A deadly performance from Pormpuraaw’s traditional dance group Kutubi Gura Buna saw them claim the coveted shield at the Laura Quinkan Dance Festival on Sunday. Thousands turned out to the famous bora grounds for the three-day event, with the Voice a hot topic amongst revellers. Four-page liftout – INSIDE
A VICTORIAN grandfather on a holiday with his family has died after falling down an embankment while walking to Trevathan Falls.
The incident, which occurred on Friday afternoon, was described by police as a tragic accident.
“He was walking along the track to the falls and, for some reason, lost balance and fell down a steep gully,” said Cooktown officer
in charge, Senior Sergeant John McArthur.
The 70-year-old victim, from Eltham in Melbourne’s north-east, was travelling in Queensland with his wife, son and daughter-in-law, and his grandchild.
“It’s not a long walk, no more than 100 metres, but it can be a steep little track and he’s probably fallen 40 or 50 metres,” Senior Sergeant McArthur said.
“His son has made it down to
him and he was still alive, but he had died before paramedics arrived on scene.
“The son has used a sat phone to call Triple Zero and police and QAS attended.”
Because of the hard-to-access terrain, the man’s body had to be left overnight and wasn’t retrieved until Saturday.
The falls were closed to the public as a result and the scene was under police guard until the rescue
helicopter made the retrieval the following afternoon.
“Police have referred the family to the support that is available to them,” Senior Sergeant McArthur said.
“It’s a tragic thing to happen, especially when you’re retired and on a family holiday in Queensland.
“I think they had been on the road for six or seven weeks.”
Police will prepare a report for the coroner.
A LONG battle for Elders in Cape York – many of whom died before seeing the results – is over for four different Traditional Owner groups after Native Title determinations were delivered in Cairns last week.
Around 850,000 hectares of Cape York land has been added to the Native Title register after successful campaigns by the Central West Wik, Taepithiggi, Umpila and Weipa Peninsula people.
Their fight was part of the Cape York United #1 Claim, which was lodged in 2014 with the backing of multiple Traditional Owner groups and communities.
Cape York Land Council chair Richie Ah Mat said it was a time for both celebration and reflection.
“Native Title is a great legacy to leave the children and grandchildren, but we must also remember those who worked so hard for this day and didn’t get to see the results,” he said.
“Unfortunately Native Title is a long process and many Elders are no longer with us after starting the process.”
Speaking to the ABC, Chief Justice Debra Mortimer acknowledged the time it took for the claims to be processed.
“This has been a really long journey and I’m sorry that this system of Native Title … takes so long,” she said.
“It’s been too long for some Elders, who have not lived to see this determination today, and that
makes today both a happy day and a sad day.”
Central West Wik Traditional Owner Douglas Ahlers said it was about righting wrongs of the past.
“To me, recognition of Native Title means a step in the right direction of full and equal rights between the black man and the white man,” he said.
“Every day, as a 5 or 6-year-old boy, I used to watch my parents go to the police station to get a piece of paper just to be able to go to the store to buy food or clothes.
“My people were under the Aboriginals Protection and Restriction of the Sale of Opium Act
“Some of them lived to see the abolishment of the Act and the freedom of their rights. The recognition of Native Title is a further confirmation of that freedom.”
Umpila representative
“It will give me great pleasure to take my family back to Umpila Country, to show them why I did the Native Title process,” he said.
“I want to bring my kids to my Country and have them share it with their children.”
THE state’s Opposition Leader David Crisafulli will fly into Weipa today to speak with locals about birthing services in the community as he continues his Queensland health crusade.
The LNP leader has recently visited Cooktown and Thursday Island and will fly from Weipa to Bamaga on Tuesday.
“I will be in Weipa tomorrow and it is my intention to shine a spotlight on another community that has had the state government promise the return of maternity services and still there has been nothing,” Mr Crisafulli told Cape York Weekly
“We are now in the situation in Queensland where since
the late 1990s, there have been more birthing closures than are currently open.
“Is it any wonder record number of mums are having babies on the side of the road?
“We are determined to make sure that women can have a baby where, when and how they choose.
“When promises are made, they should be delivered.”
Former Weipa medical boss Alex Dunn, who is now living in Gympie, was recently sworn in as president of the Rural Doctors Association of Queensland.
He told The Courier-Mail that no birth should be at increased risk due to location factors.
“The safety of women and babies during gestation and birth
should not depend on their postcode,” Dr Dunn said.
“We were encouraged to hear that key stakeholders are united in our commitment to achieving real outcomes for rural and remote communities at the recent maternity roundtable hosted by Health Minister Shannon Fentiman.”
Ms Fentimann is expected to make a trip to the Torres Strait this week to discuss the health service with mayors from the region, including the NPA. However, Mr Crisafulli said it was time for the state government to start taking action.
“Weipa was promised maternity services and still it waits. As do a whole host of other places like Cooktown,” he said.
“We are going to continue to go back to these regions and shine a spotlight on promises made by the Palaszczuk government.”
Construction on the Weipa birthing suite was finished at the start of the year, but the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service put the birthing program on hold, citing staff shortages.
The TCHHS is now without a CEO after Beverley Hamerton resigned last month, following the death of a two-year-old child at Bamaga Hospital.
Mr Crisafulli said he would fly to Bamaga from Weipa to meet with community members and local leaders to discuss any issues at the hospital and throughout the NPA.
COOK Shire will soon call for expressions of interest to build and operate a $24 million aged care facility in Cooktown, a year after a preliminary business case was released that showed the need for more aged care services.
The proposed 40-bed facility will also support the growing aged population Hope Vale and Wujal Wujal to allow a dignified transition for local seniors to high-care living.
“Council is fully supportive of the need for expanded aged care services in Cook Shire, and in partnership with Hope Vale and Wujal Wujal councils, has compiled a business case outlining a proposed regional aged care facility to be built in Cooktown,” Cook Shire mayor Peter Scott said.
At the June meeting, Cook Shire councillors voted to issue an expression of interest to iden-
tify potential options for future delivery of the project.
“The expressions of interest process is the next step in testing the market and identifying potential options for future delivery of this important regional project,” Cr Scott said.
The proposed facility would include provisions for dementia patients, residential respite care and co-location of independent residential dwellings, he said.
The case also includes plans for a $6.43 million community care facility to be built as a second stage, and provisions for staff accommodation that were not included in the $24 million cost estimate.
Cr Scott said Cook Shire had identified suitable centrallylocated land that could be made available to proponents for the construction of the aged care facility.
MORE of Cape York could be protected under a World Heritage listing, after four local Aboriginal corporations shared in funding to take the first steps.
The $200,000 state government funding will be used to undertake cultural heritage assessments at Palmerville and on Muunthi country, assess Balnggarrawarra country for National Heritage listing and increase the footprint of the National Heritage listing nomination on Binthi land.
Binthi Land Holding Group Aboriginal Corporation spokesperson Ramona McIvor said the funding was a boost towards better protection of their land.
“It will inspire other Traditional Owners to get involved in protecting and caring for their Country, not just in Queensland, but throughout Australia,” she said.
“I would like to see Cape York’s natural and cultural values and Indigenous Heritage receive stronger protection, which National or World Heritage listing can do.
“The Cape York region is important to First Nations people,
and its preservation is what our ancestors wanted, and what elders and current generations are working towards.
“We want to share our stories to give everyone an understanding of traditional management techniques and our history and connection to these areas.
“Attaining National Heritage or World Heritage listing will strengthen heritage protections and management practices of the outstanding values on our country, and the recognition will put us on the map.
