Cape York Weekly Edition 148

By MATT NICHOLLS

RECORD crowds poured through the gates of Andoom Oval on the weekend, helping to raise Weipa Rodeo’s reputation as one of the best events in Cape York – if not all of Queensland.

Spectators were treated to two days of action-packed events in the rodeo arena, from bucking bulls to barrel racing.

Australian bull riding champion Donovan Rutherfurd added a new buckle to his growing collection when he helped the Northern Cape win the esteemed Cape of Origin with a group of grateful locals.

And with tickets just $30 for a two-day pass, Weipa is putting pressure on other big-name rodeos to provide as much value as what is offered in the remote community.

Russell Scikluna, the president of the Weipa Rodeo Association, said his large committee worked hard throughout the year to put on a great show.

“What you saw on the weekend was the result of a dedicated team who wants to do something for their community,” he said.

“We think that we do a great job and that’s probably reflected by the record number of people who came through the gates.”

Zanda Cook gets a high five from Georgie Bargenquast after her junior barrel race.

AEC to extend reach for this year’s referendum

THE pending 2023 referendum should see more voting services delivered to remote communities than any other vote in the country’s history.

Australian Electoral Commissioner Tom Rogers said a key part of the AEC’s role in upholding Australia’s democratic traditions was to enable participation.

“We’ve announced record enrolment for all Australians ahead of the referendum, we expect a return to pre-pandemic service levels for overseas voting, there’ll be an increase in mobile

polling in residential care settings and now we’ll be delivering a significant increase to our remote voter services as well,” Mr Rogers said.

“At this stage, our consultation and remote voting plans for the referendum are well progressed, and we’re confident we’ll be visiting approximately 35 per cent more remote communities this referendum than we have in the past, and spending at least 80 per cent more time in communities.

“We’re actively out in communities continuing to consult

and communicate on how best to facilitate voting that is tailored to a community’s particular needs and circumstances.”

Mr Rogers said some factors were out of AEC’s control.

“There are many elements to consider – the referendum date when it’s known, impact of seasonal weather events, managing the complex delivery logistics common in remote and very remote Australia, and working around community events and cultural protocols,” he said.

Voting services in remote communities will start 19 days

ahead of voting day, a week ahead of when early voting centres in other localities will open.

“We asked parliament for an additional week for remote voter services and the change was made – it provides for an expansion to our services and contingency in what is a very complex schedule,” Mr Rogers said.

“The first votes cast in the 2023 referendum will be cast from remote locations.”

The AEC’s remote voting service schedule can only be finalised once a date is known and locations will be released then.

Wujal Elders preserving stories of past

ELDERS from Wujal Wujal are immortalising the stories of their childhood for future generations with a series of books planned in collaboration with the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.

Elder Doreen Ball is among the first to have her stories put to print.

“I’ve written mine in Kuku Yalanji, the story starts at Topsy Creek (south of the Bloomfield River) where I grew up,” Ms Ball said.

“The community was much smaller then, just a reserve, but I’ve got strong roots and now my four children and five grandchildren are all still there.”

Ms Ball said she would read her story to her children and grandchildren, as they could understand spoken Kuku Yalanji, but couldn’t read it.

“I’ll be talking to my children and grandchildren and others too, asking them if they want to write their own stories – they just need to start,” she said.

Wujal Wujal Justice Group acting coordinator Lucille Cassar said local Elders had been working on writing their stories for the past few years, and had seized the opportunity provided by the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.

“I saw this opportunity and

thought the Elders will really like this,” Ms Cassar said.

“It’s the Year of the Elders, so this is something we can do for them and with them to keep them happy and hopefully it also inspires the younger generation.”

Supported by Australia Post, the ILF’s CREATE program brought experienced writer and editor Lystra Rose to the community in July to work with elders on their stories.

ILF chief executive Ben Bowen said he understood the value of elders sharing their knowledge and stories.

“Having worked with the

Wujal Wujal community over the years it was amazing to be able to sit and learn from the elders, listening to their stories and vision for their community,” Mr Bowen said.

“To be able to platform the knowledge, skills, spirit and strength of the people in community to publish their stories in languages is a privilege.”

Ms Cassar said it was hoped once published the books would be available for sale at the Bana Yirriji Cultural Centre in Wujal Wujal, as well as the town’s Indigenous Knowledge Centre and local libraries.

– story by Sarah Martin

Indigenous Literacy Foundation’s Nicola Robinson, writer Lystra Rose, Elders Norman Tayley, Doreen Ball and Lily Yougie, the Wujal Wujal Justice Group’s Lucille Cassar and ILF chief executive Ben Bowen in Wujal Wujal.

Free bowel cancer test a must, says TO

WUTHATHI Traditional Owner John Paul Janke has encouraged Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 and over to stay healthy by taking a free bowel cancer screening test.

Nationally, only around one in three Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are completing their bowel cancer screening tests as part of the national program.

Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers impacting Indigenous Austral-

ians, but if detected early, almost all cases of bowel cancer are treatable.

“Bowel screening is something that is simple, free and easy to do,” said John Paul, who is also a proud Meriam man.

“We need to encourage our brothers and sisters to participate, there’s absolutely no shame in looking after your health and wellbeing.”

He is passionate about increasing participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander peoples in the Australian Government’s free National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

“As a dad, I want to be around for my family for years to come, to see my boys grow up and become young men. The test is simple, free and easy, and the outcome is huge – it can save your life,” he said.

To find out more about the benefits of bowel cancer screening visit www.indigenousbowelscreen.com.au

Local tradie steps up to assist stranded tourists

By SARAH MARTIN

THREE travellers have escaped with the clothes on their back and little else after a freak fire engulfed their vehicle on a sightseeing trip to Cooktown.

A suspected electrical fault caused the car to erupt dramatically into smoke and then quickly flames at about 5.30pm on Wednesday.

