Cape York Weekly Edition 114

By MATT NICHOLLS

LONG-TIME Weipa firefighter

Tony Lankester says he’s excited about the prospect of a new station for the local fire brigade after years of lobbying for better facilities in the region.

In an early Christmas present, it was announced last week that more than half a million dollars would be spent on building the new headquarters for the Western Cape Rural Fire Brigade.

“It’s very exciting,” said Mr Lankester, the first officer of the WCRFB.

“It’s been a long battle to get that funding.”

Weipa boasts the best equipped firefighting capability in the Cape, Mr Lankester said, but the brigade had some of the worst facilities.

“The shed we operate out of now is just not suitable, even though we make it work,” he said.

“It’s a bit different in Weipa to other parts of the region because we have Rio Tinto Emergency Services, which are there to cater for both the town and the mine.

“Having full-time firefighters in a place like Weipa is a big advantage and we’re lucky that a lot of the Rio guys also volunteer for the Western Cape Rural Fire Brigade.”

Mr Lankester is one of the many who “double up” and he said the role of the WCRFB was crucial.

“In the dry season you’ll see us out all the time attending to grass fires and also helping out at some of the cattle stations,” he said.

“We often work closely with the Rio Tinto team to provide support on back-burning.”

that time of year again when

can purchase your favourite Christmas pudding! Available from the Post Office, Chemist and Newsagency for only $15.00.

New fire station to be built next to SES

From – Page 1

Tony Johnstone, the director of regional coordination for Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, said $530,000 had been allocated for the new Weipa fire station, but believed that amount would grow once the facility is fitted out.

“Is is about giving the brigade a place to call their own,” he said on Friday.

“The Western Cape Rural Fire Brigade doesn’t just cover Weipa and often travels to fight fires. They have about 29 active members and work closely with the community.

“We’ve seen when we’ve given other communities a new station they’ve attracted additional members.”

The Weipa fire station will be built next to the new SES facil-

ity and Mr Johnstone said it was likely the two volunteer groups would share some resources.

QFES deputy commissioner Mike Wassing said RFS volunteers across the state each played a vital role in supporting their communities through emergencies and disasters.

“It’s so important we continue to support RFS brigades by funding new and upgraded fa-

cilities, which provide important foundations for our volunteers to continue providing a high level of service to their communities,” he said.

“These volunteers work in some of the most challenging conditions, not only during bushfire season but also yearround, providing emergency response to incidents and disasters.”

Pig hunters urged to get vaccinated against virus

HEALTH authorities are encouraging all Cape York residents involved in pig-hunting to take advantage of the free vaccination program for Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV).

Torres and Cape medical officer Allison Hempenstall said JEV was transmitted to humans through the bite of a mosquito that had bitten an infectious animal, usually pigs or water birds.

She said there was heightened awareness of JEV on Cape York following the detection of the virus in some feral pigs in an area north of the Skardon River in June, and a further detection in

pigs in the Mapoon area in September.

No human cases have occurred.

“But it is clear that JEV has been transmitted at some time this year on Cape York Peninsula,” she said.

“As such, it is possible that further cases of JEV may occur in feral pigs across the region.

“It’s for this reason we are expanding the free JEV vaccination program that already exists in the Torres Strait and NPA to include Cape York.

“As a result of previous outbreaks in the mid-1990s and the

potential risk of JEV coming across from Papua New Guinea in infected mosquitoes, vaccination is part of the Queensland immunisation schedule for the Torres Strait and NPA.

“Vaccination is an effective way of preventing the disease and is recommended for all residents of the Torres Strait and NPA who are 12 months of age or older.

“In addition, we are now recommending that all Cape York residents involved in pig-hunting also take advantage of the free JEV vaccination program.

“They can be accessed

through your local primary healthcare centre.”

Dr Hempenstall said the best overall protection against JEV was to avoid mosquito bites.

“Personal protection includes wearing light-coloured, loosefitting clothing with long sleeves and long trousers, as well as using an effective insect repellent on any exposed skin,” she said.

Dr Hempenstall said 99 per cent of people infected with JEV had no or mild symptoms.

JEV does not spread directly between people and there is no risk of JEV from consuming pork or pork products.

Cape York pig hunters are being encouraged to get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis virus, which is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes.

Patient information safe after breach: Apunipima

By MATT NICHOLLS

APUNIPIMA Cape York Health Council claims that patient data was not accessed when it was hit by a ransomware attack earlier this year.

