Cape York Weekly Edition 130

Death in custody: Police may have breached rules

By MATT NICHOLLS

THE officers on duty at the Kowanyama Police Station when a local man died while in custody could have been in breach of operation procedures.

Last Thursday, a pre-inquest conference was held in the Cape York community where it was revealed that an Aboriginal man, named for cultural reasons as Mr George, was arrested by police on November 9 last year after reports of a domestic violence incident.

The court heard that Mr George, was arrested at around 1.12pm that day and placed in a cell at the Kowanyama watch-

house at 1.21pm. He was left unchecked until 2.35pm.

In the Queensland Police Service Operational Procedures Manual, under Chapter 16.9.5 it states: “Prisoners are to be inspected regularly at varying intervals (the intervals between inspections is to be no greater than one hour).

“Inspections are to be conducted on a basis consistent with the prisoner’s risk assessment level. A prisoner displaying suicidal tendencies is to be closely monitored until medical attention can be obtained.”

Cape York Weekly has chosen not to name the officers who were on duty until they have

been given the chance to present their version of events.

Counsel assisting the Coroner Melia Benn told the court that CCTV footage showed Mr George, 51, engaging in an act of self-harm after removing his shirt.

“Mr George fell back onto the risen built-in concrete bed and laid there until police checked on him, approximately one hour and 14 minutes later,” she told the court.

When officers checked on Mr George, they began CPR and alerted the Kowanyama clinic.

He was unable to be revived.

Ms Benn told the court that Mr George “grew up in Kow-

anyama until adulthood, when he began to travel around the Cape”.

“He was well known and lived in Hope Vale, Laura, Lockhart River, Pormpuraaw and Aurukun,” she said.

The pre-inquest hearing lasted less than 20 minutes.

Mr George’s sister, Gwynette George, gave an emotional address to the court.

“Ever since he left, I haven’t been sleeping much,” she said.

“It’s affecting me so much and I miss him.

“I cry every morning; I miss having my brother around.”

There has been no date set for the continuance of the inquest.

Joint exercise to be the ‘biggest ever’

WEIPA is gearing up to play a major role in a major military exercise involving tens of thousands of troops from across the globe.

Exercise Talisman Sabre will be staged across northern Australia, with approximately 30,000 military personnel to participate, almost double the number involved in 2021.

Now in its tenth iteration, Talisman Sabre is the largest bilateral combined training activity between the Australian Defence Force and United States military.

The biennial exercise is an opportunity to exercise high-end, multi-domain warfare capabilities, build and affirm military-to-

military ties and interoperability, and strengthen strategic partnerships across the region.

Confirmed participating partner nations in Talisman Sabre 2023 include Fiji, Indonesia,

Japan, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, France, United Kingdom, Canada and Germany.

The Philippines, Singapore and Thailand will attend as observers.

Talisman Sabre 2023 will run from July 22 to August 4 and will be primarily in Queensland but also in Western Australia, the Northern Territory and NSW.

Last year, Brigadier Damian Hill told Cape York Weekly that locals should be preparing to see a major presence in the Cape.

“It’s difficult to put a number on it at this stage, but I think around the 1000 mark would be a safe estimate,” he said.

Brigadier Hill said that RAAF Base Scherger and the Weipa harbour would provide organisers with a unique training opportunity.

“The objective of the exercise has always been about developing inter-operability between the US and Australian defence forces,” he said.

“It’s high-end warfighting and training. Cape York provides us with a really great opportunity to practice some difficult problems.”

“Talisman Sabre 2023 will be the largest ever iteration of the exercise in terms of both geographic span and also partner nation involvement.”

Australian, United States and partner nation military planners outside the Battle Simulation Centre at Gallipoli Barracks in Brisbane during a planning conference for Exercise Talisman Sabre 2023.

Brigadier Damian Hill.

Ten years too late:

to help find missing mum

By MATT NICHOLLS

THE Queensland government is putting up $500,000 as a reward for information that leads to the identification and conviction of anyone responsible for the disappearance of a Cape York mum.

A Kowanyama woman, now referred to as Ms Bernard, as per her family’s wishes, was last seen alive at the Archer River quarry on Sunday, February 10, 2013.

At the time, police did not treat her disappearance as suspicious, instead believing that she had walked away in the night.

The case went cold and police stopped searching for Ms Bernard until her family was able to lobby for a coronial inquest into her disappearance.

Since then, Queensland Police Service, facing embarrassment for its botching of the case, has scrambled to find out what happened to Ms Bernard.

Searches and investigations

over the last 18 months have failed to yield results, prompting a $500,000 reward, which was announced by Detective Superintendent Sonia Smith last week.

“Ms Bernard was last seen at Archer River quarry on Sunday, the 10th of February 2013 at 11pm,” she said.

“She’d been seen at the Exchange Hotel in Coen that evening, and was expected to travel to Kowanyama, however never arrived,” she said.

Debbie Kilroy, a lawyer who

represents Ms Bernard’s family, was critical of the timing.

“This reward should have been put up by Minister Mark Ryan and the Queensland Police Service a decade ago when she first disappeared,” she told ABC.

“Hopefully someone will come forward, but I still think it’s 10 years too late.”

After being ordered by the Northern Coroner Nerida Wilson to conduct another search, police deployed new drone and camera technology for a systematic search of the quarry area in 2021, along with officers 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,” a QPS statement said.

At the reward announcement, Detective Superintendent Smith also read a statement from Ms Bernard’s family, which said the

family was still devastated by her disappearance.

“Her absence continues to impact our lives and community,” she read.