Alby Lemon, of Cooktown

Plumbing and Roofing, was on his way home from Lakeland when he came across the inferno south of the Little Annan Bridge on the Mulligan Highway.

“I must have been about a minute behind them,” the tradie told Cape York Weekly

“They had all just got out of the car and it was already roar-

ing on fire – it burnt everything they had, old mate had a bag of clothes but everyone else lost their clothes and phones.”

The good Samaritan brought the trio into town and offered them a place to stay and spare clothes.

“They were good people, I said come out and camp and

ended up giving them a swag to sleep on at my place,” Alby said. He said he believed the travellers didn’t have insurance for their Isuzu D-Max, which was removed from the highway by RoadTek.

QFES Cooktown Auxiliary Brigade captain Jason Carroll said firefighters spent about an

hour putting out the fire from the dual-cab ute.

“It took a while to put out and then there was the clean up and removal,” he said.

“Cars burn really hot and hard, and take a lot to put out.”

Mr Carroll said the passengers were lucky not to be injured when small camping gas canisters exploded and the car’s diesel tank caught fire.

“When we arrived they said the gas canisters and fuel tank had already gone,” he said.

“Thankfully RoadTek was already there, so they cleaned up the highway and removed the car straight away.”

The tourists, two men and a woman, were mates travelling from Tasmania, and flew back to Cairns on Friday.

The Cooktown Auxiliary Brigade were called to extinguish the blazing Isuzu D-Max on the Mulligan Highway. It was quickly removed by a RoadTek crew.

A Cooktown local captured this image as he was driving into town.

Art centre manager bids farewell to Pormpuraaw

By SARAH MARTIN

AFTER more than a decade of guiding and supporting a group of award-winning artists, Paul Jakubowski has hung up his hat and retired as the manager of Pormpuraaw Art Centre.

What he expected to be a short-term role ended up in 14 years of community involvement that saw the remote town’s artists and art centre elevated to the international stage.

“When I went to Pormpuraaw I had no idea where I was going,” he said.

“I didn’t even know how to pronounce it.

“I never thought I was going to be there for 14 years, or almost 14 years – I’m one month shy!”

Mr Jakubowski grew up just outside New York City and is a professional artist by trade, with years of management, teaching and business under his belt.

When he arrived in the western Cape York community, he found a quiet art centre focused mainly on painting, with minimal sales.

One of the centre’s signature mediums are huge sculptures woven from abandoned fishing nets, called ghost nets, which were influenced by the centre manager.

“When I arrived we were making baskets and things like that with the ghost nets, so I made the first sculpture with a coat hanger as a frame; I made a dog and a crab,” Mr Jakubowski recalled.

“It just took off from there and we became very well-known for our ghost net work.”

Mr Jakubowski said he learned with Pormpuraaw’s arts community, absorbing everything he could.

“We also became very well known for our printing,” he said.

“I wasn’t a printer, but I am now – I’ve learned alongside them.”

Lakeland photo festivities

PHOTOGRAPHERS, both professional and amateur, will be putting their skills on show this Saturday at the fifth annual Lakeland Photo Competition.

One of the town’s most popular events, the annual competition draws hundreds of entrants from across the region and culminates in a community gathering with live music, a bar and hot food as winners are announced.

With more than $3000 in prizes across five categories, organiser Sam Simmonds said the event was expected to be big.

“It’s become quite a part of the community, the kids in Lakeland all talk about it all through the year and people look forward to it,” he said.

Everyone is welcome to the photo competition judging and display, on this Saturday from 4pm at the Lakeland Town Hall. Visit Lakeland Progress Association on Facebook for more information.

worth of sales, Mr Jakubowski was quick to put credit firmly where it’s due. “It’s not my legacy, it’s the artist’s legacy ... the Elders’,” he said.

“My wife says it’s the kind of job I was made for, but at the end of the day, it’s up to the artists and the community, it has to come from them, it can’t just come from outsiders.

“To me it’s a success and I’m amazed – when I went there 14 years ago I never thought we’d be having artwork in galleries in Europe and with collectors all over.”

He said the centre was literally and figuratively at the heart of the community.

“The art centre is located right in the middle of the community, the town centre is where everyone comes, everyone is welcome and it’s a real hub and meeting place,” he said.

WCC achievers recognised

WESTERN Cape College has performed strongly at this year’s Peter Doherty Awards for Excellence in STEM Education.

Year 12 student Elsie Maher received an Outstanding Rural and Remote Senior STEM Student Award, while maths/ science teacher Bree Knipe received an Outstanding Rural and Remote Teacher of STEM Award.

Western Cape College acting principal Dan Tonon praised their achievements.

Mr Jakubowski credited the community, and especially the Elders, for keeping his passion alive.

“The Elders would come up to me and thank me and appreciate me, and that’s probably why I stayed all these years,” he said.

“It was very hard to leave, Pormpuraaw people are good

people and I’m going to miss them. I had no idea what to expect when I went there and I was welcomed and appreciated, especially by the Elders, and I would like to thank them.”

Despite the centre’s stellar statistics since he came on board, with more than 90 artists involved and millions of dollars

Mr Jakubowski said of all the artist’s achievements during his tenure, he was most proud of the five books the centre published.

“It’s a long-term legacy, many years from now our descendants will be reading those books. I think I’m most proud of that,” he said.

The art centre management has been taken over by Ellen Maugeri, a Pormpuraaw local.

“It just goes to show that being in Weipa doesn’t discount you from being recognised if you do the hard work and give it your best shot,” he said.

“Both Elise and Bree should be very proud of their efforts. The college is certainly very proud of them.”

The Peter Doherty Awards for Excellence in STEM Education recognise students and teachers who demonstrate an outstanding and innovative contribution to STEM education in Queensland.

The awards are named after Professor Peter Doherty, a Brisbane-born Nobel Prizewinning scientist.

The Queensland Government has a vision for Neighbourhood Centres to “support and empower every person to connect, participate, contribute, and thrive” by offering a physical space that welcomes and empowers people to connect with each other, as well as access the services and supports they need to thrive.