In a statement dropped on its website and not sent out to the media, the organisation said it was “pleased” that there was no evidence of unauthorised access to Apunipima’s medical/patient records systems or email systems.

“The investigation has revealed some evidence that some information may have been ac-

Calendar giveaway for Xmas

CHASING the perfect Christmas present? Look no further.

Cape York Weekly has teamed up with Jacynta Hunt to give out four 2023 calendars.

All images are taken by this gifted Cooktown photographer and feature shots of the southern Cape area.

“This is the seventh consecutive year I’ve done a calendar,” Jacynta said.

“My husband Wayne said to me I should sell them. It’s still hard after all these years trying to find the best 12 landscapes.

“I lean towards natural beauty, but there are also man-made structures which are so much a part of our community like the wharf and bridges.”

To enter the competition, jump on the Cape York Weekly Facebook page and like the post from last week.

Those interested in buying a calendar from Jacynta directly can find her on her Facebook page by searching for Jacynta Hunt Photography.

cessed in a small number of corporate file servers during the incident,” the statement said.

“Apunipima is now working to analyse what information may have been accessed and expect this review to be complete early in the new year.

“Should this review reveal that any personal information relating to staff or other individuals was affected, we will work to notify these individuals in accordance with our obligations.”

The Aboriginal organisation was subject to a ransomware in October this year.

Cape York Weekly broke the

story after Apunipima attempted to cover-up the incident.

Multiple attempts have been made to interview CEO Debra Malthouse and all have been rejected by the organisation.

It’s understood that a health worker in Aurukun clicked on a phishing email which infected Apunipima’s systems, forcing staff to work with pen and paper.

“Core systems are now being progressively brought back online and we have commenced our transition from manual processes back to standard automated and IT-supported processes,” the Apunipima statement said.

“We sincerely thank our patients, staff, and the communities we serve for their patience and support while we have worked to complete this forensic investigation as thoroughly and swiftly as possible.”

It’s been a torrid 12 months for the community-controlled organisation, which has suffered from a high turnover of staff.

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service also had to pick up the load when Apunipima failed to provide key services.

In a memo, TCHHS told staff to treat Apunipima’s breach as if patient data had been stolen.

Jacynta Hunt has released another stunning calendar this year and it would make the perfect Christmas gift.

Volunteer driving mentors helping youth get licenced

By SARAH MARTIN

EIGHT local teens have got behind the wheel in Cooktown after obtaining their drivers’ licence through the PCYC’s Braking the Cycle program.

The program, which also runs in Napranum on the Western Cape, brings together volunteer driving mentors to support learner drivers through their required logbook hours free of charge.

PCYC Cooktown branch manager Sergeant Dave Goode said 100 logbook hours was a huge hurdle to many learner drivers.

“One hundred hours is a long time, and some young people don’t have access to a car or someone who can help them learn to drive,” he said.

“They usually do an hour a week with a mentor, learning the basics and improving their confidence behind the wheel.”

Braking The Cycle Cooktown coordinator Kate Woodward organises the mandatory 10 hours with a professional driving school, then matches volunteer mentors to complete their remaining logbook hours with learner drivers in the PCYC’s car, donated by the Cooktown Bowls Club.

During the past 18 months, 20

local youth have taken part in the program and eight have obtained their provisional licence.

Cooktown 18-year-old Anton Moessner was able to get his licence earlier this year after completing his logbook hours through the program.

“Having a variety of different mentors evaluating my driving helped me work on small problems I had,” he said.

“The program can really benefit someone who might not have access to a qualified driver, and allows learner drivers to practice and brush up on different skills to be able to drive safely and successfully.”

Ms Woodward said there were seven volunteer mentors currently helping 12 local learner drivers, but more were always welcome.

“If you have your open licence and would like to volunteer for an hour or so a week to help young people in our community, we are always welcoming more driving mentors,” she said.

Young people who would like assistance getting their licence or adults who would like to be a driving mentor can contact Ms Woodward by email at kate.woodward@pcyc.org.au or phone on 4069 5890.

Don’t panic – we can help!

bad fit for remote life

JAMES Cook University researchers say NAPLAN is a bad fit for many remote schools and forces a focus on a curriculum conceived in a context very different from life in a remote community.

JCU’s Karen Cornelius has spent more than 30 years as a teacher and principal – often in remote areas. She says the link between postcode and probable school success is well recognised.