“We acknowledge the announcement of the reward by the Police Minister, and we encourage anyone that has information that may assist investigations to come forward with that information.

“Family members deserve the respect of having the questions that surround her disappearance answered.”

Police Minister Mark Ryan said the reward was offered for information to assist in giving some answers and closure to Ms Bernard and her loved ones.

“I genuinely hope that this reward helps to provide answers for Ms Bernard, her family, friends and the community,” he said.

Ms Bernard’s death remains the subject of a coronial investigation, which will continue in Cairns on May 9.

Detective Superintendent Sonia Smith announces a $500,000 reward for information regarding Ms Bernard’s disappearance.

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

Festival set to welcome back muster

WITH huge interest in the inaugural muster held last year as part of the Cooktown Discovery Festival, organisers have expanded the Cape York Ute Muster to a full auto show and are hoping it will reinvigorate the annual festival.

Organiser Lauren Bowyer said she hadn’t expected the overwhelming response to last year’s event, and this year’s show was looking to be even bigger.

“We had 30 people register last year, and already have people registered for this year,” she said.

“We have added extra categories this year, so it will be a full automotive muster, not just for utes.”

This year the event is being re-branded as the Cape York Automotive Muster, with categories for hunting rig, ladies’ rig, classic rig, best flex, roughest rig, street ute, motorcycle, truck, sexy standards, B&S ute and muscle cars, as well as the people’s choice “best in show”.

“There is something for everyone, from the sexy standards category which is just a good-looking car that hasn’t had many modifications done, to the other end of the

spectrum with the roughest rig,” Ms Bowyer said.

“So far I’ve only had a handful of sponsors come on board, and we are getting pretty close to the wire, so I may have to pull some of the categories if we don’t get a bit more support.”

If support from both those wanting to show off their vehicles and businesses providing sponsorship continued to grow, Ms Bowyer said she envisioned the muster growing into a fully-fledged car show that would attract a huge crowd to Cooktown for the annual Discovery Festival weekend.

“Eventually if I keep getting support and I can secure sponsorship, I’d like it to be a big car show, maybe based at the racecourse and all the vehicles can be parked up with people able to walk in and out and have entertainment at night,” she said.

“This just gives another element to the festival, it could be as big as the Cooktown Hog Hunt which is now one of the biggest feral animal eradication events in Australia, and bring all those people here to enjoy the car show and the festival.”

Dredging vessel ready to return

NORTH Queensland Bulk Ports will soon begin its annual maintenance dredging at the Port of Weipa.

Acting CEO Belinda Kenny said the vessel TSHD Brisbane was due to arrive in early May.

“Maintenance dredging works are an integral part of port operations,” Ms Kenny said.

“In the same way we maintain roads and rail lines for freight transport, we need to look after our port infrastructure to keep trade flowing.

“Regular maintenance dredging ensures efficient, navigable shipping depths for our port users. It’s undertaken by port authorities around the world and is critical for maintaining port infrastructure.

“The works are expected to start in early May and take up to seven weeks to complete.”

Ms Kenny reminded boaties to take extra care when on the water during the dredging works.

“The Brisbane and its support vessels have restricted manoeuvring capability. We urge people on the water to pay close attention to displayed warning flags and lights.”

The maintenance dredging will be conducted in line with all approvals and permits, including a range of strict environmental conditions. Environmental monitoring and management measures will also be implemented throughout the campaign to minimise the risk of any potential impacts on the marine environment.

Dredging will also be completed at Amrun on behalf of Rio Tinto.

LEST WE FORGET

COUNCIL ADMINISTRATION BUILDING CLOSED: Tuesday 25 April 2023

COOKTOWN WORKS DEPOT CLOSED: Tuesday 25 April 2023

WASTE TRANSFER STATIONS

Cooktown WTS will close on Tuesday 25 April 2023.

All other facilities will run according to their usual schedule

COOKSHIRE LIBRARIES CLOSED: Tuesday 25 April 2023

COOKTOWN SWIMMING POOL CLOSED: Tuesday 25 April 2023

NATURE'S POWERHOUSE CLOSED: Tuesday 25 April 2023

For all Council emergencies, please phone 4082 0500 during this time. Your call will be answered by our after-hours service.

4082 0500 mail@cook.qld.gov.au www.cook.qld.gov.au

General Manager, Shona Markham

North Queensland Bulk Ports employee Dan Harris in Weipa last year with TSHD Brisbane.

Iconic brand invested in the Cape

By SARAH MARTIN

THE world’s biggest luxury brand, Louis Vuitton, is throwing its global weight behind conservation in remote Cape York.

The iconic French-based fashion house, ranked by Retail Times as the top brand in more than 80 countries across the world, has partnered with the Apudthama Land Trust and Australian charity People for Wildlife to protect nearly one million acres of country in the northern Cape.

Apudthama Land Trust represents the Angkamuthi, Atampaya and Gudang-Yadhakenu people and cares for some of the most biodiverse country in Australia.

The project aims to improve scientific understanding and support improved outcomes for plants and animals.

People For Wildlife’s executive director Dr Daniel Natusch said that besides a few isolated species, the conservation science community knew little about the overall status of biodiversity in the Cape.

“If trends across Northern Australia are anything to go by, it’s likely that flora and fauna species in Cape York are undergoing decline because of pressures from climate change, land clearing, changed fire regimes, introduced predators, invasive plants and animals and disease,” he said.

“We need to fill knowledge gaps so we can tailor management pro-

grams and address the drivers of decline.”

The partnership is establishing a network of monitoring and survey sites to help determine trends in biodiversity health.

