Cape York Weekly Edition 149

Finally! Sea Swift braces for arrival of new vessel

By MATT NICHOLLS

SEA Swift’s much-anticipated new cargo vessel should be in service by the wet season, the company says.

The Newcastle Bay II, which was supposed to be delivered two years ago, will arrive in Cairns in October and should relieve the pressure on the shipping company.

Sea Swift has been under the pump without the purpose-built vessel, with the Trinity Bay also currently out of action as it awaits its five-yearly inspection.

CEO Dwayne Freeman expressed his excitement at welcoming the Newcastle Bay II to the company’s fleet.

“The arrival of the Newcastle Bay is a momentous occasion for Sea Swift and the entire northern Australia community,” he said.

“This vessel represents our commitment to improving cargo capacity and connectivity across the region.”

Measuring just shy of 100 metres in length and capable of reaching a maximum speed of 16 knots, the Newcastle Bay should dramatically increase Sea Swift’s capabilities.

“This vessel is a game-changer for our communities,” Mr Freeman said.

“It will significantly increase our cargo capacity, especially during northern Queensland’s wet season, and also offer pas-

senger accommodation, further enhancing our services.”

Mr Freeman admitted the process to acquire the new vessel had not been without its challenges.

“We’ve encountered hurdles, including the impact of COVID-19, labour and skills shortages, and adverse weather conditions,” he said.

“However, these challenges have only fuelled our determination to see this project through.

“The Newcastle Bay’s impending arrival is a testament to Sea Swift’s resilience and unwavering commitment to serving the needs of northern Australia.

“In fact, it’s more than just a vessel – it represents Sea Swift’s

identity and is a critical addition to our business.”

Sea Swift said it would host a grand launch event to celebrate the vessel’s arrival.

Meanwhile, Weipa shoppers were left without milk and fresh produce last week after Sea Swift failed to refrigerate a load bound for Woolworths.

“Some of the stock that arrived at our Weipa store was damaged in transit. Unfortunately, this stock did not meet food safety standards and could no longer be sold in store,” a Woolworths spokesperson said.

“This delivery included a number of fruit and veg items as well as dairy, milk and egg products.”

NPA students ready to assess options

NORTHERN Peninsula Area State College will this week host a careers fair for students in what will be the first of its kind for at least a decade.

Staff hope it will help senior students in Bamaga learn about a variety of future pathways, including tertiary education and jobs, straight out of high school.

NPA State College senior campus guidance officer Anna Neynens said that it would be a vital day for students to engage with different organisations that they would not normally have access to.

“I would love for them to walk away with a sense of confidence and a greater sense of

clarity around which direction they wish to go when they finish school,” she said.

In such a remote community, students have little opportunity to be exposed to organisations and pathways outside of their immediate area due to logistical challenges.

Ms Neynens said that experiences like excursions were rare and difficult, resulting in many students being unfamiliar with the options available to them.

“We really want our students to see a wide range of industries and meet a wide variety of people and feel comfortable in various environments,” she said.

NPA State College school captain Betty

Sagigi is aiming to study nursing in university after school, so is excited to see the university stalls that will be available at the fair.

“It’ll be wonderful,” she said.

Organisations attending the fair will be a mix of both local and statewide to show students a range of future pathways available to them.

NPA State College have locked down organisations in arts and culture, health, mining, universities and TAFE, as well as the Australian Defence Force.

The career fair will be held on Wednesday, September 6 from 9am to 3pm. – story by Chisa Hasegawa

NPA State College students Pelerina Bagie, Betty Sagigi, Devon Gebadi, Deandra Idai and Harminey Poi-Poi are excited to explore their career options.

Cape York leaders share a passion for community

By MATT NICHOLLS

A GROUP of Cape York leaders – some elected and some just getting it done at the grassroots – have spoken of their passion for their communities and why greater collaboration is needed.

Lucretia Huen, Talei Elu and Wayne Butcher shared the stage with Cape York Land Council’s Richie Ah Mat and Dion Creek at the Cape York Oration in Palm Cove last Friday.

And while it wasn’t designed to be about the Voice and the pending referendum, there were significant underlying messages about recognition from the Cape York identities.

“Self-determination is within our grasp,” said Ms Huen, who is the general manager of the Coen Regional Aboriginal Corporation.

“We just have to believe that we can obtain it.

“Indigenous representation is more important now than it has ever been.”

Ms Huen said there also

needed to be more support of one another in communities.

“If one of our mob gets ahead ... we feel the need to put them in their so-called rightful place, similar to crabs in a pot,” she told the audience at the Sea Temple Resort.

“In those moments, we don’t realise that the fight should be against the system that has kept us reliant, dependent and feeling

unworthy of something better for so long.

“It is an identity crisis.”

Lockhart River mayor Wayne Butcher, wearing a black T-shirt with “Yes” across the front, said he felt safer wearing it closer to home.

“I was wearing this in Charters Towers the other day and I thought someone might run me over with their car,” he joked.

The long-time leader then reflected on the history of land rights in the Cape.

“It’s been 50 years since there was a dance festival on the beach there at Lockhart River and it ended up in Laura,” he said.

“There were dancers from Groote (Eylandt) and the Cape and we’re talking about how we can stage a smaller one back in the community.

“I remember talking to my uncle (Isaac Hobson) about it and he said that it wasn’t a dance festival.

“We just hid the lands rights agenda behind it, he told me.

“There would be dancing in

the day time but at night everyone would sit around the camp fire and discuss land rights.”

Ms Elu, a prominent young leader who has introduced lifechanging grassroots projects in Seisia, praised her parents for her community approach.

“It took me a long time to fully understand the sacrifices that were made in the hopes of my education,” she said.

“I was told constantly about the importance of the education I was receiving and that it would one day help me contribute back to my home, Seisia.