“For Australia, this means that the further a school is from a city’s CBD, the wider the educational gaps. The persistence of rural and remote students’ generally lower educational outcomes in comparison to those of metropolitan students is well-researched,” she said.

“NAPLAN is used to compare students’ performance between schools. But in comparing remote students’ performance against national outcomes, scant attention is paid to the context from which the data is obtained.

She said NAPLAN testing was not a straightforward measure of student success in remote contexts.

“We suggest ways forward including attention to context and student wellbeing, broader and individualised measures of success and more recognition that young learners are not the sum of their data.”

Selling your property is a big decision. It can be challenging, stressful, and hard to navigate your way through. The great news is that we can help you sell your property with confidence because we are your local real estate agency and we know a thing or two about selling property in the Cook Shire. Before the ‘For Sale’ sign goes up, we’ll guide you on the keys to success, from preparing your home for sale to choosing strategies that get the HIGHEST PRICE. Let us remove the burden for you, and give you some peace of mind. To get you started, here’s a checklist of how we can help you through the sale process.

Cooktown teen Anton Moessner obtained his provisional licence earlier this month, with support from the Braking the Cycle program.

TCICA chews the ear of Canberra

By MATT NICHOLLS

A DELEGATION of leaders from Cape York and the Torres Strait has picked the brains of Canberra as it looks to improve liveability in the region and raise awareness of issues facing locals.

The Torres and Cape Indigenous Councils Alliance had representatives from a large portion of councils in the region, including Cook Shire and the Weipa Town Authority.

TCICA executive officer Melinda Eades said it was a great chance to catch up with ministers and key

department staff following the formation of the Albanese government.

“There were a lot of new faces and it was great for TCICA to be able to get our messages across,” she said.

WTA member Jaime Gane said it was her first delegation to the capital as an elected official.

“It was an eye-opening experience and there were a lot of positives,” she said.

“Because you have such a busy schedule with a lot of back-to-back meetings, you really need to be well rehearsed.

“I think (the ministers) understand the challenges of Cape York but our issues are complex and layered.

“There is a lot of support when it comes to funding but one of the challenges we have is a lack of management.

“It’s great there is money on the table for marketing and promotion but we also need management.”

Ms Gane said she received a lot of positive feedback about the upcoming Western Cape Futures Symposium, which will be held in Weipa from March 23 to 25 next year.

Partnering for stronger, healthier communities

Members of the TCICA delegation in front of the old parliament house.

The TCICA delegation had back-to-back meetings during their trip to Canberra earlier this month.

Mapoon deputy mayor Cameron Hudson poses with a piece of history.

Free

courses for Qlders

THE state and federal governments say they will take immediate action to deliver more fee-free TAFE and vocational education places for Queenslanders in 2023.

This 12-month agreement will inject more than $200 million into the Queensland skills and training sector to support access to over 37,000 fee-free TAFE and vocational places in 2023.

Fee-free TAFE in Queensland comes at a crucial time as the state works on strengthening and growing the regional workforce, offering free access to a range of qualifications to support local industry needs, including the Certificate III in Hospitality, Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management and the Certificate IV in Community Services.

“This $200 million partnership, supporting 37,000 fee-free TAFE and VET places next year, is critical to supporting our future workforce,” the Premier said.

“Providing the skills and training for Queenslanders not only enriches the lives and employment prospects of students, but also fuels the state’s economy.

“Fee-free TAFE is making sure employers have access to the skilled workforce they need and that Queenslanders have the skills needed to take up opportunities.”

WEIPA Community Care has launched its Christmas campaigns for 2022, hoping locals can dig deep and bring some Christmas cheer to those less fortunate.

The Bring a Smile to a Child and the Hampers for Carers programs will support nine families and more than 30 children in five different Cape York communities.

“We’re asking Weipa residents to see if they can make a donation, especially a Christmas present for those who might miss out at a special time of year,” CEO Josephine Tait said.

“We’re also accepting food donations for the families who may be experiencing financial hardship in high-pressure times like the Christmas school holidays.”

“Any donation, big or small, makes a difference in these campaigns.”

The donations have already started to flow at the Weipa Community Care building in Rocky Point and more gifts are welcome prior to the Christmas break.

“We know Weipa is a giving community and this is a great cause,” Ms Tait said.

Weipa Community Care’s Lilly Nash has been coordinating the Christmas campaigns and organising the donations made to the centre.

Safety comes first this Christmas

By MATT NICHOLLS

GETTING your boats in shipshape condition over the holiday period is a great way to kill time in the wet season, says Des McCosh.