In addition, weed and feral animal control will also be implemented, and fire management that supports and builds on the work of the Apudthama Land and Sea Rangers.

An Apudthama spokeswoman

said the partnership had been welcomed by the community.

“As the landholding body of the northern Cape York Peninsula area we are pleased to be working with People For Wildlife and Louis Vuitton,” she said.

“We want to be able to look after this land and leave it in the best possible condition for our kids and grandkids, and we believe that traditional knowledge and western science must work together.”

“The partnership between Apudthama, People For Wildlife and Louis Vuitton recognises the important connection that we have to these landscapes, and creates more opportunity for rangers and Traditional Owners to be out on country, looking after country.”

A Louis Vuitton spokesperson said the partnership was a natural choice for the high-end brand as it sought to scale-up efforts to preserve the environment.

“Moreover, the partnership offers the opportunity to better understand the sustainable use of nature-based materials, which are the essence of luxury goods making,” the spokesperson said. The brand’s dependence on raw materials meant the environment was a business cornerstone.

“This five-year partnership is putting sustainability at the front and centre of (Louis Vuitton’s) business vision.”

construction. The high pitched ceiling in the main living area gives a cathedral feel. An internal courtyard creates a private sanctuary and beautiful outlook from all areas of the home. Two built in bedrooms, laundry and spacious bathroom (including bonus outdoor shower) form one pavillion joined by the plantation shuttered study area through to the enormous chefs kitchen and open plan dining and living area.

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

Apudthama Land Trust is partnering with luxury brand Louis Vuitton and the People for Wildlife charity.

Picture: Derek Henderson

Case still open as friends remember Pippa

FRIENDS and loved ones gathered to celebrate the life of Pippa Lanko Diplock in Cooktown on Saturday, as police appeal for anyone with information to come forward.

A large crowd attended the Cooktown RSL Memorial Club on Saturday for a memorial service to remember and celebrate the 38-year-old long-time local.

Friends remembered her as a bright soul with an unquenchable zest for life, always ready with a

smile and hug for those around her. Ms Diplock’s family also held a celebration of her life in Townsville in early March.

Ms Diplock’s body was found in a yard near her Marton home on February 6, with a police investigation by detectives from Cairns and Cooktown and a land search by SES providing little publicly available information.

The Queensland Coroner’s Court confirmed they were wait-

ing for results from an autopsy, but could provide no more information.

Detectives leading the investigation declined a request for an interview, but a police spokesperson confirmed that Cooktown Criminal Investigation Branch was still investigating.

“Death investigations are detailed, often protracted, and this is not unusual,” they said.

“Post mortem timeframes are

not a matter for Queensland Police, however they too can be protracted depending on a range of issues and medical factors.”

Police also appealed for anyone with information relevant to the investigation to contact them and said there was no reason for locals to be worried about the case.

“Police do not believe there is a need for community concern in relation to this investigation,” the spokesperson said.

Region to pause for Anzac Day

THE sacrifices made by present and past military personnel will be remembered at Anzac Day services across the Cape next Tuesday, April 25.

Considered one of the nation’s most important occasions, Anzac Day is held on the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces in World War I.

Weipa will hold its traditional dawn service at 5.30am at the Rocky Point Cenotaph, with locals urged to arrive at 5.25 in time for the ceremonial parade.

Afterwards, a breakfast will be held at the same location.

New university hub open for business in Cooktown

By SARAH MARTIN

COOKTOWN’S new study support centre has thrown open its doors to the public, with an official opening scheduled for May.

Country Universities Centre

Cape York manager Jenni James invited anyone interested in having a chat to pop in.

“We still have a lot of finishing touches to do, but we are here every day and people are welcome to come in and meet us, check out the centre and find out what we offer,” Ms James said.

“We can help you get started on your study journey.”

Local and Western Yalanji man Marley Sharp started work as the centre’s Indigenous engagement coordinator a fortnight ago, and said he was looking forward to tailoring support to ensure everyone had the opportunity to pursue study.

“A lot of people wouldn’t even consider doing university or certificate-level study, but there are so many different options and pathways now,” he said.

“One of the biggest challenges is not wanting to go away to study, and not having a suitable place at home to study, so having something like this in Cooktown is go-

ing to open the door for so many people.”

The centre offers services to people from Year 10 level and up who were studying with a registered training organisation, TAFE or university.

It aims to help bridge the gap between remote and urban education, with three study rooms available for bookings, as well as a shared study space, lounge, shared space, training room and kitchen.

“The idea is to support and encourage students, whether it is to guide people in where and what they might want to study, help them with enrolments, looking

at different courses, connect with other students and provide academic skills support,” Ms James said.

“I’ll be at the centre from 8.30am to 5pm weekdays, but once students enrol with us they will be able to access the centre from 5am to midnight, seven days a week.”

The not-for-profit centre, located on Charlotte Street, is funded until 2025 under the federal government’s Regional University Centres program.

It is governed by an independent board comprised of Cook Shire Council, university and TAFE members.

In Cooktown, commemorations will begin with the dawn service at 6am in William Daku Park, near the historical powder magazine, followed by a traditional “gunfire breakfast” of rum and milk at the RSL Memorial Club on Charlotte Street.

The morning march starts at 10.15am at the RSL Memorial Club, proceeding to Anzac Memorial Park for the service at 11am. Cooktown RSL Subbranch secretary Bob Norris said the service would be followed by traditional Anzac Day activities including two-up and crown and anchor at the RSL Club.

“All service personnel and the public are invited to attend,” Mr Norris said.