“Like many Cape York kids who have gone to boarding school, I was grateful for it, but at times saddened by it.

“Some of my fondest memories are of the journeys home ... traversing Cape York roads in four-wheel drives, catching plane after plane to get from Canberra to the Cape, catching ferries, dinghies and cargo ships to get from the city to the Straits.

“The best feeling was that of coming home.”

Cape York Land Council CEO Dion Creek, chairman Richie Ah Mat, Seisia young leader Talei Elu, Coen Regional Aboriginal Corporation general manager Lucretia Huen and Lockhart River mayor Wayne Butcher at the inaugural Cape York Oration event, held in Palm Cove last Thursday.

Wayne Butcher proudly wearing his ‘yes’ T-shirt in the Far North.

Controversial RV area to stay open in peak period

By MATT NICHOLLS and SARAH MARTIN

COOK Shire Council has voted to keep the free RV rest area operating at the racecourse, but only during Cooktown’s busiest periods.

Following lobbying from the Cooktown Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, the council was asked to decide the future of the site.

The chamber said the RV rest area had a financial impact on caravan parks in the local area. However, the council said it was important for Cook Shire to be considered an “RV Friendly Town” and instead voted on a compromise.

Self-sufficient RV campers will only be able to stay at the

Cooktown Amateur Turf Club from the start of the June school holidays until the end of August.

Mayor Peter Scott said it was a reasonable compromise as there were pros and cons to permanently closing the site.

“We want to send a message to those with RVs that they are welcome and having this site available does do that,” he said.

“We also want to support the local caravan parks and camping grounds and we think that by only having it open during peak periods should help them.”

Cooktown has previously had issues with overflow camping, which led to some bypassing the town or illegally camping, the mayor said.

Russell Bowman, the newlyelected president of the Cook-

town Chamber of Commerce, said the call to close the RV rest area was made to support the growing local businesses.

“In the last three or four years we’ve seen significant investment in infrastructure at a number of new or upgraded camp sites,” he said.

“In Cooktown, the caravan parks probably only have a couple of months where they can expect full occupancy.

“In a good season they’ll be at 75 to 80 per cent capacity, then once you go outside that to the shoulder seasons it can be a lot quieter.

“It would be nice to do a full season without the RV rest area and see how full all of the others ended up with a few new places that have popped up.”

Break and enter in park

POLICE are appealing for witnesses to a break and enter, which occurred at a work shed at the Endeavour River National Park.

Mr Bowman said he supported the racecourse being used as an overflow area, but only when the local businesses were close to capacity.

The owner of The Lure Shop said the chamber and local tourism businesses were trying to grow visitor numbers outside the usual peak periods.

“There’s been a push to have the ‘green season’ or ‘fishing season’ to bring people from the northern region in to enjoy whatever nature has to offer,” he said.

“Whether that’s bushwalking and looking at waterfalls and birdwatching, or going to the reef, it still brings a different wallet into town to help support the businesses in what can be a quieter time of year.”

Initial report suggests that sometime between August 21 and August 23, a grinder was used to enter the shed.

Once inside, it is alleged that offender/s stole a silver generator, a barbecue, and kitchen items.

Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact police.

High-end speeding

A BAYVIEW Heights man has been issued with a $1780 traffic infringement notice after he was intercepted by police on Charlotte Street in Cooktown.

It will be alleged that on Friday, August 18, at around 7.30am, the 48-year-old man was travelling along Charlotte Street at 93km/h in a 50km/h zone.

Boost for Cape kids

A NEW child development program is being launched across Cape York and the Torres Strait.

The Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service received $3.6 million from the state government’s Connected Community Pathways program to fund the new service.

The new service will see the establishment of a mobile visiting allied health team to work in collaboration with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander allied health assistants.

The team will travel directly to see and treat patients at their local health care centres across the region. The team will include speech pathologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, psychologists, social workers, and dietitians.

They will provide specialist assessment, diagnosis, and support of children with complex developmental delays, medical conditions, and disabilities as well the provision of ongoing therapy and support, and the building of local capacity in targeted communities.

Great Endeavour Rally heading to Cape

A TOURING group of around 40 vehicles will hit the Cape at the end of the week, providing a cash injection for the region.

The Great Endeavour Rally is the biggest fundraiser for the Endeavour Foundation as it aims to support people with disabilities.

The 2023 rally, which lasts for nine days and begins in the Cape on Friday, has more

than 50 participants and around 40 vehicles, including the Australian Defence Force.

In 35 years, the Great Endeavour Rally has raised more than $12 million dollars to support people with disabilities with inhome care, educational tools to live independently and gaining employment.

“Everyone has a dream whether you’re

able-bodied or have a disability and if we can arm people with the right tools to help achieve that dream, that’s a job well done in my books,” Endeavour Foundation event specialist Nathan Woolhouse said.

Rally participants raise funds in various ways, through sponsorships, fundraising events, social media and market sales.

“I am passionate about ensuring Queensland children get the best quality healthcare, no matter where they live,” said Health Minister Shannon Fentiman.

“The $3.6 million new child development program will bring health care directly to communities, with teams of allied health professionals travelling to, and operating from their local Primary Health Care Centre.

“Our children deserve the best, and this program means less travel for families and less demand on our hospitals.”

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

Around 40 vehicles are hitting the Cape from Friday as part of the Great Endeavour Rally. They’ll go from Cairns all the way to the Tip, via Cooktown.

Not good enough: PDR neglected

By MATT NICHOLLS

TALK to most businesses in Cape York Peninsula and they’ll tell you their number one frustration – the cost of freight.

It’s the most prohibitive part of trading on the Cape.

Not only is road freight limited to just seven months of the year (that’s without a big wet season), our roads are so bad that the big truck companies won’t touch us.

