home and it is cases like Becky’s which highlight the benefits.
“The Torres and Cape HHS is committed to building services focused on both clinical and cultural safety to ensure these patients receive the best care possible.”
Weipa kidney transplant recipient Becky Nai with Weipa renal clinical nurse Roda Allen. Photo: TCHHS.
Transplant operations are now being performed at Townsville through the North Queensland Kidney Transplant Service, meaning Cape and TSI patients avoid travelling further south to Brisbane.
Photo: Queensland Health.
Cape York Biosecurity Centre to reopen
by LUKE MORTIMER
THE Queensland Government is set to deliver on a key election promise for Far North Queensland by re-establishing a vital frontline biosecurity facility on Cape York.
Ahead of the 2024 State Election, the Liberal National Party (LNP) announced it would “beef up biosecurity” and review the closure of the Coen facility by the former Labor Government in June 2023.
On Friday (10 July), Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett confirmed the Cape York Biosecurity Centre was due to reopen and plans include eight new frontline officers stationed across the Gulf of Carpentaria and between Cooktown, Weipa and Kurumba on the Cape.
The centre will make sure those travelling through the area
understand their obligations and help combat emerging biosecurity threats.
Mr Perrett said the government was working to protect the state’s economy, environment and way of life by getting more boots on the ground and increasing protection in the north, where biosecurity risks were higher.
“If Far North Queensland is left exposed, it could open the door to exotic diseases and pests from Asia and the Pacific that would irreversibly change our environment, devastate our economy, reduce our food production and limit our way of life. A reinstated defence line reduces that risk,” he said.
“Biosecurity is the linchpin of our primary industries. It is what keeps industry viable and that’s why the Crisafulli Government takes biosecurity so seriously.
“By expanding our northern
biosecurity capacity and strengthening collaborations, surveillance, capability and knowledge sharing, we are reinforcing Queensland’s resilience.
“The LNP made an election commitment to strengthen Queensland’s biosecurity frontline with an additional $60.9 million investment over four years, employing 100 additional frontline biosecurity staff in regional areas.”
Cook MP David Kempton said those in the Far North could rest assured the government would not leave the region exposed, but the plans benefited the whole state.
“Strong biosecurity is not just about protecting what we have today – it is about safeguarding the future for generations to come,” he said.
“This northern defence line will provide protection to the expanding farming industry and confi-
dence for those wanting to invest and open up the region further.
“I am pleased to have worked with Minister Perrett and the local indigenous organisation to be delivering this practical and muchneeded solution that will not only protect the constituents and industries in my electorate, but Queensland more broadly.”
Mr Kempton said he was concerned the Federal Government was not meeting its border protection obligations.
“Labor continues to fail its obligation to protect our sovereign borders as we see incursions by illegal fishing vessels and illegal immigrants,” he said.
“Our community couldn’t make sense of Labor’s decision to shut down the biosecurity check point that helped travellers do the right thing, recommencing services in the region and increasing staff on the ground will be applauded by locals.”
Federal Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke and Leichhardt MP Matt Smith spoke up to defend their government’s border protection measures earlier this month, after a group of illegal immigrants and two people smugglers were allegedly caught at Weipa.
“We take border security very seriously,” Mr Smith said.
“To the people smugglers, to the Indonesian fishermen, let me tell you this: these are our sovereign waters, you are not welcome.”
Mr Burke said: “It remains the case that no people smuggling venture has been successful for more than a decade.”
He told Federal Parliament the multi-agency Operation Broadstaff, led by the Australian Border Force, had made an “extraordinary impact” since it launched in February.
“And some of those people who were trying to steal fish stocks from the locals up there in Leichhardt have discovered fairly suddenly that their vessels have been burnt (by authorities) … ,” Mr Burke said.
The Queensland Government’s new measures bring the total number of biosecurity and boating and fisheries officers working on the Cape and Gulf of Carpentaria to 13.
Power Outage
TOWN OUTAGE
The Cape York Biosecurity Centre near Coen was shut down in mid-2023. Photo: File.
Leichhardt MP Matt Smith says the Federal Government is taking its biosecurity obligations seriously.
MORE than $13 million will be spent on much-needed infrastructure upgrades in the Torres Strait and at Hope Vale on the Cape.
