Cape York Weekly Edition 134

TMR goes to ground over PDR

THE mismanagement of the Archer River bridge project is starting to be felt across the Cape as PDR sealing projects are put on hold as a result of the cost blowouts.

Cape York Weekly has made a number of attempts to line up an interview with Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey, but he hasn’t taken up the opportunity to answer the community’s questions.

It’s a sure sign that things are not going well with the upgrades to the Peninsula Developmental Road, which has lost all momentum after years of steady gains.

PRIDE COMING TO WEIPA

The Northern Pride will play a Country Round game in Weipa, it was announced on Sunday. The Pride, which has built a strong Weipa and Cape York connection, will host the Sunshine Coast Falcons on July 15. Fullback Julian Christian will be one of the players to watch in the Andoom Oval clash, with a sell-out crowd predicted.

Council flips on power position

By SARAH MARTIN

A CONTRITE Cook Shire took just days to reverse a decision that stallholders would no longer get access to power at the local markets after a barrage of complaints.

Council CEO Brian Joiner, mayor Peter Scott, and five of the six councillors – Robyn Holmes, Peter Burns, Marilyn Morris, John Dessmann and Ross Logan – fronted up to a public meeting on Saturday as a result of the backlash.

However, most of the tension had been defused a day earlier after the council released a statement saying it was no longer going to remove access to power.

The decision, which went “viral” on Cooktown’s social media pages

last week, stunned stallholders and roadside food vendors, who were left contemplating closing their businesses after being notified of the change via letter on May 9, with no previous consultation.

Continued – Page 2

Most of the fault can be attributed to the two projects at the Archer River.

Both the construction of the new bridge and the southern approaches have hit setbacks.

Western Australian company Decmil won the tender to build the approaches but didn’t get the job finished before the wet season and won’t be returning.

Sources told Cape York Weekly that Decmil decided that the cost of breaching its contract with TMR would be less than the cost of returning to finish the job.

In a statement, a company spokesperson said: “Decmil has no outstanding contractual obligations relating to the Archer River Project and further queries regarding the project’s situation should be directed to the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads.”

When TMR was asked about Decmil, it simply ignored that part of the question.

Continued – Page 3

Picture: Chris Hobson Photography

Community clashes with council over power play

From – Page 1

“My wife was crying when she read the letter,” said Grant Fagberg, who with wife Caritta owns mobile food vans The Food Shed and Cooktown Slushies and Icecreams.

Mr Fagberg said when he bought The Food Shed pizza van earlier this year, he contacted the council’s environmental health staff to ensure that the van could continue to operate as it had with the previous owner.

“When we thought of buying it, we contacted (council’s environmental health officer) and made sure everything was going to remain the same with access to power and where the van was parked before we bought it,” he told Cape York Weekly

“If they take away our access to power, I’ve got to recover $60,000 that I’ve lost in the past three months because council decided to change their mind.

“If we had been told this would happen, we would never have bought the second busi-

ness. I don’t understand the logic behind this, and not one word of consultation.”

The May 9 letter to stallholders and roadside vendors cited ongoing safety concerns as the reason for the power cut.

“To ensure the safety of all, council will be ceasing public access to the reticulated power meter boxes/poles from July 1, 2023 for all market stall holders, roadside vendors and other members of the public,” the letter read.

Mr Fagberg posted the letters

on Facebook, with a call for residents and stallholders to attend a meeting on Saturday to advocate for an alternative solution.

Dozens of comments from irate community members and stallholders asked why no consultation had been undertaken and what alternative power source could safely be used at the marketplace, prompting Mr Joiner to apologise and issue a new letter to stallholders and vendors on May 12.

The council also posted its letter on Facebook.

“The proposed changes addressed the issue of power being used without anyone meeting the cost and the work, health (and) safety obligations of the shire,” the letter stated.

“The cost issue was not about the shire making money but ensuring our ratepayers were not subsidising commercial operations.”

The council currently charges powered market stallholders up to $252 per year, however at its

April general meeting, councillors approved the 2023-24 fees and charges which explicitly state all Saturday market stall fees do not include use of council power.

There is a fee for three-day council events, which includes access to the council’s power.

At Saturday’s markets, the CEO, mayor and councillors faced a small but vocal crowd at Mr Fagberg’s public meeting.

Councillors took notes while the mayor, deputy mayor and Mr Joiner addressed the crowd and answered questions.

The discussion, skipped from the power issues to a call for a permanent structure to house the markets, removing power points at the waterfront and illegal camping.

Cr Scott called on stallholders and roadside vendors to create a group to bring their issues to the council, with attendees agreeing to the solution.

The meeting broke up after about 40 minutes.

Cook Shire mayor Peter Scott at Saturday’s public meeting.

Food truck vendor and markets supporter Grant Fagberg speaks at the public meeting he organised on Saturday.

Transparency demanded as PDR loses momentum

From – Page 1

“It is anticipated construction crews will soon be recommencing works for Archer River Crossing Southern Approach project,” a TMR spokesperson said on Monday.

“It is expected the project will be completed by late 2023, weather and construction conditions permitting.”

The Archer River bridge was supposed to have been finished last year, according to tender documents seen by Cape York Weekly

However, McConnell Dowell, which was awarded the job, has now pushed the completion date back to late next year.

Part of the problem is that a study of the Archer River failed to uncover issues until the McConnell Dowell team turned up on site last year.

All of it has cost millions of dollars, which means projects are being scrapped.

An angry Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch is ropeable about some of the reports he is hearing about the PDR.

“I’m seriously alarmed in the way some of the contracts have been handled,” he said.

“I’m equally concerned about the lack of transparency from TMR.”

Mr Entsch has been one of the biggest supporters of the PDR

sealing works, which are 80 per cent federally funded, with the rest covered by the state.

“I’m told that one of the next sealing projects was 30km south of Coen called Three Sisters,” he said.

“It was put up for tender in January and there is still no word on what’s happening.

“The word I’m hearing is that it’s likely to be withdrawn because its over budget.

“TMR currently has no work out for tender and I’m told that contractors have been informed

that there will be very little work coming their way over the next 12 to 24 months.”

