Cape York Weekly Edition 128

READY TO SERVE

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By MATT NICHOLLS

A MASSIVE booze haul with a street value of $30,000 has been stopped from entering Aurukun after police worked with locals to make an arrest last week.

Senior Sergeant Amit Singh, the officer in charge at Aurukun, said the bust was made possible due to tip-offs from community members.

A 26-year-old Aurukun man was charged with a number of offences on Wednesday night after police used a tyre deflation device on the Aurukun Access Road to stop his Toyota Prado.

“The grog was coming in from Cairns and we got some information from the community,” Senior Sergeant Singh said.

“There was an attempt of a rou-

tine intercept at Coen but the driver evaded police.

“They didn’t pursue and instead informed us ... we had tactical patrols on the Aurukun Access Road that night.”

At around 10pm, officers saw the vehicle approaching Aurukun and activated their lights and sirens to intercept.

The driver allegedly sped away

and police used the tyre deflation device to stop him.

Senior Sergeant Singh said it would be alleged that after a search of the vehicle, officers located a large quantity of alcohol.

The driver was transported to the Aurukun watchhouse and interviewed before being subsequently charged.

Continued – Page 2

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Drugs, weapon, ammo seized from raid

MORE than 130 cannabis plants, drugs, a gun and ammunition were seized by police during a raid at a Lakeland property last week.

Mareeba’s Rural and Stock Crime Squad found the illegal haul while executing a search

warrant at a bush campsite in the Byerstown Reserve, just south of Lakeland, on Monday, March 27.

Police allege a 38-year-old Lakeland man was found in possession of ammunition, a loaded gun, 60g of cannabis and 135

cannabis seedlings, two freshwater crocodile skulls and a croc skin and a drug utensil.

Police said the man had been charged with producing and possessing a dangerous drug and drug utensil, unlawful possession of a Category D weapon,

keeping a loaded firearm, possessing explosives without authority and two counts of keeping or using a Class 3 protected animal.

He is due to appear in the Cooktown Magistrates Court on Wednesday, May 10.

Police praise community for keeping out sly grog

From – Page 1

He was charged with evading police, attempting to take liquor into a restricted area, seatbelt offences and unlawful assembly.

The 26-year-old is scheduled to appear at the Aurukun Magistrates Court on April 20.

Senior Sergeant Singh said it was a great result for Aurukun.

“This is probably a record haul for Aurukun police and the biggest one in my time,” he said.

“The community keeps on telling us they don’t want sly grog and their help led to this seizure.

“The police can only ever be as strong as the community and in this case, we received a great amount of help.”

In total, 30 bottles of rum

were confiscated, along with 29 casks of wine, two cartons of beer and some assorted spirits.

“You can be paying up to $500 or $700 for a bottle of rum in Aurukun and we’ve estimated the street value to be around $30,000,” Senior Sergeant Singh told Cape York Weekly

“It’s a major haul and that means we’ve kept $30,000 in the community to be spent on things like food for the kids.”

Since taking on the role as officer in charge in April last year, Senior Sergeant Singh said he was trying to build stronger partnerships between the police and the community.

“It’s a great place to work and it can be really rewarding,” he said.

Some of the alcohol that was seized by Aurukun police last week. Community members provided valuable information that led to the arrest, police said.

Senior Sergeant Amit Singh is building ties to the Aurukun community.

Traditional Owners hope to benefit from new dam

By MATT NICHOLLS and SARAH MARTIN

TRADITIONAL Owners have thrown their support behind a dam that will remove the current stifle on agricultural growth in Lakeland, saying it would provide their people a viable way to return home.

Speaking at the Western Cape Futures Symposium in Weipa, Western Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation CEO Brad Grogan said the proposed 205,000ML dam and the thousands of jobs it would create was a boon for his people.

“One of the most important reasons we’re supporting the scheme is because we see it as an opportunity to create viable employment opportunities for Yalanji people to return to country,” Mr Grogan said.

“We see this project as a way to achieve self-sufficiency for our people, while also preserving our cultural heritage.”

Mr Grogan said the Lakeland

Irrigation Area Scheme was designed to minimise its impact on the environment, while creating thousands of construction jobs and up to 2300 ongoing employment opportunities once constructed.

“The project aims to provide water to farmers in the Lakeland area allowing them to grow much needed crops for the Australian consumer while also

protecting the natural resources which are integral to our culture and way of life,” he said.

Cook Shire mayor Peter Scott stood side-by-side with Mr Grogan in Weipa and said Traditional Owner support was vital for the project to go ahead.

“This story is about collaboration to get a very important project up, and we hope, across the line,” Cr Scott said.

“This is a $2 billion project we’re talking about but if Brad and his mob say they don’t want it, it’s not going to happen.”

Cr Scott said the proposed dam would allow further agricultural expansion at Lakeland, with the potential for the town to grow bigger than Cooktown.

“There’s fantastic benefits for the whole regional community,” he said.

