Cape York Weekly Edition 119

“There’s got to be a solution because these outages can be a matter of life and death.”

Rachel Cliffe, Telstra’s regional general manager for the state, said she acknowledged the challenges of only having one transmission pathway.

“It’s something we’re working on ... a ring of resilience,” she said on Friday afternoon.

“We’re currently extending the fibreoptic from Burketown to Normanton. That might seem irrelevant but there is potential to build from that and create different pathways to Cape York.”

Ms Cliffe said Telstra did all it could to fix last week’s issue in the shortest time possible.

“We got an alarm early on Tuesday morning that we had a transmission issue,” she said.

“We couldn’t secure a helicopter on Tuesday but sent a technician to the site first thing on Wednesday.

“Despite the efforts of the technician, it kept failing so we had to get a new part in.”

The part was flown to Weipa on Thursday and sent north to Thursday Island.

The technician was at Sailors Creek Crossing on Friday morning and services were restored on Friday around 3pm.

Ms Cliffe said there were many options businesses could take to build resilience against network outages.

“The NBN was available the

whole time and those with an ADSL connection were able to access the internet,” she said.

However, those on Thursday Island were without both mobile and fixed line connections, she admitted.

Community Enterprises

Queensland CEO Michael Dykes said the IBIS stores in the NPA and Torres Strait were able to operate last week.

“We’re fortunate that in the last few years we’ve been investing in satellite back-up,” he told Cape York Weekly

“In Lockhart River, for example, we’ve moved to Starlink because it connects to low-orbit

satellites. It’s made a huge difference there.”

However, some businesses and organisations did not fare as well.

A patient of Bamaga Hospital had their appointment cancelled because the ultrasound tech didn’t travel.

The hospital was unable to alert patients of cancellations.

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service put a post on its Facebook page to inform people that its hospitals and clinics were running as per usual, but those with an emergency should call Triple Zero.

However, Cape York Weekly

understands that emergency calls did not connect throughout the outage.

An NPA resident experienced a break-in and was unable to call Triple Zero to contact police.

Some people also had their wages delayed due to businesses relying on ADSL.

“We understand that things go wrong with technology but this happens every wet season,” Mr Entsch.

“It’s not about pointing the finger at Telstra but clearly we live in a remote area that experiences harsh weather conditions.

“Can we do better? If so, what can we do to help?”

Coordinated police sting keeps ice off the streets

POLICE have seized tens of thousands of dollars worth of drugs bound for Cooktown at a roadside sting in Lakeland.

On Sunday, a 50-year-old Brisbane man and a 40-year-old former Cooktown woman were charged after police allegedly found 19 grams of crystal methamphetamine, or ice, in their vehicle.

Senior Sergeant John McArthur said the couple was being monitored as they left Cairns in the joint operation between Cairns Tactical Crime Squad, Cooktown Criminal

Investigation Branch and Laura and Cooktown uniformed staff.

“They were heading into Cooktown, which appears to be their intended distribution point,” he said on Monday.

“Thanks to the excellent work by the officers involved, a large amount of this harmful drug has been kept out of the Cooktown community.

“This is a serious possession charge, it is more than for personal use.”

The man was charged with five counts

of breaching bail, one count of possessing a dangerous drug and a drug utensil.

The woman was charged with possessing a dangerous drug and a drug utensil and stealing from her employer.

The man will remain behind bars, while the woman has been released on bail with the condition that she not return to Cooktown until her court date.

The pair are due to appear in the Cooktown Magistrates Court on February 8. – story by Sarah Martin

Seisia resident Talei Elu raised the outage with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Canberra last Wednesday.

Developer says he’ll pull pin on project over fees

By SARAH MARTIN

A DEVELOPER at loggerheads with Cook Shire over infrastructure charges he claims should be waived says he will take his money elsewhere if the council doesn’t meet his demands.

Cook Shire Council approved Hongyu Feng’s 12-unit development in December but declined his request to waive $46,000 in infrastructure charges.

“I don’t expect Cook Shire to pay for the construction costs, but just to show support to help solve the housing crisis,” Mr Feng told Cape York Weekly

“At the end of the day, I’ve got to look at whether I spend my money where I get no support.”

Mr Feng is also developing

in Brisbane and said until the infrastructure fees were waived in Cooktown, his money would continue to be focused on the south-east.

“As we speak I continue to put more money into Brisbane,” he said.

“When we finally get (the infrastructure fees waived) from council, all this will be on hold then if I have run out of funds.”

Cook Shire mayor Peter Scott said council was very supportive of developers, with the infrastructure charges Mr Feng wanted waived already among the lowest in the region.

“Offering some of the lowest infrastructure charges in the region is an incentive to encourage development,” Cr Scott said.

“In the last 12 months we

have approved development of 32 new dwelling units for Cooktown alone; this doesn’t include the additional 40 currently being proposed by the state government.”

A report to the council’s November meeting showed the $15,600 infrastructure fees charged by Cook Shire for four two bedroom units was less than half what was charged in Mr Feng’s home town of Mareeba and neighbouring Cairns, while Tablelands Regional Council’s fees for the same development would be $49,500.

Cr Scott said infrastructure fees for multiple dwelling developments were used for maintenance and upgrade of infrastructure only.

“Multi-dwelling develop-

ments mean more people living within an area,” the mayor said last week.

“The extra demand on services means that existing infrastructure needs more maintenance, upgrades or replacement sooner and our infrastructure charges are dedicated to ensuring that any existing trunk infrastructure can accommodate the extra demand and contribute towards the ongoing cost of maintenance.”

Cr Scott said the council was reviewing when and how infrastructure charges were applied.

“The review will determine the potential impact of any waiver or reduction of infrastructure charges, as the fees are about ensuring continuity of services to our growing community, now and into the future,” he said.