WEIPA MEETING

THERE is a public meeting in Weipa tomorrow (Wednesday) to discuss the PDR upgrades and Mr Entsch will be attending.

“I’ve taken the time to fly up because I want answers, just like the rest of the Cape,” he said.

“TMR needs to provide answers as to what has gone wrong at the Archer and where the money has gone for other sealing projects.

“The PDR is Cape York’s main road and there’s been so much progress made in the last five or six years.”

Before the package, there was almost 500km of unsealed road between Weipa and Laura.

There’s now less than 250km of dirt road on the PDR.

Members of the public can attend tomorrow’s public meeting in Weipa, to be hosted by Regional Development Australia Tropical North.

It will be held at the council chambers from 9.30am.

Editor’s say: Time to review PDR plans

SOMETHING has gone terribly wrong in the last 12 months of the PDR upgrades and it’s time for a major review to make sure that the job isn’t completely bungled.

The state government was happy to take the credit when the sealing works were taking off, but nowhere to be seen now that things are going badly.

A lack of local knowledge is part of the problem.

The decision to build bridges along the PDR before extending the bitumen is one that will surely come back to bite TMR and the Palaszczuk government.

What good is a bridge going to do if you can’t go anywhere?

When the bridge over the Archer River is finished, where will you be able to go when the wet season is in full force?

To Coen, if you’re lucky to get over the Myall Creek.

To get to Lakeland, you must get across the Hann, Morehead and Laura rivers – all of which flood regularly in the wet season.

Bridges will eventually be needed, but they are not the priority for local people, who want more sealing works and regularly graded dirt roads.

Caring for the environment for more than 35 years

We’re in mid-May and there are still massive washouts along the PDR.

With the cost of freight rising and the region relying on the tourism dollar, TMR should have pulled out all stops in April to fix the road.

We’ve seen a handful of small crews out in the last fortnight, but they are moving slowly. It’s easy to blame the wet, but the reality is we’re just not a priority.

It’s time for an urgent review to assess the priorities of the PDR to make sure we get the best bang for our buck and a safer road for our region. – Matt

Nicholls

The Archer River bridge and approach projects have both gone over time and budget, impacting other PDR works.

Cape council heralds new era with CEO appointment Vandals in spotlight once again

AURUKUN Shire Council has appointed its first female CEO.

Kate Rosier, who worked in financial planning and the building industry before joining Toowoomba Regional Council’s planning and development team, started in the role on Monday.

Aurukun mayor Keri Tamwoy welcomed Ms Rosier, who will arrive in the community on Thursday after starting at the council’s Cairns office.

“Known as a collaborative leader and strategic thinker, Ms Rosier is passionate about engaged, sustainable and resilient communities,” Cr Tamwoy said.

“She is excited about working with the Wik people, learning about culture and country and facilitating the aspirations of our community.

“The council team and I are looking forward to working with Ms Rosier to further our core community values to focus on community, our future leaders and the importance of respect in our community.

“Her experience on the board of directors for Our Heartland, which builds social capital, hosts events and facilitates projects to grow community connectivity in Queensland’s Lockyer Valley, will be of value to this vision.”

Ms Rosier began her career working with remote communities for the Department of Children and Families in Alice Springs, where her interest in whole of community wellbeing was first piqued.

She returned to Queensland to study, gaining a Bachelor of Business Management with Majors in Sustainability and Human Resources and a Master of Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Queensland.

In her free time, Ms Rosier enjoys reading and exploring the great unknown.

She has conquered summits including Mount Kosciuszko and the Lares Track in the Andes.

She said she loved returning to the family farm to muster and spend time around the fire.

Ms Rosier said it was a passion for effective and supportive local governance, a thirst for new challenges, and a respect for the old-

est continuous living culture in the world that drew her to Aurukun.

“I am thrilled about being part of a team that knows and values their community and am honoured to have been selected as Aurukun Shire Council’s new CEO,” she said.

“I look forward to joining the community, listening to the Wik people, exploring country, and learning about the opportunities and challenges within the shire.”

PETTY vandals and litterbugs could force Cook Shire to remove a free community resource, after ongoing reports of condoms being ripped from the vending box in public toilets and scattered across the waterfront.

In December, the council was forced to lock most of the public toilets in William Daku Park at night to prevent vandals destroying them, and now mayor Peter Scott has confirmed it is looking for alternative locations for the Queensland Health condom boxes, which were installed in the public toilets in 2018.

“We are currently working with Queensland Health to assess the suitability of several alternate locations,” Cr Scott said.

“Every location has positive and negative considerations and locking the units away at night limits access for several key groups in the community.”

A Queensland Health spokesperson said 9000 condoms were delivered for free distribution in the Cooktown, Laura, Wujal Wujal and Hope Vale area last quarter alone.

“It is Queensland Health policy to try to make condoms and other preventatives discreetly publicly available in areas of disadvantage,” he said.

Kate Rosier will arrive in Aurukun on Thursday after starting in the CEO role from Cairns on Monday.

Resilience funding in hot demand across the Cape

By SARAH MARTIN

A RECORD 27 applicants have applied for Cape York Natural Resource Management’s Landscape Resilience Project funding, with only six successful.

Cape York NRM sustainable agriculture and water quality manager Michael Goddard said the overwhelming response was a measure of the demand.

“It’s important that the unsuccessful submissions know that they may have another opportunity if we secure a second round

of funding by 2024, based on this demand,” he said.

The funding supports property management projects which build climate and drought resilience, such as reducing threats to native vegetation, improving pastures, weed control, fencing and adding water points.

Each eligible project could receive up to $30,000.

“We’ve had applicants from all over Cape York putting forward excellent projects to support better grazing land management or protect important

vegetation,” Mr Goddard said.

“Landholders up here face a number of challenges particular to the region, including poor soils and harsh weather events, with less return than the smaller southern Queensland properties. These projects will add to infrastructure and help to make Cape properties less vulnerable to year-to-year changes in climate and markets.”