“Our Binthi motto is ‘Binthi Warra Bamaa-ngay, Bubu Thanangan-ngu, Dabarrgu Ngarra-thinhu, Magu-badaaygu – Forever Protecting and Respecting the Sacredness of our Land’.”
Member for Cook Cynthia Lui backed the grants.
“Cape York supports rich flora and fauna, including species endemic to the region, and it is culturally important to our Traditional Owners, who have had a strong connection to Country spanning tens of thousands of years,” she said.
DON’T be alarmed if you start seeing army vehicles in town and navy ships in the port, says Weipa Town Authority chairman Michael Rowland. Their presence is to prepare for Exercise Talisman Sabre, Australia’s biggest joint training exercise with the United States.
Weipa will play a big role this year, both through RAAF Base Scherger and the port.
“It doesn’t start until the end of the month but you’ll see trucks and increased activity around town as Defence gears up for the exercise. I caught up with the Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Robert Chipman
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Foxlast week and he said to expect to see a navy boat in the harbour this week,” Mr Rowland said.
It will be mostly American troops in Weipa when the exercise begins, although there should also be a significant number of Australian soldiers.
Mr Rowland said he was glad Weipa was being utilised for Talisman Sabre and hoped things went well so that Scherger would be used more often.
“We’ve had this sleeping giant here for 20 years and I told Air Marshal Chipman that it was about time it was woken up and put to use,” he said of the Scherger base.
CAPE York residents who pay for a restricted area concession registration will no longer need to get a permit when they drive out, TMR has confirmed.
Motorists received emails on Friday informing them of the change.
It will have an impact on those living in Weipa, Aurukun, Lockhart River, Napranum and Mapoon, as well as the NPA.
Residents in Pormpuraaw and
Kowanyama are also able to get the registration, which doesn’t require a roadworthy certificate when transferring a vehicle’s ownership.
“We have recently reviewed the restricted area concession for vehicle registration in Queensland,” a TMR spokesperson told Cape York Weekly
“From July 7, a permit will no longer be required if a vehicle registered with a restricted area concession needs to be used outside of the restricted area.
“This change will remove an existing requirement on concession holders and is a great outcome for customers living in these areas.”
Before the change, those on the concessional registration would need to visit their local police station or court house to get a permit and pay a small fee. It was a process that couldn’t be done online and frustrated many motorists who wanted to drive to Cairns or the Tablelands on short notice.
MOSQUITO spraying is underway on Boigu Island on the Torres Strait after a local resident contracted malaria on Australia’s most northern island.
TMR said all registration holders would be contacted.
“We are in the process of writing to all people with a vehicle in the restricted area concession scheme to advise of the changes, noting that all other existing arrangements under the concession remain in place, including that the vehicle must be garaged at an address in one of the eligible restricted areas,” the spokesperson said.
“More information can be found on the TMR website.”
Namai-Sabatino was named the schoolbased apprentice/trainee of the year at the Tropical North Queensland, Training Awards on Friday night.
The Napranum resident, who is completing a Certificate II in Engineering while working with Rio Tinto Weipa, was celebrated at the prestigious Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year awards in Cairns.
Fellow Napranum resident Shaniqua
Burke was also a winner on the night after she was named Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander Student of the Year for her work at Apunipima as she completes a Certificate III in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care.
Regional winners progress to the state final in September, with the opportunity to compete for national titles at the Australian Training Awards in November.
“We have many high-achievers in our wonderful community and this year’s Queensland Training Awards highlighted that right across the region from Cairns and Port Douglas to Mt Sheridan and Napranum,
said Member for Cairns Michael Healy, who attended the awards.
“I congratulate Anglicare North Queensland for taking out the Community Training Initiative of the Year for their comprehensive support services for vulnerable people in the region since 1985.
“Their programs foster connection between the unemployed and local organisations, employers, and government agencies.
“I wish the winners from Tropical North Queensland all the best at the Queensland Training Awards state finals in September.”
Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service’s public health medical officer Allison Hempenstall said the case was being managed appropriately and no further details could be provided due to confidentiality.
“The community should be aware that malaria is treatable and there is no cause for community alarm. Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease and is not transmitted from person to person. It is spread to people by the bite of particular types of mosquitoes,” Dr Hempenstall said.
“Residents of Boigu Island and the Torres Strait Islands should be on alert for symptoms of malaria and take measures to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes.”
The most common symptoms are high fever, headache, backache, nausea, vomiting, and muscle and joint pains.
THE Department of Transport and Main Roads has rescheduled its planned closures at Shelley’s Crossing at north Laura, with work to start this Thursday.
However, there are more opening times after listening to feedback from the community.
“For the safety of workers and road users, intermittent full bridge closures will be carried out from July 13 to August 3, including weekends, weather and construction conditions permitting.
“To facilitate through traffic, crews will allow openings throughout each day.”
The bridge will be closed from 7am to 9.30am, opened for 15 minutes and then closed from 9.45am until noon.
It will be open for a half-hour window at lunch, then closed from 12.30pm until 2.30pm for a 15-minute traffic opening, before closing again from 2.45pm until 5pm. The bridge will be open all night.
TWO people, including a 10-year-old child, were airlifted to Cairns Hospital on Sunday following an ATV accident on a private property near Kowanyama.
The child was flown in a critical condition, but was reported to be stable by the hospital on Sunday night.
A man in his 40s was also flown to Cairns in a stable condition.
Two others were transported to the Kowanyama clinic with minor injuries.
THE work of 15 Aurukun artists, including the event’s best-selling female artist, will be showcased among that of the 900 performers and exhibitors at the annual Cairns Indigenous Art Fair this week.
The four-day celebration of Indigenous arts and culture is one of the country’s premier arts events.
Aurukun arts centre manager Gabe Waterman will travel to Cairns with seven of the artists for CIAF, which launches at the Cairns Convention Centre on Thursday night.
“The Ku’ (camp dog) carvings are always popular with art lovers, but this year the carvings will be dominated by an epic Pangka (kangaroo) by Vernon Marbendinar from the Apalech clan,” Mr Waterman said.
“Established artist Vera Koomeeta, also from the Apalech clan, will be exhibiting large paintings depicting her country around the Knox River.
“Senior Winchanam artist Janet Koongotema will be attending her first solo exhibition at CIAF after becoming a finalist in the Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander Art Awards and the Wynne Prize this year,” Mr Waterman said.
“Janet is now represented by the Red Dot Gallery in Singapore who have partnered with Dreamcoat Paint Studio and Wik and Kugu Arts Centre for this exhibition.
“We have more female artists represented this year at CIAF, including Devena Wikmunea and Nita Yunkaporta, who was the highest selling female artist at CIAF last year.”
Devena’s works at CIAF will be complemented by the carvings of her father Keith Wikmunea, also a finalist in the Telstra art awards.
LAKELAND residents are being encouraged to have a say on a draft master plan which will guide future development in the rapidly growing agricultural hub.
Cook Shire mayor Peter Scott said the town had become an agricultural powerhouse in the region, with more growth expected, which had triggered the need for a town master plan.
“The sector is projected to keep growing, with increasing demand for housing and infrastructure for residents and workers, as well as tourists travelling to Cooktown and Cape York,” he said.
“The Lakeland Master Plan is a crucial step in planning for that expected future growth to ensure
the area remains a beautiful place for people to live and work, with the services and amenities needed to support them.”
Community feedback from previous consultations had gone into the draft master plan, he said.
“We are now calling for residents to again provide feedback on this draft plan to ensure the final document reflects the needs of Lakeland residents and businesses.”