Water security and critical transport infrastructure, waste management, and early childhood education services are being prioritised as part of Queensland Government Closing the Gap Priorities funding.
Horn Island Airport is in line for critical runway upgrades to improve safety and ensure flights can continue.
Meanwhile, the local tip at Horn Island is due to be expanded to ensure compliance and increase environ-
mental safeguards for Loggy Creek Dam.
Elsewhere in the Torres Strait, the government is set to deliver water infrastructure upgrades on Erub Island to improve the reliability of the local supply, reduce wastage and support desalination processes.
Authorities have also flagged the refurbishment of the former after school hours care facility at Hope Vale, about 45 kilometres northwest of Cooktown, to turn it into a modern kindergarten. The kindy would also support visiting child health service providers.
Hope Vale can also expect water and sewerage system upgrades to improve living standards and health out-
comes as part of the funding totalling $13.64m.
Cook MP David Kempton welcomed the funding for the remote communities in his electorate.
“The works on Horn Island are timely as it continues to grow in importance as a service centre to the Torres Strait,” he said.
“A reliable water supply for Erub Island will help to improve quality of life in the community and deliver better health outcomes.
“Hope Vale similarly will benefit from water and sewerage upgrades and will be very welcoming of the refurbishment of the after school care facility.
“The Crisafulli Government continues to work with
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Council is seeking tenders from suitably qualified and experienced batching plant operator to manage the Kowanyama Batching Plant as its agent.
RFT documentation is available to download via https://www.kowanyama.qld.gov.au/council/ tenders-and-opportunities/
Tenders
Close 4:00PM Wednesday 22 July 2026
Tender responses may be submitted electronically to tenders@kowanyama.qld.gov.au or hard copies can be submitted to KASC Cairns Office or KASC Kowanyama Office.
For more information, please contact tenders@kowanyama.qld.gov.au
the remote communities in Cook to improve the living standards and improve health options.”
Torres Shire Council Mayor Elsie Seriat OAM said the funding recognised the practical needs of island communities, and the Horn Island tip upgrade was particularly important.
“This is very welcome news for Torres Shire and for our region,” she said.
“When these everyday services are strengthened, our people feel the benefit.
“The investment in Horn Island Landfill is especially important because this facility supports our broader island communities. It is critical for public health, environmental protection, biosecurity and the longterm liveability of our region.
“In the Torres Strait, everything is more complex and more expensive to deliver. We do not have the same access to nearby facilities that mainland communities can rely on, so investment in our own essential infrastructure is vital.”
Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council Mayor Bruce Gibson said the kindergarten would benefit families for years to come and he was pleased to see investment in his community.
“This funding will deliver critical water and sewerage infrastructure upgrades for
the Hope Vale community,” he said.
“The conversion of the after school care centre and associated improvements will also ensure the continued operation of the George Bowen Memorial Community Kindergarten.”
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships
Minister Fiona Simpson said projects were chosen after consultation with elected Indigenous councils.
“By investing in public health and essential infrastructure in Indigenous communities, we are backing locally prioritised projects that help deliver real tangible outcomes, better services and stronger foundations for the future,” she said.
“Importantly, these pro-
jects have been identified by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander councils themselves during our direct consultation, ensuring funding is directed to local priorities and delivers practical outcomes for communities.
“The Crisafulli Government’s commitment to these 21 projects clearly demonstrates our ongoing efforts to drive real progress in Closing the Gap outcomes for our First Peoples and I look forward to announcing more of these projects soon.”
The government states the 2026-27 Budget includes more than $73 million for 21 new public health and essential infrastructure projects in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Queensland.
Dredging will also be completed at Amrun on behalf of Rio Tinto.
The project will take up to eight (8) weeks to complete.
The dredge vessel TSHD Brisbane, as well as support vessels, have restricted manoeuvring capability. Local and visiting boaties are asked to take care and notice of all warning flags and lights.
Maintenance dredging needs to be carried out to ensure that safe, navigable shipping depths are maintained.
Environmental controls and management measures will be implemented throughout the program to minimise the risk of any potential impact on the marine environment. Your cooperation and understanding is appreciated.
Alan Neilan, Chief Executive Officer North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) will undertake maintenance dredging from mid-June at the Port of Weipa.