The Cooktown District Community Centre (CDCC) is a funded Neighbourhood Centre delivering a range of community services from early years programs through to adolescence, family support and senior’s programs.

OUR PROGRAMS INCLUDE:

CDCC invites all members of the public to meet our team & hear about each of our programs. Please join us for an entertaining afternoon including a cake competition, a light meal & refreshments

When: Friday 15th September Time: Noon – 3:00PM

Where: CWA Charlotte Street opposite Marano’s

Paul Jakubowski, left, has retired after 14 years at the helm of Pormpuraaw’s award-winning art centre.

Mr Jakubowski says he’ll miss the passion of Pormpuraaw’s Elders.

Western Cape College’s Elsie Maher and Bree Knipe at the Peter Doherty Awards.

Restaurant has spectacular view

By SARAH MARTIN

A NEW café with one of the best views in Australia has opened its doors on Cooktown’s waterfront, but is unable to run a dinner service due to staff shortages.

The Wharf Kitchen overlooks Cooktown Fisherman’s Wharf, and opened for breakfast and lunch earlier this month.

However, owner Meg Barrett

said she hasn’t been able to source hospitality workers.

“I’m interviewing a couple this afternoon, but a lot of people just don’t turn up to interviews,” the frustrated business owner said.

“I need a couple of kitchen hands, a dishy, waitresses, bar staff and a couple of chefs.”

Despite running the kitchen herself and with her parents waiting tables and washing dishes, Ms

Barrett said their first week had been a success.

“We’ve had some great support from the community, absolutely great support,” she said.

“Lots of great constructive feedback to help me change things and make it better.

“In just a week, some people have actually become regulars.”

Ms Barrett and her husband Damian moved from Mackay to

Cooktown in November, taking over popular fish and chip shop Gilled and Gutted, which adjoins The Wharf Kitchen.

Ms Barrett has filled the menu with her own favourites including pulled pork burgers, chicken schnitzel and fish tacos, and said she would continue to modify it.

“The menu is things I cook at home for my husband; things I know how to cook,” she said.

“We will keep tweaking it as we learn what is popular and we’ll also have a specials board.”

The family is supporting local wherever they can, buying coffee from Mareeba’s Tichum Creek farm and fruit and vegetables from Q-Cumbers greengrocers and IGA.

The Wharf Kitchen is adjacent to Cooktown’s public wharf and open Wednesday to Sunday from 6am to 3pm.

6ft timber fence you have a clear and level 1/4 acre with large shady mango tree in the front yard. The house has a simple layout with front entrance via covered porch, living room, 2 bedrooms, bathroom and separate toilet. The custom built kitchen was recently installed and is beautifully appointed. Exterior and interior of the home were re-painted only12 months ago. There is ample room for more sheds or to extend the current home. Situated on a no through street with a close walk to the Botanical Gardens and Finch Bay. Currently rented for $350 per week, this property is also available

Meg Barrett, Donna Smith and Damian Barrett are welcoming locals and tourists to The Wharf Kitchen.

Cousins Fred and Jane Doepell enjoy breakfast and a coffee.

The Wharf Kitchen has one of the best views in the country.

Couple afraid of losing loved pet

FORMER Cooktown local Pete Herrmann and partner Jude Hennessy are desperately searching for their missing dog, as the deadline for their return to Tasmania looms.

The couple have been in Cooktown since May, along with Ms Hennessy’s dog Bridget, a 10-year-old large white chihuahua.

Bridget went missing on August 4 from Mr Herrmann’s Hope Street house, and hasn’t been seen since.

“The gate was left open,” a devastated Ms Hennessy said.

“She’d just had a bath, so she didn’t have a collar on and she’s a hunter and she just loves to take herself for a walk, too; she has no fear of anything.”

The couple believe someone has picked the old dog up, and due to a microchipping error eight years ago – even if she had been taken to a vet to be scanned – no details would have shown up.

“The people who were supposed to enter her details on the database didn’t do it properly so she wasn’t registered until yesterday (August 16), so now if someone scans that microchip it will show the right details,” Ms Hennessy said.

The little dog has been by Ms Hennessy’s side through tough times, including a battle with breast cancer, a break-up and the loss of her mother.

“She was always there for me, she’s just the most beautiful little dog and has become

such a part of my life – she’s really loving,” she said.

“I’m offering a reward, no questions asked and we’ve put posters up all around town, Hope Vale ... out at the Lion’s Den.”

Bridget came into Ms Hennessy’s life in an unusual way, left abandoned outside a church at the age of two.

“She was outside a church with a note written on her on a piece of envelope and it said: ‘please somebody love me and give me a good home, my name is Anna’, which was crossed out and then they wrote Bridget.

“She’s a really well-behaved dog, really quick and super smart.”

Ms Hennessy said Bridget needed daily medication for severe allergies.

“She’s just so desperately missed,” she said.

Anyone with information can contact Ms Hennessy on 0428 138 824.

Non-Executive Member

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Board

Contribute to the Torres and Cape community to deliver exceptional healthcare

• Member opportunity for the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Board

• Part-time statutory appointment commencing early 2024

• Diverse skills and experience required

The Opportunity

The Queensland Government delivers free universal healthcare to five million Queenslanders through Queensland Health. The Queensland Government is investing a record $23.6 billion into healthcare. The Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Board (HHB) is one of 16 statewide boards and provides governance to the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (HHS). The Torres and Cape HHS delivers hospital and healthcare services across Cape York and the Northern Peninsula Area, including 18 islands in the Torres Straits. All 16 HHBs, including the Torres and Cape HHB, are accountable to the Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women and must perform their functions in accordance with the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011

Board members are community leaders and have the ability to contribute to shaping the future of health care in the region for which they are responsible, whilst enhancing the efficient, effective and sustainable delivery of health services.