The public is invited to a meeting at the Lakeland Town Hall today (July 11) at 4.30pm to meet the team working on the master plan and provide feedback before the final master plan is released later this year.
sheds. 2 covered areas for entertaining and relaxing outdoors. Open plan living including lounge room, central kitchen and dining area. Off the dining room there is a further family room which opens onto the outdoor area. 3 good size bedrooms and modern renovated bathroom are at the rear of the home plus a separate toilet and large laundry with built-ins. Centrally located you are walking distance to schools, recreation facilities, medical and shopping precinct. Previously a Government rental, the property is now vacant and available for immediate occupation or tenancy.
Rio Tinto proudly supports Athletics Australia in bringing the Rio Tinto Athletics for the Outback program to Weipa and surrounding communities for seven days of fun athletics activity and clinics.
Children of all ages, and adults of all abilities, can run, jump and throw alongside Athletics Australia’s top coaches and National Champion and Commonwealth Games sprinter, Jack Hale.
Join us on Thursday 20 July for a FREE community athletics session and BBQ at the Weipa cricket oval from 4pm – 6pm. Everyone is welcome! For more information contact Rio Tinto Weipa at RTAWeipaFeedback@riotinto.com or follow us on Facebook.
CAPE York’s legendary Archer River Roadhouse has changed hands for just the second time in its 40-year history after Brad and Modena Allan officially handed over the keys this month.
The new owners are a group of investors who have other remote roadhouses in Australia, including Kings Creek Station in the NT.
Brad and Modena have been at the helm for the past 19 years after they joined forces with long-time friend Hugh Atherton to buy the roadhouse in 2004.
They became full owners when they took over Hugh’s share just before COVID hit and have been flat out ever since, with huge tourist numbers hitting the Cape after lockdowns, combined with the nearby road and bridge construction works.
“It’s definitely been one of the best chapters of our lives,” Brad said of owning the roadhouse.
“We leave with a lot of friends and a lot of good memories.”
It was Brad and Hugh who first set sight on the property in the 1990s and pondered the idea of taking over from owner Sherrill Mehonoshen (nee Jackson), who carved out the 1000-acre plot from her family’s Wolverton Station to create the roadhouse.
“Hughy and I used to come up to the Cape to go fishing. We’d go camping at False Pera with a few boys we went to school with,” Brad recalled.
“We’d gather on the Tablelands around Anzac Day and drive up. It took two days then because the road is nothing like it is now.
“We’d seen the roadhouse and Hughy and I had these long drives and were talking about buying one.
“He was in Beaudesert and I was at Childers and we’d sit in the Toyota and have a yarn.
“We’d ask Sherrill every year we’d come up if she would sell and every year she would say ‘Nah, nah, I’m not ready’.
“Then one year she said she was open to the idea and we didn’t get there on the price.
“We left it for a couple of years and she said she was negotiable and keen to move on.”
Modena, who had never laid eyes on the place, wasn’t as keen.
“I remember ringing Mo from the phone box, basically the same phone box that is out the front of the place now,” Brad said.
“She said: ‘What are you doing? Come home and stop dreaming’.
“But we came up with the kids in the June school holidays of 2004 and sat in a unit for the week and watched how busy it was.
“We worked out a deal and took the keys on the first of March in 2005.”
The trio of new owners brought new ideas and, most importantly, fresh energy to the business.
“I completely understand what
it must have been like for Sherrill because she had done 20 years and we’ve just done 20 years and that’s just about enough, I reckon,” Brad said.
“We spent quite a bit of money over the years to make improvements and tried to take it to the next level.
“I’m sure the new owners will do the same thing.”
COMMUNITY HUB LOCATED two hours from Weipa, Lockhart River, Aurukun and the Bramwell Junction Roadhouse, the Archer is well positioned in the centre of Cape York Peninsula.
Brad said it was the locals who made the roadhouse a special
place, even though the tourists brought most of the business.
“We’re sort of the hub for the local community,” he said.
“When we got up here the communities didn’t have big stores or offer any kind of fast food.
“We were offering burgers and fries to those Lockhart locals who would come out and camp on the river. They’d get a feed, some beer and have a night out,.
“This was a hub for many people and because of the lack of communication in the Cape, everything would come through here.
“If there was an emergency, we’d get the phone calls and have police ring us for information.
“The Weipa people have always been very good to us and come down here to camp and have a feed and a drink and say hello.”
Truck drivers have also made the Archer River Roadhouse a home away from home.
Drivers from most freight companies stop at the Archer to unload and then help themselves to a cup of coffee and sit out the back and enjoy their dinner away from the general punters.
“We don’t let everyone come back but the people we know were always welcome,” Brad said.
“Up here, we rely on the truck drivers for everything, so it pays to look after them if you can.”
A BRIDGE will finally be built over the Archer River next year, which should stop motorists risking their lives by driving through floodwater each wet season.
Countless cars have been swept off the causeway in the last two decades and one man was killed in 2014 after an unsuccessful crossing attempt.
For Brad, he’s been involved in too many rescue attempts to count and won’t miss the phone calls.
“I’ve told that many people not to drive in it (when it’s flooded) and they still do,” he said.
“It’s this get-home mentality. You see it in aviation when the pilot wants to get to their destination and instead of turning around and avoiding bad weather they keep going until it’s too late.”
One rescue still springs to mind for Brad, who rescued a family hanging to tree branches after their vehicle got washed away.
“It was 10.30 at night and they were lucky that Barry (Holz) went down to check the river levels on his motorbike. As he got down there he could hear kids screaming and he realised what’s happened and come back up here so we could help out.”
A rescue plan was put in place and Brad was able to launch his small boat and get to them in time.
“I’d hate to think what would have happened if Barry didn’t go down there.
“It’s hard for me as well because I’m putting my own life at risk –I don’t have any training in rapid water rescues.”
BRAD is lucky to be able to tell his story after a routine plane trip went wrong in 2010.
The long-time pilot took his Cessna 182 for a quick flight and ran into mechanical problems.
“I decided to take the aircraft just for a local flight just to give it a run, because I hadn’t given it a run for about a week or so,” he said at the time.
There seemed to be no problems as he banked the plane heading back. Then at 700 feet in the air, the engine stopped.
Spotting a clearing behind the roadhouse, he veered the plane toward it and braced himself.
“It’s sort of the only clear area that I had to land in,” he said.
Once again, it was Barry who was first on the scene and came to his rescue, although Brad escaped with minor injuries.
“It was basically just cuts. I had one deep laceration which needed medical attention but I was very lucky,” he said.
That didn’t stop him from getting another plane and doing it all again. More recently, he’s been into helicopters and has offered scenic flights for tourists.
THERE was barely a caravan or even a camper trailer on the road when Brad and Modena first took over at the Archer River.
“The road just keeps on getting better and that brings more traffic and more business,” he said.
“People were worried about the bridge but people will still stop at the roadhouse because they need a place to pull up and have a rest.
“The new owners know what they are doing and they’ll take this place to a new level.”
It’s the wet season that Brad and Modena will miss the most.
“You get the place to yourself and it’s green and there’s water around and plenty of life,” said Brad.
“It’s probably getting too busy
for us now and it’s a seven-day grind for a long period of time.
“At the start of the tourist season, I have plenty to give but at the end of the season, I’m buggered and all given out.”
When they took over the Archer, the generator was turned off at 10pm and turned on at 7am. Now it runs 24/7.
“The units used to just have ceiling fans and no air con, but the tourists want air con,” Brad said.
“It might sound like a complaint but it’s not. Times change. If I was young enough I’d do it all again.”
THE NEXT CHAPTER MODENA is just coming to grips with the thought of leaving.
“I thought we’d be here for a few more years yet because we thought our son would take over,” she said.