Ayton residents will mark the occasion with a short march at the cenotaph at 10am, followed by morning tea at the Ayton Tin Shed. Attendees are asked to bring a plate to share.

Marley Sharp and Jenni James are welcoming people to drop into the Country Universities Centre Cape York.

Digital divide impacting remote community kids

By MATT NICHOLLS

A LACK of telecommunications in remote areas is preventing kids from spending time out on Country and engaging in cultural activities, a recent study has found.

A team of researchers from the Queensland University of Technology spent significant time on Mornington Island last year to study the impact of digital inclusion challenges for lowincome Indigenous families.

The only network provider on Mornington Island is Telstra and the mobile phone coverage only extends to the township.

Dr Jessa Rogers made every trip to the Gulf community for the study and said Mornington Island locals had embraced technology, especially social media,

but found it difficult to stay connected.

“A common theme I heard was how the limited mobile phone reception was impacting cultural activities,” she told Cape York Weekly

“Phone reception stops just out of town and doesn’t cover most of the land and sea of the island.

“Sick and elderly people with safety concerns are scared to leave the township for activities out on Country.

“The lack of mobile coverage on traditional homelands was described as a barrier to youth and Elder engagement in activities on Country.”

In the report, which was published last month, one local said: “If they can fix some things… and put them TV thing out there,

Wet season still lingering in Cape

MOTORISTS planning on driving in the Cape over the next fortnight should still be prepared to wait for river levels to drop as the wet season continues to linger.

More rain is forecast this week and not much is required to send rivers above bridges and causeways.

The Archer River (above) went above the causeway on the weekend, while the Jardine River (right) also flooded after heavy rain in the catchment.

The PDR is open but police are urging motorists to avoid driving through floodwater.

I reckon our kids will come out (to the outstations).”

Dr Rogers said telcos and the federal government needed to do better by engaging with communities about their requirements.

“This project has highlighted the importance of collaborating with Indigenous communities in developing digital inclusion research, policies and programs,” she said.

“By involving Indigenous communities in the development of digital policies and programs, digital inclusion efforts can be more effective, sustainable, and equitable in remote Australian communities like Mornington Island.”

Other issues discovered in the study also highlighted a reliance on handheld devices, hotspotting and prepaid services.

Forum at golf club

RIO Tinto Weipa will be host a community forum at the Carpenteria Golf Club in Weipa on Thursday, April 27 and everyone is invited to attend.

“Almost all families were connecting to the internet solely through mobile phones – prepaid data being the main source of data for the entire household,” Dr Rogers said.

“Families of large and small sizes were sharing data from $30 recharge credits (multiple each month) through hotspotting, for browsing, banking, Centrelink/ Abstudy, and in the case of children and young people, gaming and YouTube.”

There was also a low uptake of free community Wi-fi, which is installed next to the shop and near the corrections office.

“The location and small range of the wi-fi prevents those with mobility issues/those without a car that have health issues, and, is in an open space that is affected by weather,” Dr Rogers said.

General manager Shona Markham will provide updates on various areas of the business followed by an open Q&A session. Topics for discussion will include mine production, research and biodiversity projects, the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM) and employment opportunities.

“I really encourage everyone to come along to learn and ask questions about topics that impact our community,” Ms Markham said.

“I especially encourage Weipa and Napranum residents to join us for a chat –we’ll also provide pizza for dinner.”

Guest speakers from the Weipa Town Authority, Weipa Local Disaster Management Group and Queensland Health will also provide information and updates about their operations.

The community forum will be held from 5.30pm to 7pm on April 27.

Change to iconic event

THE Weipa Pig Hunt is no more after the committee decided on a dramatic name change to the event.

Instead, it will now be known as Western Cape Feral Animal Control.

With the event now encouraging the removal of feral cats and cane toads, along with pigs, the committee felt the name change was more appropriate.

Western Cape Feral Animal Control will stay in the usual timeslot, with the weigh-in to be held at the Albatross Bay Resort on September 16.

Services truck rolls in

THE federal government’s one-stop information truck, Desert Rose, will be stopping in Lakeland and Cooktown this week to help with everything from Centrelink claims to Department of Veterans’ Affairs services.

The travelling Services Australia team offers support and information to help rural and regional residents access government services, including Medicare, financial services, rural payment entitlements, social work referrals, certifying birth certificates and using online accounts.

The truck will be in Cooktown on Thursday from 9am to 4pm, parked opposite the Post Office, and near the Lakeland Coffee House on April 21 from 9.30am to 2.30pm.

per

Maintenance dredging notice

May - June 2023 | Notice for Weipa community

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) will undertake maintenance dredging from early May 2023 at the Port of Weipa.

Dredging will also be completed at Amrun on behalf of Rio Tinto.

The project will take up to seven (7) weeks to complete.

The dredge vessel TSHD Brisbane, as well as support vessels, have restricted manoeuvring capability. Local and visiting boaties are asked to take care and notice of all warning flags and lights.

Maintenance dredging needs to be carried out to ensure that safe, navigable shipping depths are maintained.

Environmental controls and management measures will be implemented throughout the program to minimise the risk of any potential impact on the marine environment.

Your cooperation and understanding is appreciated.

For more information contact

Invasive grass in sights of councils

FAR North councils and stakeholders have come together to provide a united front against a highly invasive grass which is threatening local ecosystems.

The Gamba Grass Task Force convoy will hit the roads around the Cape this week, tackling the grass on properties, roadsides and reserves as part of an ongoing coordinated management effort.

Cape York Natural Resource Management coast ecosystems coordinator Dave Preece said the work builds on the task force’s first collaboration in May 2022.