Funds to tackle illegal dumping in Cape

FOUR Cape York councils will receive up to $200,000 each to tackle illegal dumping in their communities.

It’s part of a $2.3 million state initative that will see 21 local governments get funding.

The Napranum, Aurukun,

Mapoon and NPA councils will receive the funding, which is expected to support one full-time role in each community.

“Illegal dumping isn’t just an eyesore, it’s harmful to our environment and costs local councils a fair chunk of money to clean

up,” said Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon.

“That’s why we’re providing support to councils so they can purchase equipment and employ people to help stamp out this kind of activity.

“But importantly, we want

to encourage Queenslanders to recycle, which is why we’re investing $1.1 billion to drive sustainability across the state.

“That funding will help councils ramp up their recycling capabilities and support behaviour change across Queensland.”

The Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council was one of four Cape York councils to receive funding to tackle illegal dumping in the region.

Growing school preparing for $20m in capital works

By MATT NICHOLLS

STUDENTS and staff at Weipa’s Western Cape College are excited about the prospect of new facilities at the school, with construction to begin soon on new classrooms and sporting facilities.

“We’re pretty much at capacity right now and we need to build to cater for our growth,” said Dan Tonon, the secondary principal at the P-12 school.

“Enrolment continues to grow and we’re seeing a lot more students stay in high school rather than go to boarding school, which is a big tick for Western Cape College and what we can offer the students.

“However, that means we need to build more facilities to cater for that growth and retention.”

Mr Tonon said the school community would have already noticed the removal of trees from the school oval, with the space to cater for more car parking and a new undercover basketball court.

“The kids are excited because we don’t have a court where you can put up a shot and it not hit the roof,” he said.

“Where the current undercover area is will become a new, twostorey facility with six classrooms,

including a purpose-built STEM facility.”

Western Cape College expects work to start soon on the new infrastructure as contractors prepare to race the clock to have the work completed before the 2024 school year.

“We’re optimistic but we also know that you can get delays in the Cape and it will be weather dependent,” Mr Tonon said.

Wellness day to promote mental health in region

COOKTOWN’S inaugural Heart-Mind Wellness Big Day Out will bring together community groups, residents and service providers for a day of activities, presentations, stalls and fun to promote wellbeing and mental health.

Coordinated by South Cape York Catchments Group, the free expo-style event, from 2pm to 8pm on February 22, will fill the Cooktown PCYC with information booths, workshop stations, food and live music.

SCYC work skills program coordinator Sigal Ramon said the Big Day Out aimed to connect people and communities across the region with the many mental health, wellbeing and community services.

“It will be a fun, positive, entertaining day,” she said.

“We aim to develop connections among people, communities and services throughout the region, equip people with

Stolen ute discovered by police

BATTERED and allegedly waiting to be hocked for parts, a muchneeded ute belonging to Cooktown’s volunteer Lions Club has been found five hours away, and nearly two months after it was stolen from a local front yard.

Endeavour Lions Club president Jim Fay said the vehicle was found in Innisfail, allegedly at a dealer known to buy cars to sell for parts.

“They were doing burnouts everywhere with it, a well known local fella took it,” Mr Fay said.

“He damaged the front mudguards and must have blown a back tyre because there’s a different tyre on there. It’s with the insurance assessors at the moment, and we’re waiting to see whether they write it off or it can be fixed.”

Senior Sergeant John McArthur said an 18-year-old man had been charged in relation to the theft.

“He was arrested on December 20 and was given 12 months’ probation after being held in custody until January 20,” he said.

The ute was only three years old and had been the club’s only transport, used predominantly to pick up the many cages around town used to collect cans redeemed for cash and poured back into the club.

Since the theft, the Lions purchased a second-hand vehicle to cover the loss.

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simple self-care mental health tools and create a strong network of collaboration among service providers and other regional organisations.”

The event includes all-day activity stations where participants can enjoy yoga, art, music, origami, herb potting and other activities, as well as information booths from a host of organisations including the RFDS, Cooktown District Community Centre, Sydney-based 13 YARN, Beacon Strategies, the NRL and Talk About It Tuesday.

Participants will also be treated to presentations, live music, free afternoon tea and dinner.

Social, sporting and other community groups and service providers were encouraged to hold a stall and participate in the event, Ms Ramon said.

Send an email to sigal@scyc.com.au for more information.

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Six new classrooms are on the way.

Western Cape College students will enjoy a new undercover basketball court.

Sigal Ramon is coordinating the Heart-Mind Wellness Big Day Out.

The newly refurbished Paperbark Restaurant can be the perfect venue for

Lifetime of service is recognised

By SARAH MARTIN

JOHN McArthur’s love for community policing and four decades of dedication have been recognised with an Australian Police Medal.

The prestigious medal, awarded to officers for outstanding leadership, innovation and initiative in policing, was announced on Australia Day and will be formally awarded at a ceremony at Government House later this year.

Mossman-born Senior Sergeant McArthur followed his father’s footsteps into the force.

He joined in 1985 and served in Cairns and Innisfail before heading to the Cape where he was deployed in Kowanyama, Coen, Aurukun and Normanton, as well as a three-year stint in Cooktown in 1997.

“I came back in 2004 as officer in charge of Cooktown and have been here ever since,” he told Cape York Weekly

“I was surprised, very surprised, to receive the medal and I’m really grateful to everyone who has made a positive comment, I really appreciate the recognition.”

During his time the local police have expanded from a six-officer force based in Cooktown and covering Hope Vale and Wujal Wujal, to 10 officers, two detectives and two highway patrol staff in Cooktown, and separate stations in the neighbouring communities.

“It was very busy, very full on,”

Cooktown has been home for Senior Sergeant John McArthur for the past 20 years and he says he has fond memories from his stint as officer in charge.

he said of his earlier years in the seaside community.