The six properties selected have been notified and will begin work with CYNRM to address priority land condition

issues and threats to native vegetation condition.

Meanwhile, Cape graziers will gather at Crocodile Station near Laura this Tuesday and Wednesday for the annual CYRNM grazing forum.

The free forum will feature presentations on fire management, feral animal control, biosecurity, genome technology, erosion control, weed control, financial opportunities, vegetation management laws and the latest in communications and technology.

Artistic talent wanted ARTISTS and aspiring artists will vie for thousands in prizemoney at the 44th annual Cooktown School of Art Society exhibition, which opens on June 15 as part of the Cooktown Discovery Festival.

The biggest prizemoney was on offer for the revamped acquisitive prize which was open to a range of mediums and had a broader theme, Art Society president Jane Dennis said.

“Previous acquisitive prizes had to be a landscape from Cook Shire and in a certain medium, but we hoped to make this more accessible to artists by broadening that,” Ms Dennis said.

The $1000 prize, sponsored by the Seaview Motel, is up for grabs for a 2D work with the theme ‘a sea view’.

Ms Dennis said the public was welcome to attend the exhibition’s official opening on the evening of Thursday, June 15.

“We will announce and celebrate the winners, and we’ll have a bar and nibblies and entertainment,” she said.

More details on Page 8.

It’s a girl for Toomey!

FORMER Weipa couple Tia-Clair Toomey and Shane Orr have welcomed a little girl into the world.

Dusty waterfront to vanish as works start

WORK has begun on the muchanticipated upgrade of the dusty roads that connect Cooktown’s boat ramp, wharf and waterfront – the final stage of Cook Shire’s revitalisation project for the area.

The upgrade will include 22 trailer parking bays to accommodate boaties, as well as more car parking, a picnic area, shade trees and turfed area, information signs and seating.

The popular seating area under the mango tree opposite the

wharf, known locally as the “tree of knowledge” will be upgraded with stone seating and dedicated parking spaces.

Mayor Peter Scott said the Charlotte Street Revitalisation Project would benefit the town for generations to come.

“The Cooktown wharf is an important asset for our community and the wider region,” he said.

“The works will boost tourism potential by creating a wel-

coming entry to our town and improved access for visiting boats and cruise ships, while also making the area safer and more functional for recreational and commercial fishing.

“Consultation and planning for the project commenced in 2016, and we’ve worked with community and stakeholders to get the best possible outcomes for the area.

“It’s been a very detailed collaborative process and we are

very proud of the work that’s gone into it.”

To minimise disruption to motorists, residents and businesses in the area, the final stage will be delivered in two halves.

Charlotte Street adjacent to the Seaview Motel will be upgraded first and Webber Esplanade from the boat ramp to the wharf will be completed last.

Motorists and pedestrians can expect delays, detours and road closures during the works.

Willow Clair Orr was born on Tuesday, May 9 and “already captured our hearts with her adorable presence and enchanting smile”, according to her mum and dad.

“At first glance, it’s impossible not to notice the striking resemblance Willow bears to her father,” Toomey wrote in an Instagram post.

“It’s truly an adorable sight to see, as she inherits his charming features and endearing expressions. We couldn’t be more grateful for this remarkable gift, a reflection of the love that brought her into existence.”

A reminder that Cape York Weekly is happy to publish all new arrivals. Simply email editor@capeyorkweekly.com.au

G&M Civil site manager Kevin Sadleir, council road construction foreman Mark Whitman and council engineering manager Khubaib Kha.

New arrival Willow Clair Orr.

Expansion of services in the Cape

By SARAH MARTIN

IT was a special trip down memory lane for Dick Kellaway when he revisited Cooktown more than 80 years after being evacuated from his home during World War II.

The main street was dirt and there was no running water or power in the former Bank of New South Wales when Mr Kellaway and his family moved into the historical building in 1937.

“My father was manager of the bank and was transferred to Cooktown,” the 92-year-old recalled.

“So much is different to what I remember, I’m just amazed at the amount of money that has been put into improvements around the place; the waterfront is a delight.”

As he heads toward his 100th birthday, Mr Kellaway thought it was time to revisit the hometown of his youth and was joined by his two daughters on the trip.

“The bank upstairs has changed completely from what I remember, but the bank part downstairs remains the same,” he said.

“We didn’t even have electricity, so I learnt not to worry about shadows at night with just a kerosene lamp going up the stairs to take my sisters to bed.

“We used to have to pump up water from tanks at the bottom to

the mezzanine floor to have a cold shower.”

Cooktown was almost a ghost town in the 1930s and 40s, with only a few hundred residents, many of whom were evacuated during World War II.

“I remember a lot of derelict houses and we boys commandeered a house for each of us to play in,” Mr Kellaway said.

“There used to be a lot of custard apple and tamarind trees which we used to eat. We would go fishing

in the bay and catch grunter. There was no road, of course (to Cairns).

“There were two services, one was by plane which took an hour and I got airsick, and the other was by boat and took a day and I got seasick – so I didn’t like leaving town very much.

“I remember we used to picnic on Grassy Hill with my mother, but it was mostly cleared and we used to be down in the area near where the powder magazine is.”

Mr Kellaway recalled his father

picking up parcels of gold from the Palmer River, collecting them at the airport and weighing and valuing them at the bank.

The historic building was built in 1891 as the Queensland National Bank, was bought by the Bank of New South Wales in 1934 and has been heritage listed since 1994.

The Kellaways were among the first residents to leave town as the threat of invasion from the north during World War II intensified, and transferred to Cooroy in 1941.

A MAJOR expansion of maternal, child and family health services across Cape York is under way, with the planned appointment of a team of six new clinicians for the region.

The new maternal, child and family midwifery consultants, who are both midwives and child health nurses, will be based in Cairns, with similar services based in Weipa, to support Napranum and Mapoon.

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service executive general manager Michael Catt said it was expected that an additional four First Nations health worker positions would form part of the new team.

“Together, they will deliver a comprehensive visiting outreach service to communities across Cape York, complementing our midwifery group practices in Weipa and Cooktown and our existing child health services in those locations,” he said.

