Cape York Weekly Edition 121

POLICE WORKING TO SOLVE CASE

Pippa’s death a mystery

By MATT NICHOLLS and SARAH MARTIN

TRIBUTES are flowing for local woman Pippa Lanko after she was found dead in her neighbour’s yard in Marton last week.

Police have been investigating her sudden death and said that she likely died on the night of Sunday, February 5.

She wasn’t found until Monday afternoon when her neighbour was mowing the lawn.

Friends have described the 38-year-old as being the “life of the party” and “a bright light”.

Ms Lanko had an infectious, cheeky grin and unwavering kindness for everyone around her, they all said.

“She had a beautiful and generous heart, like her mum, and an exuberance to live life to the max,” friend Robyn Sheehan told Cape York Weekly

“Pippa is a Cooktown darling and will be greatly missed.”

would be missed by many.

“She was just such a lovely soul in every way with a heart of gold; she was full of laughter, craziness and cheer,” they said.

“She loved my kids unconditionally, even if she was down, she always loved children.”

Continued – Page 2

Aleisha Crosbie and Joshua Learoyd, close friends who lived near Ms Lanko on the outskirts of Cooktown, said she

Picture: ALEX RETHUS PHOTOGRAPHY

Pippa Lanko will be missed by many.

Amplitel proposed to replace an existing Telecommunications Tower at Radar Hill Road, Iron Range QLD.

TUXWORTH & WOODS CARRIERS

Investigation into death likely to wrap up soon

From – Page 1

“We will miss her cheeky grin and love of life,” said Aleisha.

Sage Parkes also remembered Ms Lanko as a true friend with a beautiful soul.

Kim Fowler penned a poem for her friend:

Beautiful Pippa, deep as a river, wide as the sea, her abundant random acts of kindness an inspiration to me. Love, light and life shone through her beautiful big brown eyes, always in our hearts she will be.

And Lana Hayward remembered the bubbly local as “the light in our darkness”.

“She was very dear to me and always made me feel so special and loved,” Ms Hayward said.

“She was happy even when we knew she was sad and shared the light for everyone, especially those that needed it. Rest in peace, dear soul.”

INVESTIGATION

Cnr of Endeavour Road and McMillan Streets, Cooktown

Ph: 0419 759 892

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

EXPECT movement to be made on the police investigation this week, sources say.

On Friday, Detective Acting Inspector Jason Chetham said no stone was being unturned.

“It’s a sudden death and we don’t know the full circumstances,” he said in Cairns.

“We’ve got a lot of resources up there. Detectives and forensic staff have been up there for several days.

“At this point in time, we’re still asking for members of the public to come forward with information they may have that’s related to that young lady’s death.

“We’re unable to go into any details about how she died. We

don’t have a cause of death at the moment. We’re still investigating that.”

He also confirmed that police had been called to a disturbance in the Marton area that same night, however were unable to locate the disturbance.

“Police attended in the vicinity (on Sunday night) but not to that address and were unable to locate the disturbance,” Detective Acting Insp Chetham said.

“At the time we didn’t have the address of the house.”

Police were called due to “raised voices and an argument,” Detective Acting Insp Chetham said.

He said Ms Lanko’s partner had been cooperating with police and was admitted to hospital on Monday last week after he called an ambulance for a potential snake bite.

“He’s been speaking to us throughout this investigation and provided some very simple points of information to us,” Detective Acting Insp Chetham said.

Officers also requested a potential witness to return to Cooktown for questioning.

“We have identified some people we want to speak to about this inquiry, and some are out of Cooktown and we are making those arrangements as we speak,” Detective Acting Insp Chetham said on Friday.

“There is a person we want to speak to a potential witness who’s at sea.”

Anyone with information about Ms Lanko’s death is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000.

Detective Acting Inspector Jason Chetham addresses the media.

Pippa Lanko was found by her neighbour in grassland not far from the Marton swing bridge on the eastern outskirts of Cooktown.

Gulf communities told to be prepared for cyclone

By MATT NICHOLLS

WESTERN Cape and Gulf residents are being urged to stay off the roads and brace for heavy rain and winds as a cyclone threatens to form.

According to the latest report from Cairns District Disaster Management, a tropical low in the Gulf of Carpentaria has a moderate (20 to 50 per cent) chance of developing into a tropical cyclone today (Tuesday).

“Regardless of development, gales will be possible for parts of the Gulf coast over the next couple of days. Gales are not

expected to impact areas north of Weipa and the Torres Strait,” said DDMG executive officer, Senior Sergeant Owen Kennedy on Monday.