“Having multiple crews identifying and treating gamba grass while collecting GIS data has dramatically increased existing knowledge of distribution that will be critical to future programs and ongoing monitoring,” Mr Preece said.

“We know what this weed can do, as we’ve seen in the Northern Territory the potential it has to spread and fuel fires which impact infrastructure and threaten lives. We don’t want a repeat of that here.”

The task force includes members from Hinchinbrook, Cook, Mareeba, Douglas and Tableland councils, in addition to crew from Biodiversity Queensland, Department of Resources, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Jabalbina Rangers and Balnggarrawarra Rangers.

Cook Shire biosecurity and local laws manager Darryn Higgins said the task force was looking forward to another productive project.

“We had a terrific response last year and the treatment and presence of crews really

brought the issue of Gamba Grass to the public’s attention,” Mr Higgins said.

“This year will be no exception.”

Property owner Corey Duncan said the initial task force treatment last year had removed a large portion of the grass on his Poison Creek Road property.

“I had seen a grass that I don’t usually have popping up along the power lines and I got talking to Darryn and John from Kings Plains and they pointed out what gamba grass was,” Mr Duncan said.

“The areas that they sprayed last year, it hasn’t come back; they probably knocked at least three quarters of it, which is a very good outcome.”

Mr Duncan said the task force hoped to remove any grass that had grown from seed since last year’s spray, and he hoped the outbreak would be completely eradicated this year.

Mr Higgins said the task force hoped to expand the project from last year’s positive start.

“Our intention is to expand on last year’s momentum by increasing awareness and reducing the distribution of gamba grass across the catchment,” he said.

“With the help of Cape York NRM, we can continue to host these events and bring in like-minded agencies, pool resources and ensure a cost-effective response.”

The introduced fodder grass pushes out native species, and its high biomass fuels intense wildfires leading to further native species loss and long-term environmental damage.

The Gamba Grass Task Force at work in Cook Shire during last year’s joint management operation.

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

Lakea Hegamaea and Georgia Macmillan in the pool. Harry Crowe and Nash Smart after gymnastics.

Rhodi Jenyns gets creative at the 3D pen art workshop.

Jett Ryder and Ned Sail went fishing at the wharf.

The Easter Bunny had plenty of fans at Hope Vale.

Lakeland library put on activities for local kids.

Micah Parkes, Luke Wegrzyniak and Kai Footer, with facilitator Naser Zamani, enjoyed the 3D pen art workshop so much they went twice.

Hope Vale Aboriginal Shire Council’s Easter brekky was a hit with youngsters.

Students with the Red Earth program lent a helping hand at Hope Vale’s community Easter event.

Tiny tots loved their session with the Mossman Gymnastics team.

Benji Jenyns enjoying pen art.

DAILY CONVENTIONAL CROSSWORD 15 X 15 GRID R

Quick Crossword No. 8489

Crossword

Fit the numbers

9 5 7 7 9 4 2 8 6 1 7 8 9 5 6 3 2 1 3 8 8 9 7 1 An All Australian Word Game * Each word must contain the centre ‘Focus’ letter and each letter may be used only once * Each word must be four letters or more * Find at least one nine letter word * No swear words * No verb forms or plurals ending in ‘s’ * No proper nouns and no hyphenated words YESTERDAY’S SOLUTION envier even event ever evert INTERVIEW invert invite invitee inviter nerve never review rive riven rivet veer vein veinier vent venter view viewer vine FOCUS Reference: Macquarie Concise Dictionary Focus No. 3957 TODAY’S Good: 15 words FOCUS Very good:

the 5 Differences

Join the Dots

Note to Editor: Created in QUARK XPRESS. VER.4.03 Items not needed for publication can be erased as each is in a separate text box. P A C E I B S I M I L E

Checked: O R D E R S D P A T I N A

Rosemary E R E S P I R E D M V

A T O N E S L T R I T O N

R S E T T E E S N W

C S H X E L O S E R

E L E M E N T C H A R A D E

L A T E R R T T F P

G R A U S T E R E A

R E S I S T G E X I S T S

O R A T O R L N S T E T

Y B N O M I N A T E N

A B R O A D E N E R V E S

L E R G R A T E S T

PRE-AUTHORISATION

MEETING FOR A NATIVE TITLE DETERMINATION AGREEMENT

Weipa Peninsula People Native Title Group Cape York United # 1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014)

Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will hold a pre-authorisation meeting on Thursday 4 May 2023 Cairns to discuss the proposed authorisation process for the Weipa Peninsula People Native Title Group to authorise the proposed s87A native title agreement for a determination of native title over the Weipa Peninsula People claim area (as shown on the map below). Note that the Moreton Telegraph Station is not included in the proposed determination area.

Co-ordinate all waste management operations

Develop and implement waste management operations, projects, work practices and operating procedures

Ensure regulatory compliance Advise Council on waste management operations,

A determination of native title involves a decision of the Federal Court. Important things about a determination of native title include that the Federal Court determines (1) who holds native title, (2) what the native title rights are, (3) the area to which the native title rights apply after any determination is made, and (4) which corporation will represent the members of the determined native title group. Following the pre-authorisation meeting on Thursday 4 May 2023, there will be a meeting to authorise the s87A native title agreement on Monday 17 May 2023, where the Weipa Peninsula People Native Title Group will consider whether to authorise the proposed agreement for a determination of native title. If the Native Title Group decides in the affirmative, the determination will then be sought in the Federal Court. The Court has listed a hearing for a potential consent determination on 5 or 6 July 2023

Who is invited to attend the meetings?