“We are excited to be working in collaboration with our existing services in our communities to provide the best possible care for Cape York children and families through the addition of this new outreach service.”

TCHHS will also work with other Cape health providers.

Dick Kellaway, with daughters Julie Wallace and Shaunagh Kellaway, returned to Cooktown 82 years after he left as an 11-year-old during World War II. He is standing in front of his former home, the old Bank of New South Wales building.

Pride’s game in Weipa will bring community together

By MATT NICHOLLS

WEIPA will host a professional rugby league match for the first time when the Northern Pride brings a Country Round game to the Cape in July.

The Cairns-based club has a footprint stretching across the Far North and has previously hosted matches on Thursday Island and at Bamaga.

Northern Pride CEO Garreth Smith, who grew up in Weipa and Napranum, and raised his family in the Western Cape, said it would be emotional to see the HostPlus Cup players run onto Andoom Oval.

His two sons, Denzel King and Seamus King-Smith, are both in the Pride squad and will be hoping to get on the park when the Pride play the Sunshine Coast Falcons on July 15.

“There’ll definitely be emotions but it’s not about me,” the CEO told Cape York Weekly

“I think it means everything for Weipa and all the communities surrounding Weipa, and in the Cape. This game has been a long time coming.

“Not only is it going to be a great game, but it’ll also be a good event that brings those communities together.”

Pride coach Ty Williams – a former Cowboys and Origin star – said he was looking forward to spending time in Weipa and putting on a show for what should be a sell-out crowd.

“The Cape is an important area of our footprint and to play a game in Weipa will be special,” he said.

“It’s pretty exciting for us to play in a place that’s surrounded by Indigenous communities but also a working-class town. That probably typifies us at the Northern Pride.”

Williams said it was crucial that the club built a profile in regional and remote areas.

“We’re based in Cairns and that’s OK, but we must remember to look outside and see what we represent,” he said.

“It’s not only important to my-

Minister a big fan of bush footy

WEIPA is one of seven regional centres that will stage Hostplus Cup matches in July.

With the state government extending its sponsorship of the Country Week initiative, the QRL and its clubs are now busy preparing for the logistical exercise of taking every round 18 game to rural and remote communities on July 15-16.

Sports Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said Country Week had become a much-anticipated annual event.

“This is one of my favourite rounds on the Hostplus Cup calendar and this season it’s great that we’ve been able to work with the QRL to bring Country Week games to Weipa, Wondai and Miles for the first time,” he said on Sunday.

“I’m sure the Sunny Coast Falcons will be doing the same. That’s a role we’ll share.”

Smith said he had no issues with the standard of the Andoom Oval surface or facilities.

“The field will be safe and I think it’ll be great for the players to come and get changed in facilities that aren’t quite what they are used to,” he said.

“Hopefully it makes them appreciate what they have a bit more and see what some places have got to go without.”

“The footprint across the state is remarkable, with other games to be played in Kilcoy, Biloela, Proserpine and Stanthorpe.

“It’s shaping up to be another terrific weekend of rugby league, that doesn’t just provide a tremendous boost for local communities and businesses, but also helps instil community pride and inspire the next generation of Maroons superstars.”

self or Smithy as CEO, but holistically as a club.

“Places like Weipa and the Cape are the reasons why we are here.

“We want kids from these areas to aspire to be Northern Pride players.

“If Denzel or Seamus get an opportunity to don the jersey in Weipa it’s going to be even more special, for sure.”

Smith said the Weipa business community had backed the game, providing sponsorship to help cover the costs of bringing two squads of players, plus referees, to the Cape.

“They demonstrated what they

always do and came together because they saw something important was going to happen,” he said.

“It was quite overwhelming for me, to be honest. I went up to see them and there was no hesitation.

“They just jumped on with their support.”

Expect to see the Pride in Weipa in the week leading into the game, Smith said.

“We don’t want to just fly in, play a game, then fly out. We’ll be doing a lot of community engagement on the ground,” he said.

“It won’t just be in Weipa, either. I’m expecting us to get to Mapoon and Napranum as well.

More details will be forthcoming closer to the match, but expect the Hostplus Cup match between the Pride and Falcons to be a twilight contest – provided the Andoom Oval lights are fixed in time.

There is also talk of a curtainraiser and a women’s exhibition match to be played on the day.

“Myself and Dave Maiden had a look at the field and talked about leaving the facility in a better state,” Smith said.

“The money that comes through the gate should be going back into the local community.”

● Travis Cornthwaite kicking goals at Pride. Story – Page 22

QRL competitions manager Dave Maiden said Country Week would bring people together through various gameday activities and school and community visits.

“We expect to have contact with 10,000-plus participants over the duration of the event,” he said.

“It’s a great leveller for our players and our competition as it reminds everyone how tough it is for some of these communities who have to travel four or five hours to play a game of rugby league.

“It’s also a reminder for our players of where they come from, and to never underestimate the parents, volunteers and the people from junior clubs who helped get them to where they are now.”

Northern Pride CEO Garreth Smith says there will be emotions when the players run out onto his old stomping ground.

The Pride are in the finals mix this year and the Weipa game will be crucial.

Recognition for disaster manager

AFTER steering the Cape through COVID-19, floods and bushfires, Narelle Dukes has been awarded a gong for her achievements.

Cook Shire Council’s disaster management officer was presented with the award for Excellence in Disaster Management in Cairns at the Indigenous Local Government Disaster Resilience Forum.

It was delivered to her by the Inspector-General of Disaster Management, Alistair Dawson.

Mr Dawson praised Ms Dukes for her passion in the role and for keeping her communities safe.

“We need more people on the ground like Narelle,” he told the room of around 100 people.

Cook Shire mayor Peter Scott was in attendance and said it was worthy recognition of the council staffer, who went above and beyond her duties.

“I don’t know how we got on

without her. She’s a terrific asset to the shire,” he said.

“The role was created as a result of COVID but she has added a lot of substance to the role.

“What makes her so valuable is

her knowledge of the Cape and the people on the ground.

“She can tell us that because there has been rain in one particular area, which people it will impact downstream.”