Maintenance dredging notice
June - August 2026 | Notice for Weipa community
Work is due to kick off on Horn Island in the Torres Strait. Photo: File.
Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council Mayor Bruce Gibson. Photo: Supplied.
Torres Shire Council Mayor Elsie Seriat OAM. Photo: Lewis James Media.
Cape med student returns as Winter School leader
Stores reach milestone in recycling program
A REMOTE environmental program keeping recyclables out of landfill is now operational in stores across Cape York and the Torres Strait.
Not-for-profit operator Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) launched the Resource Recovery Project in September 2024, installing recycling containers at 14 initial sites to divert major store waste streams –specifically cardboard and clear-plastic pallet wrap – from limited local landfills.
Following the final container allocations, all 20 planned locations are now playing their part in protecting the Far North Queensland environment.
CEQ chief operating officer Fred Gela said reaching the 20-store target marked a major milestone in addressing remote waste management challenges, adding that they were working closely with logistics and environmental partners to ensure the project’s ongoing viability.
“Through collaboration, we have been able to implement a practical solution that addresses waste management challenges in remote communities,” Mr Gela said.
“Together, we are making a tangible difference in preserving the environment for future generations.
“We are proud to lead this initiative and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the environment and the communities we serve.”
Funded by the Federal and State governments’ Regional and Remote Recycling Modernisation Fund, consolidated recyclable materials are shipped via Sea Swift to Cairns, where North Queensland Recycling Agents processes the cardboard and plastic into usable products.
“The support from the Australian and Queensland governments has been instrumental in bringing this project to life,” Mr Gela said.
“Working with the Queensland Government to manage this project has also enabled the project to respond to the challenges that these types of projects can face.
“We are also appreciative of Sea Swift’s and NQRA’s commitment to this initiative.”
Recycling activities have officially begun at all 20 participating CEQ stores in Wujal Wujal, Bamaga, Mer, Lockhart River, Mapoon, Mabuiag, Boigu, Napranum, Saibai, Masig, Erub, Nurupai, Warraber, Tamwoy, Iama, Wug, Arkai, Poruma, Kirirri and Ugar.
A FOURTH-YEAR medicine student from the Umpila mob in Coen has been supporting and mentoring high school kids as an ambassador in James Cook University’s (JCU) Indigenous Winter School.
Winter School students travelled to the university’s Townsville Bebegu Yumba campus from across Australia, including Far North Queensland, for the program which ran over five days during the June/July school holidays.
The ninth Winter School intake included 90 students from years 10, 11 and 12, who met university staff and students, took part in academic lectures, team-building activities and forged relationships set to last well beyond the program.
Harry Plasto, now based in Cairns but originally from Coen on the Cape, returned to Winter School as an Indigenous Student Ambassador for a second time.
“This is my second Winter School program
I’ve attended. Everyone here is really warm and welcoming,” he said.
“The staff look after you, you can have a look and see what you’re interested in and you can pick a path that appeals to you.”
JCU head of Indigenous learning support services Manola Chong said the program gives students the opportunity to discover they have more capacity than they often realise.
“For many students, this is the beginning of something much bigger than one week on campus,” she said.
“The confidence they develop here can open doors to new opportunities for themselves, their families and their communities.”
Townsville year 12 student Peata Deegan attended the program for the third time.
“Coming here and seeing the Indigenous programs just cemented it for me…culturally, academically and socially, it’s a confidence booster,” she said.
JCU has a Far North Queensland campus located at Smithfield in Cairns.
Indigenous Student Ambassador Harry Plasto (right) with Peata Deegan (left) and Sophie Brindell at 2026 Indigenous Winter School. Photo: Supplied.
Talented mum-of-eight wins Thancoupie Bursary
by LUKE MORTIMER
A NAPRANUM artist has been named the 2026 recipient of the celebrated Thancoupie Bursary Fund at the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF).
The honour recognises mum-ofeight Marsha Hall for her commitment to sharing Thanakwithi culture through her artwork.
Ms Hall only returned to artistic practice this year after dedicating years to raising her family.
Her abstract work has been inspired by the five clan groups of the Weipa region. Previously, ani-
PublicNotice
mals from the western Cape were the main sources of iconography.