“A Tropical Cyclone Watch is current just over the border in

NT, and is likely to be extended to the southern Gulf coast and possibly the western Cape south of Aurukun today.

“Expect monsoonal rain and thunderstorms with moderate to heavy rainfall in the Far North

over the next few days. This activity may spread south across northern Queensland through the second half of the week, including to areas around the Daintree, Cairns and Yarrabah.

“Abnormally high tides are likely to approach or slightly exceed the Highest Astronomical Tide (HAT) level along the western Peninsula for the next few days, and possibly about the Gulf Coast and Torres Strait by midweek.

“Minor inundation of lowlying coastal areas is possible.”

The next tropical cyclone to be named in the Australian region is Herman.

Rain reprieve short-lived in the Cape

VEHICLES stuck at the Archer River Roadhouse were able to be (illegally) collected for a short period last week before the creeks and rivers soared again.

While the PDR is still officially closed between Weipa and Coen, it didn’t stop a few people from running the gauntlet to collect their vehicles.

For a couple of days, the bridge at Myall Creek and the Archer River causeway were passable.

The rain returned on the weekend and river levels again soared, with the Archer River six metres over the causeway on Monday.

Golf was cancelled at Weipa due to several new islands forming.

Wet season rainfall – Page 18

A tropical low in the Gulf could form into a cyclone, the DDMG says.

The Jardine River burst its banks at the ferry terminal. Carpentaria Golf Club had several new water features on the weekend.

It didn’t take long for the Archer River to go up again.

Bulldozer operator loves putting a smile on faces

By MATT NICHOLLS

BRIONY Kopp might be the only bulldozer operator/florist in Australia.

The founder and owner of Weipa Wildflowers says she loves her balanced lifestyle, although admits that the days leading into Valentine’s Day are a bit longer.

“It’s definitely the busiest time of the year with all the fresh flowers arriving,” she told Cape York Weekly

“Like any business up here we have freight issues.”

In the dry season, Briony’s flowers come to Weipa via truck in refrigerated storage.

But when the roads are closed, it means her freight comes via Qantas, which means significant additional costs.

“It gets here quickly but you are relying on Qantas and the cost of air freight is three to five times the price,” she said.

“We make it work, though.”

Briony said she had been in the floristry industry for more than a decade, having started as a junior in a florist shop.

“I think that’s how most people get into the industry. I’ve been a qualified florist since 2016,” she said.

After moving to Weipa in 2020, Briony doubted if she would continue in the flower industry.

“I thought it would only be mining but floristry is my passion. I love anything with flowers,” the Aurukun Earthmoving bulldozer operator said.

The Western Cape has been a big winner as a result.

Getting flowers had been a challenge in Weipa and special occasions often went without.

“I think that’s one of the most pleasing parts of the business; making floristry accessible,” Briony said.

“Over time I’ve also worked out what flowers do best in the warmer climate so we do a lot of

Crash victim update

COOKTOWN’S Shayne Chessor is no longer in a critical condition after spending more than three weeks in hospital following a motorised scooter crash on January 20.

A Townsville Hospital and Health Service spokesman confirmed on Monday that Mr Chessor remained in hospital, but was now in a stable condition.

The 42-year-old was airlifted to Townsville and placed in an induced coma after hitting a traffic island while riding his moped in Cooktown.

Family said the long-time Cooktown local was awake and communicating through nods, but it would be a long road to recovery.

Artists sought for RAP

YOUNG Indigenous artists are being encouraged to submit their works to feature as the centrepiece of Cook Shire Council’s new blueprint for reconciliation.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists aged 10-18 could pocket $500 if their artwork wins, and have the work featured on the cover of the Council’s new Reconciliation Action Plan.

Submissions must be print, painting, drawing or digital and reflect the theme of The Spirit of Reconciliation. Submissions are due by noon on Monday, February 27.

Visit Cook Shire’s website for more information.

“This year I’ve been very impressed with the number of blokes in Weipa who are getting in early with their orders,” she said with a laugh.

“They’ve had a couple of years of practice now.”

It can be a risky business.

To make sure she has enough stock, Briony has to order her flowers in December.

This year, she has not only taken personalised orders, but has diversified to making flowers available to buy at the Weipa Servicentre.

Vandals trash clubhouse

FURIOUS volunteers are again picking up the pieces after vandals broke into the Cooktown District Junior Rugby League clubhouse at John Street Oval.

Recently installed security cameras captured footage of youths who smashed windows and walls.

The clubhouse was also broken into late last year, and volunteers had also been forced to scour the grounds and facilities before training and games after uncapped needles were found on the field.

natives and dried flowers. I want to sell a product that will last.”

Most of the fresh flowers come from Cairns and the Atherton Tablelands, while the dried flowers are sourced from further south.