“Then we could kick back a bit and enjoy it a bit more. But he’s not interested in it, which is OK, but I did think I’d have more time.”
However, she’s quickly trying to adapt.
“The first couple of days I was a bit overwhelmed but we just moved out of the granny flat and into the camper trailer near the horses,” Modena said.
“Last night we kicked back and had a few wines and a few of the truck drivers came to sit around and it was much more chilled.
“That made me feel a lot better.”
Modena said she would miss the regular faces, including those from Coen and Lockhart River.
“They come in and call us Aunty Modena and Uncle Brad, which is very lovely and shows that level of respect we have for each other,” she said.
“I think they’ll miss us a lot and we’ll miss them, for sure.”
Brad said they would likely move to Cairns at first, but then find a place in North Queensland to call home.
“It was a big decision for us to sell because we’ve put a lot of time, effort and love into this place,” he said.
“It’s been our business and our
home and given us everything we’ve ever wanted. We’ve got the horses here, the cattle and live on 1000 acres in Cape York that not many get to do.”
NEW OWNERSHIP
TONY McFadzean is one of three investors who have purchased the Archer River Roadhouse.
He’s teamed up with Brisbanebased Thomas Collins and Thomas Robson to add to their growing portfolio of remote properties, which includes Kings Creek and Erldunda Roadhouse.
“It’s such a beautiful place,” Mr McFadzean said from the Archer River last week.
“We’re very excited about the Archer and taking over the reins.”
Mr McFadzean said one of his business partners had a family connection to a property near Musgrave and was travelling in the Cape last year when he stopped at Archer River.
“He dropped his name to Modena one day and said for her and Brad to give him a call if they ever
wanted to sell and that call came about six months ago,” he said.
“From there, we came up as a group and had a look.”
Mr McFadzean spent 35 years working through the ranks of Woolworths and has proven to be successful in the commercial real estate business.
“Our model is to find a property with a high traffic flow, which guarantees you can make ends meet,” he said.
“I wouldn’t think people will see massive changes because we’ve fallen in love with what exists here already, not because of its potential.
“You have to learn the property before making significant changes and that’s what we’ll do.
“We’ll put managers in, keep the existing staff and take it from there.
“I was in Weipa the other day with the Archer River shirt on and it seemed everyone had a story to tell about the roadhouse, which was really nice.”
CAPE York locals and tourists are invited to “make soil sexy again” at Cape York Folk Club’s Re-Gen Weekender fundraiser, to be held near Cooktown this month.
The two-day event at the site of the Wallaby Creek Festival, has a host of special guests, workshops and speakers all focused on regenerative agriculture, with funds raised going towards buying the site as a permanent home for the annual music festival.
Presenters include Dr Andre Leu, Sally Fields, Dr Wendy Seabrook, Adam Collins and Ori Albert-Mitchell, with topics ranging from regenerative farming and soil health to mushroom cultivation and biodynamic agriculture.
Co-facilitators Pasha Lynch and Guy Ousey said the event would have something for everyone from children to full-blown “soil nerds” and everyone in between.
“People are coming to this event because they want to share, we’re going to take people on a journey, we have weaving workshops, a chai tent, kids activities, tree planting, compost making, documentaries running, workshops,” Mr Ousey said.
“It’s all about sharing and grow-
ing our community, if people want to have a stall, there’s no charge, they can bring seeds or plants to swap.
“We have a local lad talking about beekeeping, we have a biodynamic prep maker, a guy is coming to show us how to make a hammock with only four knots, kids can make seed bowls, garden collages and tie dye with natural dyes.”
Mr Ousey said the agricultural principles being presented were ideal for scaling from a pot plant to commercial agriculture, and fo-
cused on regenerating or improving land often damaged by unsustainable agriculture.
“I dabble in it a little myself, as a horticulturalist, and I keep running into farmers at other events with these huge smiles on their faces, people talking about the new birds coming onto their properties and going out into their paddocks and seeing butterflies and spiders,” he said.
“We are starting to understand now that there’s a hell of a lot of science out there now showing that soil is not just there to hold the
plants up, and there’s been a real paradigm shift from the old ways using pesticides, herbicides and fertiliser to regenerative agriculture – and we want to share that with you.”
Re-Gen Weekender is on July 22 and 23 at the Wallaby Creek Festival site at 720 Shipton’s Flat Road (just south of the Lion’s Den Hotel).
Entry is by donation at the gate, with the suggested amount set at $100 or $50 concession, but organisers said all donations would be gratefully accepted.
A CATTLE station worker is lucky to be alive after spending four days lost with no food or water in rugged terrain near Pormpuraaw.
A search and rescue operation was launched on Saturday, July 1 after the man didn’t come home from working on a shed at the station the day before.
Station staff began the search, before calling for help. Police, SES and local rangers joined the operation.
The man was found at about 8.30am on Monday, July 3, after spending four days in the bush without food or clean water.
Search co-ordinator Senior Constable Bayden Docking said the successful operation was a reminder about the importance of preparedness.
“We cannot thank our local SES and volunteer community members enough,” Snr Cst Docking said.
“Emergency services would like to remind everyone to remain cautious and prepared when venturing into unfamiliar or remote areas.”
The man was transported to Pormpuraaw Health Centre for medical treatment following his ordeal, but was in “reasonable condition”, police said.
DR. ANDRÉ LEU: "Growing life: Regenerative farming, biodiversity and our climate"
SALLY FIELDS "Soil health and nutrition"
DR WENDY SEABROOK: "Growing food eco-logically"
ADAM COLLINS: "Biodynamic agriculture, Syntropics & weeds"
KOA WINDSONG SuperStar Survival Plants ORI ALBERT Mushroom Cultivation
MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED
IMAGINE the scene when the first space shuttle came into view over California’s skies in 1981. It was a similar scene in Kowanyama last week.
“I had tears in my eye, but I didn’t want anybody to see so I wiped them away very quickly,” Tyeisha Clark, 19, said of her hometown landing.
Hundreds turned out to welcome her back from weeks of flight training in Canberra on the way to her dream of becoming a fully-fledged airline pilot.
“I was just having a moment in the plane and was like to myself, ‘You’re really flying back to your community, I’m really flying back, I’m really doing this’,” she said.
Tyeisha was the inaugural student in a program called The Barefoot Pilot, designed to get more Indigenous people into aviation jobs.
It was created by John Sayers from Indigenous-owned integrated services provider 18Fifty3, with practical training provided by Learn2Fly, a flight school with bases in Canberra and Bathurst.
The hope is to establish a centre of aviation on the Cape, complete with a flight school, fuel depot and maintenance hangars and equipment – enough to attract major airlines like Qantas and address staffing shortages in the area.
“We want to ignite a passion in kids in different communities and
create a whole movement of ‘barefoot pilots’,” John said.
Tyeisha first met John when he and his business partner visited Cape York schools, dropping off boxes of ukuleles and teaching kids how to play.
“I asked her, ‘What songs do you like?’” John recalled.
“She said Queen – ‘Another One Bites the Dust’– and then I said, ‘Well, I’m gonna make you a rock star, Tyeisha’. And she said, ‘I don’t want to be a rock star – I want to be a pilot’.
“That’s how it happened.”
Less than a year later, Tyeisha returned to her hometown at the helm of a light aircraft.
The trip took two days, starting with an early start out of Canberra at 6 in the morning with a co-pilot also on board.
“It was long and exhausting, but it was amazing flying across the country,” she says.
“It felt so unreal to me. I loved every single bit of it.”
She and the co-pilot arrived at the runway in Kowanyama the next day, and despite the fact they were several hours behind schedule, it wasn’t late enough to perturb everyone who had come out to watch her come in.