“In 2006 it got upgraded to more staff here, and two at both Hope Vale and Wujal Wujal, and there’s four at Hope Vale now.”

While he couldn’t pick any one job or case that stood out in his long career, Senior Sergeant McArthur said there were some that the team

referred to as “Cooktown jobs”.

“You get the odd job occasionally with a really bizarre set of circumstances, we refer to those as ‘Cooktown jobs’, just a set of circumstances you couldn’t make up if you tried,” he said with a smile.

Sadly, the most common incident the team dealt with was domestic violence, he said.

“It’s very much a focus for us these days and takes up a lot of our workload.”

Senior Sergeant McArthur said for him, it was the people who made his job in Cooktown special.

“There are a lot of good people in this town,” he said.

“We work here as police, but we’re also members of this com-

munity; in a big centre you deal with someone once while working and never see them again, here we see the people we interact with at work almost daily.

“It’s a different relationship and we see them at their good times and their bad times.

“It’s nice when you can help someone.”

Mud rally a tradition for the NPA on Australia Day

High-range drink driving

A WEIPA man has been charged after he returned an alleged breath alcohol reading of 0.199 per cent BAC after he was intercepted by police on January 21.

Police said the man was intercepted on River Drive at about 10pm.

The 32-year-old was taken to the Weipa Police Station for further testing.

He was later charged with driving whilst under the influence of liquor (highrange drink driving) and his licence was immediately disqualified.

The man is scheduled to appear in the Weipa Magistrates Court on February 14, charged with drink driving and unlicenced driving.

Bad crash in the Cape

SEVERAL people are lucky to be alive after a traffic crash near Kowanyama on Sunday, January 22.

Initial investigations indicate that an Isuzu tip truck has overtaken another vehicle towing a boat at about 2.30pm on Topsy Road.

Police said that the truck has likely clipped the front of the tow vehicle causing it to roll several times, ejecting two people.

A 44-year-old Atherton man and a 16-year-old Forsayth boy were both flown to Cairns Hospital with fractured bones and lacerations.

The driver of the tip truck was required to provide a roadside breath test which allegedly returned a positive result.

He was taken to Kowanyama Police Station for further testing and returned a positive reading of 0.149 per cent BAC.

The 37-year-old Redlynch man has been charged with drink driving and is expected to appear in the Kowanyama Magistrates Court on February 16.

Further investigations are continuing in relation to the traffic crash.

Free TAFE courses

SCHOOL leavers and people in Cape York who are wanting to retrain, upskill and reenter the workforce are being encouraged to enrol in one of the 37,000 fee-free TAFE and VET places on offer in Queensland.

The places are available following the recent agreement between the state and federal governments to address the current skills shortages.

“If you’re thinking about going to TAFE now is the best time to do it,” said Cairnsbased Senator Nita Green.

For more information, visit www. tafeqld.edu.au/courses/apply-and-enrol/ subsidised-training/fee-free-tafe

Jenny Bowie made a splash in front of a cheering crowd. Richard Tamwoy gives his ute a spin.

Yancy Williams before her lap.

Brent Wasiu on the mud rally track.

Gordon Bamaga gets a pre-lap breath test from the local police.

Eddie Newman lets rip as he attempts a quick lap.

Australia Day celebrations @ Weipa Principal recognised for going above and beyond

By MATT NICHOLLS

THERE’S doing your job and there’s taking it to a new level for the benefit of both your employer and the community.

While Western Cape College associate principal Dan Tonon felt like there were more worthy candidates to win the Citizen of the Year Award, he said he was proud to have his behind-thescenes work recognised.

“Having a great school is the key to a strong community and Western Cape College is a fantastic place to both work and learn,” he said.

“I don’t think the general Weipa population understands just how complex the school is and what we offer to students.”

Weipa Town Authority chair Michael Rowland said it was a tough selection process to pick the Citizen of the Year winner but said Mr Tonon was a worthy recipient.

“He excels at finding ways to navigate remote teaching challenges and learn about students, communities and cultures,” Mr Rowland said.

“Dan was a finalist at the Queensland College of Teachers TEACHX Awards and has also been involved in the Western Cape Coordinated Care for Young People, a partnership between government and nongovernment agencies to provide coordinated care approaches for young people experiencing multiple and complex issues.

“Under his leadership,

six staff members at the college have now completed the Queensland University of Technology’s graduate certificate in Trauma Informed Education.”

Mr Tonon, who moved to Weipa from Yorke Island at the beginning of 2018, said working at Western Cape College was a constant challenge.

“But that challenge is what gets me out of bed in the morning,” he said.

“It’s a big centre in a remote location. We’re a large school and I like the complexity of the kids coming from all different communities.”

Mr Tonon said he was thrilled the Western Cape Coordinated Care for Young People initiative was recognised.

“We have some young people who might work with up to 26 different agencies,” he said.

“There wasn’t a mechanism that enabled a coordinated approach between those agencies and we had a lot of young people who were falling through the cracks.

“Certainly, there were many young people and their families who were getting ‘agency fatigue’ and were frustrated in the turnover of agencies and staff.”

Athletics star adds award to her collection

CURRENTLY in training for an athletics meet in Sydney, Demi de Tournouer was a standout choice to be named Weipa’s Young Sportsperson of the Year.

The talented student-athlete had a big year in 2022.

She was the Western Cape College sports age champion for both the athletics and swimming carnivals, and picked up a swag of academic excellence awards.

Now, the agencies meet at the school every three weeks.

“We’re getting much better now at supporting each other and I know if the RFDS has lost one of its workers or if Child Safety is changing managers, which impacts the students,” Mr Tonon said.

He said he was also proud of the work being done by the Clontarf Academy, as well as the GP initiative, which provides access to a doctor one day per week.

“All these little things add up and make Western Cape College a great place,” he said.