Briony said Weipa Wildflowers had been able to supply decorations at a number of key local events, including several Cape York weddings.

“It’s a real thrill when you can provide a service that people didn’t think was possible,” she said.

“I still think the best part is when you deliver flowers to someone who isn’t expecting them.

“Seeing someone’s face light up gives me a big thrill.”

This year’s Valentine’s Day will likely result in a sell-out.

On the weekend, they were snapped up quickly.

She said the Rio Tinto Let’s Keep It Local voucher scheme had been a big help to the business.

“It’s been amazing. People get a voucher at Christmas and spend it locally in the community and that helps every business in town,” she said.

“I’ve had quite a few orders from people with vouchers.”

Cook Shire mayor Peter Scott said the actions of a few were affecting the many who loved and used the oval and facilities.

“The oval used to be a paddock and over the last 20 years the council and community has strived to get it to the great facility it is today,” he said.

“There has been so much effort and dedication by so many people over such a long time; it is wrong for a small group in a stupid moment to damage what belongs to and is loved by all of us.”

CCTV footage has been supplied to officers at Cooktown Police Station.

Weipa Wildflowers founder Briony Kopp has loved bringing floristry to the region. Picture: ALEX RETHUS

Several Weipa weddings have benefited from Briony’s expertise.

Teacher recognised for brilliance

By SARAH MARTIN

IRENE Hammett’s 40 years of shaping young minds have been celebrated with a Recognition of Service Award.

The great-grandmother from Hope Vale has taught three generations of students in the Far North, spreading her love for Indigenous culture and language.

“I’m semi-retired now, but the teachers want me to continue,” the 82-year-old said.

Her teaching career began in Yarrabah, before gaining her Diploma of Teaching while working at Hope Vale.

“We went down to Townsville, and had teleconferences with our lecturers. I studied for three years, and it was hard as English isn’t my first language, but I made it.”

Made it is an understatement, with the modest educator going on to teach for decades at Hope Vale, Aurukun, Laura and Cooktown, while also running cultural immersion camps with her husband Gerry at their Hope Vale property.

“We host kids with an organisation called Red Earth, they come up from places like Sydney and Melbourne and we provide cultural activities and they love it,” she said.

“They’ve never seen anything like it, they just love it here and it’s a great experience for them; we make damper, sing, go on rainforest walks and teach them about the

plants and animals, have campfires and language lessons.”

Language holds an important place in Ms Hammett’s heart, who worked with Hope Vale school to provide the first Guugu Yimithirr lessons to students.

She also has several published books, and has passed on her love of language and learning to her children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

Ms Hammett said the Queensland government award was a surprise that brought a tear to her eye.

“I didn’t know all this was going on and I really appreciated it,” she said.

“It is a beautiful plaque, and my son Harold interpreted the English into language for it which brought tears to my eyes.

“I really am very thankful that I’ve seen all those years of teaching and can see the parents I taught sending their kids to prep and think to myself, I hope they learn as much as their parents did.”

Gerry and Irene Hammett.

Irene Hammett with some of her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren at the award presentation.

Public holiday will boost Fridays: Laura secretary

By SARAH MARTIN

BACKED by a new rodeo association with a conduit straight to the national finals, an official public holiday and a new local partner, the Laura Rodeo and Campdraft Association are off to a flying start in 2023.

Association secretary Debbie Gostelow, who grew up in the Cape on Yarraden Station, said the biggest change this year was affiliation with the Australian Bushmen’s Campdraft and Rodeo Association, which had already brought positive results.

“ABCRA is a very professional group, very helpful and we’ve noticed a massive increase in people interested in the professional positions on the day and people wanting to compete to get points towards (the ABCRA national finals in Tamworth),” Ms Gostelow said.

Ms Gostelow has been volunteering at Laura all her life and says she has never missed a single event.

“I’ve been involved forever, I was helping out when I was at high school, and we’ve never missed a rodeo since we were kids,” she said.

“I can remember back when mum (Mary Shephard) and everyone were making sandwiches on Saturday night for the rodeo on Sunday, we’d all be peeling eggs, then race up to the dance until midnight, then run around at the rodeo the next day.

“As time went on mum was the secretary, then I took over from mum.”

Although the secretary role was becoming more of a fulltime undertaking, Ms Gostelow said the Association was fortunate to have a great group of volunteers.

“It’s gone from a volunteer role that you do some parts of the year to a full-time job, I do not stop sending emails, answering questions, sending sponsor forms,” she said.

“But we’ve got a really big team, lots of family and friends

and we usually have a pretty good roll-up at our working bees.”