“When it’s flat we want you to be out on the water but when the conditions aren’t suitable, it’s time to think ahead for next time,” he said from Nautical Supplies in Cairns on Monday.

“We find the wet season can be a mixture. A lot of flat water, but

also a lot of storms. It’s a great time of year to look at your vessel and think about what needs to be updated or upgraded.”

The branch manager of the Far North store said Nautical Supplies had set up shop in Cairns earlier in the year and was looking to the Cape to expand its client base.

“We know people in the Cape love their boats and we know there are some big vessels up there,” Mr McCosh said.

“A lot of the stuff we do is for

the commercial sector, but we also provide equipment and services for recreational boaties.”

With decades of experience in the marine industry, Mr McCosh said he knew the challenges of living in a remote area.

“You don’t need to come and see us, just give us a call or send us an email,” he said.

“We are just around the corner from Sea Swift and Tuxworths so we can get equipment to you without too much hassle.”

Nautical Supplies has long been a supporter of remote communities in northern Australia ever since the family-run Darwin chandlery was established in 1978.

Still smelling of fresh paint after opening in March, Nautical Supplies in Cairns offers a new custom showroom and safety service centre at its Portsmith location, catering to a wide territory from the Gold Coast to Darwin and beyond.

Some of the services include, providing marine chandlery, elec-

tronics, safety equipment and a selection of maintenance and deck hardware.

“Nautical Supplies has always had a strong focus on marine safety, and can advise on the best life jacket, life raft or EPIRB for weekend boaters, through to complex SOLAS requirements for commercial and defence vessels,” Mr McCosh said.

For more information, call 4050 0090, connect on Facebook, or visit www.nauticalsupplies.com.au

Cairns-based Nautical Supplies sales manager Michael Hicks and branch manager Des McCosh. The showroom at Portsmith gives customers an idea of the range of goods on offer.

Keen hunters brave the humidity

STEAMY conditions made life tough for participants in the Hope Vale Pig Hunt on the weekend, as more than 100 people took part in the 19th annual event.

Hunters weighed in 38 pigs, with an average weight of 49kg.

The Roderick Michael-led team Lookout Point Boys captured the biggest boar at 94.25kg.

The Honey Suckle Hoggers, captained by Bryce Woibo, got the second biggest boar, weighing in at 84kg, and Jebreen Woibo’s North Street Runners were just behind in third place with an 83.5kg boar.

The women’s category for heaviest pig was taken out by Lola Rosendale with her 78.7kg beast, followed by Merindi Pearson with a 78.35kg hog, while Lauren Deemal was third with 73.85kg.

Les Snyder had the heaviest sow at 43kg, and longest tusks were highly contested, with a three-way tie between Team Critter, Raymond McIvor and Dwayne Mattisey, who all had 150mm measurements.

Broyden Rosendale was the mystery weight winner, with his 48.25kg hog.

Biggest tusks was a three-way tie between Dwayne Mattisey, Raymond McIvor and Team Critter. The Lookout Point Boys were the winners of the Hope Vale Pig Hunt with the biggest boar.

The Hope Vale Pig Hunt volunteers and organising committee stopped their busy day for a quick photo.

Les Snyder bagged the biggest

Merindi Pearson weighed in the second heaviest pig in the women’s section. First place for women’s heaviest pig went to Lola Rosendale and Maggie Bowen.

Art services network out to grow capacity in Cape

By SARAH MARTIN

DRIVING social change through art and culture is the goal of Regional Arts Services Network Tropical North, whose Cape-based team are offering support to help local artists reach their goals.

RASNTN regional officer Waratah Nicholls, based with Cook Shire in Cooktown, spent a fortnight travelling across the Cape last month.

Along with regional manager Tony Castles, they visited art centres, local councils, service providers and individual artists.

“We travelled to Weipa, Mapoon, Napranum, Lockhart River, Portland Roads and Aurukun to engage with those communities and artists and get an understanding of what their arts and cultural priorities are and what gaps and needs exist,” Ms Nicholls said.

“We want to know what their dreams are, and how we can assist them to reach those goals.

“We can help in many ways including brokering partnerships, mentoring people through project development, grant writing and developing business skills.”

RASNTN has a regional arts officer based on Thursday Island and, between the two officers, they cover the entire region.

Ms Nicholls said RASNTN’s priority was to drive community change through arts-led initiatives and promote sustainable growth for regional arts and artists.