“As we got close, I saw what I thought were houses on the horizon, but they weren’t houses,
it was the airport full of cars and people,” she said.
“We ended up parking and I beeped the horn on the plane, and the crowd just went crazy.”
Over the following days, her co-pilot took several kids from her old school up in the plane on short circuits, hopefully to whet their appetites for becoming ‘barefoot pilots’.
“I think I can be a good role model to them, said Tyeisha.
“And hopefully, I will (find work) with an airline, as well as an Indigenous flight school, and if any Indigenous kids want to, they can come here to learn.”
Despite the nerves, she has also
undertaken her first solo flight. And, over the course of the year, she’ll divide her time between building interest in flying among the younger generations in her hometown and getting her hours up by flying around Canberra and Bathurst.
For now, however, she’s just very proud.
“My mum, dad, siblings, everybody was just in tears of happiness,” she said.
“I felt very special and like nothing can stop myself and my people from doing something so brilliant and so resilient.
“I’m proud of what I’ve done for my people.”
Thursday 17th August
Sponsored by: JaiMec
Competitors to attend with parent/ guardian supervision & in appropriate riding attire –jeans & enclosed footwear
Junior Poddy Ride (5-10 years)
Sponsored by: MKJ Machinery Hire, Cape Dingo
Mini Bulls (11-15 years) $500 (NEW EVENT)
Sponsored by: Albatross Bay Resort, Cairns Hardware
Junior Bullock (16-18 years) $1000
Sponsored by: PPaniri Agricultural Co, Evolution Mining + Civil
Women’s Bullock (16 years & over) $1000
Sponsored by: Kym-Maree Beauty Room, Paniri Agricultural Co
Open Bullock (16 years & over) $1500
Sponsored by: Feral Verterbrate Reduction Contracting, Paniri Agricultural Co
Open Barrel Race (18 years & over) $1000 (NEW EVENT)
Sponsored by: Country Mile Services, EMS Cape
Contracting
Junior Barrel Race (Under18 years) $500 (NEW EVENT)
Sponsored by: Country Mile Services, EMS Cape
Contracting
Ringers Ironman Challenge (16 years & over)
Sponsored by: Enzed, Weipa Lawn Mowing, Rob Roy Earthmoving, Civil Safety, Steelsco
Whip Cracking Competition
Sponsored by: Whiskey and Wildflowers, Sodexo, Ash Palms Resort, Weipa Real Estate
Women’s Steer Wrestling (16 years & over)
Sponsored by: Steady Fabrication, Steady Contracting, Western Cape Eco Tours, Whiskey and Wildflowers, Capeaccino Crew
Men’s Steer Wrestling (16 years & over)
Sponsored by: Steady Fabrication, Steady Contracting, Western Cape Eco Tours, Albatross Bay Resort, Weipa Rent-a-Car
Bushman’s Buckjump (18 years & over) $2000
Sponsored by: Evolution Mining + Civil, Sixt
Saddle Bronc (18 years & over) $2000 (NEW EVENT)
Sponsored by: Country Mile Services, EMS Cape Contracting
Novice Bull (16 years & over) $2000
Sponsored by: Ezyquip
Open Bull (18 years & over) $5000
Sponsored by: Goodline
Kids Dance Comp
Sponsored by: Sodexo, Whiskey and Wildflowers, Outback Body Shop
Kids Colouring in Comp
Sponsored by: Sodexo, Whiskey and Wildflowers, Weipa
Real Estate
Lolly Throw
Sponsored by: Moo and Terry Saunders, Weipa Woolworths
Best Dressed Cowboy/Cowgirl
Sponsored by: Sodexo, Whiskey and Wildflowers
$10,000
Sponsored by: Anderson Conveyancing Services, Paniri Agricultural Co, Ecotone, Cairns Hardware, Maxitool, Haymans Electrical, Heartland Helicopters
Entertainment sponsors: Weipa Bowls Club & Junction Engineering
Thank you to our additional sponsors:
WHILE this year’s referendum was a hot topic amongst Elders and Traditional Owners at this year’s Laura Quinkan Dance Festival, it was ultimately the performances that wowed the spectators.
Over a dry and dusty three days, it was Pormpuraaw’s dance group who was crowned champions, with their traditional Kutubi Gura Buna troupe winning the hearts and minds of judges.
It was a close contest and the reigning champions, the Lockhart River Kawadji Wimpa group, had to settle for runner-up.
Led by mayor Wayne Butcher, the Lockhart dancers were a crowd favourite and won huge applause as they handed over the shield on Saturday.
Third place went to the Coenbased Allkumo Malpa Paman group, which brought their unique
cultural expressions to the stage, leaving the audience spellbound.
The encouragement award went to Ngabi Bama Irriba-mu from Yarrabah.
Weipa resident Jamie West said he was stunned by the quality of the performances.
“This was my first time going to Laura and I didn’t know what to expect. We had heard positive things but I thought the dancers were outstanding,” he said.
“It was quite a political weekend, as you could imagine. There was a lot of support for The Voice and plenty of discussion on what the referendum result will be later this year.”
A spokesperson for the Laura Quinkan Dance Festival praised the visiting dance groups and the large number of tourists who created a lively atmosphere.
“We extend our gratitude to all the participating groups, performers, organisers, and the entire community for making this festival a resounding success,” she said.
“Your commitment to preserving and celebrating Indigenous cultures is truly remarkable and deserves our utmost admiration.
“As the curtains close on this year’s Laura Quinkan Indigenous Dance Festival, we reflect on the power of dance as a medium for cultural expression, storytelling, and unity.
“The memories created and the connections formed will endure, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures for years to come.
“Thank you to everyone who joined us on this incredible journey of celebration, respect, and cultural exchange.”
Pictures: TEILA WINTON & LAURA QUINKAN DANCE FESTIVAL
A MASSIVE funeral is expected to be held in Bamaga on Friday as the Torres Strait and Cape York communities mourn the death of Awati Mau, who was a soldier in the famous Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion during World War II.
Mr Mau, 97, originally from Saibai Island, was one of two surviving veterans of Australia’s only all-Indigenous military unit.
The last surviving member of the Brigade is Mebai Warusam, who still lives on Saibai Island at the age of 99.
Formed in 1943, the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion was raised to defend Australia’s northern lands from the threat of Japanese invasion during the Second World War.
The battalion, comprising 880 men from across the Torres Strait, initially performed a light infantry role, but soon expanded to conduct a wider range of support functions including engineering, transport, supply and signals.
Mr Mau joined the battalion at age 16 and was attached to the Pioneer Company, undertaking construction and building tasks throughout the islands.
A special service and parade was held on Thursday Island this year to commemorate 80 years since the TSLI’s establishment.
It was an especially proud moment for Mr Mau, who led the parade before being seated beside the chief of the Australian Army Lieutenant-General Simon Stuart.
Lieutenant-General Stuart said the establishment of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion was an important event to recognise and commemorate 80 years on.
“The role performed by the Torres Strait Light Infantry during our nation’s largest conflict cannot be understated,” he said.
“Almost every man across the Torres Strait Islands volunteered to join the battalion during World War II to defend their homes and their nation.
“The example of service and dedication set by veterans like Mr Mau is an incredible legacy for today’s Australian Army. All current members of Sarpeye (Charlie) Company, 51st Battalion, The Far North Queensland Regiment, are descendants of Torres Strait Light Infantry soldiers, continuing the multi-generational history of service to the Army and Australia.”
Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch said next Friday’s funeral at St George’s Anglican Church would be both a sad day and a celebration of a great Australian.