The next working bee is on the May long weekend at the Laura Rodeo grounds, with all interested helpers encouraged to attend.

“Everyone is welcome, just bring your camping gear and food and anything you can help with,” she said.

“We will be doing a general clean up, some building and getting ready for the event.”

The Laura Races, Rodeo and Campdraft is held annually in June, and this year Cook Shire Council has allocated their annual Shire-wide public holiday to the event.

“It’s going to make a big difference, especially for those people being able to attend our campdraft on Friday,” Ms Gostelow said.

“It’s wonderful Cook Shire Council are recognising Laura as such a big event.”

Each year the rodeo raises

funds for various charities, with thousands of dollars from last year’s event going towards important charities both in and out of the Cape.

This year’s beneficiary is a charity close to Ms Gostelow and many rodeo-goers hearts, Talk About It Tuesday, started by Cape women Jackie Perry and Debbie Jackson, who both lost sons to suicide.

“We couldn’t get a better charity, Jackie and Debbie and I all grew up together, had kids together and our kids all went to school together,” Ms Gostelow said.

“They’re very excited about getting involved and we’re excited about supporting a really important group with a very important message to put out there; we’ve already got some good prizes and raffles on offer.”

Entry tickets and competitor nominations will be advertised in advance, with tickets on sale in about May and online nominations opening in mid-June.

Project funding available

COMMUNITY organisations in Cape York now have the chance to share in $150,000 worth of funding for projects which will help them improve their offering and deliver social benefits in communities across the region.

Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch said the Stronger Communities Program was aimed at funding projects that deliver for Far North Queensland communities.

He said grants of between $2500 and $20,000 could now be applied for.

“With the Stronger Communities Program now in its 8th round, the highly successful programme continues to help quality local community projects get the support they need,” Mr Entsch said.

“The funding can be used towards small capital projects with a total maximum cost of $50,000.

“I encourage eligible organisations to get their expressions of interests in early and I look forward to seeing what great projects come to fruition this year.”

Expressions of interest close at 5pm on Tuesday, March 14. For more details, visit: www.warrenentsch.com.au/grants/scp

Short films in Shire

COOKTOWN, Rossville and Lakeland locals can catch some of the Far North’s best short films with finalists from the Understory Film Festival touring the region.

Supported by Cairns Regional Council and Screen Queensland, the festival showcases local talent, with 19 finalists chosen from almost 100 entrants across a range of genres, including animation music videos and comedy.

The films are all under eight minutes long, rated PG and produced by developing, student and professional filmmakers from across the region.

Locals can also gain tips from industry experts with two free masterclasses presented alongside the film festival. Screen times are on the Cook Shire Council website.

Scholarship for CEO

REGIONAL Development Australia Tropical North CEO Sonja Johnson has been awarded a McKinsey Executive Leadership Program scholarship to further develop her skills to lead.

Ms Johnson is one of 27 not-for-profit leaders to participate in the hands-on program which sharpens self-awareness and strategic thinking and provides an exclusive support network with peers across Australia and New Zealand.

The Laura Rodeo and Campdraft Association believes Friday’s events will get even bigger crowds as a result of the new Cook Shire public holiday.

RFDS backs Big Day Out in Cooktown

By SARAH MARTIN

THE Cooktown-based Royal Flying Doctor Service mental health team will lead attendees in a mindfulness workshop and share important information about stress at the inaugural Heart-Mind Wellness Big Day Out this month.

RFDS mental health clinician and registered psychologist Jess Brotherhood said the event provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with the community and fellow service providers.

“Being able to go to the Big Day Out we can help break down barriers by introducing our services and ourselves as clinicians, and also from a stakeholder perspective there are so many services around to support people, so the networking will be really good,” she said.

Ms Brotherhood and her fellow mental health workers are based in Cooktown and service locals as well as the communities of Laura and Wujal Wujal, working closely with other providers such as Queensland Health and

Apunipima Cape York Health Council.

“We do mental health intervention such as counselling and therapy,” she said.

“We work with people from the age of 12 and up, and take referrals from anywhere – we get referrals from other services, self-referrals, people wave us down in the shops or on the street and make a booking; the RFDS mental health service on the Cape is also completely free.”

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.

Email sigal@scyc.com.au for more information.

Councillor models for art class

FROM budding artists to youngsters wanting to learn, all comers are encouraged to the Cooktown Art Society’s drawing classes, which began on the weekend. Supported by Cook Shire Council’s community grants program, the three-hour sessions at the Elizabeth Guzsely Gallery cost just $20, with all materials supplied.

Cooktown Art Society president Jane Dennis said drawing was the basis of any artform.