The meetings are open to all descendants by birth, or adoption in accordance with traditional law and custom, of one or more of the following apical ancestors:

14. Okolkon (aka York Downs Mamoos);

18. Beachenugar;

19. Father of George Wakmathe (aka Waukmatha/Waukmathe) & Alec York Downs;

20.

Any person who is a descendant of one or more of the apical ancestors listed above is invited to attend these meetings. Please contact CYLC if you would like to confirm whether you are a descendant of one or more of the apical ancestors listed above and so entitled to attend the meeting.

The meeting will be held as follows:

Date: Thursday 4 May 2023

Venue: Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns, 209-217 Abbott St, Cairns City QLD 4879

Time: 9.30am to 3.00pm

The location and time of the next meeting on Monday 17 May 2023 will be publicly notified and notices will be sent out to all members of the Native Title Group with contact details on the CYLC database. Please contact us on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email jcopelin@cylc.org.au to update your details.

For travel assistance or to confirm attendance, please contact Jayd Copelin before 30 April 2023 on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email jcopelin@cylc.org.au. Note that there is limited funding available for travel assistance. If you have queries about this meeting, please contact Kirstin Malyon on 0407 157 737 or kmalyon@cylc.org.au.

Video-conferencing

Video-conferencing facilities will be made available at the meeting. 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. It is important to provide every opportunity for persons entitled to attend the meeting.

1. Ruchook;

2. Malacoola (aka Malakula);

3. Langan;

4. Athoing;

5. Tweerat (Number Two);

6. Old Whongi Tow-wat;

7. Dangoon;

8. Ghatwin;

9. Jimmy Mast;

10. Kelindun (father of Yepinyi Kelindun Rruchuk, Ooknetting Olondon Kelindun and Avumpin Avunda);

11. Kumjin;

12. Juanqui;

13. Pinka (Old Peter);

15. Pearl Tuppan;

16. Aria;

17. Agotchepei;

Quaingy;

21. Quopal-o;

22. John A-chi-chin-ga (father of Dick York);

23. Maggie;

24. Alalangbunge; or

25. Old Tic Tic Tano-kopei.

Proposed Development

Make a submission from 18/04/2023 to 11/05/2023

MULTIPLE DWELLING

Where: 11 Transmission Street, Rocky Point

On: Lot 8 on MP37827

Approval sought: Development

Permit for Material Change of Use –Multiple Dwelling (5 x 2-Bedroom Units)

Application ref: DA230004

You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to: Weipa Town Authority

PO Box 420, Weipa QLD 4874 admin@weipatownauthority.com.au 4030 9400 www.weipatownauthority.com.au

Public notification requirements are in accordance with the Planning Act 2016

Notice of a Special General Meeting of the Vera Scarth-Johnson Gallery Association

The VS-J Gallery Assoc Inc is the legal Trustee for Vera’s botanical collection

All VS-J members and interested community members are encouraged to join us on Saturday 22 April 2023 at 1:30pm at Nature’s PowerHouse

Very sadly, the recent passing of our valuable and dedicated President, Jean Stephan, has necessitated the election of a new President. We also have continuing, important work to attend to – to continue in Vera, and Jean’s legacy, as well as in the legacy of the many good people who have contributed so positively to maintaining and displaying this important collection.

PleASe coMe – we Need you!

Tea, coffee and cake provided

Tender No: KASC2023-004

PRE-QUALIFIED SUPPLIER OF PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council is inviting tenders from organisations interested in the supply of plant and equipment throughout the region

Tenderers to email tenders@kowanyama.qld.gov.au for the purpose of Tender registration and documentation is available to download via https://www.kowanyama.qld.gov.au/ council/tenders-and-opportunities/

Tenders Close at 4.00pm Wednesday 26th April

All tender responses can be submitted electronically to tenders@kowanyama.qld.gov.au or hard copies can be submitted to KASC Cairns Office or KASC Kowanyama Office. For more information, please contact tenders@kowanyama.qld.gov.au

Kevin Bell, Chief Executive Officer

Surveillance Officer

Far North Region; Community Corrections; Community Corrections & Specialist Ops

Queensland Corrective Services

Salary: $42.48 - $46.48 per hour (Casual – hours will be allocated via a roster)

Location: Thursday Island

REF: QLD/481951/23

Key Duties: This is a casual position which will entail supervising offenders in the Northern Peninsula area (Bamaga/Seisia). Community Corrections is responsible for supervising adult offenders in the community. The successful applicant will undertake Surveillance activities of offenders, including offenders subject to supervision and community-based orders.

Skills/Abilities: Experience in, and understanding of, supervision and surveillance practices. Experience in a criminal justice environment or similar human services/regulatory agency would be desirable. Ability to work collaboratively with people from diverse cultural back grounds.

Enquiries: Julia Yorkston (07) 4212 3500.

To apply please visit www.smartjobs.qld.gov.au

Closing Date: Tuesday, 02 May 2023

AUTHORISATION MEETING FOR A NATIVE TITLE DETERMINATION AGREEMENT

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

Umpila Native Title Group Wednesday 3 May 2023 Lockhart River

Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will hold meeting on Wednesday 3 May 2023 in Lockhart River for the Umpila Native Title Group to consider whether to authorise a proposed agreement under s.87A of the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) (NTA) for a determination of native title over the undisputed part of Umpila native title country. This is the area generally between Friendly Point south to Massey Creek and from the Macrossan and McIlwraith Ranges east to the coast, inclusive of the area over Leo Creek which will be a shared area between the Umpila and Southern Kaantju Native Title Groups. The proposed determination area is shown on the map below bordered with the thick line. Note that the proposed determination area does not include the area between Massey Creek and Breakfast Creek, which is disputed between the Umpila and Lama Lama Native Title Groups. This area will proceed to trial after the undisputed area is determined.