Quietly spoken angler has bright future, says champion sportsman

WEIPA’S Young Citizen of the Year Tom Hockey wasn’t there to collect his award last Wednesday night but probably wouldn’t have wanted to anyway, says one of the few people that know him well.

Darryl French, who was named the Sportsperson of the Year for his efforts in the billfishing in 2022, said Tom was a shy character, but loved helping other young people.

“He’s keen as mustard and comes to all of our education nights and picks everyone’s brains because he’s so eager to learn,” said French.

“The reason he was nominated for Young Citizen of the Year though is because of his honesty and integrity.

“He plays by the rules and he’s very aware of the rulebook, which is critical in a catch-and-release sport like billfishing.”

French said he expected big things of Hockey, 16, who was at TAFE on the awards night.

As for the club stalwart, he said he was humbled to win the Sportsperson of the Year Award.

French enjoyed a stellar year on the water in 2022, which resulted in him winning the Sir Garrick Agney Trophy for the most tagged and released billfish in Australian waters.

He also won the Weipa Billfish

Tournament with double the amount of points of his nearest rival.

However, French says he’s still not satisfied.

“I really want to beat Darren Lee’s tally of most (billfish) in a day, which is 19,” he told Cape York Weekly “My best is 17 and that was on Tegen’s boat.”

Last year, she represented Weipa at the state titles for cross country, athletics and swimming.

Demi also competed in the Athletics North Queensland championships in Townsville.

She won gold in the high jump and 200m sprint, while picking up a bronze in the 400m event.

Weipa Town Authority chair Michael Rowland said she was a worthy winner of the Young Sportsperson of the Year Award.

“This looks like it’s going to be one of many awards you win over a long period of time,” he said.

“You are a credit to your school and your family for being so dedicated to both sport and study.”

Rodeo named the top event of 2022

WHILE there are many great events in Weipa, judges didn’t have to take long to pick the winner of the Event of the Year, with the 2022 Weipa Rodeo claiming the prize.

“They do a great job every year, but last year they went to a whole new level,” WTA chair Michael Rowland said.

“The focus on inclusion throughout the communities in the Cape was exceptional, including having the professional bullriders visiting Aurukun to put on a session for the kids.

“The Weipa Rodeo Association also gives back generously to the community with some significant donations and that didn’t go unnoticed by the selection panel.”

Western Cape College principal Dan Tonon was named Weipa’s Citizen of the Year on Wednesday last week.

Weipa’s Young Sportsperson of the Year Demi de Tournouer with WTA chair Michael Rowland.

Weipa Rodeo Association representatives Nicole Clegg, Reuben Slingo and Christine Slingo with WTA chair Michael Rowland.

Sportsperson of the Year Darryl French. Young Citizen of the Year Tom Hockey.

Australia Day celebrations @ Cooktown

Shire’s top citizens receive recognition

QUIET achiever and lifelong volunteer Jean Stephan has been awarded Cook Shire’s Citizen of the Year Award.

Ms Stephan moved from Weipa to Cooktown in 2008 and has been a stalwart of numerous community groups and events ever since, most recently as president of the Vera Scarth-Johnson Gallery Association.

“Contributing, I think it’s in your blood,” Ms Stephan said.

“It really is good to give something back to the community and you get more back than you give.”

Ms Stephan, who has an honour’s degree in history, first became involved with the Cooktown History Centre, where she still volunteers, before joining the VSJ Gallery Association.

“Because of my degree, being involved in the History Centre just seemed the natural thing to do,” she said.

“Then I heard about this group ‘Friends of the Gardens’ and went along to a few meetings; I said what do you do, and they said we don’t actually go out and pull weeds in the heat you know. It turned out to be the Vera Scarth-Johnson Gallery Association.”

Ms Stephan said she initially knew little about the Gallery’s famous namesake, although she had

met Ms Scarth-Johnson during an earlier trip to Cooktown.

Despite this Ms Stephan was soon elected president, a position she has held since 2012, helping the association manage Ms ScarthJohnson’s collection of botanical illustrations, 140 of which were gifted to the community of Cooktown.

Coincidentally, Ms ScarthJohnson was also Cook Shire’s inaugural Citizen of the Year in 1991.

Ms Stephan is also on the steering committee for Nature’s PowerHouse, Cooktown’s information centre, which houses the VSJ Gal-

SES controller after a few more helpers

By SARAH MARTIN

IF you have ever had the misfortune to be involved in an accident on the notorious stretch of highway between Lakeland and Mt Carbine, chances are you would have met Cook Shire’s Young Citizen of the Year.

At only 25 years of age, experienced First Responder Alec Stemmler often attends serious road crashes on his own as numbers dwindle in his local State Emergency Service group.

I was fortunate enough to meet Alec roadside last year, after being first on the scene at a motorbike smash.

did what he did. “It’s important to the community, and I don’t want to see the group disappear,” was his simple answer.

The young Lakeland local has been the volunteer SES Controller for the past year, taking up the position vacated by his dad Andy, who spearheaded the group for more than 25 years.

Alec has only four volunteers in his tiny group, who are the first to attend road crashes and other ambulance call-outs, providing first aid until emergency services arrive.

They also offer other SES services, such as joining search and rescue operations.

lery, and is a passionate advocate for the Cooktown Botanic Gardens and local art and culture.

The tireless retiree has also been known to man the information desk and clear tables during busy times at the café and information centre, but said she never expected to receive an Australia Day award for her efforts.

“I honestly didn’t think for one moment I was nominated for the Citizen of the Year,” she said.

“It’s lovely, as I’m not one to sort of shout out about it all. I’m just doing it for the community, for the people of Cooktown, I guess I’m an inveterate volunteer.”

As I was shaking like a leaf, wondering if the lady on the side of the road would live, and frantically waving to slow down traffic speeding into the crash site in the 110km/h zone, an SES vehicle pulled up with lights flashing and a calm young man stepped out and immediately took control.