“One of the things the RASNTN team are focusing on is performing artists,” she said.

“There has been a big focus on investment into visual arts, and lots of communities have really strong arts centres and are producing incredible work.

“But we also have some incredible performing artists here that aren’t getting the same amount of support.”

Ms Nicholls said an exciting development for Cape performers was the completion of a new cultural centre at Mapoon, complete with a small recording studio, scheduled to be officially opened next year.

Lockhart River had also be-

gun development of a new cultural precinct with an outdoor amphitheatre and campground.

“We are also scoping out ideas for a Cape York sculpture trail involving designing and creating sculptures in communities,” she said.

“It really is an exciting time for arts and artists across the Cape.

“We are looking forward to continuing to work with artists, stakeholders and communities to support them to reach their goals.”

Fatal at Lower Daintree

A MAN and woman have died following a traffic crash at Lower Daintree on Saturday.

Initial investigations indicate at about 10.30am on Cape Tribulation Road, a crash has occurred involving a motorcycle carrying two people and a tractor.

The rider, a man in his 60s, suffered critical injuries and died at the scene.

The passenger on the motorcycle, a woman in her 30s, was transported to Cairns Hospital where she later died.

The driver of the tractor, a 67-year-old Lower Daintree man, was not physically injured.

Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with dashcam vision of a silver motorcycle with two people on it travelling north along Mossman Daintree Road on Saturday morning to come forward.

Christmas brings hope

The

and son

The Cooktown community fundraised to provide the pair a monthly allowance until the end of the year.

From Zaphorizhzhia, Ms Malysha said there was still no change in the war, but for the first time, Ukrainians were hopeful.

“The battle for Zaporizhzhia is ongoing, with shelling during the day and rockets at night,” she said.

“Every night Zaporizhzhia is attacked and damaged. Russian troops are still here, but we are not going anywhere.”

Cooktown’s Eric George said Ms Malysha told him Ukrainians were feeling hopeful.

“They said Russians are packing up and leaving, and there is a feeling of hope. They spend most of their time in the cellar, but Tatiana is tough and I believe her when she says she will get through this,” he said.

COOKTOWN’S remotely adopted refugees, Tatiana and Victor Malysha, are now back home in war-torn Zaporizhzhia preparing for their first Christmas under fire.

mother

spent months as refugees in neighbouring Poland after Russia invaded Ukraine.

Aurukun Akay Koo’oila Women’s Centre manager Elizabeth Hunter with Waratah Nicholls.

Lockhart River arts centre assistant manager Patrick Butcher with RASN regional manager Tony Castles and regional arts officer Waratah Nicholls.

Some of the art created at the women’s centre in Aurukun.

Tatiana and Viktor Malysha are now at home in the Ukraine.

Youth Fun Day @ Gungarde

Season’s Greetings

The last edition of the Cape York Weekly for 2022 will be December 20 and we’ll be back again in the New Year, with the first paper due to hit shelves on January 10 (advertising copy will need to be received by January 6).

The Cape York Weekly team would like to wish all of our readers a Merry Christmas and an enjoyable New Year. We would like to thank the Cape York, Weipa and Cooktown communities for supporting our publication and we cannot wait to bring you more news in 2023.

To the loyal advertisers who have been by our side, we, thank you for your continued backing and we look forward to continuing our partnership in the new year. Enjoy the festive season and stay safe, – Matt Nicholls and the Cape York Weekly team

Cape York Weekly

Jacynta Hunt and Zoe Winton. The egg and spoon race was a hit.

Natalie Little and Lavinia Tree caught up at the fun day.

Little Malcolm Docker was having fun blowing bubbles in the sun.

Isla Winton and Kayla Louw enjoying the holidays.

Sisters Jenna and Kaya Reuben were busy keeping everyone well fed.

Margaret Goody, Presaiah Hart and Zyandah Deeral were keeping cool in the shade.

Elizabeth painting younger sister Macy’s face. Ashanae Ross and Sophia and Mason Ross-Sabatino with crazy hair vibes.

Ejypt Reuben left her mark on the waterfront path with some colourful chalk art.

Princess Saga, Christelle Harstad-Wall and Shaun Saga enjoying the waterpark.

Latatiesha Bramwell got creative at the tiedye stall.

Tahli Hayles gave Jade Clarke a ride.

Lions Seniors Lunch @

Barbara Darcey, Susan Forsyth and Di Coles got into the festive spirit.