A determination of native title involves a decision of the Federal Court. Important things about a determination of native title include that the Federal Court determines (1) who holds native title, (2) what the native title rights are, (3) the area to which the native title rights apply after any determination is made, and (4) which corporation will represent the members of the determined native title group. If the meeting on Wednesday 3 May 2023 authorises the proposed s.87A native title agreement, a determination of native title in favour of the group will then be sought in the Federal Court. A date for a potential consent determination will be listed by the Court after it has been advised that the Umpila Native Title Group has authorised the s.87A native title agreement. This may be in July or October 2023. A copy of the proposed agreement for a determination of native title for the area shown on the map above will be available at the meeting on Wednesday 3 May 2023 At the request of the people who constitute the Applicant in the Cape York United Number 1 Native Title Claim, CYLC staff and consultants will be in attendance to be available to explain things such as the meaning and effect of the proposed agreement at the meeting. Any Umpila person attending the meeting will be able to ask questions about the proposed s.87A agreement and state their views about it.

Who is invited to attend the meetings?

The Authorisation meeting is open to all descendants by birth, or adoption in accordance with traditional law and custom, of one or more of the following apical ancestors:

1. Charlie Captain;

2. Puyalkuupi (first husband of Emma Clarmont);

3. Ampulukuupi and his wife Wukaaka;

4. Annie Wapun Matty;

5. Jimmy (father of Douglas Ropeyarn);

6. Tommy Clarmont;

7. Topsy Clarmont;

8. Charlie Clarmont;

9. Lizzie of Night Island;

10. Chaaminchunyu (aka Tommy Thompson and Tommy Nebo (Nipu));

Tender No: TKASC2023-006

Essential Services Workshop

Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council is inviting tenders from organisations interested in Building Works associated with Essential Services Workshop. Tenderers to email rebecca@bestruct.com.au for the purpose of Tender registration / RFIs and documentation is available to download on the KASC Website https://www.kowanyama. qld.gov.au/council/tenders-and-opportunities

Tenders Close at 12.00pm Friday 12th May

All tender responses can be submitted electronically to tenders@kowanyama.qld.gov.au or hard copies can be submitted to KASC Cairns Office or KASC Kowanyama Office. For more information, please contact tenders@kowanyama.qld.gov.au

Kevin Bell, Chief Executive Officer

11. Yi’alma;

12. Mother of Charlie Bezai;

13. Emma (later Woodward);

14. Kaputhana;

15. Mary Ann Kamanmutu;

16. Frank Port (Nangkayunumu);

17. George Rocky 1 Marrakañtyinhu aka Old Jack Rocky)

18. George Rocky 2;

19. Johnny (father of Johnny Tayku Clarmont); or

20. George Clarmont and his sister Miriam Clarmont.

Any person who is a descendant of one or more of the apical ancestors listed above is invited to attend these meetings. Please contact CYLC if you would like to confirm whether you are a descendant of one or more of the apical ancestors listed above and so entitled to attend the meeting. The meeting will be held as follows:

Date: Wednesday 3 May 2023

Venue: Lockhart River Social Club

Time: 9:30am – 3:30pm

Video-conferencing and COVID-19 Precautions

Video-conferencing facilities will be made available at the meeting. If you would like CYLC to arrange a videoconference from your location into the meeting, whether you live at the location of the meeting or elsewhere, please contact CYLC on the number above. Attendance by video-conference is offered because of the potential for COVID-19 to interfere with attendance. It is important to provide every opportunity for persons entitled to attend the meeting. Your safety is our priority. CYLC will take whatever means necessary to protect the health and wellbeing of its staff and clients and to mitigate the risk of the spread of COVID-19.

Purpose of the Authorisation Meeting

The purpose of the meeting is to decide whether or not to approve the proposed s.87A agreement for a determination of native title for the area shown on the map above. The agenda of the meeting will be to consider whether the persons present:

• agree and adopt a decision-making process;

• agree to the proposed s.87A agreement for a determination of native title;

• agree to either:

(a) incorporate a new corporation to be the corporation to represent the native title holders identified in the proposed s.87A agreement for a determination of native title (called a “prescribed body corporate”), and so:

(i) make a decision (1) to approve the rules of the new corporation, (2) to identify who will be the initial directors and contact person for the new corporation, and (3) to authorise one or more named persons to apply to the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations to register the new corporation; and

(ii) agree to nominate the new corporation, once it is registered, to be the prescribed body corporate for Umpila People; or

(b) on certain conditions, nominate an existing corporation to be the prescribed body corporate for Umpila People, and so:

(i) make a decision (1) to specify the existing corporation to be the prescribed body corporate, and (2) direct the identified corporation to take steps to make itself eligible to be appointed as the prescribed body corporate by amending its rules, and to ensure it is representative of Umpila People (by accepting new membership applications, holding new elections for directors or other matters); and

(ii) agree to nominate the identified existing corporation, once it has complied with the directions made by the meeting in (b)(i) above, to be the prescribed body corporate for Umpila People; and

(iii) incorporate a new corporation as set out in (a) above, which corporation will be nominated to be the prescribed body corporate for Umpila People in the event that the identified existing corporation has not complied with the directions made by the meeting in (b)(i) above by 28 June 2023;

• authorise the Principal Legal Officer of CYLC to nominate the proposed corporation in writing to the Federal Court for it to be the prescribed body corporate under ss.56 or 57 of the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) for the proposed determination of native title.