Applications

The Queensland Government is seeking applications from appropriately experienced community members to fill a vacancy on the Torres and Cape HHB. Community members are being sought from the Torres and Cape region to be on the board. To be successful in this role, you:

• are ready and able to add value to the Board through your skills, knowledge and experience, including but not limited to any of the following areas of expertise: health management; business management; financial management; human resource management; clinical expertise; legal expertise; primary healthcare; health consumer and community engagement; and persons with skills, knowledge and experience in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and community issues

• are able to analyse, critically assess and drive performance

• have the confidence and connections to strengthen community engagement and collaborative partnerships

• are a leader who thinks strategically, embodies personal integrity, has political astuteness, commercial acumen, resilience and are a team player.

Applications are to be submitted online. For an information pack and instructions on how to submit your application please visit www.edenritchie.com.au/hhb-appointment/

This opportunity is an extension of a previous process and previous applicants will still be considered and do not need to reapply.

These opportunities are remunerated in accordance with Queensland Government guidelines.

We strongly encourage First Nations people, women, people with expertise in multiculturalism, young people, and people with disabilities to apply. A range of probity checks will be undertaken for persons being considered for appointment.

Applications close midnight, Friday 1 September 2023.

Should you wish to receive assistance on submitting your expression of interest, please contact Eden Ritchie Recruitment via Justine Eden on 0412 156 930.

Pete Herrmann and Jude Hennessy are desperately searching for beloved missing pet Bridget.

Bridget needs daily medication for allergies.

Aurukun benefits from the appointment of eager GP Vic boss to lead NQBP into future

THE Aurukun community now has direct access to a GP after the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service launched a regular service in the remote community.

Dr Sharleen Bowes began working from the Aurukun Primary Health Care Centre every second week in March and is providing much-needed medical support to the community.

Dr Bowes was previously working as a GP on the Sunshine Coast but was keen to relocate to be closer to her Weipa-based partner.

She initially worked as a locum at Weipa Hospital before taking the Aurukun outreach position.

Dr Bowes said she was thrilled to bring general practice care closer to home for Aurukun community members.

“I think the best thing is the variety of presentations which are very different to what GPs would see in a metropolitan area,” she said.

“There is a lot of scope to engage with consumers and work with them on both chronic disease management and preventative health actions.”

Dr Bowes completed her medical training in Melbourne but was always interested in rural and remote work and encouraged other young medicos to consider making the move.

“I sound like a Nike ad, but just do it!” she said.

“It probably won’t be anything like what they thought it would be, but I am enjoying it so much and it has been such a privilege providing care to the people of Aurukun.”

TCHHS executive general manager Michael Catt said he was ex-

cited the Aurukun community had access to a regular GP on site in community.

“We are dedicated to ensuring those living in our remote communities have access to health care as close to home as possible,” he said.

“Dr Bowes’ regular visits to Aurukun provide that community an

exceptional level of continuity of care, supporting the already excellent work of staff based at the Aurukun PHCC.

“We rely on staff who are passionate about rural and remote health care and continue to actively recruit for positions across our region.”

NORTH Queensland Bulk Ports has announced the appointment of Brendan Webb as its new CEO.

Chair Jane McTaggart said the board welcomed Mr Webb, who is currently CEO of Ports Victoria, back to NQBP and back to Queensland.

“As a government-owned port authority, our ports and our people deliver essential port services facilitating billions of dollars of trade worldwide for the benefit of the people of Queensland,” Ms McTaggart said.

“We believe that Brendan is the right person to lead NQBP to deliver on our long-term vision to be global leaders in the sustainable facilitation of port trade and further the economy of Queensland.”

Ms McTaggart said that as well as a deep understanding of NQBP and its ports, Mr Webb had extensive commercial experience, having held roles in heavy haulage and mining support sectors.

She said the new CEO would start in early October and would be based in NQBP’s Mackay head office, looking after ports across the region, including Weipa.

The board thanked acting CEO Belinda Kenny for her leadership during the recruitment period. She will return to her role as NQBP’s chief financial officer in October.

Dr Sharleen Bowes at the Aurukun Primary Health Care Centre. She works in the community on a fortnightly basis.

Three generations make flight to Cape for Vietnam Veteran’s Day

By SARAH MARTIN

FOR Vietnam veteran Jock Young, Friday’s anniversary service was especially poignant as he was flown into Cooktown by his son, RAAF Flight Lieutenant John Young, and accompanied by grandson Hamish, a cadet sergeant.

Jock Young flew in more than 1000 missions out of Vung Tao in Vietnam in 1965 and 1966 as an RAAF airframe and fitter, before returning in 1969 and 1970 as a load master.

Fl Lt Young followed his father into the RAAF and rose to the rank of Group Captain, and is now on special assignment to the 35th Squadron with a temporary reduction in rank to flight lieutenant to allow him to fly the C-27 Spartan aircraft.

Fl Lt Young said the flight and his first visit to Cooktown for the service was very important to his family.

“To have all three of us on the

same aeroplane at the same time, with me as captain, was pretty special,” he said.

“It’s my first time in Cooktown and I love it, and it’s the first time we’ve all flown together.”

Year 11 student Hamish Young is following the family tradition, currently serving as a cadet sergeant, and has already completed his first solo glide.

“I am very proud to be following my grandfather and father into the air force,” Hamish said from Cooktown.

“I’m starting my application for Defence at the end of this month and plan to go straight into the Air Force to be a pilot when I leave school.

“I’m very proud to be here today, especially with my father and grandfather.”

The trio joined a crowd at Cooktown for the service in Anzac Park on Friday, which marked 50 years since Australia withdrew from the Vietnam War.

RAAF 35th Squadron Leader Konstantin Jensen spoke at Cooktown’s Vietnam Veteran’s Day service.on Friday.

Cooktown RSL sub-branch president Julie Oliver and husband, vice-president and Vietnam Veteran Peter Sanderson, lay a wreath.