Lunching ladies Sue Bird, Rose Harrigan and Vibeke Coventry.

Darren Savage and Dale Rutherford enjoyed their outing.

Former Polish couple and now Cooktown locals, Edith and Christian Wlodarczak.

Narelle Morton and John Middleton enjoyed a roast. Leonie Collett and Barbara Hay shared a laugh.

Local pastor Ricky Ashcroft and wife Terri.

The Endeavour Lions Club team stopped for a bite to eat in between serving their 140 guests at the bowls club.

Pat Edmonds and Sue Brennan were among the locals enjoying lunch.

Rose and Phil Witheridge enjoyed their roast lunch.

Local couple Rob and Gay McDonald enjoyed lunch with friends.

Old mates John Giese and Peter Whipper enjoyed catching up over lunch.

Around 140 locals filled the Cooktown Bowls Club for the free Lions Seniors Christmas Lunch.

Police passing on life skills

TYING a fishing knot, changing a tyre or cooking a meal might not sound like they have much in common, but for Cooktown’s PCYC team, they are all important life skills being passed on to youths.

It all started with a cooking program, PCYC Cooktown Manager Sergeant Dave Goode said.

“I do a program called Eat, Cook, Live which is a basic introduction to cooking skills,” he said.

“We cook different recipes and sit down at the end and eat as a group.

“It’s a good tool for the kids to learn about nutrition, food hygiene, knife and cooking skills and also breaks down barriers between police and youth.”

Sergeant Goode said the life skills program snowballed from there, after putting a post on a local Facebook page asking for ideas.

Find out more:

“We had about 40 suggestions from the post on the Cooktown Corkboard, so we can refer back to that list,” he said.

Sergeant Goode said the PCYC had already run free workshops for youth covering car maintenance, fishing skills and basic budgeting.

“We call them life skills because hopefully the things they learn they will remember it for the rest of their lives. A lot of kids don’t

know where they want to go as far as work goes and this might also help them get into a specific industry, such as mechanic or chef apprenticeship,” he said.

The workshops are delivered by the PCYC, often with assistance from local experts.

Sergeant Goode said upcoming workshops would be advertised around town and would be free to all local youths.

Wetlands put in the spotlight

TRADITIONAL Owners are keeping a close eye on wetlands at Mary Valley Station as part of a joint project by Kyerrwanhdha Thingalkal Land Trust and Cape York NRM.

Three wetlands bordering the Morehead River, which flows into the North Kennedy River and on to Princess Charlotte Bay and the Great Barrier Reef, will be monitored to provide an ongoing record of water quality following fencing and weed control works earlier this year.

Cape York NRM project officer Ben Ansell and Traditional Owner Ashley Lyall undertook the most recent round of monitoring, checking for feral cattle and pig damage and vegetation cover.

“This is a key element to doing wetland health assessments and water quality monitoring,” Mr Ansell said.

“These wetlands provide habitat for many fish species, aquatic birds, amphibians, reptiles and aquatic plants.

“They are also important on Cape York for grazing cattle, sustaining the industry through the dry season with reliable pockets of edible pasture. So it’s really important to find the right balance in protecting them.”

COVID-19 cases are rising again. Vaccination is still your best protection against the virus.

You can get a vaccination from all health facilities. Call your local clinic to book. Remember to keep washing your hands and stay home when you are sick.

Consider wearing a mask if you are sick and need to leave home.

This will also help protect you and your community against other illnesses.

For more information visit health.qld.gov.au/torres-cape

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates

Staff from The Lure Shop shared their fishing skills with local youth at a recent life skills workshop at the Cooktown PCYC.

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) is seeking Expressions of Interest from any interested businesses, organisations or individuals who be interested in leasing the following blocks of land and buildings:

Lot 187 on SP273364

Tumema Street, Seisia

Lot Details: Lot 187 on SP273364

Address: Tumema Street, Seisia QLD 4876

Lot 316 on SP273361

Cnr Army Back Road & Lui Street, Bamaga

Lot Details: Lot 316 on SP273361

Address: 316 Corner Army Back Rd & Lui Street, Bamaga QLD 4876

Lot 99 on SP273361 Jacob Street, Bamaga

Lot Details: Lot 99 on SP273361

Address: 99 Jacob Street, Bamaga QLD 4876

Lot 187 on SP273364

For more information on the Expression of Interest including to obtain a copy of the relevant forms or arrange an inspection, interested parties should contact Peri Sunai on 0439 198 633 or peri.sunai@nparc.qld.gov.au

Expressions of Interest close December 31, 2022

The Western Cape Communities Co-Existence Agreement (WCCCA) is an Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) over the Rio Tinto mining lease areas of the Western Cape York region of Northern Queensland. The Agreement is between the eleven Traditional Owner Groups, four Shire Councils (Aurukun, Napranum, Mapoon and New Mapoon), Rio Tinto, the Queensland State Government and the Cape York Land Council on behalf of the Native Title Parties.