“We’re looking at a town the size of Cooktown or bigger at Lakeland with all the associated hospitals, schools and services; this is the opportunity we’ve got going forward with this one and with the support of Western Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation, it’s looking really good.”

A federal and state-funded draft detailed business case has been completed, with the final report to be released soon.

The project is being led by Regional Development Australia Tropical North, with SMEC appointed as principal project managers.

Busy week for Idol

CAPE York’s Australian Idol winner Royston Sagigi-Baira has been run off his feet since being crowned just over a week ago.

The Mapoon star has been kept busy with TV and radio appearances in Sydney and across the country.

An obvious highlight was meeting his own idol, Jessica Mauboy, as well as Home and Away star Ray Meagher, famous for playing Alf Stewart.

Royston with Larry Emdur and Kylie Gillies from The Morning Show.

Spending time with Jessica Mauboy was a highlight.

Brad Grogan and Peter Scott at the Western Cape Futures Symposium.

Remote stores well ahead of state’s plastic bag ban Blackspot grants now open: govt

REMOTE supermarket operator Community Enterprise Queensland is reducing its environmental impact and expanding the singleuse plastic bag ban in its stores.

As part of the state’s plan to tackle plastic waste, Queensland businesses will not be allowed to use single-use plastic bags as of September.

However, CEQ chief executive officer Michael Dykes said CEQ had chosen to proactively activate this transition by ceasing the ordering of heavyweight plastic bags in its remote stores, as part of its commitment to help local communities meet their aspirations for a healthier and sustainable future.

“This is another important step to protect our environment and create a more sustainable future for generations to come,” he said last week.

“Once the Queensland government announced it was expanding the ban of single-use plastic items later this year, we decided to act as early and as quickly as possible.

“This means that even the heavyweight plastic bags that we consider ‘reusable’ will no longer be allowed.

“We’ve listened, taken action, and today we’re informing all our customers that we take plastic pollution seriously.

“When we say we care, every day, always, we mean it.”

CEQ’s general manager of merchandise Casey Kelly said she was proud of her retail team for stepping up and expanding the singleuse plastic bag ban well before the government deadline.

“There were several logistical challenges to get to this stage, and the team have done an amazing job,” she said.

“As of April 3, we’ll stop ordering the heavyweight plastic bags currently considered reusable, and then will phase out existing stock by introducing a suite of environmentally friendly bag options.

“We believe that by caring for the environment, we can make a better place for people to live, work and enjoy.

“Our stores are located in some of the most beautiful islands and

communities in the world, and we need to protect that for generations to come.”

Mr Dykes said CEQ stores were well prepared for the changes.

“Once the ban was announced by the government, our teams immediately began working with suppliers to source appropriate range alternatives,” he said.

“We will have an exciting new range of reusable bags available.”

APPLICATIONS have opened for Mobile Blackspot and Regional Connectivity proposals.

It is a combined grant opportunity, bringing together the Mobile Black Spot Program and the Regional Connectivity Program in two streams, and providing dedicated First Nations funding.

The $50 million Mobile Black Spot (Round 7) stream will provide grant funding to Mobile Network Operators and infrastructure providers to deliver new handheld mobile coverage to rural, regional and remote locations across Australia.

The $100 million Regional Connectivity (Round 3) stream will provide grant funding to projects that provide placebased new or improved broadband services and/or improved mobile services in eligible locations across Australia.

Both streams include dedicated funding for solutions to improve telecommunications infrastructure in First Nations communities.

“Australians deserve world class connectivity, no matter where they live or work,” said Communications Minister Michelle Rowland.

Applications close on May 31. To apply, visit: grants.gov.au

IBIS Bamaga team member Alma Gowa with a new re-usable bag that can be purchased in CEQ stores.

Recruits sign up for 51st Battalion

SECURITY across the Cape has been boosted with the induction of 12 new recruits from across Cape York into the Australian Army’s 51st Battalion, Far North Queensland Regiment.

The 51st, known as the eyes and ears of the Cape, conducts reconnaissance and surveillance across the region’s coastline in support of border security, as well as community engagement and disaster relief operations.

Their newest soldiers have just completed a two-week training course in Townsville, which includes navigation, first aid, communications and weapons training.

Recruits hail from Napranum,

Weipa, Yarrabah, Mareeba and the Torres Strait islands of Murray, Stephen and Darnley.

Cape York local Private Yasmin Wasiu has been mentoring the re-

cruits, and said she loved encouraging them to do their best and to enjoy the opportunity.

“I joined the Army in 2019 and have completed a number of quali-

Bamaga Enterprises Ltd April Update

Delight your tastebuds at Cape York Peninsula Lodge

Paperbark Restaurant at Cape York

Peninsula Lodge has a new seasonal menu showcasing the region’s best tropical ingredients. Start your dining experience with a cocktail overlooking the Mosby Creek then head inside to the restaurant for duck shanks as a tasty start. Hop into the kangaroo fillet with Davidson plum sauce for the main event and finish it all off with a bang by trying the delicious choc mint explosion.