Ms Hall’s designs have been commissioned for metal wear, educational learning materials and costumes for dance ensembles.
The announcement was made at CIAF’s annual Thancoupie Bursary Fund breakfast in the garden surrounds of the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal – home to Thancoupie’s monumental bronze sculpture The Lovers, The Sun and the Moon – on 9 July.
The annual bursary established in 2011 honours the legacy of cultural leader and language war-
rior Dr Thancoupie Gloria Fletcher AO, who is widely credited as the founder of the modern Indigenous ceramics movement in Australia.
Each year, $5000 is given to an emerging First Nation’s artist or arts collective from western Cape York Peninsula.
The bursary was Thancoupie’s final wish to support artists and arts workers from her region.
She encouraged them to pursue creative and professional development opportunities beyond their communities and to strengthen their cultural identity and pride.
TBF Co-Chair Paul Matthews said the event was a “deeply meaningful” opening to CIAF which united collectors, curators, family, friends and supporters in remembrance and renewal.
“Thancoupie’s vision was always one of empowerment – of creating pathways for young people to thrive culturally, creatively, and professionally,” he said.
“The Bursary carries that vision forward each year, and this gathering reminds us of her enduring impact.”
Past winners include Lockhart
River artist Fiona Omeenyo in 2025, as well as Paul Bong, Natasha Davui, Zane Saunders, Vincent Babia, and Pormpuraaw Arts.
The Thancoupie Bursary Fund had a booth in the CIAF Artisans Showcase at Tanks Arts Centre and visitors could place bids on exclusive works.
CIAF was held in Cairns (Gimuy) from Friday to Sunday. The annual event has grown since 2009 to become a significant national showcase of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art and culture, with global links.
Please be ad further notic acknowledge that cultural personnel, co until further
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Napranum artist Marsha Hall has been named the 2026 recipient of the Thancoupie Bursary Fund.
Photo: Supplied.
Marsha Hall and one of her paintings, Langhi P’wa. Photo: Cape York Weekly/Chisa Hasegawa.
Great Barrier Reef avoids UNESCO ‘in danger’ listing
by LUKE MORTIMER
THE UNESCO World Heritage Committee says the Great Barrier Reef should not be included on its official list of sites in danger for now, but more needs to be done to ramp up water quality.
Australia has been praised for its efforts to clean up Queensland’s biodiverse natural wonder of the world, which supports about 77,000 jobs and contributes more than $9 billion to the economy each year.
But the committee raised serious concerns about mass coral bleaching events and has requested a reef progress report by late 2028.
The reef, which was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Centre list in 1981, spans almost 350,000 square kilometres and is home to about 30 species of marine mammals, 400 types of coral and 1500 fish species. It’s a haven for the large green turtle, sea dugong and other animals threatened with extinction.
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water said in a statement the draft decision recognised comprehensive efforts to protect and manage the reef.
The department described the Great Barrier Reef as “one of
the world’s best managed reef ecosystems and World Heritage properties” and said the decision highlighted commitment and collaboration to address climate change, water quality, fisheries and crown of thorns starfish control.
Federal Environment and Water Minister Murray Watt said the government would back the World Heritage system and engage with UNESCO, the World Heritage Advisory Bodies and the committee to improve the long-term health of the reef.
“The Australian Government understands this responsibility. And we also know the world is watching us,” Minister Watt said.
“Australia is doing more than ever to better protect and manage the (UNESCO) Outstanding Universal Value of the Reef. Our efforts are making a difference – but we know there is more work to do.
“That’s why we announced a further $91.8 million in this year’s Federal Budget to bolster our world-leading management of the Great Barrier Reef.
“We will continue to build on our actions, leverage strong partnerships, and utilise our world-leading reef management to support the Great Barrier Reef’s resilience into the future.
“We are extremely lucky to be
home to one of the most beautiful and precious places on earth – and we’re determined to protect it.”
The Queensland Government also welcomed the decision and ministers said progress was being made to protect one of the world’s most important natural assets.
State Environment Minister Andrew Powell said the draft decision recognised the efforts of Queenslanders working to protect the reef for future generations.
“Queenslanders care deeply about the reef and we welcome the draft decision because it recognises the progress being made to conserve it,” he said.