The Western Cape Communities Coordinating Committee (WCCCC) and its three SubCommittees transparently monitor, implement and review the objectives of the WCCCA to ensure that all parties’ obligations under the agreement are met. The WCCT office is the administration arm for all the Trusts and the WCCCC. It manages the overall business of the company including servicing, assisting and supporting the above entities.

WCCT is committed to providing high quality services to our Traditional Owners, and we recognize the importance of employing the most suitable candidates. Currently we are seeking applications for the position of:

GARDENER

Reporting to the Office Manager, the Gardener is responsible for monitoring the health of all plants and greenscapes, watering and feeding plants, trimming trees and shrubs, fertilizing and mowing lawns, mulching and weeding gardens, keeping green spaces and walkways clear of debris and litter and providing support to the Office Manager as directed. Applicants should have knowledge and experience in using and maintaining landscaping equipment, including mowers, trimmers and fertilizers while following health and safety regulations.

We anticipate that applicants will have;

• Experience in a similar role and or familiarity with landscaping design;

• Knowledge of regional plant life;

• Knowledge of local pests and how to eliminate them;

• Knowledge of synthetic and natural fertilizers;

• Knowledge of health and safety regulations for landscaping;

• The ability to lift heavy objects and remain on your feet for long periods of time;

Traditional Owners and Aboriginal people are strongly encouraged to apply.

For further information including a position description please contact: Office Manager

Phone: (07) 4069 7945

Email: offmgr@westerncape.com.au

All applications should be clearly marked “Private and Confidential” and addressed as follows: Executive Officer PO Box 106 Weipa, QLD, 4874

Phone: (07) 4069 7945

Email: eo@westerncape.com.au

CLOSING DATE – FRIDAY, 23RD DECEMBER 2022

Christmas hams for Sandy Nelson and Steve Jensen

CARPENTARIA Golf Club superintendent

Steve Jensen and club icon Sandy Nelson took home Christmas hams after winning the nine-hole stableford event on Saturday.

It took a countback to determine the ham recipients, with Jim Hunter and Alan “Fish” Philliskirk the runners-up, also on 21 points.

Warren Brewer picked up the nearest to pin on the 9th, while the Golden Circle on the 7th is now at $90 after no one managed to hit it close enough.

The last official golf competition for the year will be played this Sunday, a nine-hole pairs stableford multiplier.

Invitation to Tender

Tender Number T003/22

Aurukun

Cleaning Services Contract

Aurukun Shire Council invites Tenders from suitably qualified operators for the provision of Cleaning Services to various facilities located in Aurukun as per schedule. Qualified and Interested Suppliers are encouraged to apply and submit with the required supporting documentation.

For more information and tender documentation, please visit Vendor Panel. Tenders must be submitted via www.vendorpanel.com.au by 5.00pm on Friday 30th December 2022.

Alan Neilan A/Chief Executive Officer

The Western Cape Communities Co-Existence Agreement (WCCCA) is an Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) over the Rio Tinto mining lease areas of the Western Cape York region of Northern Queensland. The Agreement is between the eleven Traditional Owner Groups, four Shire Councils (Aurukun, Napranum, Mapoon and New Mapoon), Rio Tinto, the Queensland State Government and the Cape York Land Council on behalf of the Native Title Parties.

The Western Cape Communities Coordinating Committee (WCCCC) and its three SubCommittees transparently monitor, implement and review the objectives of the WCCCA to ensure that all parties’ obligations under the agreement are met. The WCCT office is the administration arm for all the Trusts and the WCCCC. It manages the overall business of the company including servicing, assisting and supporting the above entities.