Those who do – and we thank them – have to factor in the cost of the wear and tear on their trucks, which cop a battering from May until November on Cape York’s notorious corrugations.

It all adds up. And who pays the price? We do.

Yet, relief is supposedly on the way if you believe the Queensland government.

In March this year, the Premier announced a $64 million freight subsidy for remote communities, including the Cape.

But like most promises from this state government, the devil is in the detail.

Or should that be lack of detail?

It’s been almost six months since that backslapping announcement was made while Ministers were on a rare trip to the Torres Strait, yet there has been no action taken.

Meanwhile, families are facing a huge cost at the supermarket and our small businesses are struggling to stay afloat.

But there is one way to help keep the costs of freight down in the Cape – improve the quality of our roads.

The Peninsula Developmental Road is a disgrace at present, with corrugations so deep that goannas are using them for shade.

Truck drivers are forced to crawl at walking pace to prevent damaging both the freight they are carting and the vehicle they are steering.

The maintenance budget on the PDR has not kept up. Not only are there more vehicles on the road, but the cost of the work has gone up, meaning you get less bang for your buck.

To his credit, Minister for Main Roads Mark Bailey said he would look into it when he spoke with

Cape York Weekly, but stopped short of guaranteeing additional funding for the region’s most important piece of infrastructure.

Unfortunately for Mr Bailey and his state government, the PDR has lost all momentum in terms of sealing works.

Much of that can be put down to a lack of local knowledge in the Cairns TMR department, and an unhealthy obsession with bridges.

The Archer River bridge, which started last year and isn’t likely to be finished until the end of next year, has become the laughing stock of the region.

Not only has the project gone

Disability Supports

well over budget, but it will serve no useful purpose for several years after completion.

Once the wet season arrives, those travelling between Weipa and Laura will encounter several river and creek crossings that will be impassable.

Just getting to the Archer from Weipa will be tough if the bridge at Myall Creek is underwater. What we need is more bitumen and more maintenance on the dirt sections that are remaining.

Amazingly, there will be no new sealing projects on the PDR this year. Can you believe that?

If we’re lucky, there might be

some tarmac at the Archer River approaches if RoadTek can get the job done before the wet, but that was supposed to be completed last year by Decmil.

Instead, they collected their cash and left a big mess for the taxpayer to clean up.

Sections of the PDR were slated for sealing this year between Coen and Musgrave Roadhouse, but TMR didn’t award the contracts in time for the successful tenderer to get the job done before the wet.

Meanwhile, Cape residents are paying the highest road freight costs in Queensland.

Once the Archer River bridge is

complete, there should be a simple state government policy – bitumen before bridges.

Having a good quality piece of road to drive on for seven or eight months of the year will beat what we currently have.

In the meantime, we wait to see what this freight subsidy looks like. It’s supposed to be worth $64 million over five years.

But when you break that figure down per resident living in Cape York and the Torres Strait, it works out to be about $500 per person in savings per year.

That’s not a bad start, but will it work? Time will tell.

The Archer River bridge project has become the running joke of Cape York. TMR is scaring off tourists with ‘caution’ warnings for the Cape.

Truckies fed up with Cape roads

By MATT NICHOLLS

FREIGHT carriers in Cape York say they have had a gutful of being ignored by the state government’s Department of Transport and Main Roads, who refuse to keep the Peninsula Developmental Road graded throughout the dry season.

Cape York Weekly spoke to a number of truck drivers and transport companies last week, some on the record and some off the record.

All of them agreed that TMR wasn’t up to the job and failed to listen to their concerns.

Many said that the roads were so bad it was putting pressure on drivers to keep accurate log book hours due to the slow speeds being driven.

“It’s bloody tough when you are taking five hours to get 100km up the road,” said one truck driver.

“If you are carting cattle it becomes an animal welfare issue, too. The logbook says you’ve got to stop and have a rest, but you have a load of cattle on board.”

Simon Tuxworth, who runs Tuxworth and Woods trucking company with his family out of Cairns, said more needed to be done to keep the dirt sections of the PDR in better condition.

“Water seems to be an issue because they don’t seem to be using much of it,” he said.

“These dry grades are not getting it done. They last about two days.”

Mr Tuxworth said his drivers were told to drop back to second gear and let the truck roll along at around 20km/h on the worst of the corrugations.

“It’s the only way you can do it without stalling,” he said.

One truck company called Cape York Weekly last week to complain about the presence of Department of Transport officials checking heavy vehicles at Mount Carbine. Several truck drivers were fined.

Mr Tuxworth said his company was also the victim of the inspections.

“I think they got us for a light that wasn’t working. But when you drive back from the Cape there’s always something that breaks.

“A mirror might fall off or a battery box will break. I don’t agree with them booking drivers on their way home from the Cape.

“On the way up, that’s fair enough.”

Deb Gostelow from Gostelow’s Cattle and Freight said the PDR was as bad as it had ever been.

“We’ve been going up there our whole life and the dirt sections are just horrendous,” she said.

“It took three-and-a-half hours to go from Musgrave to Yarraden. That’s a disgrace.

“TMR will grade it early in the year and the road is beautiful but it keeps going backwards as the year goes on. They should have graders on there throughout the year.”

Ms Gostelow said traffic numbers in the Cape dictated more workers.

“Twenty years ago the road wouldn’t fall apart like it does now but the amount of cars and caravans on the PDR is growing every year,” she said.

“I’m not sure what we have to do to get heard but it makes it bloody tough to run a business when you’re trying to cart cattle and freight on these roads.”

A Tuxworth and Woods truck crawls along the PDR’s corrugations, travelling at around 20km/h.

of Cooktown’s

By SARAH MARTIN

MORE educational and social events and ongoing advertising will be key focus areas for the Cooktown Chamber of Commerce and Tourism under new president Russell Bowman.