“Our focus remains on practical action and delivering outcomes that protect the reef and support the regional communities and jobs that depend on it.”
“That’s why we’re continuing to invest in practical action that protects the reef and the communities and businesses that rely on it.”
However Greens Senator Peter Whish-Wilson said new coal and gas projects were “cooking our oceans”.
“The Albanese government is still gambling with the future of the Great Barrier Reef. Labor’s pathetic climate target is consistent with warming above 2 C°, which experts warn will cause the loss of 99 per cent of coral reefs,” he said.
“Make no mistake that a deliberate decision is repeatedly being made by Labor to put the profits of fossil fuel companies over the health of our planet. Including the survival of one of the greatest natural wonders in the world that this government is the guardian of.
“Improvements to federal environmental laws that now apply to the deforestation of Great Barrier Reef catchments was a key factor in UNESCO’s decision. The only reason these changes exist is because the community and the Greens fought for them.
“The future of the Great Barrier Reef remains perilous under Labor’s watch. The only thing that will truly protect the World Heritage values of the Great Barrier Reef is immediate climate action, which means the Albanese Labor government ending its reckless support of new fossil fuels.”
Dr Lissa Schindler said “the truth is that one of the world’s greatest natural wonders remains under international scrutiny because their (government) efforts are not adequate to secure the Great Barrier Reef’s future”.
“UNESCO recommending another review in 2028 is an extraordinary level of scrutiny for a developed nation,” she said, while acknowledging some progress had been made.
“UNESCO has repeatedly identified climate change, water quality, land clearing and fisheries management as key threats to the Great Barrier Reef’s long-term survival. While governments have made progress in some areas, significant gaps remain.
“Coral reefs are just too important for the world to lose.”
A diver culling a crown-of-thorns starfish in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
Photo: The Reef Authority.
Australian Marine Conservation Society Reef campaign manager
Telstra to be hit with investigation, penalties over national outages
by CHRIS JOHNSON
THE Federal Government has promised a full investigation into a nationwide Telstra outage which affected millions of calls, banking transactions and transport last week.
Communications Minister Anika Wells said Telstra needed to explain itself for letting Australians down in a big way on 8 July.
But she said there appeared to have not been any deaths related to people being unable to call Triple Zero.
“I have not had it reported to me that any failure to connect to Triple Zero has contributed to an adverse outcome,” Ms Wells said.
She said the technical issues had largely been resolved, but there were still residual problems Telstra would inform customers about.
“Telstra needs to account for how and why that has occurred because Australians are right to expect that as a baseline service from their telco,” Ms Wells said.
She dismissed speculation the outage was due to a cyberattack and said there was no evidence of that, and that any parliamentarians suggesting cyberattacks were irresponsible.
Industry Minister Tim Ayres said a full investigation would examine the network outages and Telstra’s persistent challenges.
It would also determine if any penalty will be applied to the tech company.
“There’ll be a full investigation in due course by the proper authority, ACMA (Aus-
tralian Communications and Media Authority), but right now, the Communications Minister is on deck dealing with these challenges,” he said.
“I mean, it goes without saying, communications and digital infrastructure are part of the lifeblood of the economy. Each of these operators has responsibilities here.
“The framework is there to manage those, to make sure we’ve got a transparent investigative framework and to apply penalties where it’s necessary.”
Telstra issued updates saying its teams were busy working on remaining issues.
The Greens have promised to drag Telstra before a Senate inquiry over the network failures and will introduce legislation to make telcos improve their standards.
“When we return to parliament, the Greens will move to legislate reliability standards to ensure that big telcos, who are raking in the big bucks, are legally required to provide reliable, dependable services,” communications spokesperson Sarah Hanson-Young said.
“We will force Telstra to front the Senate inquiry and explain why this happened and what led to the mass outage, including the impacts of cost-cutting and offshoring of services.
“The public expect and deserve better from Australia’s largest telecommunications provider. Telstra must explain what went wrong, how many people were affected, what safeguards failed, and what steps will be taken to ensure this never happens again.
“This cannot be left to ACMA to manage. ACMA has become a lapdog, not a watchdog.
“It has become too cosy with the big telecommunications corporations and does not stand up for the interests of the Australian people.”