Despite his age, it was obvious Alec knew what he was doing, coordinating traffic control, directing volunteers to assist and keeping everyone calm until the ambulance arrived from Cooktown.

I caught up with Alec at the Australia Day Awards ceremony in Cooktown, and asked why he

Alec said the group was wellequipped, with its own shed, vehicles and other equipment accumulated and meticulously maintained during his father’s decades of service.

“A few more members would be good,” he told Cape York Weekly

“We do road crash training, traffic control, advanced first aid, advanced resuscitation and lots of other training.”

Alec’s nomination summed up his commitment to his community by saying: “Alec has chosen to give up his time to ensure this service may continue, which could save someone’s life.”

Young Citizen of the Year Alec Stemmler and Citizen of the Year Jean Stephan.

Local doctor Tash Coventry took her niece Rebecca Rathie, in town studying medicine, along to the awards.

Cook Shire Young Citizen of the Year, Lakeland’s Alec Stemmler, with father Andy.

Sayah and Peter Scott with Australia Day Ambassador, Mareeba-born Tahnee Bridson and her parents Matt and Pina.

The Nijskens family – Michael, Jasmine, Golf, Lek and Tom.

Enjoying free morning tea were Cooktown youngsters Rudi Habermann, Max Giese, Oscar Habermann, Cruze Ryder and Ella Habermann.

Kylie White with husband Shane and daughter Maileh.

Environment award for Cape stalwarts

PROTECTING the endangered golden-shouldered parrot was one of the key reasons for Tom and Sue Shephard winning Cook Shire’s Environment Award last Thursday.

The Shephards have dedicated their lives to raising children and cattle, all while caring for their country and protecting the highly endangered golden-shouldered parrot on Artemis Station.

With an estimated population of between 500 and 1000 birds, which includes approximately 150 breeding pairs, the Shephards also work closely with the Olkola Indigenous rangers, who call the parrot “Alwal” and recognise it as an important cultural totem for their clan.

This month, the state government announced that Artemis Station would become an official nature refuge, a class of private protected area under the state’s Nature Conservation Act which are administered by a legally binding conservation agreement between a landholder and the government.

“Our thing has always been to look after the country,” said Tom Shephard.

“We’ve lived on Artemis for most of our lives and we know it and care for it deeply.

“We’ve always tried to do things

right, so our cattle business is viable but we’re also looking after the golden-shouldered parrot and other wildlife.

“So we’re very happy and grateful to the Queensland government for the chance to extend our conservation work.”

Together they undertake monitoring and vegetation control to help protect nests from predators

and increase the chances of young parrots’ survival.

Other awards handed out at Cook Shire’s Australia Day celebrations included the Arts and Culture Award to the iconic Harrigan brothers and their Black Image Band, while Cooktown Amateur Swimming Club president Melissa Gunton was named the Volunteer of the Year.

Cook Shire mayor Peter Scott and Australia Day ambassador Tahnee Bridson congratulate Arts and Culture Award winner Black Image Band, represented by Dylan Harrigan.

Volunteer of the Year Melissa Gunton with her daughters Haila, Lakea, Maiika, Shaelanee and Kora Hegamaea.

The golden-shouldered parrot is in danger of extinction.

Carol and Ian McKinna enjoyed the awards ceremony and morning tea.

Cook Shire Environmental Award recipients Tom and Sue Shephard with proud daughter Kerry Wakefield and grandchildren Derick and Kate. Pictures: SARAH MARTIN

John Giese II and son John Giese III, otherwise known as Chook and Lucas.

Sue Gaynor with MC and Cook Shire Council director Lawrence Booth. Lakeland SES volunteers Tanya and John Ahlers.

Back to School 2023 @ St Joseph’s Weipa

Rheumatic illnesses still a concern in Cape York

CAPE York residents are being reminded of the need to be aware of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease.

“First Nations peoples are one of the major at-risk groups for these two conditions,” said Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service’s Dr Allison Hempenstall.

“We have already had our first case of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and our first case of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) so far this year within our health service region.

“Last year, we had 26 cases of ARF and 62 cases of RHD.

“While last year’s totals were fewer than the 36 cases of ARF and 77 cases of RHD we recorded in 2021, any cases of ARF and RHD in our region are always a matter of concern.

“Some of the factors that put individuals or communities at risk of these conditions include living in poor quality housing or overcrowded environments, as well as overall socio-economic disadvantage.

“It is important to focus community attention on acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease as these conditions are

not often recognised as a big problem.”

Dr Hempenstall said rheumatic heart disease was a disease that affected the heart and was a consequence of contracting acute rheumatic fever.

“Acute rheumatic fever is a disease caused by the Streptococcus A bacteria group (strep) and causes throat and skin infections which lead to inflammation in the joints, brain, and heart,” she said.

The infection can be spread from person to person by large respiratory droplets, for example via sneezing, or direct contact with people infected by the bacteria, and can progress into rheumatic heart disease.

“If untreated, rheumatic heart disease can lead to heart failure and complications like stroke

Bridge closed this week

THE Jensen’s Crossing Bridge on the outskirts of Cooktown will be closed until Friday, February 3 for maintenance and upgrade works.

and can greatly reduce the ability to lead a normal life,” said Dr Hempenstall.

“There are several signs you can look out for when it comes to acute rheumatic fever.

“Parents need to look out for common infections that might otherwise be overlooked, such as a sore throat, sore joints, fever or skin sores because these can result in long-term heart damage.

“Once we find someone with acute rheumatic fever or rheumatic heart disease, we have very effective treatments that stop it going on to cause longterm cardiac damage such as heart failure and strokes.

“That’s why it is important to identify people with ARF so they can be treated and managed before the disease progresses.”