“Unfortunately I can’t get there but I’ll be sending up my Torres Strait Light Infantry flag, which I hoped will be draped on his casket,” the MP said.
“Then I want it back so it can be put on Mebai’s casket, and then it’ll be donated to the Torres Strait Heritage Museum on Horn Island.”
Mr Entsch played a key role in the lives of Mr Mau and the other surviving Torres Strait Light Infantry veterans, who weren’t rec-
ognised by the Australian Defence Force until the turn of this century.
“It was such a travesty because what people don’t realise is the sacrifice they made to their communities,” he said.
“When they signed up, most of them served four years. It took every able-bodied man who was of age – and plenty who were underage – and deprived them of their community. It took a huge toll on the culture and wellbeing of the Torres Strait.
“As a result, a culture was formed that relied on western food, cigarettes and the drink.”
With the support of locals, Mr Entsch ran a campaign to have every member of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Brigade acknowledged by the ADF.
“It started off with a man called Uncle Etti Pau, who I first met in 1995 and he had taken it upon himself to get justice for those men,” he said.
“He was successful in getting the backpay for them, because those soldiers only got paid a fraction of what the white men did.
“We embarked on a campaign to have members of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion service recognised through the granting of the 1939-45 Star Medal and the Australian Service Medal 1939-45.
“Through this campaign, and with the invaluable support of Vanessa Seekee, we successfully achieved this accomplishment 54 years after their service. Sadly, Uncle Etti Pau passed away just before the final administrative decision was made, and the medals were finally granted in 2001.”
Mr Entsch said he had fond memories of handing out the medals.
“One of the greatest things I’ve ever done was travelling the Torres Strait and issuing the medals,” he said.
“Back then there were probably 80 or more veterans still alive. We even got the Air Force to get a Hercules and took a whole heap of Torres Strait Islanders to the Canberra War Memorial for a service.
“It’s important that we recognise these great Australians and honour their legacy.”
A T-SHIRT featuring local celebrity Jack ‘Bones’ Ryle raised a whopping $400 at auction at the Lions Den Hotel, with proceeds going to local youngster Ingrid Newman, who is battling a brain tumour.
Mr Ryle, a Rossville local, is a regular at the Lions Den and Far North music festivals, playing the bones or spoons on stage.
“I was only thinking that morning how I was going to fund the food and taxi fares for Ingrid’s next MRI and chemo trip to Brisbane in two week’s time,” her mother Belle Newman said.
She said the auction was a spontaneous fundraiser organised by the Lions Den Hotel owner Judy Fry, who donated the shirt, with the money raised thanks to generous strangers.
“A huge thank you to everyone at the Den for their generosity which is greatly appreciated, and especially to Judy Fry and the Lions Den Hotel for their support, and Mark who bought the shirt and everybody who donated.”
The shirt was auctioned off for $400, with a further $490 in donations raised on the night.
“This money means so much to us as Ingrid’s treatment requires me to take her to Cairns every week for chemo and to Brisbane
every three months for the unforeseeable future,” the mum-of-four said.
“I couldn’t believe it, when the bidding went over $200 I just burst into tears.
“These complete strangers who
didn’t know us were so generous –it was just amazing.”
Four-year-old Ingrid was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2020 at just 14 months old and the Rossville family has been through numerous operations and extensive
stays in Brisbane for surgery and recovery since.
There is a donation tin at the Lions Den Hotel, a scheme ID with Containers for Change and a bank account in Ingrid’s name where donations can be made.
THE federal government says it will invest $3.5 million to help protect the Great Barrier Reef from marine debris.
The funding will be used to fund local projects that clean up the waters flowing into the Reef, and reduce rubbish and waste in the community.
It will also help establish strong partnerships to encourage greater community participation and involvement, including with First Nations groups.
“Marine debris is one the biggest threats facing the Great Barrier Reef,” said Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek.
“Cigarette butts, plastic bags and single-use plastic bottles are the three most common types of rubbish found in the Reef’s marine environment.
“They can smother coral, choke turtles, and entangle dugongs and dolphins.
“Reducing the amount of rubbish entering the Reef is one of the most valuable, tangible actions we can take to protect it.
“This is another example of our commitment to protect the Reef and support the 64,000 jobs that rely on it.”
For information, or to apply for a grant, visit business.gov.au/ gbrmarinedebris
Fill in the blank cells using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and 3x3 block.
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.
Kuku Warra Native Title Group
Cape York United # 1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014)
Wednesday 19 July 2023
Bob’s Place (Ang Gnarra), Laura
Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will hold a decision-making meeting on Wednesday 19 July 2023 in Laura for the Kuku Warra Native Title Group to consider whether to authorise a proposed native title agreement under s.87A of the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) (NTA) for a consent determination of native title over Kuku Warra native title country. This area is inclusive of an area which will be a shared area between the Kuku Warra and Western Yalanji Native Title Groups. The proposed determination area is shown on the map below bordered with a thick line. The cross-hatched area is that part of the proposed determination area that will be a shared area.
At this meeting the Customary Rights Agreement regarding rights and access over the area between the North Kennedy River and the Hann River between the Kuku Warra Native Title Group and the Thaypan Native Title Group will be put to the group for consideration on whether to enter into this agreement.
A determination of native title involves a decision of the Federal Court. The determination of native title means 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 19 July 2023 authorises the s.87A native title agreement, the determination will then be sought in the Federal Court. The Court has listed a hearing for potential consent determination in November 2023 for the area marked in ‘A’ on the map at right. It is expected that the area marked in ‘B’ on the map above will be listed for a potential consent determination next year.
A copy of the proposed s.87A native title agreement for a determination of native title for the area shown on the map above will be available at the meeting on Wednesday 19 July 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 person attending the meeting will be able to ask questions about the proposed agreement and state their views about it.
Who is invited to attend the meeting?
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:
Any person who is a descendant of one or more of the apical ancestors listed above is invited to attend this meeting. 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 19 July 2023
Venue: Bob’s Place (Ang Gnarra), 1 Peninsula Developmental Road, Laura
Time: 9:30am – 3:00pm
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 below.
The purpose of the Authorisation Meeting on Wednesday 19 July 2023 is to decide whether or not to approve the proposed s.87A native title agreement for a consent 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 the continuation of existing Indigenous Land Use Agreements under s.199C of the NTA;
• agree to the Customary Rights Agreement with Thaypan Native Title Group;
• agree to nominate a corporation to represent the native title holders identified in the proposed agreement for a determination of native title over the proposed determination area;
• if a decision is made to incorporate the proposed corporation, agree to make a decision (1) to approve the rules of the proposed corporation, (2) to identify who will be the initial directors and contact person for the proposed corporation, and (3) to authorise one or more named persons to apply to the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations to register the proposed corporation; and
• 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 s.57(2)(a) & (b) of the NTA for the proposed determination of native title.
Attendance
For travel assistance or to confirm attendance or for any other questions about this notice, please contact Sana Dorante before 12 July 2023 on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email sdorante@ cylc.org.au Please note that there is limited funding available for travel assistance. If you have queries about this meeting, please contact CYLC.
Possum Native Title Group
Cape York United # 1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014)
Tuesday 18 July 2023
Bob’s Place (Ang Gnarra), Laura
Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will hold a decision-making meeting on Thursday 18 July 2023 in Laura for the Possum Native Title Group to consider whether to authorise a proposed native title agreement under s.87A of the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) (NTA) for a consent determination of native title over Possum native title country. This area is inclusive of an area which will be a shared area between the Possum and Western Yalanji Native Title Groups. The proposed determination area is shown on the map below bordered with a thick line. The cross-hatched area is that part of the proposed determination area that will be a shared area.