Telstra has blamed a software defect for the outage.
Meanwhile, shadow communications minister Sarah Henderson has had to defend herself after test-calling 000 several times during the outage to see if it was working.
Making non-emergency Triple Zero calls is a Commonwealth offence, but Senator Henderson denied breaking the law and said she was doing her job.
“I was simply, as the shadow minister for communications, making those initial calls to work out whether the system was actually operating,” she said.
“Australians have very little trust in our telecommunications carriers.”
Photo: Kamal Uddin.
Cape York Weekly Puzzles Page
Fill in the blank cells using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can
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.
Reference: Macquarie Concise Dictionary Focus No. 4118 TODAY’S Good: 8 words FOCUS Very good: 15 words Excellent: 26 words
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.
Champion bowlers Dwayne Brooks and Patricia Price. Photo: Supplied.
2026 Laura Races and Rodeo
Laura Race Day Results (27 June) – Laura Amateur Turf Club
1st: Nic Cronin on Bingle – Score: 91 | Payout: $120.00
2nd: Lily Toohey on Pac Man – Score: 71 | Payout: $100.00
3rd: Emelie Weedon on Hollywood Oak – Score: 70 | Payout: $80.00
4th: Charlie Bell on Tequila – Score: 68 | Payout: $60.00
5th: Mia Sadleir on Power – Score: 66 | Payout: $40.00
Open Campdraft (Round 1)
1st: Shae Pasetti on Geebung Funny Face –Event Score: 178 | Payout: $750.00
2nd: Roy Shephard on Man On Fire – Event Score: 174 | Payout: $625.00
3rd: Robbie White Snr on Melody – Event Score: 108 | Payout: $500.00
4th: Russell Scikluna on Red – Event Score: 102 | Payout: $375.00
5th: Robbie White Snr on George – Event Score: 99 | Payout: $250.00
Heir Jordan narrowly outpaces Choir Boy in the 2026 Laura Cup. Photo: Supplied
Action from the Rodeo and Campdraft at the 2026 Laura Races and Rodeo. Photos: Supplied.
Runners racking up personal bests
ANOTHER strong turn out of first-timers hit the ground running at the 478th Weipa parkrun.
On Saturday, 45 people took on the five-kilometres course. 15 were first timers and six recorded new personal best times.
Representatives of three different clubs took part.
Chrisden Russ greeted the timekeepers first with a personal best time of 18 minutes and 50 seconds.
Ross Perry followed with a personal best time of 20:47 and Daman Takkar was hot on his tail, crossing the line with a personal best time of 20:52.
Kat Hansen was the first female to finish with a personal best time of 22:41.
Volunteer helping on the day were Shay Gardiner, Richelle Ryan, Melanie Brewer, Emma Eyre, Jemma Collins and Terrence Farley.
Since the event started on 23 July 2016 a total of 2491 participants have run, jogged and walked 19,516 Weipa parkruns, covering a distance of 97,580km.
Anyone who would like to join parkrun should assemble by the shelter next to the hospital roundabout in Nanum before the starter’s pistol fires at 7am each Saturday.
New arrival impresses at Dawnbusters
A RECORD crowd of 21 Dawnbusters enjoyed a beautiful morning as they took on the back 9 of the Carpentaria Golf Club on Sunday.
The group gave a warm welcome to the latest newbie, with Jennifer Sands joining the morning’s frivolities.
Acclimatising to the course conditions was Peter Kenny, who led the pack with a 42. Brandon Waretini managed a 44 and Dave Sands a 45 off the stick with a group of four in hot pursuit with 46 off the stick. Bridesmaid for the second week in a row was Dave Sands.
Handicaps came into play and Waretini took the chocolates as victor on the day. His win, a net 10, saw his handicap reduced from 34 to 8.
Waretini, ever humble, said
it was good that record numbers turned out to witness his win and join him in the celebrations.
The hotly contested Hoffman’s award came down to a count back and Lily Pembar emerged on top.
Big gun at the event was the newest player to the group Jennifer Sands with the longest women’s drive, while Jim ‘Lefty’ Lucas hit the longest men’s drive.
Peter ‘PK’ Kenny took Nearest the Pin on the 18th, showcasing his accuracy and narrowly snatching the accolade from his rivals.