Mr Bowman, who owns several businesses in town including The Lure Shop Tackleworld Cooktown, has been on the chamber executive as vice president and treasurer for many years.

He took on the president’s role at last week’s AGM.

“I’ve managed to sit on the backburner and be vice president and treasurer for a number of years, and I thought I’ll put my hand up for a couple of years and see where that goes,” Mr Bowman said.

He replaced outgoing president Mick Davies, with Julie Hillhouse stepping into Mr Bowman’s vacated treasurer role. Secretary Will Peck retained his position.

The Seaview Motel’s Jason Ritchie, Nellie Harvey from Cooktown Wholesalers, Melinda Parker from Astute Law and Mr Davies from the River of Gold Motel form the remainder of the executive.

Mr Bowman said the chamber would continue to advocate for the region and encouraged local businesses to do the same.

“A lot of people don’t understand what there is to do in Cooktown, so we just need to make sure we keep getting that message out,” he said.

The chamber has several promotions currently running, including a QR code sticker which visitors can scan to read the digital business directory and top 10 things to do in the area.

“We’ve had great feedback from people who have said they’re going to take the ideas back home which has been really encouraging for us,” Mr Bowman said.

“We’re also keen now that we’re out of our high season to get some events back happening for the business community.

“We’ve got artificial intelligence presentations and informa-

tion sessions in collaboration with Country Universities Centre Cape York on September 13 and 14 and we’re going to have a social barbecue down at the waterfront towards the end of the season, as well as bringing an insurance specialist up to talk about saving money in that space.

“It’s all about making Cooktown a great place that people want to come and settle down in and bring kids up, that all goes hand in hand with a healthy, active business community.”

Mr Bowman said the chamber would be working closely with Cook Shire to look at long-term infrastructure needs.

“Council’s role is about having vision to provide the infrastructure and the business community will bring the drive and passion from a commercial point of view and assist in advertising far and wide collectively to make sure Cooktown gets a slice of the pie,” he said.

“The caravan and camper trailer sales are certainly not in decline and you’ve got all these people that have invested in this great outdoors adventure that just want to use it now.

“Cooktown and Cape York fits part of that equation, but we need to make sure we keep getting that message out.”

THE Cape York Folk Club can see the finish line in its quest to purchase a permanent home for its popular annual event, the Wallaby Creek Festival.

The club’s lease agreement at the site on Shipton’s Flat Road in Rossville ends this December, so the club is asking for the community’s continued support through donations and purchases of premium patron packages.

“(The patron package) is integral to helping us raise money to buy the festival site,” Cape York Folk Club president and festival director Jen Midgley said.

She said that the festival was an essential part of the community as one of a few regular annual events that connected local creatives.

Since 2002, Wallaby Creek Festival has featured an impressive lineup of mostly Queensland bands, and is run almost exclusively by passionate volunteers.

“What’s wonderful is that children have grown up in the festival, and now they are coming back as volunteers to continue putting this on for the next generation,” Ms Midgley said.

The Wallaby Creek Festival will be held from September 22 to 24, and donations can be made through their website.

Local businessman and keen fisher Russell Bowman will head the Cooktown Chamber of Commerce and Tourism after last week’s AGM.

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Thursday 19th October 9-10:30am

Thursday 26th October 9-10:30am

Cape York PCYCs slated for $1 million upgrades

THE PCYCs at Aurukun and Napranum will receive $1 million upgrades as part of a state government program.

The investment will support the hundreds of programs and activities delivered by PCYC Queensland aimed at keeping young people engaged.

“Opportunities to run programs that build capability leading to valuable life skills development, education and employment pathways are critical for young people,” said PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schultz.

A significant portion of the budget will go towards the construction of new PCYC facilities to reach more at-risk youth in the state.

Supporting more than 100,000 members each year, PCYC Queensland works closely with young people whose personal circumstances often leave them at risk, disadvantaged or disengaged.

“They can get in early and help young people at risk of offending stay on the right track before they get involved in crime,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.

Though PCYC Queensland is still working through the scope of projects, Aurukun and Napranum PCYC will both receive infrastructure upgrades that “allows for the creation of spaces that young people enjoy coming to”.

For Aurukun, this will mean a number of vital repairs that keep the spaces usable and in good condition.

Napranum PCYC will undergo repairs as well as much-needed outdoor lighting upgrades to allow the growth of programs using the outside space.

“Having the ability to provide fit for purpose, safe, welcoming, and well-maintained spaces helps PCYC to focus on delivery of targeted programs for the community,” Mr Schultz said.

He said that facility improvements were vital in reaching a wider range of young people in the community.

“It opens up new opportunities to deliver different sport and recreation activities, as well as the growth of popular existing programs that have been proven to work,” he said.

Pandanus Park stalwarts given a fitting farewell on Veteran’s Day

By SARAH MARTIN

TWO long-time treasures of the Pandanus Park Veterans Retreat were farewelled by friends, family and veterans at the remote Cape York site on Vietnam Veteran’s Day earlier this month.

Cooktown veteran Graeme “Growler” Andrews passed away in June last year, while long-time Laura publican Kev “Stumpy” Darmody was shockingly taken by a crocodile in Lakefield National Park in April this year.

Growler’s wife Jody, currently living in South Australia, drove more than 5000km to bring his ashes back to Cooktown and spend some time at Pandanus Park.

“It’s only about 3000km, but I went and explored some of the areas that Growler and I had always driven past and said ‘one day’,” Ms Andrews said.

“It’s obvious how much he loved Cooktown and Pandanus; it’s always been in his heart and we always planned on coming back, so I brought him back.”