Ms Dukes praised her council colleagues, community members and service providers who she worked with on a regular basis.

“We’re really lucky that there is a collegiate-type feel in the Cape and that we are well supported by those external agencies,” she said.

“I think we handled COVID really well but a lot of the credit must go to the community because they stood up to help.”

The Indigenous Local Government Disaster Resilience Forum in Cairns, organised by the Cape and Torres Indigenous Councils Alliance, was well attended and drew praise for its diversity of speakers and knowledge-sharing.

The Cape and Torres Strait was well represented at the TCICA Indigenous Local Government Disaster Resilience Forum.

Cook Shire Council’s DMO Narelle Dukes was presented with her award by Queensland Reconstruction Authority CEO Jake Elwood, mayor Peter Scott and Inspector-General of Disaster Management Alistair Dawson.

Lockhart River mayor Wayne Butcher asks a question at the forum.

Mapoon council CEO Tom Smith made a 15-minute presentation.

Outgoing TCICA regional resilience coordinator Pip Schroor.

More than tea and scones: CWA play is an eye-opener

COOKTOWN’S volunteers were part of the inspiration behind a new production by Cairns playwright Angela Murphy, which will be shown locally on June 3 as the nation celebrates 100 years of the Country Women’s Association.

Ms Murphy was intrigued to know what stories lay behind the quaint white CWA halls dotted across North Queensland, and visited more than 22 CWA branches, including Cooktown, to find out.

“I used to see all the CWA halls while out driving, the quaint tongue and groove buildings, white and blue and I always wondered what’s the story behind them, who are these people?” Ms Murphy said.

“When I first started researching their stories, I wasn’t sure what it would end up being.”

The answer is a funny and insightful piece of theatre that will appeal to those who care about their community.

“It’s an eye-opening revelation into what the women in the CWA do; it will surprise and amaze you,” she said.

“The show is heartfelt, honest and at times hilarious.”

Ms Murphy travelled more than 2200km, visited 22 CWA halls across the region and interviewed more than 70 women for research.

“I’m trying to show that all

these people aren’t one, just because they are under the one CWA banner, they all have unique and different ways of engaging with and supporting their communities,” she said.

“Cooktown does the soup kitch-

en on Monday nights, Mt Molloy caters for the Cardiac Challenge bike riders, Tolga makes care bags for victims of domestic violence.

“All the different branches are doing different things to meet the needs of their communities.”

VMR after your help on Fridays

WEIPA’S Volunteer Marine Rescue branch is famous for its Friday night raffles, but the legacy fundraiser is in jeopardy without some more helpers, president Brendon Fay says.

Every Friday, without fail, the VMR runs raffles at the Weipa Bowls Club from 5.30 to 7.30pm.

“It’s our number one way to raise funds for the branch and a great way to meet people and socialise,” Mr Fay said.

“You don’t have to join VMR or get out on the water with us to lend a hand – you can simply turn up on Fridays to give back to an important community organisation.”

Mr Fay said the handful of VMR volunteers in Weipa were facing the prospect of burning out if more support didn’t come.

“We all live in Weipa and love going fishing and camping, so we don’t want to have to give up every Friday night for the raffles,” he said.

Titled More Than Tea and Scones, the play is touring the Far North, with a one-off showing at the Shire Hall in Cooktown at 6.30pm on Saturday, June 3. Visit www.trybooking.com/ CGYHO to book tickets.

“If we can get some more helpers, that would just make it easier on everyone.”

If you are interested in giving the VMR branch a hand, simply turn up to the Weipa Bowls Club on any Friday night and introduce yourself to a committee member.

Playwright Angela Murphy with Rita Merrick from Port Douglas CWA, who was interviewed for More Than Tea and Scones, and actor Sarah Speller. The production is coming to Cooktown on June 3.

New rescue choppers on the way

NEW high-tech helicopters which can travel further and faster will soon boost healthcare in the Cape and Torres Strait after Babcock was chosen as the provider of emergency helicopter services for the region.

Operating from Horn Island, Babcock will provide 24/7 services across the region, including aeromedical retrieval and search and rescue.

The aircraft will also be available to support other government departments, including the police and QFES.

The 12-year contract continues a long relationship between the state government and Babcock in the region and will represent a significant uplift in capability.

Under the agreement, Babcock will introduce two multi-mission

Leonardo AW139 helicopters with increased speed, range and operational capability.

The cabin will be modified in Queensland and will incorporate the latest aeromedical configuration, including roll-on-roll-off stretchers as used by QAS for increased patient care.

Boxing club to benefit from bank’s program

WITH a big fight night on the way, the Cape York Boxing Club has benefited from a major grant to purchase new equipment to support their expansion in Weipa.

The club recently received a $21,240 grant from Queensland Country Bank under its Good for Good program to help pay for the goods.

Founder Scott Wallace said the club started out in a makeshift shelter and had been running for five years.

The club has since moved into a permanent base at the old squash courts and is looking to expand its offering to cater to the wider Weipa and Napranum communities.

Mr Wallace said the grant would in part help provide weightlifting equipment so that the gym could offer facilities to its current members, as well as attract newcomers.

He thanked Queensland Country Bank for its assistance.

“We have always been open to anyone in the community who wanted to learn or train in boxing, but now we will also be able to offer general fitness equipment and training,” he said.

“Our motto has always been that nobody should miss out on coaching and fitness, and thanks to the Queensland Country Bank’s Good for Good grant, we will hopefully be able to grow even bigger and welcome more new members.”

Weipa Queensland Country Bank branch manager Luke O’Day said the club’s presence in the community and the service it provided was priceless.

“We understand how important it is to have facilities like this in Weipa,” he said.

“The fitness services and the coaching and mentoring that Scott and Kristine provide are so important for the community.

“As a member-owned bank, we are able to reinvest our profits back into the local community that supports us.

“This means we can not only maintain a branch presence in regional communities like Weipa, but we can also support deserving community groups through sponsorships and grants.”

Cape York Boxing Club’s big fight night will be held in Weipa on Saturday, July 22.