Attendance

If you would like further information about the matters to be discussed at this meeting, please call Michelle Cioffi on 0408 408 017. For travel assistance queries, to confirm your attendance or to arrange a zoom link to this meeting, please contact Jayd Copelin before Wednesday 26 April 2023 at CYLC on (07) 4053 9222 or free call number 1800 623 548 or by email jcopelin@cylc.org.au. Please note that there is limited funding for travel assistance.

FULL TIME. FIXED TERM. COOKTOWN.

If you're a creative thinker with a passion for our region’s unique culture and heritage, then we’re looking for you!

We're seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to support the delivery of tourism marketing activities, the coordination of Councilrun community events, and showcase Cook Shire as a destination of choice. The successful applicant will enjoy:

Rewarding and diverse role

5 weeks annual leave (pro rata)

3 weeks personal leave (pro rata)

Up to 12% superannuation Locality allowance

2023

SPORT IN BRIEF

Big week for Randall

DAVE Freiberg and Randall O’Neill teamed up with great success on Sunday at the Carpentaria Golf Club.

Playing in the 4BBB sponsored by Sixt, they had a nett 63 to beat Viv Chan and Helen Sabatino, who carded 65.

Jamie Hutton won both nearest to pins.

It was a big week for Randall O’Neill, who also won the Wednesday Wackers, beating a field of 17 in hot and humid conditions.

Viv Chan was runner-up, while Jim Taylor took out the Bradman’s.

Nearest to pins went to Helen Sabatino on both 15 and 18.

Cotter backs Cowboys

NORTH Queensland Cowboys forward

Reuben Cotter believes his side aren’t far off turning things around, despite slumping to their fifth loss of the season in Auckland on Saturday.

North Queensland suffered their third defeat on the trot in Round 7, going down 22-14 in a contest they dominated for large parts, and after finishing in third place last year they now find themselves 15th.

But Cotter said while the club’s form right now was “deflating”, it will only take one good performance to get them back on track.

“At any time you are only one win away from turning things around, and I reckon that’s all we need at the moment,” Cotter told NRL.com.

“We have just got to stick together and focus on each game and getting better.

“The effort was there (against the Warriors) and I thought for most of that second half we had them and I was confident in the way the game was going.”

Pioneer remembered

FAITH Thomas, the first Indigenous cricketer to play in a recognised Test for Australia, has died at the age of 90.

Renowned as one of the fastest bowlers in the women’s game, Thomas played her first and only Test for Australia against England at Melbourne’s Junction Oval in 1958.

She remains one of just four Indigenous Australians to have played in Test cricket for Australia, alongside Jason Gillespie, Ash Gardner and Scott Boland.

Cape York basketballers shine at GC tournament

By MATT NICHOLLS

TWO former Weipa students have crossed paths while chasing sporting excellence, having both been picked to play in the National Indigenous Basketball Tournament on the Gold Coast.

Thurston Bosuen and Adejah Willie-Jawai are former Western Cape College students forming their own pathway in different corners of the state.

Thurston was a boarder at St Augustine’s in Cairns last year and is now a day student after his parents Jason and Michelle made the move from Weipa in November.

Adejah is now at Mabel Park State High School in Brisbane after moving south late last year.

Last week, they were mixing it with the best Indigenous talent in the country in a tournament backed by NBA star Patty Mills.

“It was an unbelievable event. The kids were treated like they were professionals,” said Jason Bosuen.

“Thursto came out of it thinking that these kids were phenomenal and now he wants to get better.”

A point guard with the Cairns Marlins, 12-year-old Thurston was one of the youngest players at the under-14 tournament.

“The Queensland North team was pretty much a Cairns side with one Mareeba boy,” his dad said.

“A few of them don’t even play club basketball so it was a great experience for them.”

Jason said the highlight was seeing kids from other states get a better understanding of their culture.

“There was a big cultural element to it and it was surprising to see that some kids didn’t even

know they were Murris until they were in line to be picked,” he said.

“Seeing them talk to other kids about their culture was a great thing.”

STRONG BLOODLINES

ADEJAH has always looked up to her uncle, former NBA and NBL star Nate Jawai, but having him on the sidelines as she played for Queensland South was a huge thrill for the teen.

“He’s her biggest role model. She loved that her uncle made it down and encouraged her,” mum Tomaseena Jawai said.

“For the other kids, too, it was great to see someone like Nate, who comes from a (remote) community.”

Being a representative basketballer was no easy feat for Adejah, though.

“Weipa doesn’t have a club and when she got picked to play for Peninsula through school the family had to fundraise so she could trial and travel to play,” her mum said.

“A lot of her training was at the town court at Rocky Point, but when she made Peninsula we hired out the storm surge shelter for six Saturdays in a row and got kids to come down and play so she would get some practice.”

Adejah’s dad still works for Rio Tinto in Weipa and was able to fly down to see her play a couple of matches, includ-

ing Queensland South’s bronze medal match, which they won.

“We moved down because my mum is sick and it was going to be five weeks over Christmas,” Tomaseena said.

“But we decided to stay and it’s been good so far. Adejah has already been offered a placement at another school because of their basketball program.”

Both the parents of Thurston and Adejah said they hoped the recognition of their children’s achievements would help boost basketball in Weipa and Cape York.

“The facilities are there but the kids need someone to organise games and get a club going,” Tomaseena said.

Thurston Bosuen and Adejah Willie-Jawai at the National Indigenous Basketball Tournament on the Gold Coast.

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

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EDITOR: Matt Nicholls

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editor@capeyorkweekly.com.au

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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.