Cook Shire mayor Peter Scott spoke of the sacrifice and lack of recognition for Vietnam veterans.

Three generations of the Young family travelled to Cooktown for Vietnam Veteran’s Day.

Personnel from the Royal Australian Air Force 35th Squadron flew in from Amberley for the special anniversary of Vietnam Veteran’s Day.

Pictures: SARAH MARTIN Bill McCann, Connie Zadow and Laraine and Robert Minchin attended Friday’s Anzac Park service.

Former Cooktown resident John Gearn travelled from Brisbane to attend both the Pandanus Park and Cooktown Vietnam Veteran’s Day services. RAAF 35th Squadron personnel salute during the wreath laying ceremony.

Local veteran and Cooktown RSL sub-branch secretary Jim Fay pauses to reflect.

St Joseph’s

Come visit St Joseph’s

We’d love to show you around!

✔ A great community where everyone knows you by name

✔ We teach values that last a lifetime: Faith, Kindness, Honesty and Compassion.

✔ Known for academic success, strong foundations in literacy and numeracy

✔ High standards of behaviour and respect for self and others

✔ All faiths and backgrounds welcome –You don’t need to be Catholic

✔ Generous concession fees are available.

✔ Outstanding facilities- well resourced and equipped

✔ Modern technology - 1:1 devices, robotics and STEM from Prep

✔ Sports, music, arts, languages

While our pre-Preps join in our ‘Get Set For Prep Program’, enjoy morning tea, meet our teaching specialists, learn more about the school and what you can do to support your child to have a smooth transition into Prep.

Thursday 12th October 9-10:30am

Thursday 19th October 9-10:30am

Thursday 26th October 9-10:30am

Best on record? President says new events helped raise the bar

By MATT NICHOLLS

THE president of the Weipa Rodeo Association says this year’s event might have been the best one yet after record crowds filed through the gates on the weekend.

“I think it went all right,” said the modest Russell Scikluna.

“We’re always fine tuning things but I think the addition of the new events made a positive difference.

“Having the barrel racing does add a new element and gives some more opportunity for people who might not be interested in getting bucked off a bull.

“It certainly helped lift female participation, which is important to us as a committee.”

The other new addition was the introduction of mini bulls, which gave older kids something more serious to jump on instead of the usual poddy ride.

“They were awesome, but I must admit we did have six or seven young kids pull out because they were a bit bigger than what

we are used to seeing in Weipa,” Russell said with a smile.

“But the point of doing it was to give Cape York kids a chance to develop their skills because there isn’t a lot of opportunity up here.”

Russell also paid tribute to the long-serving committee stalwarts, such as Dave Rutherford, Tammy Tierney and Steve Fairbrother.

“Those names you just mentioned – and there are a few more

– are the reason the Weipa Rodeo is what it is today,” he said.

“They are the core of the event and we’re just adding to what they built. The work ethic they bring and the vision they started set the bar very high for us newcomers.”

The president was thrust into a less comfortable role over the two days following the withdrawal of Weipa Rodeo royalty Luke Quartermaine, who was spending time with his family after long periods away working.

Luke is the perfect secondary man on the microphone to complement Locky Bensted, but is best known for his work with the gasfired lolly gun – a favourite of the kids.

“I think I may have filled one shoe and that’s just about it,” said Russell.

“Lukey Quartermaine is our number one person and it’s his job next year if he’s here.

“He had other commitments this year and he was missed, for sure.”

The president, who now lives

and works at Watson River Station, also praised the professional cowboys who came in to lead the Cape of Origin teams.

Donovan Rutherford, Anthony Ryan and Brayden Wellby might have been paid for their efforts, but they more than earned their fees.

“What I loved most is that they are so passionate about the sport,” Russell said.

“They don’t just come up here and ride their bull and go home, they get right into it.

“The crowd wouldn’t be able to see what they do behind the chutes but they are so encouraging of our young riders and always providing plenty of tips and feedback.

“For Weipa to get three cowboys who are at the top of their game is a big effort and we’d have them all back next year, for sure.”

Russell also said he was thrilled to see the support for the event’s charity partner, Talk About It Tuesday, formed by Cape York locals Jackie Perry and Debbie Jackson after they lost their sons to suicide.

Weipa Rodeo Association president Russell Scikluna had big shoes to fill in the absence of Luke Quartermaine, but kept the kids happy with regular trips around the arena with the lolly gun.

The addition of barrel racing, especially for the local juniors, added a new dimension to the Weipa Rodeo this year.

Danny Phegan, pictured singing the national anthem, once again proved a hit with punters. Phegan and his band provided the post-rodeo entertainment.

Editor gets bucked off for charity

By MATT NICHOLLS

I’M officially a bullrider.

And yep, while I didn’t get close to hanging on for eight seconds, I can now say I’ve jumped on a bull at the Weipa Rodeo!

So how did it come about?

In my bid to raise funds for brain cancer by walking from the Archer River Roadhouse to Weipa, it was suggested by Rose Robins on Saturday that people might pay money to see me get bucked by a 700-kilogram bull.

Within just a couple of hours, and after signing a waiver in case I got injured – or died – it had been locked in.

But I wasn’t getting on unless some serious funds were raised.

And, seeing that Talk About It Tuesday was the official charity partner of the Weipa Rodeo this year, my only condition was that half of the funds raised went to the local suicide-prevention group.

Generously, the Weipa Rodeo Association said it would match any money raised dollar-for-dollar.

So it was put into announcer Locky Bensted’s hands of finding some generous spectators to put in a bid to get me on a bull.

Bizarrely, Brooke Quartermaine from Weipa Camping Ground got into an early bidding war with Bevan Dukes from Heartland Helicopters.

For those who don’t know, they are a couple and operate their businesses out of the same property.

So that was nice of them!

Darren Corke and Hardus van

Wyk from the Weipa Mine and Town Tours got their hands up for a bid, only to be usurped by Lauren Dibben from Ecotone.

But the winning bid came from three blokes I’d never seen before.