Next week, Sunday 19 July, will see Dawnbuster’s return to the front 9. Groups will be getting away about 7am.
New members are always welcome.
Wackers wrap: Marshall hits headlines again
BOB Marshall told the Wackers crew he loves seeing his name in the paper. Now, Marshall’s made the news again after his performance on the front 9 on Wednesday – not for a win, but for the Bradman’s, which he took by a mile. Eddie Tiemens handicap of 17 gave him a nett score of 33, which meant he was the winner on the day, narrowly beating the inform Dave Sands, who carded a 46 and was just half a stroke behind.
Brandon Warateni was too good on the 7th, taking the pinshot from Lucas, while Sands landed only metres short of the 9th flag .
After a substantial absence, Steve Wust joined Wackers with his dad, Gav, who was visiting. The younger Wust proved he’s still got it by hitting a superb 42 off the stick .
Ever-humble Dawnbusters winner Brandon Waretini with Dave Sands. Photo: Supplied.
Chrisden Russ was first over the line at the running of the 478th Weipa parkrun with a personal best time of 18 minutes and 50 seconds. Photos: Weipa parkrun/Facebook.
RIDING HIGH
21st Weipa Rodeo to bring thrills and spills to town
by LUKE MORTIMER
ORGANISERS of the 21st Weipa Rodeo have been working hard to draw a bustling crowd of several thousand through the gate – and it’s unlikely they’ll have much trouble considering this year’s program and the enduring local support for the much-loved annual event.
Sponsors including Goodline have rallied behind the Rodeo scheduled for the 21-22 August, and Riverina farmer and country musician Danny Phegan has been locked in to keep the crowd entertained.
Weipa Rodeo Association president Yasmin Braes, who took on the role early this year, said preparations were “going really well” and the committee was pleased with its progress.
“We’ve got all our major sponsors on board. Entertainment sorted out. Everything is going to plan,” she said.
“I’m hoping we have about the same amount of people through as last year, if not more. There was around 3000 last year.”
Braes said she expected the Cape of Origin showcase would be a standout at the familyfriendly Rodeo.
The best-of-the-best from regions compete in teams for an $11,000 prize pool – and a unique Cape Of Origin buckle.
The committee working on this year’s Rodeo is mostly new, with some old hands helping guide the way. About 40 volunteers are involved.
“We’re back to weekly meetings. We’ve got working bees every weekend. You know, many hands make light work. And we’re just grateful for the committee that we’ve got. Old and new members,” Braes said.
Some of the many contests to look forward to at Weipa Rodeo include the Open Bull ($5000 prize), the Bushman’s Buckjump ($2000), Saddle Bronc ($2500) and Junior Bull ($1000).
Other fun competitions include whip cracking, chute dogging, a kids dance off and Best Dressed Cowboy/Cowgirl.
There’s also a free rodeo school for nominated competitors on 20 August, the day before the Rodeo begins on the Friday.
Nominations for the Rodeo opened on 1 July and close on 8 August.
Braes thanked sponsors who have backed this year’s event and called on food and beverage vendors, as well as volunteers to get in touch if they would like to take part.
“The Cape of Origin and the bulls are usually big ticket events,” Braes said.
“And it’s the entertainment that everyone comes for too.
This year, we’ve changed a few
Categories include Open Bull Rider, Novice Bull Rider, Ladies Bullock Rider, Saddle Bronc Rider, Mini Bull Rider and Barrel Racer. Braydon Wellby, Dallon Finch, and Ky Borghero have been named as captains.
things around. We’ve got some new screens coming in and there will be streaming in the bar area. We’ll have some new additions.”
Braes said the atmosphere was a big part of the event each year.
“The Rodeo is always a thriller,” she said.
“Some parts you’re on the edge of your seat. Everyone seems to cheer everyone on, it doesn’t matter if they’re local or not local.
“And the lolly gun is always a big hit with the kids, they run around like mad.”
For more information about the Weipa Rodeo and nominations visit www.weiparodeo.com. au. Anyone interested in volunteering or setting up a stall can email weiparodeoassociation@ hotmail.com.
Matty Prychidczuk in the Novice Bull Ride during last year’s Weipa Rodeo. Photo: Cape York Weekly.