The single-lane timber bridge on Poison Creek and Jensen’s Crossing roads, near the Jensen’s intersection with Endeavour Valley Road, was replaced in 2022 with a concrete structure.

Cook Shire Council said the re-opening of the bridge was weather dependent.

Royston on Australian Idol

FORMER Western Cape College student

Royston Sagigi-Baira will appear on the Channel 7 show Australian Idol tonight (Tuesday).

The Mapoon product, who performs as Royston Noell, has previously appeared on the TV show All Together Now

“Other than singing, my other passion is community work, specifically with the young people in remote Indigenous communities because I come from those places, and I know how important it is to have leaders in a small place,” Royston’s Australian Idol profile reads.

Grazing grants available

CAPE York NRM has $180,000 available to help boost pasture condition and native vegetation, to be spread across six eligible properties.

Golf club looks to bounce back in 2023

AFTER a tough few years, Weipa’s Carpentaria Golf Club is hoping 2023 is a positive one. With a new manager in place and a refreshed committee, led by president David Morgan, the club had a major win last week with a massive turnout for social golf on Australia Day.

A field of 68 took part in the nine-hole ambrose event, which provided a much-needed boost to the club’s coffers.

Garry Breitkreutz and his partner Desley McIntosh have taken on the captaincy position this year and said more social events were being planned.

“We need more people out there playing golf because that’s one of the ways we make money and get new members,” said Garry.

“We were so impressed by the turnout on Australia Day and everyone seemed to have a great time, which is what it’s about.”

The club is looking for more sponsors to come on board this year and recently emailed local businesses, asking for support.

“The Weipa businesses are always really supportive and we want them to know we are trying to get the club back to its glory days,” said Desley.

The organisation is calling for expressions of interest from graziers to take part in the Landscape and Resilience Project, with $30,000 available to each property to help assess the major challenges to achieving grazing landscape resilience.

The funding will go towards developing on-ground activities with land managers to increase resilience to climate extremes, whilst benefitting the landscape and its values. Expressions of interest close on Monday February 20.

Visit capeyorknrm.com.au/projects/ landscape-resilience-project for more information.

Mapoon’s Royston Sagigi-Baira.

One of the many groups who took part in the Australia Day social ambrose event on Australia Day. More pictures on Page 11.

Dr Allison Hempenstall.

Sudoku

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

FOCUS

An All Australian Word Game

* Each word must contain the centre ‘Focus’ letter and each letter may be used only once

* Each word must be four letters or more

* Find at least one nine letter word

* No swear words

* No verb forms or plurals ending in ‘s’

* No proper nouns and no hyphenated words

TODAY’S Good: 12 words

FOCUS Very good: 18 words

Excellent: 29 words

DAILY CONVENTIONAL CROSSWORD 15 X 15 GRID S

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.

Quick Crossword

YESTERDAY’S SOLUTION apricot atop capo captor carp carpi copra crop optic pact pair part patio patriot PATRIOTIC pica pita pitta port proa rapt taipo tapir tarp tipi topi topic trap trip tropic

Reference: Macquarie Concise Dictionary Focus No. 3946

Dots Spot the 5 Differences

What is this? Find out by joining the dots.

Public Notice

Awonga Point Waste Water Treatment Facility

Due to elevated storm water levels the Awonga Point Waste Water Treatment Facility is currently at full capacity.

In accordance with standard operating procedures, storm water from the network will be discharged simultaneously with treated effluent through the approved existing outfall infrastructure, under the Mission River Bridge. This action is periodically required to alleviate the system and ensure continued safe operation.

The discharge will be at minimal flow and will continue until storm water levels abate.

As a precautionary measure, fishing is not recommended within the immediate vicinity of the outfall which is located on the sea floor under the Mission River Bridge, approximately 60m offshore.

CULTURAL HERITAGE MANAGEMENT PLAN

Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 Section 96

Aurukun Bauxite Management Pty Limited (ACN 646 448 357), as manager and agent on behalf of Glencore Bauxite Resources Pty Limited (ACN 603 233 272) and MDP Bauxite Pty Ltd (ACN 646 550 129) (collectively, the Aurukun Bauxite Project Joint Venture), intends to develop a Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) for the Aurukun Bauxite Project pursuant to Part 7 of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003

POSITION VACANT – WEIPA NDIS Support Coordinator Permanent – Fulltime SCHADS AWARD Level 3

Xtremecare Australia (XCA) is a NDIS Registered service provider, we specialise in the following areas:

• Working in regional, remote and rural communities

• Working with NDIS participants with High Complex Needs, under Child Safety or Office of Public Guardian

We are seeking an NDIS Support Coordinator who will assist and support our NDIS participants with the implementation of services suitable to their needs. You will be required to work collaboratively with their families, carers, service providers, government agencies, and other stakeholders.

We are seeking applications from experienced, highly skilled candidates who have experience in one of these areas, Support Coordination, Psychosocial/Mental Health, Case Management, or a similar role.

INDIGENOUS APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY

Key Responsibilities and Criteria

• Provide support and assistance to NDIS participants with the implementation of their NDIS plan, linking them to supports and services and monitoring provider service delivery.

• Complete plan review reports, support plans, case notes, and other relevant reporting requirements.

• Document case notes, reports, and evidence in our client information management system (Careview).

• Work with participants to manage/direct their own supports.

• Building relationships with service providers and liaise with them to coordinate and implement supports and services for NDIS participants.

• Work closely with Plan Managers and NDIA in managing and monitoring participants NDIS plan funding.

• You will be required to travel to some outlying Indigenous communities in the region, working with ATSI culture and diverse groups.

Essential Criteria

• Blue Card - Working with Children Check (WWCC) or ability to get one.

• NDIS Worker Screening Check (Yellow Card) or ability to get one.