Geoff Jackson, Cameron Bodey and David Shaw said they’d chip in $3000 to see me get bucked.

With the Weipa Rodeo doubling it, both Talk About It Tuesday and my charity walk would receive $3000 apiece if I jumped on board.

For me, it was a no-brainer.

In fact, I wasn’t really scared until the chutes opened.

You see, I’ve been going to the Weipa Rodeo for 10 years and I know these guys run a tight ship.

It’s one of the safest events on the circuit, so I knew I would be in good hands.

Thankfully, they put me on an old bull in 50 Cent. The one-time star doesn’t buck like he used to and wasn’t going to try and kill me.

So I was fairly calm and happy to do it – until the gate crashed back and I realised that I’m just too old to be doing something so silly. Thankfully, I came away largely unscathed. The wind came out of my lungs after landing on my back, while I have a swollen foot after 50 Cent landed on my left boot.

Raising $6000 for charity in a couple of seconds sure eased any pain. But there’ll be no encore!

Cape York Weekly editor Matt Nicholls hangs on for dear life as 50 Cent leaves the chute. This is where it all went wrong ... Matt takes a tumble but lands safely on his back.

Weipa Rodeo president Russell Scikluna, bidder Geoff Jackson, ‘cowboy’ Matt Nicholls, bidders Cameron Bodey and David Shaw, and the protection athletes.

Talk About It Tuesday legends Jackie Perry and Debbie Jackson.

Home side claims Cape of Origin

A STRONG team performance by the Northern Cape lifted the home side to victory in the second annual Cape of Origin event on Saturday night.

Led by team captain Donovan Rutherfurd, already an Australian champion at just the age of 24, the Northern Cape produced top scores in a range of events to claim the buckle.

Rutherfurd scored 89 points for his eight-second ride aboard Off The Chain. He said he was happy with the score.

“Bloody oath I am,” he said with a grin.

“I’m happy to stay on anything, I reckon!”

Rutherfurd, who missed out on riding at his hometown Mount Isa Rodeo the week prior, said success at Weipa eased the pain.

“I was busy working and forgot to nominate. I thought they might let me in but they didn’t give me a chance,” he said.

Rutherfurd instead rode at the Cloncurry Merry Muster a week before the Isa and flew to Brisbane for a mid-week exhibition event.

He said riding in Weipa was as fun as any other event and that he relished the chance to be more hands-on behind the chutes with other riders.

“These community rodeos are the best. They are great fun and everyone enjoys themselves,” he said.

“I’ve got some family here and I’ll spend a few more days here ... hopefully do a bit of fishing.”

Rutherfurd went for a sneaky flick on Saturday morning and caught a couple of decent sized barramundi prior to the rodeo.

Also lifting the Northern Cape was the performance of young gun Ky Borghero, who at 17 is making waves on the circuit.

Weipa Camping Ground’s Brooke Quartermaine won the open barrel race and was delighted with the team prize.

“I’m 40 and have been going to rodeos my whole life and this is the first buckle I’ve ever won!”

2023 WEIPA RODEO RESULTS

Poddy Ride

1st: Joseph Jackson

Mini Bull

1st: Matty Prychidczuk

Junior Bullock

1st: Clayton Hudson

2nd: Jahral Booth

3rd: Corey Clarke

Women’s Bullock

1st: Hallie Jenkins

Open Bullock

1st: Jake Simpson

2nd: Trevor Callope

3rd: Corey Clarke

Saddle Bronc

1st: Damien Mason

Novice Bull

1st: Jackson Stockman

2nd: Corey Clarke

Steer Wrestling - Men

1st: Clancy Gordon

2nd: Toby Gordon

Steer Wrestling - Women

1st: Ryleigh Wone

2nd: Rachael Gordon

Whip Cracking

1st: Will Rusis

Open Bull

1st: Ky Borghero

2nd: Donovan Rutherfurd

3rd: Braydon Wellby

Junior Barrel Race

1st: Jasmine Scikluna

2nd: Jasmine Scikluna

3rd: Kayla Ruth Barton

Open Barrel Race

1st: Brooke Quartermaine

2nd: Charlotte Berrett

3rd: Brooke Quartermaine

The Northern Cape team receive their winning buckles on Saturday night.

Northern Cape team captain Donovan Rutherfurd, an Australian champion and Kalkadoon man from Mount Isa, was stoked with his Weipa ride.

Cape York Weekly Puzzles Page

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 W

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.

Spot the 5 Differences

Please email Please email info@tangaroablue org info@tangaroablue org

AUTHORISATION MEETING FOR A NATIVE TITLE DETERMINATION AGREEMENT

AURUKUN TOWNSHIP – WIK AND WIK WAY PEOPLE

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

Wednesday 6 September 2023, Aurukun

Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will hold a decision-making meeting on Wednesday 6 September 2023 in Aurukun for the Wik and Wik Way People 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 Wik and Wik Way country in Aurukun Township. The proposed determination area is shown on the map below

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 6 September 2023 authorises the s.87A native title agreement, the determination will then be sought in the Federal Court. The Court has listed the potential consent determination to be made on 2 or 3 November 2023 for the area on the map above

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 made available at the meeting on Wednesday 6 September 2023. At the request of the people who constitute the Applicant of the Cape York United Number 1 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 meetings?

The meetings are open to all Wik and Wik Way People with native title rights and interests in the Aurukun Township area.

The meeting will be held as follows:

Date: Wednesday 6 September 2023

Venue: Training Centre, Aurukun

Time: 9:30 am to 3.00 pm

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 Wednesday 6 September 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 an existing Indigenous Land Use Agreement 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; 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.

The authorisation meeting will be held on 6 September 2023 and will be publicly notified and notices will be sent out to all members of the Native Title Group with contact details on the CYLC database. Please contact us on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email sdorante@ cylc.org.au to update your details.