A determination of native title involves a decision of the Federal Court. The determination of native title means 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 Tuesday 18 July 2023 authorises the s.87A native title agreement, the determination will then be sought in the Federal Court. The Court has listed a hearing for potential consent determination in November 2023 for the area marked in ‘A’ on the map at right. It is expected that the area marked in ‘B’ on the map at right will be listed for a potential consent determination next year.
A copy of the proposed s.87A native title agreement for a determination of native title for the area shown on the map above will be available at the meeting on Tuesday 18 July 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 person attending the meeting will be able to ask questions about the proposed agreement and state their views about it.
Who is invited to attend the meeting?
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:
MARINE PILOT TRANSFER SERVICE – PORT OF WEIPA
Any person who is a descendant of one or more of the apical ancestors listed above is invited to attend this meeting. 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: Tuesday 18 July 2023
Venue: Bob’s Place (Ang Gnarra), 1 Peninsula Developmental Road, Laura
Time: 9:30am – 3:00pm
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 below.
Purpose of the Authorisation Meeting
The purpose of the Authorisation Meeting on Tuesday 18 July 2023 is to decide whether or not to approve the proposed s.87A native title agreement for a consent 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 the continuation of existing Indigenous Land Use Agreements under s.199C of the NTA;
• agree to nominate a corporation to represent the native title holders identified in the proposed agreement for a determination of native title over the proposed determination area;
• if a decision is made to incorporate the proposed corporation, agree to make a decision (1) to approve the rules of the proposed corporation, (2) to identify who will be the initial directors and contact person for the proposed corporation, and (3) to authorise one or more named persons to apply to the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations to register the proposed corporation; and
• 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 s.57(2)(a) & (b) of the NTA for the proposed determination of native title.
Attendance
For travel assistance or to confirm attendance or for any other questions about this notice, please contact Sana Dorante before 12 July 2023 on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email sdorante@ cylc.org.au Please note that there is limited funding available for travel assistance. If you have queries about this meeting, please contact CYLC.
Ports North is responsible for the provision of marine pilotage services to Far North Queensland ports including Weipa.
The corporation is seeking an appropriately qualified deckhand to provide a safe, timely and efficient vessel transfer service for the marine pilot operation in the Port of Weipa.
The position is based in Weipa and will involve a shift work roster arrangement. The role will also be required to undertake general maintenance and repair work to ensure the transfer vessel and equipment is maintained in operational readiness taking account of maritime safety and workplace health and safety requirements.
The successful applicant will work closely with the Ports North Marine Pilot Group to ensure pilot transfers are operated so as to meet all pilotage service requirements in the Port of Weipa. Applicants will require a cooperative flexible approach to work with good communication skills.
Relevant marine qualifications and experience are mandatory and you will be required to be able to satisfy the criteria for obtaining a Maritime Security Identification Card.
Further information on the role is available on: www.portsnorth.com.au/about-us/employment/ or for any other enquiries please contact Trond Kildal (Manager Pilot Services) on 4051 3841.
Applications can be sent to recruitment@portsnorth.com.au or Recruitment – Ports North, PO Box 594, Cairns Qld 4870.
Location Cairns office, with the possibility of negotiating flexible work arrangements
Employment Terms Full-time flexible, 12-month contract with possibility of extension
Classification 2.3.e - 4.1.e ($73,219–$108,805)
Salary Range Salary - negotiable, commensurate with experience, including 5 weeks annual leave plus 17.5% annual leave loading, plus 11% super guarantee
Applicants must apply via our website https://capeyorknrm.com.au/about/vacancies
About Cape York NRM
Cape York NRM works with the people of Cape York to encourage voluntary adoption of improved natural resource management across all land tenures and land uses on Cape York. We help people to work together and promote the sustainable use of Cape York’s natural resources.
About the position
The Human Resources Officer at Cape York Natural Resource Management plays a vital role in attracting and retaining talent, fostering a positive work environment, and ensuring compliance with employment laws.
By overseeing recruitment, employee relations, policies and compliance, training and development, compensation and benefits, and HR data management, the Human Resources Officer directly contributes to the organisation’s mission of sustainable natural resource man ethical practices, compliance, and professional growth opportunities for employees.
Taepadhighi Native Title Group
Cape York United # 1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014)
Thursday 20 July 2023
Bob’s Place (Ang Gnarra), Laura
Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will hold a decision-making meeting on Thursday 20 July 2023 in Laura for the Thaypan Native Title Group to consider whether to authorise a proposed native title agreement under s.87A of the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) (NTA) for a consent determination of native title over Thaypan native title country. The proposed determination area is shown on the map below
At this meeting the Customary Rights Agreement regarding rights and access over the area between the North Kennedy River and the Hann River between the Thaypan Native Title Group and the Kuku Warra Native Title Group will be put to the group for consideration on whether to enter into this agreement.
A determination of native title involves a decision of the Federal Court. The determination of native title means 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 Thursday 20 July 2023 authorises the s.87A native title agreement, the determination will then be sought in the Federal Court. The Court has listed a hearing for potential consent determination in November 2023 for the area on the map at right
A copy of the proposed s.87A native title agreement for a determination of native title for the area shown on the map above will be available at the meeting on Thursday 20 July 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 person attending the meeting will be able to ask questions about the proposed agreement and state their views about it.
Who is invited to attend the meeting?
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.
8. Jack Morehead
2.
9. Charles Mimo Schrieber
10. Tom Twaddle
3.
4.
11. Nellie Wunhthay
5.
12. Georgie Guts (Thidara aka Old Bob)
6.
13. Dolly (mother of Nellie Moran)
7.
14. Maggie (mother of Robert Turpin)
Any person who is a descendant of one or more of the apical ancestors listed above is invited to attend this meeting. 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 20 July 2023
Venue: Bob’s Place (Ang Gnarra), 1 Peninsula Developmental Road, Laura
Time: 9:30am – 3:00pm
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 below.
Purpose of the Authorisation Meeting
The purpose of the Authorisation Meeting on Thursday 20 July 2023 is to decide whether or not to approve the proposed s.87A native title agreement for a consent 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 the continuation of existing Indigenous Land Use Agreements under s.199C of the NTA;
• agree to the Customary Rights Agreement with Kuku Warra Native Title Group;
• agree to nominate a corporation to represent the native title holders identified in the proposed agreement for a determination of native title over the proposed determination area;
• if a decision is made to incorporate the proposed corporation, agree to make a decision (1) to approve the rules of the proposed corporation, (2) to identify who will be the initial directors and contact person for the proposed corporation, and (3) to authorise one or more named persons to apply to the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations to register the proposed corporation; and
• 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 s.57(2)(a) & (b) of the NTA for the proposed determination of native title.
Attendance
For travel assistance or to confirm attendance or for any other questions about this notice, please contact Sana Dorante before 12 July 2023 on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email sdorante@ cylc.org.au. Please note that there is limited funding available for travel assistance. If you have queries about this meeting, please contact CYLC.
DETERMINED to take part in every parkrun in Queensland, Brisbane woman Erica Leota is flying into Weipa next week to tick off another one from her list.
Timing it with the annual Weipa Running Festival, Erica will run the 5km parkrun on Saturday, July 22 and aim to run a marathon the following day.
“I’ve entered a few marathons
this year and only ended up running the half-marathon, so we’ll see,” said Erica, who is also bringing up a handful of friends.
The 43-year-old has completed 109 of the 120 official parkruns in Queensland, although the number is constantly growing.
“I just did Mount Isa a few weeks ago but Weipa is definitely the one farthest away,” she said.