Growler was farewelled at an RSL service in Cooktown on August 16, where a flag was presented to his daughter Kelly who travelled from Melbourne for the event, before Ms Andrews headed to Pandanus Park to scatter his ashes.

“Even though I was surrounded by friends, it was definitely weird being at Pandanus Park this year without Gra and without our dog,” she said.

“They’re a good bunch of people and they were all there for me, we did (a service for Growler) before the main service.

“There was a message from the outgoing president and John Shay Jnr read a poem while I went down and poured the ashes into the Normanby River with one of the 51st Battalion boys on croc watch.”

Although not a veteran, Mr Darmody was a staunch supporter of Pandanus Park and had been friends with Mr Andrews and his wife Jody for more than 30 years.

“Stumpy has always been a friend of the veterans, although

he’s not a veteran himself, he would have had many mates who were,” she said.

The publican was farewelled at a service in the tiny town of Laura on August 17, and a plaque was mounted in his honour on the cenotaph at Pandanus Park, along with a plaque for Mr Andrews.

Another plaque was also put up in the tree outside Stumpy’s pub, the Peninsula Hotel, which remains closed.

Ms Andrews said she owed thanks to the people of Cooktown and Pandanus for their friendship and support.

Around 70 people gathered at the remote Pandanus Park Veterans Retreat earlier this month for a special Vietnam Veteran’s Day service. They also said goodbye to two long-time friends of the retreat.

Graeme Andrews’ daughter Kylie and her partner Darren flew to Cooktown for the veteran’s RSL service.

Jody Andrews holding the ashes of her late husband, Graeme ‘Growler’ Andrews.

A solder stands watch as Jody scatters the ashes into the Normanby River.

A small plaque that was installed in the tree outside of the Laura pub.

Soldiers from the 51st Battalion at Pandanus Park on Vietnam Veteran’s Day.

Ingrid has backing of community

THE Lions Den Hotel will come alive with the rev of engines, shine of chrome and live music next week with more than 1000 people expected for a fundraiser auto show for plucky four-year-old Ingrid Newman.

Cooktown man Prong Trimble, a motorbike lover who has been organising charity events for years, heard of the youngster’s battle with a brain tumour and knew he had to help out.

He also works at her kindergarten, although admitted he didn’t immediately realise she was sick.

“I heard there was a kid around who was doing it tough and one day I asked (director) Nardia, and

when she told me it was Ingrid I thought ‘that can’t be her’. She’s always the first one there, the first

to come out and give something a go,” he said.

The support that has followed Prong’s fundraising efforts has blown him away.

“I couldn’t believe it, everyone came on board, I walked the main street of Cooktown and collected $2770 worth of cash, prizes and vouchers in one day,” he said.

“Cooktown you are awesome and the people here make the place unreal.”

The Lions Den Automotive Show, to be held on Saturday, September 9, is open to cars, bikes and trucks, with a $5 entry fee.

The event is scheduled to start at 1pm.

Mr Trimble said there would also be live music, a car boot sale and trade displays.

Ingrid was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2020 at just 14 months old, undergoing surgery in Brisbane to relieve pressure on her brain, followed by monthly trips to the capital for chemotherapy, followed by a 10 hour surgery to remove half the tumour in 2021.

Her mum Belle now flies with Ingrid to Cairns every week for chemotherapy that doctors hope will stop the tumour growing.

Ingrid also has regular scans in Brisbane to monitor the tumour.

Nardia Whitman said the brave youngster was always the one with

Talent shines at Lakeland’s annual comp

MORE than 200 entries filled the Lakeland Town Hall and kept judges busy in the annual Lakeland Photo Competition, with winners announced at a community event on Saturday.

Organiser Sam Simmonds said nearly 100 people came for the awards event, including locals, backpackers, tourists and people from all over the Cape.

“We had another wonderful array of talent displayed this year with more than 200 entries,” he said.

First time entrant and hobby photographer Patrick Webster was a dominant performer.

Mr Webster, a Cairns local who has been working on the Cape for the past six years, said he was based at Artemis Station and that his photography reflected the nature around him.

“I do photography as a hobby,” the ecologist and conservationist said.

“You always hope to win, but you don’t expect it, and the prizes are pretty all right!”

Hope Vale mum Katherine Grayson was another first time entrant who won big, taking out first in Portrait, second in Weather and third in Nature.

“I’m just a hobby photographer

and I entered all of the categories but didn’t expect to win; I was very surprised,” she said.

“The winning portrait is of a girl out at Hope Vale who is friends with my daughter.

“I let her mum know and she was pretty excited, it’s a great photo, one of my favourite photos.”

Ms Grayson, a pharmacy assistant and mother of three, said she enjoyed taking photos and it was nice to be able to share her work with other photography enthusiasts.

Talented musician Jasmine Inderbitzin is a Lakeland local who has been part of the photography

competition since it started, both as an entrant and providing the entertainment.

“I didn’t expect to win at all, it was a great surprise, and so exciting because I knew the first prize was a scenic flight,” she said.

“I’m also looking forward to spending my voucher at Camera House, I already have a list of what I need.”

The hobby photographer said she loves capturing friends and family and being part of a wonderful community event.

Attendees also voted on their favourite photograph for the popular people’s choice awards.

the biggest smile and loudest laugh at Cooktown Kindergarten.

“Belle is also a very kind and helpful person and has been great to us as a not for profit kindy, so it’s really nice to be able to help their family in some way,” she said.

“I’m really excited, I love my cars so I’m looking forward to seeing them all and it’s something different for Cooktown.”

Prong said he expected a large number of entries, and a big crowd.

“All the dongas and powered sites – and half the camping sites – are booked out already at the Lions Den and we have car and bike clubs coming up from Cairns, Atherton and Mackay,” he said.