Each aircraft will also be fitted with a winch and a Wescam MX15 Electro optic/infra-red camera making it a highly capable search and rescue (SAR) platform.

Peter Newington is Babcock’s managing director of aviation and critical services and said the introduction of the AW139 aircraft

represented a major change in capability to QAS and Queensland Health’s service in the Torres Strait and northern Cape.

“Babcock has operated in the remote Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula regions for more than 27 years, ensuring the ongoing access to emergency medical services for some of the hardest-to-reach communities,” Mr Newington said.

“Our experience in the region gives us a unique understanding of the tasks and their interaction with the challenging environment due to the cluster of small islands and changing weather conditions.”

Under the new agreement, Babcock plans to increase its commitment to the local communities.

“We will be taking a more strategic and targeted approach to deliver opportunities for local busi-

ness growth, support for the local Indigenous community, and positive outcomes for Queensland and its residents,” Mr Newington said.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Service Yvette D’Ath said the state government was committed to delivering, free, world class healthcare to every Queenslander, no matter where they live.

“Queensland is the most decentralised state in the country meaning delivering emergency health services is challenging,” she said.

“Not only will these helicopters support inter-facility transfers of patients and delivery of emergency health care, they will also provide search and rescue capability.

“Having dedicated clinical staff and on-site facilities will improve operational response times, in line with other helicopter bases.”

The Torres Strait and northern Cape can expect to see new choppers in the air.

Cape York Boxing Club’s Scott Wallace with Queensland Country Bank’s Weipa branch manager Luke O’Day.

Friends of the Foundation Fete @ Cooktown

Adam Turner with baby Leo and Bull Watson with baby Tullie.

Cordinator Janeen Jenkins and service manager Katrina Bryant.

New educator Shaneese Pottle with educators Shanna Miller and Haley Land.

Educators and potential educators came to the gathering at the Alby. Mason Charger was all smiles.

Alice Seagren, Caitlin and Ed McConnell and Sue Juffs at the sweets stall.

Ros McGregor and Rosalie Chester were kept busy making tea and coffee.

Blake Ryle, Xaarlo Cowe and Jono Coventry.

Aimee and Ramon Samane with daughter Lorena.

Max Giese, Chase Hunt and Micah Parkes enjoying the fairy floss. Sky Ramage and baby Amelia Byrnes.

Endeavour Lions Club volunteers Jim Faye and Ian McCrae. Olivia Witheridge and Lucy Roberts.

Little mates Levi Timms and Tanner Bonaventura had a ball.

Tash Coventry getting a manicure from son Jono. Katherine and Ally Grayson enjoyed the morning tea.

The Crowe family – Eliza, Harrison and Jessica – were spoiling mum Josie with a photoshoot at Endeavour Christian College’s Mother’s Day morning.

Making sure everyone was well fed – teacher Lutsie Higgins with students Vivencia Willcox, Shantal Wilson and Jacques Vermeulen.

Motea Kuruduadua and son Job enjoying the Mother’s Day morning.

Pictures: SARAH MARTIN Oliver Tapscott was showing mum Cherie and siblings Lila and Quinn around the school.

Amy Meyer and daughter Emily.

Brooke Prior and daughter Iyla Harrison had a fun morning.

Odhinn Bliss Walker and mum Chook Walker.

Western Cape gets behind theme

As part of Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Month, Weipa Community Care is providing weekly articles on the subject. LILLY NASH sat down with a shelter worket to get their local perspective ...

Q: Does a woman need to have already been abused to access the shelter or can the shelter be accessed to prevent a Domestic Violence incident? Does a person need to prove that they have been abused?

A: The shelter is there for the prevention of domestic violence.

Our clients do not necessarily need to be already abused; they can come in to prevent being abused. Domestic violence isn’t just being hit, it’s not just physical violence.

It could be financial, it could be verbal, it could be that they’re being yelled at by their partner – they can still come in before it escalates further.

Q: What is domestic violence?

A: It comes in many forms, including financial abuse, emotional abuse, technology-based abuse, coercion and control abuse, social abuse, cultural abuse and physical abuse.

Q: Are there any services to help domestic violence victims if they need to talk to someone about their feelings?

A: Through Weipa Community Care we have the healing service

with Sue. We have recently created a flow chart to help determine the best support based on your situation, that includes services in Weipa as well as services from the Tablelands and Cairns.

We will distribute those flowcharts to as many places that we can around town.

Q: What further help do you provide to clients when they come into the shelter?

A: We try our best to refer our clients to suitable services based on their needs. We also encourage and support our clients to create a safety plan if they feel up to it.

We have policies and procedures in place, but every situation is unique.

Q: Does a client have to consent for the shelter to involve the police? Can you assist a person with going to the police if they choose that path?

A: We cannot involve police unless the client requests or consents to the police being involved.

The only time we go to the police without consent is when a child is in danger, this is part of our mandatory reporting.

If a client is either at risk of harming themselves or others, this is also reason for us to involve police. If a client does want to involve police, we are able to take that client to the police.

If they decide to give a statement and they feel the need to have another person in the room

for emotional support, we can be that person.

Q: What is your advice for someone going through domestic violence?

A: Use your support network. There will be someone out there to support you in a domestic violence situation, it’s worth getting the help.

Q: Does the shelter provide any sort of training to help the support workers in their response to domestic violence?

A: Yes, we often go through professional development training.

We recently had training in Cairns which was based around the best practises and policies for client safety.

It keeps us in the loop for how the government wants us to handle risks and safety as well as how to go about keeping our clients safe.

It was also a good refresher for what details we need to be getting from clients and how to create safety plans.

Last September, we went to a training course which taught us about different kinds of domestic violence.

Some of the topics included were strangulation and sexual violence, and how common it is to our clients.

Western Cape Women’s Crisis Shelter provides 24-hour support. Call them on 0457 620 060 if you need help. In an emergency, always dial police via 000.

The theme of Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Month in 2023 is: ‘It’s in our control to end coercive control’. That message was spread at last week’s rally in Napranum, which was supported by the PCYC and other government agencies.