Delicious op�ons for all tastes

The new menu has great choices for different dietary requirements including a range of vegetarian/vegan and gluten-free op�ons. For the kids, Paperbark Restaurant also has a special menu with some exci�ng new addi�ons like cheeseburger spring rolls and creamy chicken tortellini – don’t forget to ask the team for colouring ac�vi�es to keep the kids busy.

Start and end the day right

Chef Drew’s revamped menu is available for dinner every evening from 6pm and the restaurant’s bar is open from 5pm, invi�ng guests to enjoy a sundowner on the deck.

À la carte breakfast is served at Paperbark Restaurant, Monday to Friday, between 7am and 8.30am.

Events & mee�ngs

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Visit our website for the full menu or call us to reserve a table.

Cape York Peninsula Lodge, Corner Lui & Adidi Streets, Bamaga. Ph (07) 4069 3050 cypl.com.au/eat-drink

fications, my favourite being the boat course,” she said.

Private Joey Kulla-Kulla is from Stephen Island and said he was proud to have joined the Army.

“I’m really happy to have gotten through the recruitment process. I was proud to be issued my uniform, and have enjoyed learning about leadership and teamwork,” he said.

Shanique Bamaga, from Weipa, has wanted to join the army her whole life.

“I have wanted to join for as long as I can remember,” she said.

The 51st Battalion, Far North Queensland Regiment is based in Porton Barracks in Cairns and has a history dating back to World War I, where the battalion took part in the last major Allied attack of the war – the Hundred Days Offensive.

– story by Sarah Martin

Savour the kangaroo fillet poolside served with potato rosti, charred broccolini and spiced plum sauce.

Privates Keishaun Budby and Albert Luke. Lance Corporal Ben Lowry gives some feedback to Private Albert Luke. Private Gerlina Wapau from the 51st Battalion.

Australian Army soldier Private Jumav Wailu conducts a range shoot at the Mount Stuart Training Area in Townsville.

A lifetime of knowledge is lost with Shirley’s passing

By SARAH MARTIN

HOPE Vale is mourning lifelong educator and community champion Shirley Costello, who recently passed away.

Ms Costello was a tireless teacher and leader, playing many vital roles in community organisations during her working life, including as a teacher at George Bowen Memorial Kindergarten and Hope Vale school.

She is fondly remembered for her warm smile, love of music and willingness to get things done, as long as she was able to stay behind the scenes.

“Her favourite instrument was the bass,” Hope Vale mayor Jason Woibo said.

“She liked to be in the background playing, having a little bit of a jam. She was just a cheery person, bigger than life with a really good heart and always smiling.”

Cr Woibo, who called Ms Costello “Aunty”, said he was extremely proud that his first speech as an elected member was written by Ms Costello.

“I am very proud of that, that she got to write that for me and I got to read it,” the mayor said.

“I would like to acknowledge her contributions to our community as a councillor and in her many

other roles. She will be sorely missed by the community.”

Ms Costello was also a member of the Hope Vale Church Council, a Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire councillor, a Director of Hope Vale Congress Aboriginal Corporation and a women’s group leader.

One of her more widely-known roles was as coordinator of Hope Vale’s Indigenous Knowledge Centre, where she championed the recording, preservation and sharing of Indigenous culture and the Guugu Yimithirr language.

“Shirley Costello was a true champion of lifelong learning,” a spokeswoman for the State Library of Queensland said.

“Shirley was the first Hope Vale Indigenous Knowledge Centre Coordinator and worked closely with State Library of Queensland’s Indigenous Services team to deliver a library service to community.

“She was a passionate advocate for keeping Guugu Yimithirr language and culture alive, through initiatives like delivering weekly radio sessions and developing

Grants for exploration in the Cape

TWO Cape York projects have been given state government funding to explore critical mineral deposits in the region.

Rhumb Resources has been given a grant to drill a prospect near Laura, “testing for nickelcopper and platinum group element mineralisation in an undeveloped area”.

Colt Resources also won a grant to “fly an airborne gravity survey to look for dense nickelcopper ore bodies in a relatively under-explored area” near Palmerville Station.

The state government said that a record number of projects received funding under round seven of the $5 million program.

bilingual signage at the centre.”

The spokeswoman said Ms Costello would be remembered for her famous quote: “It started with the message stick, and we continue today with the memory stick,” when she addressed the opening of the Hope Vale IKC in 2008.

“State Library extends its condolences to Shirley’s family and friends,” the spokeswoman said.

Ms Costello is survived by her children Ainsley, Roland, Dustin and Kamaree, her grandchildren and their families.

The latest round supports 25 projects across the state, providing up to $250,000 each, to find minerals the world needs to decarbonise.

Nearly three quarters of all successful projects are focused on finding new copper deposits – a mineral needed for solar, hydro and wind energy systems.