“We want to get everyone drawing, and then they can apply those skills to any medium they like,” she said.

Councillor John Dessmann and art teacher Jen Hall were the life models for attendees at the first drawing classes on the weekend,

and Jean Stephan will sit for the next classes on Monday and Tuesday, February 20 and 21 from 6pm to 9pm.

Ms Dennis said the classes would be ongoing.

“We’re also inviting local identities to sit as models,” she said. Contact Cooktown Art on Facebook to register, or phone Ms Dennis on 0400 617 467.

Cook Shire councillor John Dessman strikes a pose as a model for the Cooktown Art Society.

Kyah is full of praise for program

THE start of a new school year brings many possibilities for students and, for Weipa local Kyah Campigli, January 2020 marked the beginning of an exciting opportunity: a Rio Tinto school-based traineeship with the miner’s environmental team.

It is a traineeship that continues to inspire her today in her studies at James Cook University.

Kyah began her traineeship working one day a week on site at Weipa and two years later graduated with a Certificate II Conservation and Land Management, as well as a Queensland Certificate of Education.

As a top-performing schoolbased trainee, Kyah was also nominated for the 2020 Queensland Training Awards, where she was a finalist in the school-based trainee or apprentice of the year award.

Through her traineeship, Kyah’s work on palm cockatoo threatened species research saw her develop a field guide for team members and deliver a project to increase community awareness of the palm cockatoo, all while collecting valuable habitat data for the Weipa team.

The traineeship gave Kyah the hands-on experience she needed to learn which field of environmental studies she wanted to specialise in, and in 2021 she started a Bachelor of Science majoring in Ecology at JCU in Cairns.

Kyah said the experience had

been positive and plenty of support was available.

“Even though it can be a little overwhelming moving away from family and friends to an unknown place, there are so many great opportunities and support systems available,” she said.

“You will meet heaps of new people that are in the same situation to you and will help you get through it while you also help them.”

Kyah also received support from the Rio Tinto Weipa University Scholarships Program, which encourages local students to pursue tertiary pathways in miningrelated and skill-shortage areas. In

this program, students undertake paid work experience throughout their studies.

This is Kyah’s final year of study and she hopes to return to Weipa at the end of the year.

“I’m thinking of applying for the Rio Tinto graduate program. I would like to go into conservation and help protect and look after animals,” she said

Her advice to high school students: “Give it your best shot because even though at times it can be hard, there is a great support network the entire time, from the teachers at Western Cape College to everyone I’ve worked with at Rio Tinto.”

Kyah Campigli in the Rio Tinto nursery after planting seeds earlier in the year.

Kyah Campigli is a big supporter of the Rio Tinto traineeship program.

Police out to save face in search

By MATT NICHOLLS

HAVING botched the original investigation, Queensland Police Service is now scrambling to find the remains of a missing Kowanyama woman who likely died near the Archer River a decade ago.

On Friday, which marked the 10-year anniversary of the disappearance of Kokoberra woman Ms Bernard, police joined forces with volunteers from Crime Stoppers to doorknock in Coen, asking locals if they had any information about the case or her likely resting place.

Ms Bernard was last seen at the Archer River Quarry on Sunday, February 10 in 2013.

She had been at the Exchange Hotel in Coen earlier that night, before leaving for the quarry with caretaker Thomas Byrnes.

Ms Bernard, a mother of two young children, was never seen again.

In 2021, the Northern Coroner Nerida Wilson announced that an inquest would be held regarding Ms Bernard’s disappearance.

Then, last year, Ms Wilson ordered a new search for her remains

Their original investigation was nothing short of disgraceful.

Police treated Ms Bernard’s disappearance as a missing person, believing the story of Mr Byrnes that she had run off into the bush.

No forensic evidence was taken of the clothes left behind by Ms Bernard and the search in the days after she was reported missing was far from extensive.

Last week, a Queensland Police Service media release said officers had used new technology to try and locate her remains.

“A large scale search of the area utilising police on foot, quad bikes

ers on horseback and in four-wheel drives. This targeted search operation, along with further searches in the Coen area in late 2022, unfortunately did not advance investigations.”

Queensland Police continue to reference Ms Bernard by her first name, despite the requests of her family that she is only referred to as Ms Bernard.

Acting Superintendent Kevin Goan said he remained determined that someone out there has the missing piece of the puzzle that may help find Ms Bernard.

“(Ms Bernard) would now be 33, she could have lived a full life and had a family – but instead her loved ones are left wondering,” Acting Superintendent Goan said.

“We will not give up. (Ms Bernard’s) disappearance has had a devastating impact on this community and together we won’t stop until we find answers.