The team from AFL Cape York dropped in last week to donate $3250 towards Weipa Community Care’s domestic and family violence support services.

Sudoku

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

DAILY CONVENTIONAL CROSSWORD 15 X 15 GRID V

Quick Workout

Fit the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 into the hexagons so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers will be the same. No number is repeated in any hexagon.

Crossword

Focus

TODAY’S Good: 9 words

FOCUS Very good: 16 words

27

Spot the 5 Differences

YESTERDAY’S SOLUTION ether here hereto hereupon hero heron hoer hone hope horn hornet hour hunt hunter hurt nether north other ouph phon phone phut pother thee then there thereon THEREUPON thorn thou three thro throne thru

Reference: Macquarie Concise Dictionary Focus No. 3961

Join the Dots

What is this? Find out by joining the dots.

Solutions

FUNDRAISER

Golf Day!

Come

fun

SATURDAY, JUNE 17

9-HOLE GOLF

AMBROSE

Bacon & egg breakfast burger available

9am Buggy auction

10am Tee-off (shotgun start)

Drinks available from the club

(TEAMS OF 4

PLAYERS)

Courtesy buggy on course

$50 per player (includes green fees, burger & beer/wine/soft drink on completion)

Maintenance dredging notice

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.

Administration/Weighbridge Operator Position Available

Remondis is the waste service provider for Weipa and surrounding areas and we are looking for an organised, self-motivated admin officer with an eye for detail to join our friendly team situated at the Weipa landfill.

The role:

• Data Entry

• Processing staff & vehicle paperwork

• Daily runsheet creation & processing

• General office admin (phone calls, emails & archiving)

• Perform sanitary servicing (one day per month)

• 4 days per week (Wednesday to Saturday)

• Wednesday-Friday (0800-1700) & Saturday (0800-1600)

• Permanent/Part-time

• Annual salary: $64,773 + super

• 4 weeks annual leave per annum

The person:

• Punctual

• Reliable

• Thrive in a team environment

• Provide excellent customer service

• Basic MS Office experience (excel, office & teams)

• Ability to work autonomously, multi-task & prioritise when needed

Applications close on 31 May 2023

APPLY ONLINE AT careers.remondis-australia.com.au

Kick-start your career and earn while you learn with this exciting traineeship

Earn while you learn

Gain valuable work experience

Learn new skills

Work on real projects to support your community

NOTICE OF INFORMATION MEETING FOR KUNJEN OLKOL GROUP

Cape York United # 1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014) Tuesday 30 May 2023, Cairns

This notice is to advise that Cape York Land Council (CYLC) is facilitating an information meting in Cairns for all members of the Kunjen Olkol Group who hold or may hold native title rights and interests in the area shown on the map below within the Cape York United #1 (CYU#1) Claim Area.

Kunjen Olkol Group Information Meeting

Date:

Tuesday 30 May 2023

Time: 9.30am – 3.30pm

Location: Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns

209 -217 Abbott Street Cairns

Qld

Purpose of the meeting:

The purpose of this meeting is for CYLC to provide an update on the status of the CYU#1 Claim and to discuss next steps required to progress your native title claim, including outstanding connection issues, the resolution of the Kunjen Olkol group description and the negotiation of boundaries with the neighbouring groups.

Who may attend this meeting:

This meeting is open to all members of the Kunjen Olkol Group who hold native title rights and interests in the area as shown on the map above.

Further Information, Attendance and Video-Conferencing:

If you would like further information about the matters to be discussed at this meeting please contact our office on freecall 1800 623 548 and ask to speak to Kirstin Malyon (Principal Legal Officer) or Dr Tahnee Innes (Anthropologist).

For travel assistance queries, to confirm your attendance or to arrange a zoom link to this meeting, please contact Jayd Copelin before Tuesday 23 May 2023 at CYLC on (07) 4053 9222

Are you looking for a challenging and rewarding career opportunity? Then we're looking for you!

We're looking for a reliable, and safety-focused individual to operate and maintain our water treatment facilities as an integral part of Council's dedicated Water and Wastewater team.

Extra time needed in Crusaser Cup

A THRILLER was played out at the Weipa Cricket Ground last week as schools from across the Western Cape came together for the AFL Cape York Crusader Cup.

Teams travelled from Mapoon and Aurukun to take on St Joseph’s Parish School and Western Cape College for the prestigious trophy.

In the grand final, scores were locked at 29 apiece between Mapoon and Weipa’s Western Cape College when the final siren sounded, meaning an extra five minutes was played.

The home team took advantage early, kicking two quick goals to build a lead, then added another near the end to seal victory.

Yarin from WCC was one of two MVPs, with Isabelle from St Joseph’s also receiving the honour.

NORTHERN TEAM SOARS

MEANWHILE, a group of young footballers the Torres Strait and NPA made history this month, competing against the region’s best schoolgirl sides in Cairns.

The group of under-15 female players were the first from their region to compete in the junior girls division of the AFL Queensland Schools Cup.

AFL Cape York development coordinator Kieran Sciberras said, for most, it was their first game.

“These young footballers have been selected by their schools

based on positive behaviour, school attendance and sporting ability,” he said.

“These types of experiences can go a long way towards bright futures on and off the field.

“Some families up north have never had the chance to play or watch a game of Aussie Rules, but that’s changing.

“The natural talent across the region is unreal, many young people excel across codes, including when they pick up a Sherrin.

“The day a player from the NPA or Torres Strait region is drafted to the AFL or AFLW will be an absolute game changer.”

Request for Tender

POSITIONS VACANT

Casual

Expression of Interest – Council Assets Silent Auction

KASC-2023-007

Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council is inviting expressions of interest for the purchase and removal of Council assets from Council Workers Compound located in Chapman Road in Kowanyama.

The EOI is available to download via https: //www.kowanyama.qld.gov.au/council/tenders-and-opportunities/

Expressions of interest must comprise of sealed bid, including contact name and number, lot/items for bid and EOI reference number. Applicants must have a registered ABN.

EOIs close at 4.00pm 1st June 2023

EOIs must be submitted in person by close.