For travel assistance or to confirm attendance or for any other questions about this notice, please contact Sana Dorante before noon on Tuesday 29 August 2023 on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email sdorante@cylc.org.au Note that there is limited funding available for travel assistance.

AUTHORISATION MEETING FOR A PROPOSED NATIVE TITLE DETERMINATION APPLICATION

Wuthathi Native Title Group

Thursday, 14 September 2023, Cairns

Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will hold a decision-making meeting on Thursday 14 September 2023 in Cairns to consider:

1. Authorisation of the proposed Wuthathi native title determination application (see map of proposed application area below)

2. Authorisation of the Applicant for the proposed Wuthathi Sea Claim

Who is invited to attend the meetings?

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

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

The meeting will be held as follows (dinner will be provided):

Date: Thursday 14 September 2023

Venue: Rydges Esplanade Resort

209-217 Abbot St, Cairns

Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm

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. It is important to provide every opportunity for persons entitled to attend the meeting.

Attendance

To register your interest in attending the meeting or to enquire about travel assistance, please contact Leah Thompson at CYLC on free call number 1800 623 548 or by email lthompson@cylc.org.au no later than 3pm on 5 September 2023 Please note that there is limited funding for travel assistance. If you have queries about this meeting, please contact Parky Wirrick on 0409 548 569 or pwirrick@cylc.org. au

1. Johnson Moreton

2. Frank Wilson

3. Ida “Waterbag” Temple

4. Moe Rie Warren

5. Annie (Athanamu) Punda

6. Pintharra

7. Innis Pascoe

8. Dinah

9. Ada Lancaster

10. Nara Jira Para

11. Ela (Illa)

12. Eliza (wife of Tom Ware)

Reefs Cooktown FC Sign-On Day

Position Vacant

Gungarde Community Centre is seeking applications from suitably qualified people to join our team in the role of HEaLinG HoUsE ManaGER

1 Full time Position

Applications close at midnight on Thursday, August 31 2023

For further information or to request a copy of the Position Description please contact 07 4069 5412 or jelliott@gungarde.com.au

TENDER 2023-08-01

HOUSING EXTENSIONS (5 N O Pl UG I NS )

Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council invites tenders for the construction of 5 Plug Ins (Extensions) to 5 existing Residential Houses in the Northern Peninsula Area region, QLD 4876. Further details can be found in the Tender documents, which are available on Vendor Panel. Tenderers will need to register with Vendor Panel to access the documents (VP374616).

Tenders are to be submitted through Vendor Panel VP374616 and will be accepted until the closing time of 5pm on Wednesday 06 September 2023.

Applicants should submit details and supporting information demonstrating successful and effective project experience in construction of residential housing in remote communities.

Tenders will be opened privately. The lowest or any Tender is not necessarily accepted.

Kate Gallaway CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Lee Gibson and Dakota Willmann waiting for their game. Connor Morgan and Benji Jenyns vie for the football.

Bruce Gibson and Jashiel Campana.

Cruze Ryder was all concentration as he eyed the goal.

Connor Morgan ready to pass to Lee Gibson. Micah Parkes enjoyed the fast pace of soccer try-outs. Kaden Teece, Darius Boers and Taj Gilmour.

Benji Jenyns, Carrick Macmillan and Haruto Garate stopped for a quick photo.

Rhodi Jenyns, Kristin Slykerman, Belle-anne Willmann, Micah Parkes and Ella Habermann.

It was fun for all ages at the Reefs Cooktown Football Club on Wednesday.

Brothers Oliver and Xavier Hornett enjoyed soccer try -outs.

Even Innis Macmillan, with dad Donald, got into the soccer spirit.

League legends love Kowanyama

By SARAH MARTIN

KOWANYAMA footy fans were once again able to rub shoulders with rugby league legends as the Arthur Beetson Foundation Future Immortals Tour returned to the community.

After a great long weekend for the first ever Immortals Tour in 2022, ABF ambassador and retired league legend Petero Civoniceva said the players were keen to come back again.

“I was excited to return back to Kowanyama and be part of the community again, working with the schools, talking to the Elders and getting to go out on country with the rangers,” he said.

“I know for the players who were there last year, they loved it and hearing some of the stories that make Kowanyama such a unique place, they couldn’t wait to get back up there.”

The Arthur Beetson Foundation aims to build on the legacy of its namesake, one of rugby league’s top sportsmen, building the sport’s

profile while providing opportunities both for communities and for former players to continue to connect the sport.

There wasn’t a commercial flight in sight as the players were flown into the Cape by the Royal Australian Air Force, whose personnel also took part in activities during the weekend.

Hope Vale export Brenton Bowen, who played for the North Queensland Cowboys and Gold Coast Titans during his professional career, said the trip was memorable for both the players and community.

“From both aspects, the players enjoyed it and the community enjoyed it,” Bowen said.

“We also got to go out fishing on Country – the boys and the Australian Defence Force staff enjoyed that.”

Bowen said the kids loved interacting with the players at school, as well as the Deadly Choices, Dolphins development program and Queensland University of Technology staff,who attended.

“On Friday we spent the morning at school and had all the different stations for the kids to be involved in, Deadly Choices running traditional games, QUT with the time trials and react pods and the Dolphins running a footy clinic – it was fun all-round,” he said.

The Hope Vale product said a highlight for many was the footy matches where Immortals played alongside locals.

“The locals put their names down if they wanted to play and they got to play alongside or against some of their favourite players,” he said.

“I think that’s one of the great things about the Immortals Tour; we try to get out to places that don’t have many opportunities or exposure to the NRL because of distance or lack of facilities.”

Bowen said excitement was already mounting among the players who would be returning to the Far North for another Future Immortals Tour of Cooktown, Wujal Wujal and Hope Vale next month, from September 6 to 10.

From Weipa to Yeppoon: netballers do hard yards

By MATT NICHOLLS

THREE junior netball teams from Weipa have put the town on the map after winning some new admirers at their recent tournament in Yeppoon.