“Our program will give our explorers the resources they need to take on financially risky projects that could lead to Queensland’s next big critical minerals discovery,” Resources Minister Scott Stewart said.

Current owners have been meticulous in the planning & construction of the infrastructure of the home & outbuildings with high quality materials & workmanship carried out by licensed builders & tradespeople. Guest accommodation with outdoor kitchen, entertaining area complete with outdoor spa & fire pit. Caretaker or longer term accommodation is separate & private from the main home which is also fenced separately. Potential for extra income, with bush/rainforest camping with Council approval. All fence lines are cleared with wide fire breaks.

For more information or to arrange an inspection contact Cooktown Platinum Realty today!

Shirley Costello is being remembered as a tireless educator and community advocate.

Parliamentarians pause to read tributes for Billy

By MATT NICHOLLS

MEMBERS of parliament from all sides of politics have paid tribute to the legacy of the late Billy Gordon.

The one-time Labor MP, who served as the Member for Cook from January 2015 to November 2017, died last year at 49.

Billy’s fiancee Olympia Little and his siblings and friends were in Brisbane to hear the motion of condolence in parliament.

In total, 10 MPs spoke about Billy and his legacy as both a politician and a man.

Both Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Opposition Leader David Crisafulli spoke about his tenure, however the best tributes came from lowerlevel colleagues.

“As the only two First Nations peoples in this place after the 2015 election, Billy and I shared a special bond,” Minister Leeanne Enoch said.

“We both understood the extra responsibilities we carried and the weight of these responsibilities, but for Billy when he joined the crossbench during a hung parliament where his vote was a defining one, he carried an extraordinary amount of responsibility – in many ways, more than anyone else in this place.

“The pressure on him at that time was physically visible.”

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey was visibly emotional when reflecting on his friendship with Billy.

“On most occasions during that parliament, Billy, along with the government, used his vote for reform on a wide range of measures which were substantial and lasting and will never be undone,” he said.

“Many members who have to leave a governing party involuntarily for the crossbench are often then a handful, to say the least, and few remain loyal or even civil at times to those that they are no longer with.

“Billy Gordon was a rare exception on virtually every occasion. As he said to a member of my staff over a late night sitting beer, ‘I’m a Labor man and I always will be sista.’

“Billy would be the first to say he was no angel. He was, however, a good friend and one I am glad to have had and to have shared part of my journey with.

“I saw Billy a number of times since he left this chamber. He was always the same –cheerful, interested, curious.

“I did not consider then that the opportunity to catch up with him would cease so suddenly and far too early.

“I half expect to run into him in the corridor and can still see him floating around these hallways, popping his head in the door with a cheeky smile and a quip.”

Other MPs who spoke included current Member for Cook Cynthia Lui, Katter’s Australian Party MP Shane Knuth and Deputy Premier Steven Miles.

Billy’s sister Megan Carpenter wrote: “Today was an important day for us. It was quite emotional but mostly heart-warming to listen to the many positive things my brother did in making things happen for First Nations people.

“He tried to Close the Gap not only in his electorate of Cook but First Nations people all over.

“Many of these things (they said) I didn’t know because he never talked about politics with us. I was delighted to hear these things and I am very proud of my brother’s accomplishments.

“Billy made an impression on so many people within parliament and that clearly showed to-

day when 10 politicians stood up and took turns in talking about him and the kind words, they gave.

“Four of these politicians cried speaking about him and recalled fond memories they have of him, especially stopping to yarn with them and have a beer when he could.”

Editor’s note: Billy Gordon might not have had the legacy he wanted in politics, but his time in parliament was significant, nonetheless.

He was always happy to pick up the phone and have a yarn about politics, business or life.

Seeing the Broncos on top of the ladder with a 5-0 record adds extra pain because Billy was the biggest Broncos tragic out there.

His death is also a timely reminder for all of us to get a health check from a GP.

No election needed

MAPOON Aboriginal Shire Council has a new councillor in Janelle Ling.

Cr Ling was the only nomination for the Mapoon by-election following the close of nominations, which were extended to March 27.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said in accordance with the Local Government Electoral Act, the election was deemed as uncontested, and Cr Ling was declared elected unopposed. The vacancy occurred following the resignation of councillor Kiri Tabuai on February 14.

Normanton barra comp

IF you fancy a roadtrip, the Easter long weekend is the time to visit our western neighbours for the Normanton Barra Competition.

This year is the event’s 30th anniversary, with a whopping $25,000 in cash and prizes on offer across a range of fishy categories including $6000 for the heaviest barra and $1000 for the heaviest salmon.

Nominations open at 5pm on Friday and competitors can wet their lines all day Saturday and until 4pm Sunday.

For more information contact the Albion Hotel on 4745 1218.

High-tech upgrade

CAIRNS Hospital has become the first regional hospital in Australia to take part in cutting edge research involving the early detection of skin cancer through 3D body scanning technology.

The Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service has taken delivery of a $540,000 Vectra 3D whole body scanner, under a world-first melanoma imaging and diagnosis trial.

Cairns will be one of 15 sites nationwide to have one of the machines, to form an inter-connected centre of excellence in diagnostic imaging of early melanoma across metropolitan and regional Australia.

The machines are part of the $10 million Australian Centre of Excellence in Melanoma Imaging and Diagnosis, which have been funded by the Australian Cancer Research Foundation.

Cairns Hospital dermatologist Dr Ilsphi Browne said she was elated to be able to access this technology here locally at Cairns Hospital.

“The machine’s use of 3D imaging technology will allow for objective and secure collection of photography of a person’s skin within a few milliseconds,” she said.

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The late Billy Gordon and finacee Olympia Little, wearing their NRL team colours with pride.

MUSGRAVE SUPER 8s CRICKET CARNIVAL

APRIL 29 to MAY 1

Rub shoulders with Australian cricket royalty Doug Walters & Jeff Thomson at this year’s Super 8s Carnival at Musgrave Roadhouse!

Teams from the Cape will do battle with sides from the Tablelands on the Labour Day weekend, from Saturday, April 29 to Monday, May 1.

Barbecue dinner & memorabilia auction on the Saturday night

Camping available Roadhouse kitchen open

Alcohol available to purchase

Members of the public are encouraged to come along & watch the social event being played in front of the iconic homestead

Tributes flow for a terrific citizen

By SARAH MARTIN

COOKTOWN farewelled quiet achiever and lifelong volunteer Jean Stephan on Monday.

Ms Stephan, who was awarded Citizen of the Year at Cook Shire’s 2023 Australia Day event in January, was remembered as a selfless volunteer and much-loved mother and grandmother.

She also contributed content for this tribute in a document written for her children Christopher, Catherine and Michael.

“I find there is always something of beauty to observe every day if one has the eyes to see, and there is always someone else who needs a smile to lift their day,” Ms Stephan wrote.

“These two simple principles, as well as my 15m radius rule of doing my personal best, environmentally and socially, within that imaginary area, have become a modest philosophy to help me through the rougher times.”

Cook Shire mayor Peter Scott, who spoke at the service, said Ms Stephan would be remembered as “wholly beautiful”.

“She was such a wonderful, generous beautiful lady,” he said.

“She was always gracious and

she will be sadly missed in our community. My sincere condolences to her family.”

Ms Stephan grew up in Sydney, starting her working life as a secretary and saving every penny to fulfil her dream of travelling.

At age 19, she set sail for England aboard the liner Oriana, travelling throughout Europe before returning to Australia via the Panama Canal.

“My appetite for travel was irretrievably whetted,” she wrote.

“Not long after returning, trips to Central Australia including Darwin, through desert areas where opals are mined and eventually a camping trip around Australia helped to satisfy my addiction.”

Soon after, she met German communications technician Gunter Stephan while working at the Hamersley Iron mine in the Pilbara, and the pair were married in 1970.

The couple moved many times, with their first two children born in

Cairns, while they were living at Weipa, and their final child born in 1978 in Sydney.

In 1983, they headed to the Phillipines as part of an Australian Aid project, where Ms Stephan’s daughter Catherine remembers her mum organising medical missions.

“She made us kids visit all the medical universities in Manila recruiting trainee surgeons and doctors and convincing them to come to Catarman, the remote island where we lived,” she said.

“They resurrected the operating theatres and performed hundreds of life-changing surgeries.

“She also convinced several pharmaceutical companies to donate their almost-out-of-date medications for the next two years.

“This was all her doing, not part of the Australia Aid project.”

Amid political tension, the family was evacuated from the Phillipines and moved to Darwin where Mr and Mrs Stephan worked on the Amadeus Basin gas project, before heading to Singapore where they would spend the next 17 years.

“Initially I wasn’t permitted to work as the spouse of an employed expatriate,” Ms Stephan wrote.

“So I enrolled in an off-campus

degree with Deakin University, eventually graduating with first class honours in History and winning the university prize for my thesis.”

The couple returned to Australia and soon after Mr Stephan retired and they moved to their property in Cooktown in around 2008.

Sadly, their retirement dreams did not come to fruition when Mr Stephan was diagnosed with a degenerative brain disease which led to his passing in 2016.

Ms Stephan threw herself into volunteer work during her time in Cooktown, supporting the Cooktown Historical Society and as president of the Vera Scarth-Johnson Gallery Association.

She also continued to travel, visiting Canada, Alaska, China, Kyrgyzstan, Jordan, Venice, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia and New Zealand.

Ms Stephan was the first person to choose voluntary assisted dying in Cooktown and passed away on March 28.

Ms Stephan is survived by her brother Gary Bartlett and his children Lisa and Anthony, sons Christopher and Michael and daughter Catherine, and grandchildren Matilda, Cooper, Kiri and Kloe.