“That’s why we are in Coen today, with a dedicated group of volunteers, door knocking the community in the hopes anyone with information, no matter how small, may prove to be the key to locating

“We would like to thank the local community who continues to support our ongoing investigations, and urge members of the public to continue spreading the word – anyone with information should immediately contact po-

Business is sweet for this budding Cape beekeeper

A SCHOOL course blossomed into a sweet business opportunity for teen entrepreneur Julia Arnold, who runs The Golden Drop Honey from her family farm in Lakeland.

The 19-year-old grew up in the small Cape York town, but completed her highschooling in Malanda, travelling home on weekends and holidays to her family’s seed crop property.

“I started getting interested in beekeeping after we did a short course as part of my rural operations class,” Ms Arnold said.

“My family had a few hives already so I asked our beekeeper, Wim De Jong, if I could buy them and start taking care of them.”

Mr De Jong gifted the hives to the budding apiarist, and taught her some more tricks of the trade, with her honey business kicking off in 2021.

Despite being stung multiple times, Ms Arnold says her future is still looking sweet.

Julia Arnold with her hive at Lakeland.

“I’ve moved to Cairns to start a new career, but will continue to be a beekeeper when I visit home,” she said.

Golden Drop Honey is available to buy at Steffies roadside stall on PDR at Lakeland.

Ms Bernard was last seen at the Archer River Quarry in 2013.

Queensland Police and Crime Stoppers volunteers in Coen last week.

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.

DAILY CONVENTIONAL CROSSWORD 15 X 15

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.

Crossword Solutions

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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.

Position Vacant

Job Title: Community Connect Worker Salary Sacrifice Scheme

Employment Type: Permanent full time Remote Area Travel Allowance: $1,200

Applications close: COB Friday 17th February 2023 Yearly WASP Membership

Weipa Community Care Association Inc. provides contemporary community services to community members in Weipa, Napranum and Mapoon. We are recruiting for a Community Connect Worker to provide information, support, and advocacy to community members presenting at the Weipa Community Centre with complex needs. You will be the point of contact for vulnerable people and facilitate referrals to specialist services to enhance the Weipa Community Centre’s capacity to meet community needs.

The successful applicant will manage all enquiries and referrals for the Community Connect Program to provide effective, flexible, high-quality advocacy support through a case management framework including intake, needs assessment, case planning and implementation, referral linkages and case coordination. The daily activities include identifying and managing safety concerns and safety planning and providing emotional and practical support by increasing community connections and awareness of available services.

Mandatory Requirements of this role:

• A social work degree or formal tertiary qualification of relevant nature

• Significant experience working in the community service sector

• Significant experience working in an advocacy role

• Positive Notice Blue Card

• Current First Aid, CPR, Asthma and Anaphylaxis (can be obtained during employment)

Desirable Requirements of this role:

• Excellent time management skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Well-developed oral and written communication skills

• Ability to connect with a diverse range of people

• Excellent computer skills

• Experienced in client advocacy and case management support of vulnerable persons

• Experience supporting victim survivors of DFV

• Substantial knowledge of local service and support systems

Please contact WTA on 4030 9400 for further information.

Please email ceo@weipacommunitycare.com to submit your application. Applicants must submit a cover letter and a two-page resume (including two recent professional referees). For more information, please call Josephine Tait on (07) 4069 9272 or email ceo@weipacommunitycare.com.

Administration Position Available

REMONDIS is one of the world’s largest recycling, service and water companies. The waste industry is evolving at a cracking pace and REMONDIS is building the systems and infrastructure to remain at the forefront of the circular economy journey. As such, we’re searching for a highly organized Administrative Officer who has the resilience and drive required to help us on that path.

• Permanent, secure + stable employment

• Competitive salary

• Weipa location

• 4 days/week (Wednesday – Saturday)

Step into a role where you can deepen your knowledge within general administration and support in the areas of accounts payables, procurement, and records management. You’ll work with internal and external stakeholders to deliver on a range of activities such as handling customers queries, purchases and processing assisting, maintaining office supplies and much more. You’ll have the support and direction you need to be successful and a wonderful team around you to make coming to work a joy!