WCCT is committed to providing high quality services to our Traditional Owners, and we recognize the importance of employing the most suitable candidates. Currently we are seeking applications for the position of:

ADMINSTRATION OFFICER

Reporting to the Office Manager, the Administration Officer is responsible for assisting in the efficient and effective functioning of the WCCT Office in order to meet organisational objectives. This includes demonstrating appropriate and professional workplace behaviours, performing their responsibilities in a manner which reflects and responds to continuous improvement, and providing administrative support to the Office Manager as directed, and to other areas as required within the office of the WCCT. The Administration Officer is also responsible for assisting in the coordination of all WCCT, WCCCA Sub-Regional Trusts and Sub-Committees meetings scheduled throughout the year.

We anticipate that applicants will have;

- Minimum Year 12 education;

- Minimum 1 year experience in a similar administrative role;

- Sound IT and MYOB experience;

- C Class Driver’s license; and

- An understanding of engaging with Aboriginal people.

Tertiary qualifications in Business/Administration or higher will be considered favorably.

Traditional Owners and Aboriginal people are strongly encouraged to apply.

For further information including a position description please contact: Office Manager

Phone: (07) 4069 7945

Email: offmgr@westerncape.com.au

All applications should be clearly marked “Private and Confidential” and addressed as follows: Executive Officer PO Box 106 Weipa, QLD, 4874

Phone: (07) 4069 7945

Email: eo@westerncape.com.au

CLOSING DATE – FRIDAY, 6TH JANUARY 2023

Garry Breitkreutz with Saturday’s ham winners Steve Jensen and Sandy Nelson.

National championships

NINE Cooktown underwater hockey players will head to the National Championships in Western Australia next year, following the announcement of the Queensland state teams.

Ned Sail, Jett Ryder and Cruze Ryder have been selected for the Queensland under-15 team, while Rocco and Sienna Thomason, Sam Ryder and Amber Frame will be part of the Queensland under-19 squad.

Sienna and Amber will also double up to join Natalie James in the Queensland Elite Women’s Team.

Coach Scott Thomason has also been selected for the Queensland Masters team, and will be kept busy at the nationals competing and coaching the Queensland under-15 side.

Special event at Walker Bay

THE Cooktown Golf Club is holding a special event to remember keen golfer Patrick “Down the Guts” Gibbons this Saturday, with locals encouraged to form a team and head out for a day of fun.

The Happy Pat Cup is a fun nine-hole ambrose event, to be held this Saturday from 9am.

Handicaps will be allocated to teams based on experience, with great prizes, cold drinks, snacks and a sausage sizzle afterwards.

Crossley salutes

DAWN Busters legend Grant Crossley was too good for his rivals on Sunday morning, claiming honours in the nine-hole event.

He beat a field of 13, with Ross Craven the runner-up.

John Dall picked up the Hoffman’s, while Crossley had the nearest to pin.

The men’s longest drive went to Lucas Duvenhague, while Katrina Rawlinson was the longest hitting woman.

Overtime win for Snakes

THE Cairns Taipans did it the hard way on Saturday evening, beating the bottomplaced Illawarra Hawks in double overtime.

The Snakes couldn’t put the Hawks away, but did enough in the second period of overtime to win 102-101 and maintain fourth spot on the NBL ladder.

Swim star continues to raise the bar in the pool

COOKTOWN swim star Maiika Hegamaea has done it again, smashing the Far North Queensland 25m freestyle record in Malanda earlier this month.

The seven-year-old swimmer from Cooktown Amateur Swimming Club broke a 13-year record for the 100m breaststroke in November and proved she wasn’t just a one-splash wonder, breaking the 15-year record at Malanda Short Course meet with a time of 17.64 seconds.

In addition to her record, Maiika, placed first in the 25m butterfly, backstroke and breaststroke.

Twenty-nine swimmers from Cooktown attended the meet, which featured nearly 150 competitors from 14 Far North Queensland clubs.

Other standout performers from Cooktown included Maia Pensio, Haila Hegamaea, Rudi Habermann, Mali Cooper and Jett Ryder.

The Cooktown Amateur Swimming Club contingent at Malanda. Pictures: JACYNTA HUNT

Sam Ryder came second in the 100m breaststroke.

Ella Habermann ready to race.

On a day she set a new record at Malanda, Maiika Hegamaea received her certificate for the 100m record she broke in Dimbulah. Maia Pensio powering to a first place finish in the 50m butterfly.

Cape York Weekly recognises that our Indigenous forefathers have lived on this land for some 30,000 years. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners, both past, present and future, of the numerous clan groups on Cape York Peninsula. The newspaper is based in Weipa, on the land of the Alngith people, and we acknowledge them as the custodians of this land.