Gunter and Jean Stephan were a well-travelled couple. Travel was one of Ms Stephan’s passions in life.

Ms Stephan received first class honours for her history degree through Deakin University.

Ms Stephan with her children Christopher, Catherine and Michael.

Jean Stephan loved to travel, holidaying, living and working around Australia and the world. Pictures: SUPPLIED

Rio Tinto Weipa general manager Shona Markham and historian Geoff Wharton with Traditional Owners at the morning tea to celebrate 150 years of Rio Tinto history. Back row – Donita Coconut, Fiona Wirrer-George and Kaylene Jawai.

Front row – Aunty Maryann Coconut, Aunty Isabel Hall and Aunty Janice Wilson.

Weipa Town Authority chair Michael Rowland welcomed visitors to the library.

Ali Scott, Nicole Emerick and Richelle Ryan.

Chris and Kath Newman share morning tea with Yvonne Rowland.

The morning tea in the Weipa library proved popular. Trawling through photos depicting Rio Tinto’s history.

Decades of Weipa ‘war stories’ were shared amongst this trio on Saturday morning.

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

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

Crossword

TODAY’S

Spot the 5 Differences

YESTERDAY’S SOLUTION acing acme acne acting cage came cane cant cent cinema cite citing enact ENIGMATIC gametic genic icing incite mace magic magnetic manic mantic mica mice mince nice

Reference: Macquarie Concise Dictionary Focus No. 3955

Join the Dots

Solutions

Planned Power Outage

Monday

Position Vacant –Biodiversity Project Officer

This is a frontline conservation position supporting the highly successful community-led protection program of marine turtles on the west coast of Cape York Peninsula. The role will also assist other threatened species and ecological community conservation projects throughout Cape York Peninsula.

● Amazing opportunity to work in Cape York Peninsula

● Support the protection of the biggest Flatback turtle rookery in the world and Olive Ridley turtle stock

● Work closely with Traditional Owners under the Western Cape Turtle Threat Abatement Alliance (WCTTAA)

● Permanent Full Time (75 hr fortnight)

● Salary is $ $80,841- $87,499 per annum including 5 weeks annual leave, plus 17.5% leave loading and 10.5% superannuation guarantee

● Cairns or Cape York location (negotiable)

Applicants must apply via our website using the application kit found here: https://capeyorknrm.com.au/about/vacancies

Applications close 5pm Wednesday 19 April 2023

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

The Western Cape Communities Coordinating Committee (WCCCC) and its three SubCommittees transparently monitor, implement and review the objectives of the WCCCA to ensure that all parties’ obligations under the agreement are met. The WCCT office is the administration arm for all the Trusts and the WCCCC. It manages the overall business of the company including servicing, assisting and supporting the above entities. WCCT is committed to providing high quality services to our Traditional Owners, and we recognize the importance of employing the most suitable candidates. Currently we are seeking applications for the position of:

GARDENER

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

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

• Knowledge of regional plant life;

• Knowledge of local pests and how to eliminate them;

• Knowledge of synthetic and natural fertilizers;

• Knowledge of health and safety regulations for landscaping; and

• The ability to lift heavy objects and remain on your feet for long periods of time. Traditional Owners and Aboriginal people are strongly encouraged to apply. For further information including a position description please contact: Office Manager Phone: (07) 4069 7945 Email: offmgr@westerncape.com.au

All applications should be clearly marked “Private and Confidential” and addressed as follows: Executive Officer PO Box 106 Weipa, QLD, 4874 Phone: (07) 4069 7945 Email: eo@westerncape.com.au

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Calling for Expr E ssions of i nt E r E st auditor position required 23/24 year

for gungarde Community Centre aboriginal Corporation location, 92 Charlotte street Cooktown, Queensland, 4895

Quotes are required for the Audit of Gungarde and GCAC Enterprise Pty Ltd for the Financial year ending 30/06/2024.

Audits for each entity is required and a consolidated audit report. Quotes with total costs for the year, or a break down quotes with travel, hourly costing, and AGM attendances.

Audit must be done complying to the CATSI act and have the approval to do these audits.

Please address all quotes to:

Gungarde Community Centre Aboriginal Corporation, by the 30th April 2023

Greg Whittaker

Chief Executive Officer PO Box 6 Cooktown QLD 4895 or Email to gwhittaker@gungarde.com.au

For further information: call 0400 695 177

greg Whittaker

CEo gungarde Community Centre aboriginal Corporation

Request for Quote (RFQ) – Development of Five-Year Corporate Plan

Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council is inviting quotations from suitably qualified and experienced suppliers to undertake the development of Council’s Five-Year Corporate Plan.

The Councils Five-Year Corporate Plan will provide the strategic connection between community aspirations and corporate strategy and is an integral document to Council.

The RFQ is available to download via www.kowanyama.qld.gov.au/tenders-andopportunites/

This project will commence no later than 1st May 2023 with completion no later than 8th December 2023.

The RFQ should comprise of a completed Supplier Response Form and any relevant supporting documentation.