“Some of the other parents were saying ‘where is Weipa’ and couldn’t believe how far away it was,” said Weipa Social Netball Club treasurer Abbey Martin, who organised a lot of the trip.

“It was a fantastic experience. We took three teams and 29 girls in total.”

Just getting to Yeppoon was a difficult task.

The squad flew out of Weipa, stayed in Cairns overnight, then jumped aboard a Bonza flight to Rockhampton before boarding a bus to Yeppoon.

They did the same trip in reverse to get home.

“It was such a well run event,” Abbey said of the Capricorn Coast Junior Netball Carnival.

“We found out about it from Jeff (Neil) one of our local paramedics who was previously on the committee down there.

“It was funny because when we were in Yeppoon there was a recording played with messages and countdowns and they were all voiced by Jeff.”

Abbey said the tournament gave the Weipa girls a great taste of the type of netball that would be commonplace for more urban clubs.

“Our players only train once a week on Mondays and then play a game of about 10 or 15 minutes at the end of practice,” she said.

“To go down there and be around 164 teams, on a mix of grass and hard courts was such a great experience for them.”

Low scoring at Wackers

THE standard of golf was so good at last week’s Wednesday Wackers in Weipa that a 39 off the stick wasn’t good enough to get a gig on the podium.

Ross Craven went three-over on the back nine, but his handicap wasn’t high enough to get a prize on nett.

Instead, Rob Richardson’s 45/31.5 took out honours, ahead of Viv Chan, who also had a great round of 42/33.5.

Matt Byrne (15) and Viv (18) picked up the nearest to pins, while Jim Lucas claimed the Bradman’s.

Northern Pride in finals

THE Northern Pride will travel to Brisbane this Sunday for an elimination final against Wynnum Manly Seagulls after they won their do-or-die final round clash on the weekend.

Up against the Redcliffe Dolphins, the Pride knew they had to win to secure a finals berth and scraped home with a 2826 scoreline at Barlow Park.

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

The Pride’s final will be played at 4pm on Sunday. You can stream it via Qplus.tv

proud and they should be proud of themselves” the passionate treasurer said.

She said the club owed a great deal of gratitude to the sponsors who supported the teams.

“It would have been way too expensive without their support and thanks must go to Rio Tinto Weipa and Weipa Real Estate, as well as our yearly sponsors Embley Contracting, Junction Engineering, Weipa Bowls Club, Capeaccino Crew and Weipa Lions Club.”

Chris Johnson Cup a hit

AROUND 200 kids came together in the Northern Peninsula Area last week to develop their skills at AFL Cape York’s longest-running event, the annual Chris Johnson and Angie Nadredre Cup.

Students from AFL Cape York House and Mount Saint Bernard’s College travelled more than 1000km to attend the four-day game development event.

Weipa had teams in the 12, 14 and 15-years age groups. They were also allowed to play two 16 year olds in their 15-year team.

“They allowed that for the boys teams as well and I think they might be starting to think about Olympics for netball,” Abbey said.

While all teams managed to draw at least one of their games, it came down to the final match for Weipa to register a win, with the 12-years team getting the job done.

“I thought they all did really well and never gave up in any of their matches. They did Weipa

The Weipa Social Netball Club is now gearing up for this Saturday’s Embley Shield junior carnival at the Storm Surge Shelter in Rocky Point.

“We’ll get somewhere between 60 and 80 kids and it’ll be non-stop from about 8am until 1pm,” Abbey said.

“The junior footy finals are on that afternoon so we didn’t want to clash.”

On Thursday, the visiting students were joined by NPA State College and Tagai State College pupils for the annual CJAN Cup, which is AFL Cape York’s longestrunning participation and talent program.

The carnival is used as a selection process for further representative honours.

The AFL Cape York House for Boys team took out the Chris Johnson Cup, while the AFL Cape York House for Girls team retained that Angie Nadredre Cup after a strong on-field performance.

Both winning teams benefited from playing regular football. Pictures and more coverage at www.capeyorkweekly.com.au

The Weipa 15-years netball side gets fired up for a game in Yeppoon.

The Weipa Social Netball Club sent 29 girls to Yeppoon for the Capricorn Coast Junior Netball Carnival.

deb@deborahduffyestateagent.com.au www.deborahduffyestateagent.com.au

Semi-detached neat & tidy half duplex

• The tenants are taking great care of this property • Two spacious bedrooms • Built-ins • Split system air conditioning • Open plan living • Galley style kitchen in good condition • Carpets to the bedrooms and timber paneling in the living areas • Louvers have been replaced with sliding windows • Bathroom has been renovated • Front balcony • Downstairs is the laundry and plenty of room for storage • Undercover entertainment area • Double gate access at the rear of the yard • Fully fenced • Tenant on a lease until 24/11/23 @ $600 per week

• Two spacious bedrooms each with their own ensuites • Built-in robes • Split system air conditioning throughout • Breezy open plan living • Outdoor patio overlooking fully fenced yard • Laundry and third toilet downstairs • Easy stroll to both Carpentaria Golf Club and Weipa Bowls Club • Tandem lockable carport • Shared swimming pool, barbecue & common area

• Two spacious bedrooms each with their own ensuites • Builtin robes • Split system air conditioning throughout • Outdoor patio overlooking the fully fenced yard • Breezy open plan living • Laundry and a third toilet downstairs • Located within an easy stroll to both Carpentaria Golf Club & Weipa Bowls Club • Tandem lockable carport • Body Corporate Levies $3022.24 approx • This townhouse is in a complex of 16 homes with a shared swimming pool, barbecue & common area

• Two bedrooms • Built-ins • Open plan living area • Large formal entry could be set up as an office • Large kitchen with pantry • Renovated bathroom • Split system air conditioning throughout • Under cover entertainment area • Fully fenced with double gate access • Garden shed • Lock-up garage with storage • Rented until 10/11/23 at $700 per week • Body Corporate Levies $5,150 per annum approx