Key Role Responsibilities include:

• Maintaining our operating system

• Subcontractor services and associated invoicing

• Administer and maintain logistics records

• Being the go-to person in the office and adapting your day to fit with different schedules

• Ensuring all requests from clients/customers are answered and actioned promptly

• Month-end processing, plant tracking, reporting, and data integrity

• Daily processing of time sheets

• Weekly completion of payroll to Head Office

• Assist with health, safety, environment and quality administration

Skills and Competencies required:

• Great communication skills with the ability to engage with customers

• Proven experience in business administration or accounts receivables/payables

• Strong MS Office experience inclusive of Excel

• IT literacy and experience working on systems

• A background in heavy industry, logistics and/or waste management is desirable

• Problem solving skills with the ability to juggle multiple competing priorities and having a clear sense of urgency

• The ability to work autonomously and in a team environment

• Be solutions orientated and willing to assist where needed

• High attention to detail

Applications close on 5 March 2023

APPLY ONLINE AT careers.remondis-australia.com.au or email resume direct to: Andrew.crichton@remondis.com.au

TRNKA-TAKAI, Alphonse William Gunter

23/12/2022 – 01/02/2023

In Loving Memory

SPORT IN BRIEF

Crossley in form

GRANT Crossley triumphed in humid conditions to be last week’s Wednesday Wackers winner at Weipa.

Fifteen players took to the Carpentaria Golf Club’s front nine and Crossley hit a credible 41 off the stick for a nett 31.5 to beat Jim Taylor by 2.5 strokes.

Crossley also had the nearest to pin on the 7th.

No one found the green on 9, with Helen Sabatino claiming the Bradman’s.

Meanwhile, Sunday’s scheduled competition at Weipa was washed out.

Hobbs-Butler score win

Heavenly Angel

Precious Son of William and Tiana and baby brother to Athena and Amalia.

Family and friends of the Takai and Trnka families are invited to attend a service in remembrance of baby Alphonse to be held 10am Thursday, 16th February 2023 at the Burkin Svendsens Chapel, 411 Mulgrave Rd Westcourt, Cairns.

Family requests no children under two years. The service will be livestreamed via www.whiteladyfunerals.com.au

WHITE LADY FUNERALS CAIRNS 07 4041 6626

MOKWIRI ABORIGINAL CORPORATION

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Mokwiri Aboriginal Corporation – ICN:7972 – (MAC RNTBC) for the FY 2021/2022 will be held has follows:

Date: Friday 3rd of March 2023

Venue: Weipa Motel and Resort

Time: 9:00am

Dated: 31st of January 2023

For any inquires:

Secretary Mokwiri Aboriginal Corporation (ICN:7972)

P.O Box 1339

WEIPA, QLD, 4874 PH: (07) 42571000

COOKTOWN’S golfers didn’t let the rain stop their round on Saturday, with some brave souls competing in the two-ball bestball event.

Aaron Hobbs and Steve Butler combined with a round of 48 points to be the winners, ahead of John McArthur and Rick Butler, who carded 45.

Third went to Alice Burton and Sam Godfrey-Roberts with 42.

Nearest the pins went to Steve Butler on 2/11, Rick Butler 14 and Darren Powell on 9/18.

This Saturday is a red tee stableford at the usual time.

Cowboys draw in Cairns

A LATE try to Laitia Moceidreke on the stroke of full-time has helped the Cowboys salvage a 22-22 draw in a thrilling finish against the Dolphins at Barlow Park.

The Dolphins appeared to have stolen victory after coming from behind earlier in the match before the Cowboys crossed late to level the scores with Zac Laybutt unable to convert from out wide.

Young guns Tom Chester and Thomas Duffy put their hand up for future selection at North Queensland.

Cowboys coach Todd Payten said it was a good pre-season hit-out.

“We were quite clunky close to the try line. We lacked a bit of continuity with what we were doing.” he said.

“It was disappointing in some ways but good to get through with no injuries.

“I thought our back five were really strong and James Tamou was our best middle, (he) got through a lot of work and I wouldn’t have expected anything less.”

The Cowboys face the Broncos in another pre-season match on the Sunshine Coast before the NRL season begins.

Meanwhile, the Northern Pride had a 2416 win against the Cowboys Young Guns in a trial, which served as the curtain-raiser.

Weipa brothers Denzel King and Seamus King-Smith took to the field for the Pride.

Expression Of Interest

Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council (LARSC)

Piiramo Subdivision

LRASC are requesting Expressions of Interest (EOI) from suitably qualified Contractors for Construction of the Piiramo Street Subdivision, located in Piiramo Street, Lockhart River. The development is a serviced 25 lot development with the scope of works being broken down into a number of discrete Work Packages.

The Council is looking to engage a Head Contractor to construct and manage the Work Packages, a number of which the Council reserves the right to construct with Council work crews (Bulk Earthworks, Sewer and Water Reticulation), novated to, and under the management and supervision of the Head Contractor. The intent being to strengthen the capability of the Council’s work crews under the supervision, leadership and mentorship of a competent Head Contractor.

A project Procurement Methodology and Draft Construction Program Schedule are available upon request from Black and More.

Works are to be completed in 2023.