Applicants must have a registered ABN.

RFQ closes at 5.00pm Wednesday 19 April 2023.

RFQ’s must be submitted electronically to tenders@kowanyama.qld.gov.au by close.

Kevin Bell, Chief Executive Officer

Updated Planned Power Outage

Critical Maintenance and Repairs

Thursday 6 April 2023

0800hrs to 1400hrs (6 hour duration)

Expression of Interest - Audit and Risk Committee - Chair

TKASC2023-004

Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council is inviting expressions of interest from suitably qualified and experienced individuals to be appointed as Chair of its Audit and Risk Committee.

The Chair will have strong communication and leadership skills. The Chair will preferably be a qualified accountant, who is a current member of one of the professional accounting bodies in Australia and who has relevant financial experience in professional accounting or audit.

The Committee Charter is available to download via www.kowanyama.qld.gov.au/tenders

Initial term of appointment will be 4 years, commencing June 2023.

Expressions of interest should comprise a cover letter, current resume and a proposed hourly rate (GST excl). Applicants must have a registered ABN.

EOI’s close at 4.00pm Friday 14 April 2023.

EOI’s must be submitted electronically to tenders@kowanyama.qld.gov.au by close.

Kevin Bell, Chief Executive Officer

Position Vacant –Sustainable Industries Officer

This position will work with Cape York region farmers, graziers and peak industry bodies (with a focus on the Lakeland agricultural area and the north western Cape) to improve the sustainability and productivity of farming systems and improve the condition of natural resources. A key focus area is on improving Great Barrier Reef water quality through encouraging and documenting voluntary improvement in soil, nutrient and pesticide management. Water use efficiency and targeted pest and weed management are also focus areas.

● Amazing opportunity to work in Cape York Peninsula

● Permanent Full Time (75 hr fortnight)

● Salary is $73,219 - $79,263 per annum including 5 weeks annual leave, plus 17.5% leave loading plus 10.5% superannuation guarantee

● Cooktown or Cairns (by negotiation) with regular travel

Applicants must apply via our website using the application kit found here:

https://capeyorknrm.com.au/about/vacancies

Applications close 5pm Friday 21 April 2023

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

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

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

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. 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 14TH APRIL 2023

Position Vacant –Grazing and Water Quality Project Officer

The Grazing and Water Quality Project Officer will work with relevant project staff and land managers to deliver property action plans and on-ground works contracts for projects being delivered on Cape York Peninsula grazing properties and all reef related activities including but not limited to the Reef Assist 2.0 gully remediation and training project.

● Amazing opportunity to work in Cape York Peninsula

● Permanent Full Time (75 hr fortnight)

● Salary is $73,219 - $79,263 per annum including 5 weeks annual leave, plus 17.5% leave loading plus 10.5% superannuation guarantee

● Cooktown or Cairns (by negotiation) with regular travel

Applicants must apply via our website using the application kit found here:

https://capeyorknrm.com.au/about/vacancies

Applications close 5pm Friday 21 April 2023

CAPE YORK LAND COUNCIL

YUK PUYNGK

ICN 1163 | A BN 22 965 382 705

NOTICE OF BOUNDARY RESOLUTION MEETINGS FOR THAYPAN AND KUKU WARRA NATIVE

TITLE GROUPS

Cape York United # 1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014)

Thursday 13 April 2023 PCYC Cooktown

This notice is to advise that Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will be holding a boundary resolution meeting in Cooktown for members of the Thaypan and Kuku Warra Native Title Groups in relation to the Cape York United #1 Claim. This meeting is a Decision-Making Meeting. Details of these Thaypan and Kuku Warra boundary resolution meeting

Date: Thursday 13 April 2023

Time: 12.00pm – 4.30pm

Venue: PCYC Cooktown, 3 May Street, Cooktown QLD 4895

Purpose of Meeting

CYLC will be facilitating a meeting between representatives of the Thaypan and Kuku Warra Native Title Groups to resolve one section of their common boundary, in the area generally shown on the map (at right) as circled in red. To be clear, this is the boundary area generally from Breeza Plains in the north, and southwards in the vicinity of North Kennedy River. This is an important decision-making meeting and CYLC will take instructions about this boundary decision by way of written resolution. The boundary description must be provided to the State of Queensland under the Federal Court timetable. The boundary negotiated during this meeting will form part of the final administrative boundary of each native title group’s Prescribed Body Corporate (PBC).

Attendance

If you have queries about this meeting, or for travel assistance or to confirm attendance, please contact Jayd Copelin by Wednesday 5 April 2023 on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email jcopeli@cylc.org. au Note that there is limited funding available for travel assistance.

Video-Conferencing and COVID-19 Precautions

Video-conferencing facilities will be made available at the meeting, including because of the potential for COVID-19 to interfere with attendance. If you would like CYLC to arrange a video-conference from your location into the meeting, whether you live at the location of the meeting or elsewhere, please contact CYLC on the number above.

