Cape York Weekly Edition 184

The fight to claim Cynthia Lui’s Labor-held seat is heating up after both the Liberal National Party and Katter’s Australian Party revealed last week who would don their colours for Cook in the October state election. Meet the candidates and see how the battle is shaping up on Pages 2-4.

Wujal residents ready to return – Page 5

Telstra coverage coming to Musgrave Roadhouse

VISITORS to Musgrave Roadhouse could be texting photos of their trip in real time within months if a Telstra plan to install a long-awaited mobile tower receives the planning green light.

A development application to build a 4G small cell at the roadhouse is currently with Cook Shire Council, and Telstra regional general manager Rachel Cliffe said the telecom-

munication giant hoped to have the infrastructure operational as soon as the planning process permitted.

“Preparations are well underway to deliver a new 4G small cell at the Musgrave Roadhouse under the [Federal Government] Mobile Black Spot Program,” she explained.

“Once up and running, it’ll provide mobile coverage to travellers at the roadhouse,

as well as several kilometres of Peninsula Developmental Road. We hope to have the roadhouse site live in the next few months, subject to gaining all the necessary approvals.”

The plan has been welcomed by roadhouse boss Adam McDowell, who said staff and visitors currently relied on inhouse Wi-Fi to stay connected.

“It should be good for the

tourists, travellers and locals,” he said.

“It’s an area that relies on the Wi-Fi we provide here, but it’s not a real reliable system.

“Any sort of mobile coverage is going to be good up here.”

Once planning approval has been granted, the tower will be installed between the roadhouse’s accommodation block and caravan park.

‘Pedigree, passion’ as LNP looks to past for Cook election battle

By LYNDON KEANE

THE Liberal National Party has looked to the past as it attempts to secure the future of government in Queensland after announcing a former MP will contest the seat of Cook at the October election.

Former MP and Assistant Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs David Kempton was unveiled by the party as its pick for the electorate on 7 May, with the lawyer set to make a Lazurus-like comeback to regain the seat he lost to Labor’s Billy Gordon in 2015.

Mr Kempton claimed the preselection postal ballot in a shock win over former Douglas and Mareeba mayors Michael Kerr and Kevin Davies.

Opposition leader David Crisafulli made the formal announcement of Mr Kempton’s candidacy in Cairns on Wednesday morning, and said he believed challenges facing the state were “magnified” in Cook.

“David is no stranger to this region,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“When I look at the challenges that face Queensland, I see them magnified in the electorate of Cook.

“[It’s] a big electorate with big opportunities and big challenges.”

Mr Kempton, who was also most recently the chair of Regional Development Australia Tropical North, wasted no time in slamming Labor for “10 years of neglect” in

the mammoth electorate, highlighting the condition of Cooktown’s hospital as proof a change of leadership was needed.

“I hear from people who are worried,” he said.

“In Cooktown, the hospital is in tatters and needs to be repaired; in the Aboriginal communities I visit, there’s issues around economic development with the delivery of

health services. And, really, the entire region has had 10 years of neglect.

“There’s some big challenges now as a result of Jasper and some economic downturn … and they need leadership; I think I’m in a position, with my experience, to provide that leadership to the people as they’ve asked for it.”

The battle for Cook is currently

S P A R E P A R T S F O R A L L M A K E S A N D M O D E L S

a four-horse contest, with Ms Lui seeking a third term, Peter Campion lining up to represent One Nation, and Duane Amos to wave the flag for Katter’s Australian Party.

Mr Crisafulli readily claimed the underdog status in the electoral fight, but said the selection of Mr Kempton showed the LNP thought it was a genuine chance of wrangling Cook from Labor’s grasp.

“I know his pedigree, and I know his passion for the area,” he said of Mr Kempton.

“To have someone of David’s pedigree shows how seriously we are taking this seat.

“It’s a tough ask, and we remain the underdog, but we’ve got to win seats, and we have to win them in places like Far North Queensland to change government.”

John McDowell has for years been pushing for a phone tower to be constructed at Musgrave Roadhouse.

Newly-announced LNP candidate for Cook David Kempton and opposition leader David Crisafulli outline the party’s vision for the vast electorate to media.

Police officer named as KAP candidate for Cook

By LYNDON KEANE

HIS candidacy may have only just been announced, but Katter’s Australian Party runner in the race for Cook has wasted no time in firing off a warning shot for Brisbane-centric politicians to “stop neglecting the north”.

Police officer Duane Amos was unveiled as KAP’s candidate on 10 May and, after spending more than a decade living and working on Cape York, said he believed his lived experience would provide a point of difference for voters on 26 October.

“I think I come with a very big toolbox to understand what actually happens in Cook on a day-to-day basis, and I’ve still got plenty of fuel in the tank there to be that person who’s on the ground in Cook consistently,” he told Cape York Weekly

“It’s got nothing to do with anyone else, or any sitting member; I just think Cook’s not getting what they deserve, and it’s now or never for me to make sure I can make a difference in that area.”

Party leader Robbie Katter and federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter officially announced Mr Amos as the party’s candidate at a media conference in Cairns on Friday morning.

Mr Amos replaces Bruce Logan as KAP’s Cook runner, after the Malanda farmer and former soldier withdrew from the political race in February citing personal reasons.