“They call them statespersons (those who complete every parkrun in a state) and I’m aiming to be one this year.
“Queenslanders who do it are called Banana Benders.”
With six new ones popping up or about to start, it’s a difficult goal as parkrun usually only runs on a Saturday morning.
“A few people have done them
all but it’s hardest in Queensland because we have more parkruns than any other state,” Erica said.
“I do it because I’m addicted to the whole community thing.
“I love how you can turn up to a parkrun as a stranger and afterwards people will invite you out for breakfast or a coffee.”
Erica said the lure of the Weipa Running Festival made picking the
date an easy choice. Her friends will fly up and make a small trip of it, taking in a mine tour and an eco tour while in Weipa.
“You would be surprised at how frugal I am when it comes to travel. I’m always looking for deals so I can get to places like Weipa and tick them off my list.”
Registrations are still open for the Weipa Running Festival.
TALENTED rugby league junior Maia Pensio was named player of the match after playing alongside the best juniors in the state at the Vic Jensen Carnival last week.
The Cooktown Junior Rugby League under-11 player was earlier this year chosen to represent Cape York as part of the Peninsula team, and on Monday headed to Townsville for the carnival.
The team played games every day against the rest of the state’s up-and-coming footballers, and the young player said being part of the Peninsula team was a great experience.
“I loved it,” Maia said.
“Getting to know my teammates and making 14 new friends from Far North Queensland was cool.”
Proud parents Liesl and Toby
were cheering from the sidelines, and said the calibre of players at the carnival was amazing.
“He was excited to finally play with the Peninsula team but nervous because of the reputation and calibre of some of the teams from down south,” Ms Pensio said.
“The competition is of a really high standard, and Peninsula only joined the carnival in 2019, so they are relatively new.”
Despite going in as the underdogs, the Peninsula team gave as good as they got, losing by only two points in their first game against Northern, then copping a 24-nil thrashing by Met North, drawing 12-all against Met East, losing by two points to Wide Bay and finishing the carnival with a close 22-18 loss to Darling Downs.
“Maia was actually awarded the coach’s award for Peninsula team and player of the match for the game against Darling Downs,” Ms Pensio said.
“It was amazing for Maia to play against the likes of the sons of NRL legends Darren Lockyer and Matty Bowen.”
Ms Pensio said getting her son to the carnival was a team effort, with the support of the Cooktown Junior Rugby League Club and fellow football parents Wayne and Jacynta Hunt, who shared the driving to get Maia to training.
“Maia and Chase (Hunt) were picked for the district team and had to travel to Atherton for weekly training, and without Wayne and Jacynta, Maia wouldn’t have been able to attend those sessions.”
SEVEN rugby league representatives from Cooktown attended the RISE Carnival in Townsville last week.
Lucas Giese and Sam Ryder went to the carnival as referees, while under-13 and under-14 players Jett Ryder, Haywen Kulka, Jossiah Walker, Lachlan Dotoi and Archer Giese all played in the competition.
Cooktown Junior Rugby League Club president Ashley Crowe said the whole club was proud of the boys.
“The RISE program is a pathway beyond community footy for aspiring players, coaches and referees,” Mr Crowe said.
“The boys will complete five face to face training sessions focused on key development areas, as well as their games.
“It’s thanks to the ongoing support of sponsors, volunteers, our families and the Cooktown community for keeping grassroots rugby league alive and making opportunities like this possible.”
STEVE Wust shot a three-over par at last week’s Wednesday Wackers to be a comfortable winner on the nine-hole social competition.
His nett 32.5 was more than enough to beat Grant Crossley, who carded a nett 35.5.
Wust also had the nearest to pin on the 15th, while Jim Hunter settled for the Bradmans.
On Sunday morning, Dave Sands won the Dawn Busters golf at Weipa, with Crossley again runner-up.
Jim Hoffman had the longest drive and Sands also picked up the Hoffmans.
DON’T forget to buy your tickets for the inaugural Cape York Boxing Club fight night, which will be held on Saturday, July 22 at the Weipa Storm Surge Shelter.
The club will be outside of Woolworths on Saturday morning selling the tickets, which are $25 for an adult and $10 for children.
“There’s been a heap of interest and we think we are going to get a big crowd on the night,” organiser Scott Wallace said.
“Our fighters are really keen and have been training well, while we are also bringing in a heap from down south to make it a big card.”
Expect up to 20 fights on the night, with referees and judges also flying in to support the club in its first major event.
A FAIRY tale story could emerge at Weipa this Saturday with local brothers Denzel King and Seamus King-Smith in the selection mix for the Northern Pride.
Coach Ty Williams will assess his options today before naming the squad to face the Sunshine Coast Falcons in the HostPlus Cup Country Round match scheduled at Andoom Oval.
Denzel, a veteran for the Pride, was a regular player earlier in the season before a hamstring injury, but returned to play in Cairns on Sunday for the Kangaroos.
His younger brother Seamus has yet to make his first grade debut for the club after battling a back injury earlier in the season, but is also in the frame.
He played his first game of the year for the Pride’s Colts team on
July 1 but was rested from their game on Saturday after pulling up sore.
“It’s something I’ll discuss with the coaches but both will be talked about when we sit down and discuss selection,” Williams said on Monday morning.
“We’re coming to Weipa on the back of a couple of losses so there will be opportunities.
“If they are both healthy and up for selection they’ll be a chance to get picked.”
Williams said the sixth-placed Pride would back themselves to beat the Falcons, who are just out of the top-eight.
“Even though we lost (30-14) on Saturday I thought there were enough positives,” he said.
“We made a couple of big plays which got called back on forward passes and that hurt our momentum a little bit.
“They had some very good talent on the park through their NRL alignment and Jock Madden was probably the difference between the two sides with his leadership and composure.”
The Falcons are aligned with the Melbourne Storm and Jayden Nikorima is likely to start in the halves for the Sunshine Coast in Weipa.
“He’s a classy player and we’ll need to shut him down,” Williams told Cape York Weekly COMMUNITY VISITS
NORTHERN Pride CEO Garreth Smith is beaming at the prospect of his club running out onto Andoom Oval, but it’s the work that will be done in the communities that brings him the most joy.
This week, the Pride has a full schedule of events to maximise the exposure they have in Weipa and the surrounding communities.
“I drove up on Sunday with Flo (wife Florrie) and Karl (Adams) and three players are driving up today, while three of the girls are flying up,” Smith said yesterday.
“We’ll be hitting the ground running, starting with Aurukun on Tuedsay, then Napranum and Mapoon on Wednesday.
“We’ll do a clinic in Weipa with the Central Cape Suns and the whole team flies in on Thursday, so there’ll be school visits and probably another trip to Mapoon for a few players.”
Smith said he took the time to speak to the playing group to ask them to make the effort to make the trip to Weipa early.
While the Pride players get paid to play, they are all have jobs or are studying full-time.
“I’ve been blown away by the attitude of the players to support this occasion and to embrace the
week as a whole. We wanted to bring more than just a footy game to Weipa,” he said.
The Pride will also host a Q&A session with Smith and Williams at the Albatross Bay Resort ahead of the State of Origin.
Williams, a former Origin star with Queensland, will answer questions, alongside former Cairns Taipans star Alex Loughton, who is in Weipa on behalf of Kenfrost Homes, the Pride’s major sponsor.
“We’re having a captain’s run at Andoom Oval on Friday and kids will be able to get autographs and have a kick of the footy with the players afterwards,” Smith said.
The Pride game kicks off at 5pm on Saturday, however a number of curtain raiser matches have been organised on the day, with action starting at lunchtime.
Find the Central Cape Suns on Facebook for ticket details.