• Valid Driver’s Licence

• Experience with driving on unsealed roads

Applicants are invited to submit their resume, plus a single-page cover letter addressed to the Managing Director, explaining the skills and experience you will bring to Xtremecare. Applications without a resume and cover letter will not be considered.

Applications should be submitted to marjorie@xtremecare.com.au by COB 8th February 2023. For further information regarding this position please contact Marjorie Tatipata, Xtremecare office 07 5514 6500 or Mobile 0402 611 642.

Please note only candidates shortlisted for this role will be contacted.

Ngan Aak-Kunch Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC (ICN 4097) (as agent for the Wik and Wik Way People) is identified as the ‘Aboriginal party’ (as defined by Part 4 of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003) for most of the Plan Area (above and landwards of the coastal high water mark for Spring tides). For the remainder of the Plan Area (below and seaward of the coastal high water mark for Spring tides), in respect of which there is no ‘Aboriginal cultural heritage body’ (as defined by Part 4 of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003), Tony Kerindun and Loyla Chevathun have been identified as Aboriginal parties.

Project: The Aurukun Bauxite Project would involve the development, construction, commissioning, operation, decommissioning and rehabilitation of a bauxite mine, together with all other buildings, structures, utilities and infrastructure necessary, ancillary to, or convenient for, the operation of such mine, within the Plan Area. Further information is available at www.aurukunbauxite.com.au.

Sponsor’s name: Aurukun Bauxite Management Pty Limited as manager and agent on behalf of the Aurukun Bauxite Project Joint Venture

Contact details: Jason Holt

Jason.Holt@glencore.com.au 0436 488 162

Address for service: Level 44, 1 Macquarie Place, Sydney NSW 2000

Attention: Jason Holt

Jason.Holt@glencore.com.au

For the purpose of this notice the Notice Date is: 6 February 2023

Plan Area – the CHMP will be conducted over an area (refer map) that includes part of the following lots, together with some adjoining land and waters of the Gulf of Carpentaria:

Lot/Plan description: Lot 211 on Survey Plan 241404 (Title Reference 50925478)

Local Government: Aurukun

Lot/Plan description: Lot 7024 on Mine Plan 41159

Local Government: Cook Shire

Locality: Mission River

Nearest Town: Aurukun, which is located approximately 23km (by direct line) south-east of the main mine site within the Plan Area. Weipa is located approximately 35km north of the Plan Area.

Other identifiable features: The Plan Area covers an area west of Aurukun Road, including part of Amban Road, Tapplebang Creek, Coconut Creek and an area of the coast between False Pera Head/Amban Outstation (to the south) and Norman Creek (to the north).

If you are, or you have been nominated to act on the behalf of, an Aboriginal Party (as defined by Part 4 of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003), and you wish to take part in developing the CHMP, written notice must be given to the Sponsor by 10 March 2023.

The Sponsor may elect not to endorse any Aboriginal party if the Sponsor is not advised in writing within the required time.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

AURUKUN COMMUNITY INDIGENOUS CORPORATION

Notice of a

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The members of the above mentioned corporation, are invited to attend this Annual General Meeting

Date: Wed 8th February 2023

Start Time: 11:30 am

Venue: Aurukun Community Justice Centre

The purpose of this meeting is to

1) Review membership

2) Table financial records and

3) Election of Board of Directors

4) Seek resolution for amendment to ACIC constitution

For those members wishing to nominate for the upcoming Board positions, please be aware of the change to corporation legislation.

ALL MEMBERS WISHING TO NOMINATE FOR A BOARD POSITION MUST HAVE APPLIED FOR AND RECEIVED THEIR “INDIVIDUAL DIRECTOR I’D NUMBER” PRIOR TO THE MEETING DATE. WITHOUT THIS, ACIC IS UNABLE TO ACCEPT YOUR NOMINATION TO A BOARD POSITION.

If you are unable to attend and wish to arrange a Proxy, or you require transport on the day of the meeting, please contact Stuart Marquardt at the Justice Centre on 0437 640 747

By (Harriet Pootchemunka) (ACIC Chairperson)

PROJECT SUPPORT OFFICER

ENGINEERING. FULL-TIME.

We are offering an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated and experienced Project Support Officer to join our Engineering team Key Requirements of the role:

Support planning and delivery of funded projects in line with Council objectives

Assist the Manager Engineering with reporting and acquittal of funded projects

Prepare reports and other correspondence in relation to Council grants and funded projects

Assist the Engineering Team with financial tasks

Indigenous community members and women are strongly encouraged to apply All applications are assessed on merit

APPLICATIONS MUST CLOSE TUESDAY 7 FEBRUARY 2023

Front Office Receptionist

Sovereign Resort Hotel

Cooktown

Front Office & Guest Services (Hospitality & Tourism)

Multiple Positions Available

Traineeship available

Part Time 16 hours + to Full time 38 hours

Salary subject to hrs and experience up to $65000-

The Sovereign Resort Hotel Cooktown is a 4-star resort based in Tropical Far North Queensland. We are seeking a professionally presented and well-spoken experienced Receptionist. You will be the first point of contact to all our clients and will play an important role in the front of house administration, working closely with the General Managers. The Sovereign Resort Hotel consists of 38 rooms, Al A Carte Restaurant, Café Bar Bistro, Bottle shop and is a Hinterland Aviation Agent and Toll Freight Agent.

Your responsibilities & daily duties will include:

• Entering reservation into RMS operating system

• Answering calls & email correspondence

• Meeting & Greeting Clients & Groups

• Booking Transfers & Flights

Skills & Experience:

• Experience in Administration and Accounts

• Microsoft Office, Word, Excel & Outlook.