LAKELAND PHOTO COMP WINNERS

LITTLE ONES (0-6YRS)

Category: My Life

Elsie Rathborne

JUNIORS (7 TO 12YRS)

Category: My Home

Noah Paradise

Category: Fun & Funny

Elise Kamholtz

Category: Best Mate

Lindy Harold

People’s Choice

Jesse Beazley

TEEN (13 TO 17YRS)

Category: Snapchat Worthy

Yamato Garate

Category: Local

Yindili Kamholz

People’s Choice

Tyrone Henson

OPEN (18YRS AND UP)

Category: Black & White

Jas Inderbitzin

Category: Work Life

Kelly Parker

Category: Portrait

Katherine Grayson

Category: Weather

Beth Hatchman

Category: Perspective

Jim Hatchman

Category: Nature

Patrick Webster

Category: Live action

Patrick Webster

Category: Creative

Patrick Webster

People’s Choice

Stefanie O’Kane

Cooktown Kindergarten’s Nardia Whitman and Prong Trimble.

Judges Tess Buhmann, Gary McLelland and Sue Ahlers were kept busy with hundreds of entries.

Patrick Webster’s stunning shot of a red goshawk.

This fire shot also won Patrick Webster a gong.

Best dressed team winners The Punks – Louise Sumption, Nash Snider, Kristina Olsen, Paul Owens, Shirley Sues, Kath Pennell, Darren Powell and Tracey Boulton. More information on the night on Page 23.

Sarah Frew, Emma Smith, Jen Ribarich and Greta Watson, part of the winning Mad Hatters team.

Donald Macmillan, Michael and Stef Henebery and Gemma Macmillan were the H2Hoes.

Anna Takken and Jane Doepel dressed in green as part of the Big Crocs team.

The Bright Sparks were Kim Giese, Sue and Marilyn Clark, Steve and Abi Johnson, Alice Ganfield and Chanelle and Rob Oldaker.

Sally Eales and Bell Faber put their local knowledge to good use as part of the winning Mad Hatters trivia team.

Josey and Gary Parmenter were dressed up and ready for trivia.

Mother and son Nette and Will Luthi were on the Bushwhackers team. Fig Jam team members Ruth and Martin Pattie.

Front Office Receptionist

Sovereign Resort Hotel

Cooktown

Front Office & Guest Services (Hospitality & Tourism)

Multiple Positions Available

Traineeship available

Part Time 16 hours + to Full time 38 hours

Salary subject to hrs and experience up to $65000-

The Sovereign Resort Hotel Cooktown is a 4-star resort based in Tropical Far North Queensland. We are seeking a professionally presented and well-spoken experienced Receptionist. You will be the first point of contact to all our clients and will play an important role in the front of house administration, working closely with the General Managers. The Sovereign Resort Hotel consists of 38 rooms, Al A Carte Restaurant, Café Bar Bistro, Bottle shop and is a Hinterland Aviation Agent and Toll Freight Agent.

Your responsibilities & daily duties will include:

• Entering reservation into RMS operating system

• Answering calls & email correspondence

• Meeting & Greeting Clients & Groups

• Booking Transfers & Flights

Skills & Experience:

• Experience in Administration and Accounts

• Microsoft Office, Word, Excel & Outlook

• Excellent Customer Service Skills

• Opera or equivalent RMS systems

• Literacy & Numeracy Skills

• Ability to take initiative

• Communication Skills

• Must work well in a team

Please email your resume to: rachael.webber@sovereignresort.com.au

Resumes only accepted by email

GREAT RADIO CONNECTING NORTH QLD

Central Cape Suns Grand Final Day Pictures: ALEX RETHUS

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

ENTERPRISE OPPORTUNITY – KOWANYAMA BAKERY

(Lot 79 Chapman Road)

Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council is inviting Expressions of Interest from suitably experienced suppliers to operate the Kowanyama Bakery, under a Licence Agreement with Council.

Interested parties should obtain a copy of the EOI scope at https://www.kowanyama.qld.gov.au/council/tenders-and-opportunities/

EOI closes at 12pm Friday 8 September 2023

All EOI enquiries, requests for information and EOI responses to be submitted electronically to tenders@kowanyama.qld.gov.au

quoting the EOI description above.

Kevin Bell, Chief Executive Officer

Players from Weipa, Napranum and Aurukun came together for the Embley Shield on Saturday.

The Goannas defeated the Goshawks 3-2 in a thrilling U10s final.

The Boars defeated the Dingoes 9-6 in the U18 final.

NPA RODEO RESULTS

Best dressed (U9 boys)

1st: Daniel Sebasio

2nd: Malachi Arthurs

Best dressed (U9 girls)

1st: Darona Sebasio

2nd: Asau Williams

3rd: Moriah Sebasio

Best dressed (U16 boys)

1st: Otis Williams

2nd: Reggae Jawai

3rd: Oscar Tabuai

Best dressed (U16 girls)

1st: Shekinah Sebasio

2nd: Yanetta Sebasio

=3rd: Penina Salee

=3rd: Merrinah Salee

100m men’s dash

1st: Jiles Sam

100m women’s dash

1st: Valerie Wilson

Horse race (250m)

1st: Albert Cottis

2nd: Meun Lifu

3rd: Zachary Williams

Senior barrel races

1st: Ronald Bond

2nd: Tye Morseu (Horse 1)

3rd: Tye Morseu (Horse 2)

Bending race

1st: Daniel Sebasio

2nd: Ronald Bond

3rd: Meun Lifu

Boots and Saddle Race

1st: Ronald Bond

2nd: Meun Lifu

3rd: Tye Morseu

Figure of 8

1st: Daniel Sebasio

2nd: Ronald Bond

3rd: Meun Lifu

Poddy Calf Ride

1st: Aylen Lifu

=2nd: Adriana Rainbow

=2nd:Jefferson Mandie

4th: Smithy Getaway

* Some results not available at the time of publication

Athletes off to Brisbane for honours

FIVE Cooktown athletes will be sprinting and jumping against the state’s best track and field athletes after qualifying for the Peninsula team.