Kevin Bell, Chief Executive Officer

Must have RSA & RSG

Experience is preferred, training provided

Must be available for nights and weekends when required

Phone 4214 6500 or email the Club Manager manager@weipabowlsclub.com.au for further information or register your interest

TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL AUTHORITY REQUEST FOR TENDER

The TSRA is seeking tenders from suitably qualified and experienced organisations for the Provision of Core Legal Services AND/OR Prevention, Intervention and Community Legal Education Services for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people living in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area region. This Request for Tender is for provision of services over a period of up to three (3) years.

Tender documentation can be obtained by sending an email to tenders@tsra.gov.au with ‘TENDER

REQUEST – Core Legal Services Tender’ AND/OR Prevention, Intervention and Community Legal Education Services Tender in the subject line or on www.tsra.gov.au – under tenders.

Tenders may be submitted as an email attachment to tenders@tsra.gov.au. Tenders are to be clearly marked as ‘TENDER RESPONSE – CA-2023-00028 - Core Legal Services Tender’ AND/OR Prevention, Intervention and Community Legal Education Services Tender’ in the subject line.

Alternatively, tenders may be posted to RFT – CA-2023-00028, Torres Strait Regional Authority PO Box 261, Thursday Island Qld 4875.

All enquiries regarding this RFT must be referred in writing to tenders@tsra.gov.au.

Tenders must be received by 5.00pm on Tuesday 30 May 2023

Yarin from Western Cape College was named MVP. He is pictured with Troydan from AFL Cape York House, who was on work experience.

The Western Cape College team celebrate the Crusader Cup victory.

This under-15 girls team from the NPA and Torres Strait represented the region in Cairns earlier this month.

SPORT IN BRIEF

Handicapper take note

WEDNESDAY Wackers stalwart Steve Head had to get out the axe to chop his handicap last week after a huge win in the nine-hole event at Weipa.

Head had an impressive 42 off the stick for a nett 27, which saw him beat Bruce Brockhurst by eight strokes.

“My handicap’s been smashed by nine shots,” wrote Head when sending through his weekly report.

In a field of 11, Jim Hunter and Head had the nearest to pins, while newcomer Tyler picked up the Bradman’s.

Meanwhile, just four players rolled out of bed early on Sunday morning for Dawnies.

Grant Crossley reckoned it was because of the club championships being played on Saturday and Sunday.

Rachel Dick got a deserved win, beating Crossley, while she also picked up the Hoffman’s (figure that one out).

Social golfers are invited to play Dawn Busters golf from around 6.30am at the Carpentaria Golf Club.

Meaty win for Dash

BUTCHER Dale ‘Dasha’ Holmquest was Sunday’s single stroke winner at the Carpentaria Golf Club, with the 18-hole round played in conjunction with the overall club championships.

Dash had a nett 69 to beat Jim Taylor, who was runner-up on a countback with a nett 73.

Nearest to pins over the weekend went to Helen Sabatino, Stan Cardelli, Jamie Hutton and Rob McVean.

Kerr simply superb

SAM Kerr has led Chelsea to their third straight Women’s FA Cup, scoring the lone goal in the final against Manchester United in front of a record crowd at Wembley.

With 77,390 people in attendance, the sold-out game smashed the previous record for a women’s domestic club football match — an Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona clash in 2019 — by 17,000 people.

Kerr’s 68th-minute strike, poking home Pernille Harder’s cross, proved decisive as Chelsea won the trophy for the third straight year to remain in contention for a league and cup double.

Weipa premiership star kicking goals with Pride

By MATT NICHOLLS

A PREMIERSHIP player with the Weipa Raiders in 2022, Travis Cornthwaite has found himself on a football pathway with no limitations.

The 19-year-old has moved to Cairns to play with the Northern Pride’s Colts team, a move suggested after his performances with the Raiders last year.

“We had a couple of people at the Gordonvale carnival last year and his talent was identified,” said the Pride’s first grade coach Ty Williams.

“Word came back that there was this kid from Weipa with some ability so we reached out to him to see if he wanted an opportunity.”

Cornthwaite jumped at the chance. He made the move from Weipa to Cairns and shacked up with Pride CEO Garreth Smith and his wife Florrie for a while, but now lives with former Weipa Raiders legend Karl Adams, who is the Pride’s project officer.

“I’m really enjoying it,” said Cornthwaite, a Wik man with family ties to Aurukun.

“I’m looking forward to getting a win on the board.”

While the Colts are 0-4 this season, they are much improved on last year when they struggled to be competitive.

Under the coaching of Bevan Walker, they have been in most of their four matches.

On Saturday, Cornthwaite scored his first try for the club in a tough 56-22 loss against the Clydesdales in Toowoomba.

“Bevo is the best coach I’ve had and we’re improving every week,” the halfback said.

“I think we’ll be a lot better in the second half of the year.”

Williams said if Cornthwaite’s progression continued, a first grade debut was not out of the question.

“We want to fast track his development because there are

pieces of the puzzle that makes Travis ahead of where he should be, and other pieces where he’s behind on where he could be,” the veteran coach said.

“I’m not surprised to see how quickly he’s adapted and developed his game because he’s come in with the right attitude and asked questions with a view to improve.

“He doesn’t just stand in the background and think that he knows it all.”

Williams has already put the youngster to work in the first grade squad’s training sessions with an eye to the future.

“I think the club’s in a very strong position where we can

pull on those kids in our catchment area, bring them to Cairns and hopefully help fulfil their potential,” he said.

Cornthwaite, who picked up individual honours in both the Cape Cluster competition and the Gordonvale Indigenous Rugby League carnival, says he now has ambitions to play first grade and potentially chase an NRL dream.

While he’s wearing the No. 7 jersey for now, the teenager says his best position is at hooker, a role he played for the Raiders last year.

“I think I need to get in the gym a bit more if I’m going to play there, though,” he said.

COOKTOWN TIDE TIMES

Weipa product Travis Cornthwaite is already making a positive impression with the Northern Pride Colts team.

In action for the Weipa Raiders.

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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EDITORIAL DEADLINE: 5pm Friday

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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.