Expressions of Interest including evidence of the Company’s capacity and capability to achieve the project goals successfully within the proposed timeline are to be emailed to Black and More at tenders@blackm.com by 12pm Noon 28th February 2023.

Surrounded by family, Karl out to build Pride in Cairns Taipans to face Kings for GF spot

By MATT NICHOLLS

RUGBY league is in Karl Adams’ blood, so when a new role was created at the Northern Pride, the Weipa product was quick to jump at the opportunity.

Not only is it a positive career move for the 36-year-old, but he also moves to a place where he is surrounded by familiar faces.

There’s a real Weipa flavour at Barlow Park, with CEO Garreth Smith an almost lifelong resident, while his wife Florrie coaches the women’s squad.

Their children are also heavily involved, with Denzel King and Seamus King-Smith key members of the Pride’s first-grade squad.

The Weipa connection has helped Adams make the transition from Townsville after he spent several years working at Cowboys House while coaching the Norths Devils in the local competition.

Importantly, though, he wants to play a key role for the Pride as their project officer.

It’s a job that includes three portfolios.

The first is the Northern Pride’s graduate program, which is an engaged education program for school-leavers and jobseekers

“We’ve got a partnership with the TAFE where it is fully funded for participants,” Adams said.

“They don’t have to pay for anything and they walk out with a certificate in coaching.

“I provide the wraparound support for those in that program.”

The second portfolio is player welfare.

“The way we’re structured it is is to concentrate on welfare, rather than the wellbeing,” Adams said.

“So we try and help with the welfare aspects of their home life, the support around them, accommodation, employment, income,

all that sort of stuff. If they’ve got all those things lined up, and they’re happy with all the support around them, there’ll be fewer wellbeing concerns.

“Obviously, you’re going to get players with injuries and that type of thing where we monitor them and put a case plan around them, but we try and concentrate on the positive stuff.”

The third portfolio, which perhaps excites Adams the most, is the community engagement.

“I manage our engagements with clubs, schools and stakeholders,” he said.

“I’m really looking forward to getting up into the Cape and working with the kids and the clubs.”

While Adams has only been in the role since January, he said the opportunity to move to Cairns and grab a new position by the horns was too good to pass up.

“I’ve been in Townsville for the past three years as a career transition officer at Cowboys House,” he said.

“I think when this position was advertised, it aligned quite well with what I was doing down there and what I wanted (to achieve).

“I’m very passionate about the area and the region and what the Northern Pride represents.”

Having grown up idolising the CEO for his exploits on and off the rugby league field, Adams said he had no issues working with Smith.

“Without talking him up too much, Garreth’s probably one of the most influential people I have ever met,” he said.

“As a young fella, I always admired what he’s done on the field.

“Then, growing up, I had a great deal to do with him with rugby league teams and I’d just tag along and run water or whatever he needed. I learned so much along the way.

“I think that relationship developed a long time ago.

“He understands why I do what I do, which aligns with the club’s values and what he’s trying to create, which is a positive environment and a real connection with the community.”

THE Cairns Taipans are in a best-of-three semi-final series to earn a spot in the NBL decider.

The Snakes defeated the Perth Wildcats on Sunday to earn a spot in the semis against the reigning premiers Sydney Kings.

The first game is in Sydney on Wednesday night at 6.30pm, with the Taipans to host the Kings in Cairns on Friday night at the same time.

If a third game is required, it will be played at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena on Sunday.

The qualifying win against the Wildcats was super impressive considering the Taipans were missing Keanu Pinder and Tahjere McCall, but DJ Hogg set a new franchise NBL Finals record with 32 points to lead the Snakes to the 91-78 victory.

Bul Kuol was also tremendous with 23 points, eight rebounds and seven assists, while Sam Waardenburg delivered 15 points and 10 rebounds.

Lat Mayen had eight points and six rebounds in his first career start.

Taipans coach Adam Forde was relieved afterwards for no other reason than because he felt his team deserved to be one of the last four teams standing.

“It’s a sense of relief, that’s probably the main feeling,” he said.

“That’s not through any level of stress, it was just because the boys worked so hard to not see this go another week.

“It wasn’t relief for me or anything else other than the boys have earned their stripes this year. We’ve had some injuries, we’ve copped more injuries and for them to play the way they did today and book themselves another week of games and practice, I’m ecstatic for them.”

Weipa’s own Karl Adams is the new project officer at the Northern Pride and says he feels at home with the club.

Cape York’s wet season

The Wenlock River bridge at Moreton Telegraph Station has rarely been seen this summer.

A fairway turned into a water hazard at the Carpentaria Golf Club.

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

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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.