A group of 12 youngsters from Cooktown State School and Endeavour Christian College travelled to Cairns for the two-day Peninsula team trials, after blitzing their events at the Tablelands district carnival in Mareeba earlier this month, with five making it onto the regional team.

Proud mum and Cooktown Geckos Little Athletics Club coach Liesl Pensio said it was an incredibly successful outing for the young track and field stars.

“It’s really a credit to the kids, the amazing outcomes were down to them, they put the hard work in to get the results,” she said.

Many of the youngsters are members of the Little Athletics group, training together every Wednesday in a range of track and field sports, which Ms Pensio said had paid off.

“The five who qualified, they are Little As members, or we supported them with training,” she said.

“It was really tough getting through Peninsula trials. If you are aged 10-12 they take the top three, but once you hit 13 it’s a lot tougher because you have to place first or meet qualifying times or distances.”

Ms Pensio said that for Desmond Bowen, who qualified for long jump and high jump, and Carradine Bally, who qualified for the 100m and 200m sprints, the achievement was something to be incredibly proud of.

“They really earned their spots because it was such a tight competition and they only had one crack at it, they didn’t have heats and then finals,” the coach said.

“I’m just really proud of them and the whole team – I love that they can all go and experience the state championships together.”

Joining Desmond and Carradine on the Peninsula team will be Jessica Crowe and Grace Raleigh competing in long jump, and Maia Pensio in long jump, 100m and 200m.

Ms Pensio said this year would be a different experience for her son Maia, who travelled to the state championships on his own last year.

“It was such a lonely journey last year and often can be for kids who are good at sport, which was a large part of my vision for getting Little Athletics up and running,” she said of her decision to reinstate club in Cooktown in 2022.

“Maia enjoys sport when he can do it with other people and of course as we expected so many talented kids are taking part and joining him on that journey now as well.”

Ms Pensio said the group was looking forward to fundraising to send the five students to the state championships, which will be held next month at the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre in Brisbane.

Homegrown NRL players ready to take field again

RUGBY league royalty will touch down in the Far North next week with 20 former players coming to the southern Cape for the four-day Arthur Beetson Foundation Future Immortals Tour of Cooktown, Hope Vale and Wujal Wujal.

Locals will have the chance to mingle and even play alongside footy greats including Hope Vale cousins Matty and Brenton Bowen, Peter Civoniceva, Willie Tonga, Ben Roberts, Steve Southern and Preston Campbell.

The Immortals will arrive in the region on Wednesday, September 6, with visits to each community, including school events, and a barefoot bowls fundraiser in Cooktown on Friday, September 8 and a cocktail fundraiser at the River of Gold Motel on Saturday, September 9.

A highlight of the tour will be the football gala on Saturday, September 9 at John Street Oval, featuring the main event match with rugby league’s big guns mixing it up with local footy players.

Hope Vale export Brenton Bowen, who played for the North Queensland Cowboys

and Gold Coast Titans, said he couldn’t miss the opportunity to come back to his hometown.

“I live in Brisbane now, but I try to get up home to Hope Vale a couple of times a year, so I wouldn’t miss this for the world,” he said.

“For myself and Matt this will give us a chance to show the boys around where we grew up, so that’s something we’re looking forward to.”

Bowen said he and his fellow Immortals players would form teams with local senior rugby league players for a fun Queensland versus New South Wales stoush.

“That will be cool, especially as there is a fair mix of Queens-

land and New South Wales players up there.”

Cooktown Junior Rugby League Club president Ash

Crowe said the Immortals Tour was a great opportunity to bring the community together over a common interest.

“It’s excellent for the community and if it’s a really good success like I think it will be, we’ll grow on it for next year,” he said.

“On the Saturday (September 9) we’re going to have a big carnival day at the John Street Oval in Cooktown with junior rugby league games, food vans and the big match with the Immortals players at 3pm.”

Crowe said although the jun-

ior games were only open to registered players, there would be a free coaching session run by the Immortals players and the Dolphins development squad that was open to anyone.

“It will be great having former locals like Matty and Brenton here, and we’re expecting a big rollout from surround areas like Coen, Hope Vale and Wujal Wujal, too.”

Bowen’s connection to his home will be on display during the tour, with his artwork adoring the tour clothing and paying tribute to Cooktown, Wujal Wujal and Hope Vale.

“I couldn’t do this design without referencing the waves from Cooktown, Wujal Wujal and Hope Vale with community members loving the beach and fishing,” he said.

“The footprints representing the Elders that have walked these lands before us and the three rivers that run through the middle meeting place represents the Three Rivers competition.” Visit www.abffit.com.au for more information, including tickets to the two fundraiser events.

Young mum putting in the hard yards

MUAYTHAI is a family affair for Cooktown fighter Mariah Bowen, who trains at Full Boar Gym with her coach and uncle Vince Parkes.

Bowen is taking on Elle List from Townsville’s Courage Training Centre in her fourth fight, and has been training hard twice daily with Parkes and her clubmates.

Parkes said he enjoyed having his niece in the gym and was proud of the hard work she put into the sport.

“She’s got (her son) Alvar in the gym every morning sleeping while she does her 5am session before work and then she’s back there again every afternoon,” he said.

“She’s doing the hard yards and fitting

it in between full-time work and being a mum.”

Parkes said he was confident of Bowen’s abilities in the ring, despite a niggling injury and a few kilos of weight to be cut.

“Mariah is looking really sharp and strong, I’d hate to be fighting her,” he said.