COMPETITION was fierce as anglers jostled for space to throw a line in great fishing weather at the recent Cooktown Bluewater Club Family Fun Day, but fish weren’t the target of the day.

Keen fishos, kids and families flocked to the Bluewater Club Lease on the waterfront to enjoy the first of many planned fun days, not necessarily involving getting out on the water.

Junior anglers practiced their lure casting, with great fishing and camping gear as prizes.

Department of Agriculture and Fisheries staff were also in attendance to spruik the new QLD Fishing 2.0 app, which allows anglers to understand rules and location-based restrictions.

Tyler Tree cleaned up in the competitions.

Charlotte Pensio enjoyed the morning with her family.

Caleb Kamholtz concentrates on casting his lure.

Yindili Kamholtz drawing raffle prize winners.

Will Stock was stoked with his prize.

Zoe Winton gave it her best shot in the lure casting competition.

Zoe Winton, Esther Kamholtz, Jono Coventry and Chase Hunt.

Lachlan and Matt from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries were onsite to provide advice. Club vice president Wayne Hunt with son Chase.

SPORT IN BRIEF

Sunday specialist

LUCAS Duvenhague continues to play well on Sunday mornings after collecting another Dawn Busters win on the weekend. He beat Grant Crossley for the honours in a field of seven at Weipa.

Viv Dick picked up the Hoffman’s, while Jamie Hutton had the longest drive.

Power couple wins

GARRY Breitkreutz and Desley McIntosh joined forces on the tees to be the weekend’s stableford multiplier winners at Carpentaria Golf Club.

They had 66 points in the Weipa Cabinets and Building-sponsored event, beating Eugene Venter and Jeff, who carded 64 points.

There were no nearest to pins awarded. This Sunday, there is a two-person ambrose event being played for those sticking around for Easter.

Gaz in a thriller

NINE players took to the back 9 at Weipa last Wednesday for the weekly Wackers event and it was Garry Breitkreutz who came out on top.

He defeated Jay Murray in a countback after both had 45 off the stick for a nett 36.5.

No nearest the pins were won, while Grant Crossley picked up the Bradman’s.

King helps Pride to win

WEIPA’S Denzel King was a key player in the Northern Pride’s thrilling 13-12 win over the Townsville Blackhawks on Saturday night in Cairns. Coming off the bench, the utlity scored the Pride’s first try of the match to keep them in the game.

With scores deadlocked near the final whistle, halfback Evan Child kicked a field goal to give the Cairns-based side the win in front of a jubliant Barlow Park crowd. The win was even sweeter for the Pride, who were down on key personnel and have had to play this season without the aid of any reserves from the Cowboys.

In the pre-season, the North Queensland NRL team said it would no longer supply the Pride and Mackay Cutters with top-ups, instead sending all of their players to the Blackhawks.

Cyclist hits halfway mark

COOKTOWN nurse Dale Tan has pushed through days of rain, extreme heat and a bout of gastro as he attempts the 5500km, unsupported Indian Pacific Wheelrace from Fremantle to Sydney.

On Monday, Tan was 16 days into the race, which he hopes to complete in under 29 days.

“Last time I did it in 29 days; this time I’m looking to do it in 25 or less,” he said.

Sleeping in a tiny tent wherever he can find shelter, getting up at 2am and averaging a leg-burning 200-plus kilometres a day, Tan is pushing himself to raise funds for his fellow healthcare workers.

“I ride for the damaged and burnt-out healthcare workers

in Australia and the rest of the world,” he said.

“These selfless people give so much; it’s not an easy job and mental health support, research and education is of paramount importance. Blackdog Institute is quite active in that space and I’d like to contribute just a little bit to that.”

Tan has crossed into South Australia, and is heading for the NSW border, buoyed by a surprise coffee, Nutella pancakes and Easter eggs provided roadside by keen race followers.

Readers can follow Mr Tan and his fellow Indian Pacific Wheel Race riders progress at ipwr23. maprogress.com

Weipa represented at ultramarathon

WITH the Weipa Running Festival fast approaching, a handful of eager athletes flew to Cairns on the weekend to tune up.

Scott Barton completed the 50km ultramarathon in just under five hours in what was his first run over 42km.

His son Jack ran 30km in less than three hours and was joined on the circuit by fellow Weipa runner Leigh Jewell.

Young gun Bridie Maher is a shorter course specialist and she managed to get on the podium in the 10km with a blistering time of 42:27 to be third.

The Weipa Running Festival is on July 23.

COOKTOWN TIDE TIMES

Cooktown’s Dale Tan on the Bunda Cliffs in South Australia.

Jack and Scott Barton with Leigh Jewell after Sunday’s race.

Bridie Maher recovers after her 10km dash.

Scott Barton crosses the line. It was an early start for the boys.

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

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DEB DUFFY

Principal Licencee 0418 773 747

debduffy@weiparealestate.com.au

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

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.