• Excellent Customer Service Skills

• Opera or equivalent RMS systems

• Literacy & Numeracy Skills

• Ability to take initiative

• Communication Skills

• Must work well in a team

Please email your resume to: rachael.webber@sovereignresort.com.au

Resumes only accepted by email

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 Sub Committees transparently monitor, implement and review the objectives of the WCCCA to ensure that all parties’ obligations under the agreement are met. The WCCT office is the administration arm for all 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:

ADMINISTRATION 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, 10TH FEBRUARY 2023

Chef De Partie

Sovereign Resort Hotel

Cooktown, Far North QLD

Chef De Partie

$70000

38 hours Full time

The Sovereign Resort Hotel is a Four-Star Resort situated on the Great Barrier Reef in Cooktown Far North Queensland. We have a 38-room resort with beautiful tropical gardens and a lagoon swimming pool. We have multiple restaurants on site. A la carte Balcony Restaurant with views overlooking the beautiful Endeavour River Mouth, Café Bar Bistro and Bottle shop.

We are seeking a motivated Qualified Chef with a minimum of 2 years’ experience to join our kitchen team.

This position is highly diverse and requires a highly talented and experienced chef seeking a role in a remote location.

The Role is Chef De Partie specializing in Western Fusion Cooking

Candidates must have the following Qualifications and Experience:

• Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery

• Experience as Breakfast Chef

• Experience in café style food - Burgers, Fish n Chips, Pizzas etc.

• Experience in fine Dining Cooking

• Experience in working or living in remote locations in Australia

• Experience in cold larder

• Experience in dessert section

Duties & Responsibilities:

• To follow all instructions of the Head Chef

• Maintain a clean, safe and hygienic work environment

• Work as instructed across all workstations preparing and serving food to the highest quality across all aspects of the Resorts locations and Menus

• Comply with all OH&S polices & procedures

Accommodation is available at a subsidized rate of $100 per week

Sponsorship is available for the right candidate

Email resume to rachael.webber@sovereignresort.com.au

So close, yet so far for teen bowls star

By SARAH MARTIN

COOKTOWN bowls sensation

Corrine Stallan has again wowed selectors with her poise both on and off the rink, being selected for the Queensland team for the second year running.

The 17-year-old and her mum Katrina Lewis have just returned from the State Junior Championships in Bundaberg, where Corrine narrowly missed a gold medal in the singles.

“It’s her last year in under-18s and she was hoping to win gold, but lost by two bowls,” a proud Ms Lewis said.

Her mum said it was not just Corrine’s bowling skills, but also her attitude off the rink that made her stand out.

“She composes herself well and represents the Cooktown Bowls Club well. She’s always encouraging her team, win or lose,” Ms Lewis said.

A reflection of her strong team ethic was Corrine’s decision to stick with her less-experienced Far Northern bowling cohort, despite being asked to join a team of last year’s winning players.

“She wanted to stay loyal to the Far Northern juniors, even though some of them were beginner bowlers and the youngest was only 12 years old,” Ms Lewis said.

“She still did well; they all did their best and although they didn’t make it to the semi-finals, they gave it a good go; they won one game out of the three games each day.”

Corrine will head south again later this year to represent Queensland in a State of Origin clash against New South Wales.

“She was over the moon about being one of the eight girls selected for that, and then from there they

will select five girls to compete at the Nationals in Perth; but we’ll just take one hurdle at a time,” Ms Lewis said.

The youngster also scooped an

Cape barrel racer mixes it with best

FINISHING just a second behind the winner at the Australian Bushman’s Campdraft and Rodeo Association national finals capped off a stellar first year on the professional rodeo circuit for Kelly Shephard.

The young mum, who lives with her family at Crocodile Station near Lakeland, has been competing in rodeos all her life, but 2022 was her first full year chasing points and her first time qualifying for the ABCRA national finals.

Australia Day award in Cooktown on Thursday as joint winner of the 2023 Cook Shire Sportsperson Award, alongside rugby league champ Makeilla Gibson.

She drove horse Nickelback for three days to the event in Tamworth, before taking on the country’s best barrel racers.

“I didn’t pick up any money, but was happy I was up in the

times with some of the best girls in Australia,” she said.

And for all the Yellowstone fans out there, Kelly said it can be true that barrel racers are a little bit crazy.

“Yes, well, I suppose you could say we can be at times,” she joked.

When she isn’t riding rodeo, Kelly is competing at campdrafts or riding at home for work and barrel race training.

She has a laidback outlook on her rodeo success and is undecided whether she will aim for the nationals again in 2024.

“It was a great experience and if I get the opportunity I’ll probably go back.”

– Story by Sarah Martin

Corrinne Stallan performed well in the State Junior Championships.

Kelly Shephard in action at Laura last year.

Picture: PETER ROY

Cooktown’s Australia Day ambassador Tahnee Bridson (centre) with Sports Award recipient Corrine Stallan and Tegan Kulka, who accepted on behalf of daughter Makeilla, who is at boarding school.

DEB DUFFY

Principal Licencee 0418 773 747

debduffy@weiparealestate.com.au

www.weiparealestate.com.au PO Box 552, Weipa QLD4874

Cape York Weekly is a free, locally-owned newspaper, published every Tuedsay by Cape York Weekly Pty Ltd

ABN: 506 391 612 92

EDITOR: Matt Nicholls

Ph: 0477 450 558

editor@capeyorkweekly.com.au

PO Box 1079 Weipa, Qld 4874

ADVERTISING: editor@capeyorkweekly.com.au

ACCOUNTS: accounts@capeyorkweekly.com.au

EDITORIAL DEADLINE: 5pm Friday

SPORTS EDITORIAL DEADLINE: 3pm Sunday

ADVERTSING BOOKING DEADLINE: 11am Friday

ADVERTISING COPY DEADLINE: 4pm Friday

WEBSITE:

www.capeyorkweekly.com.au

Go to the website and click on the subscribe button to receive a free digital copy of the newspaper delivered to your inbox every week

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.