“She’s got a bit of an injury in her shoulder, and we’ve been watching that, but I’m pretty confident in her.

“We’ve changed her diet and increased her protein in the morning to help with energy while she’s cutting weight.”

Parkes said fellow Full Boar fighter Ferlene David was raring to go after an opponent pulled the pin on a fight several weeks

ago. He said she had been in a training holding pattern since, hoping for a new match.

“She’s not training like Mariah is, but she can still run up Grassy Hill no worries, and if they do find a match for her we can bring her up to speed quickly,” he said.

“We’re hoping to match her with a girl from Team Ngapuhi in Toowoomba who is a little bigger and has a mixed martial arts background, but nothing Ferlene can’t handle.”

The Elite Fight Series event is in Cairns this Saturday at Brothers Leagues Club. Contact Parkes on 0427 877 181 or drop into the gym at 17 Boundary Street to buy general entry tickets.

Full Boar Gym muaythai fighters Mariah Bowen and Ferlene David are training hard ahead of fights in Cairns this weekend.

Hope Vale’s Matty and Brenton Bowen will reunite in the Cape next week.

Heartbreak for Pride

THE Northern Pride has been eliminated from the Hostplus Cup finals after an extra time field goal gave the Wynnum-Manly Seagulls a 15-14 victory on Sunday.

Earlier, Weipa’s Denzel King scored a try just before half time to give the Pride the lead heading into the break.

He crossed just 60 seconds after his younger brother Seamus King-Smith limped from the field with a leg injury.

Sunday’s game was the last Northern Pride match with Ty Williams at the helm.

Huge field for medal

ROSS Craven proved most accurate in tough golf conditions at Weipa on Sunday to be the A-grade and overall winner of the August monthly medal.

Despite the wind, 30 players turned out for the Coates Hire-sponsored event.

Craven’s nett 68 was by far the best of the scoring. B-grade was won by Rob McVean with a nett 79, while C-grade went to Elijah Graham, who carded a nett 73.

Paralympian shares tips with swimming hopefuls

By SARAH MARTIN

COOKTOWN’S swim stars are well on their way to competition in Darwin following a successful trivia night fundraiser, and with some extra training under their belts from trivia hosts Herbie Howard and Paralympian Grant “Scooter”Patterson.

Herbie coaches Cooktown’s sister club, Central Cairns Swimming, and is a regular fixture in Cooktown, but it was popular Paralympic silver medalist Scooter’s first visit.

“Well, first visit I can remember anyway,” the laidback swim star said.

“Apparently I came here when I was 10, but I can’t re-

member it.

“It’s great and it was good to come down this morning with Herbie and show the kids

what we do. It’s amazing to be on Grassy Hill and think about Captain Cook coming here 250 years ago.”

Herbie, who has coached Scooter throughout his stellar career, which includes two stints at the Paralympics, said it was fun to play tourist.

“It’s been awesome, we were at the Lions Den for dinner last night, then we did the training session in the morning and went for breakfast at The Wharf Cafe, then went up Grassy Hill for a look around,” Herbie said.

“We were going to try go fishing, but it’s been so windy –Scooter wants to come back for a fishing holiday!”

The pair kept trivia on track,

cracking jokes, sharing their incredible swimming careers and reading questions before finishing their Cooktown weekend with sightseeing on the way home on Sunday.

The trivia competition was taken out by The Mad Hatters, with second place going to the Smartinis and third to Fig Jam.

Best dressed team was The Punks, and the wooden spoon prize went to The Ice Dealers. Funds raised will help send 10 of the Cooktown Amateur Swimming Club’s young superfish to the NT Country Swimming Championships in Darwin in September.

See the social pictures from the trivia night on Page 12

Longest drives went to Nic Simeon and Kellie Linnehan.

Big week for Crossley

GRANT Crossley claimed last week’s Wednesday Wackers, but Jim Hunter might be feeling a little stiff.

Crossley had a nett 32.5 which saw him beat Stretch Noonan by half a stroke, however Hunter had a 39 off the stick – a personal best – yet didn’t pick up a prize.

It was a big day for Crossley, who won the nearest to pins on both 7 and 9. Jon Dall brought in the field pick up the Bradman’s.

On Sunday, Crossley’s winning ways continued when he won Dawn Busters, beating Jim Lucas.

He also had the longest drive, while Lucas picked up the nearest to pin.

In a tough week for Dall, he claimed the unwanted Hoffman’s gong.

Butler best in the wind

STEVE Butler had a remarkable round to card 42 points at Cooktown on Saturday.

Players had to contend with 55km/h gusts, which made life tough for most.

Brent Hetaraka was runner-up with 37 points, while Butler won every nearest to pin on offer – an amazing feat.

Scooter at the Cooktown pool.

Swim coach Herbie Howard and Paralympian Grant ‘Scooter’ Patterson joined the Cooktown Amateur Swimming Club for a training session on Saturday.

• 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

• Four spacious bedrooms

• Ensuite • Built-ins • Renovated bathroom including a bath

• Timber look vinyl throughout

• Larger than normal kitchen with room for a double fridge

• Open plan extended living area • Split system air conditioning

• Huge undercover entertainment area

• Lock-up storage • Fern house & small garden lock-up

• Garden sheds • Fully fenced

4

• 4 spacious bedrooms • Built-ins • Ensuite • 24/7 power with the fully wired generator that automatically cuts in when main power is lost & shuts itself off when it is restored – runs the whole house –great for shift workers & families • Open plan extended living area

• Good size kitchen with walk-in pantry • Fully air conditioned

• Large undercover entertainment area • Fully fenced corner block with double gate access • Lock-up laundry & storage area with extra toilet • Roof has been rescrewed • Vinly flooring • Security screened • Carport for three vehicles tandem