During his policing career, Mr Amos has served across the electorate, including in Weipa, Kowanyama and Aurukun, and in 2020, was appointed to lead the State Government’s recovery response in Aurukun following community unrest.

Mr Amos said he believed developing a strong partnership between the government and Cape York councils would be critical to driving effective change in the lives of remote residents.

“We’ve got a vacuum of leadership across the Cape and a shifting dynamic, with over 100 [vacant] positions in local government, so there’s a whole lot of support we need to put in from a State Government level for that new leadership that’s come into those communities,” he said.

“Local government’s our service delivery model; if we don’t get that right, how do we make an impact on the day-to-day lives of people?”

Robbie Katter praised Mr Amos’ resume and said he had the runs on the board as a tireless advocate for regional and remote communities.

“Duane is the type who just rolls up his sleeves and gets it done,” he said.

“Be it recovery from a natural disaster or hooking in and un-

derstanding just what needs doing in our First Australian communities, Mossy gets it done.

“The people of Cook are ready, and they deserve better; they deserve a real advocate for local issues, not the issues that Brisbane HQ determine are the flavour of the month.”

When asked to identify what he saw as the biggest issues for Cape York and Torres Strait leading into election day, Mr Amos pinpointed the state of the Peninsula Developmental Road, and the detrimental impact it had on cost of living and economic growth.

“It’s disgusting how long it’s actually been ignored for,” he said of the road linking Cape York to the rest of the state.

“If this was happening in the south-eastern quarter, this would have been on their radar every

day of the week; I just don’t think we’re getting that difficult conversation in Brisbane about what it takes for us to have a business in town [and] to put food on the table.

“The day-to-day costs come from that PDR; if we don’t get that right, it impacts the ability to open up the Cape.”

As his campaign got under way, Mr Amos said the distribution of the state’s royalty wealth needed to be investigated to ensure the regions providing the raw resources, like Cape York, received an adequate share to facilitate critical infrastructure development.

“Stop neglecting the north and start having a look at how much you take out of us in royalties,” he said.

“Where’s that coming back to us?”

After more than three decades in policing, Duane Amos says it is “now or never” to make a move into politics as he attempts to wrestle the 197,000-square kilometre Cook electorate from Labor for Katter’s Australian Party.

Race for Cook finally takes shape

By LYNDON KEANE

THE race to claim the Cook political crown is heating up following candidate announcements by the Liberal National Party (LNP) and Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) last week.

In a case of new and old faces, KAP has endorsed police officer Duane Amos to contest the vast 197,000-square kilometre electorate, while the LNP has opted to recycle former Cook MP and lawyer David Kempton.

Cape York Weekly understands the preselection of Mr Kempton has caused a rift within the local branch, with former Douglas Shire Council mayor Michael Kerr openly tipped internally as the preferred nominee prior to the 7 May postal ballot count.

Mr Kerr is also believed to have been Federal Member for Leichhardt and party stalwart Warren Entsch’s pick to fly the LNP flag in the battle to topple incumbent Cook MP Cynthia Lui, however, Mr Entsch would not confirm this when asked for comment.

The last time Cook voters went to the polls, eight names appeared on the ballot paper, but it is unlikely the number will be mirrored on 26 October.

With the LNP and KAP announcements of Mr Kempton and Mr Amos respectively, four candidates are now confirmed starters in the election campaign, including

Ms Lui and Peter Campion, who was chosen in February to represent Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party.

In the 2020 election, Ms Lui

commanded a strong first preference vote of 40.02 per cent, well ahead of the LNP (24.10 per cent) and KAP (17.22) candidates, and held a margin of more than 12.5

per cent after the distribution of preferences.

While Cook has been a historically safe Labor seat, it is one party insiders admitted they were wor-

Message from the Chair

It's been a busy month in the office and in the community. WTA staff hosted the ‘Community Showcase' event which was an opportunity for community groups and volunteer organisations to display what they offer to the community as we come out of the wet season and sporting competitions and events start to kick off. You can find information about sporting and community groups on our Website in the community directory.

The local ANZAC day celebrations were well attended by the community, and provide us with an opportunity for reflection and appreciation of the sacrifices of our service men and women. Many thanks to the Weipa RSL branch for once again organising the days events.

We held the first ‘Open Door Day’ early in May, and I am very grateful to the residents who took time out of their busy days to come and have a chat and share their thoughts. It was a very successful engagement opportunity, and one that will

The WTA is bringing a wave of upgrades to Kookaburra Park, and Joy Rollin Memorial Park! Being the much-anticipated replacement of the soft fall and painting of equipment to commence at Joy Rollin Memorial Park and Kookaburra Park's play equipment and softfall area is being replaced with a brand new climbing

ried about following significant swings in the recent Inala and Ipswich West by-elections.

One senior Labor ministerial staffer, who asked not to be named, told Cape York Weekly it was a case of “restrained panic stations” about Cook five months out from election day.

“It’s honestly mixed views if we can win it,” they said.

“You’d normally say it was a shoo-in, but when you’re getting big swings of 15-30 per cent in other safe red seats (Inala and West Ipswich), anything could happen in Cook. It’s restrained panic stations in terms of how the seat factors in our overall campaign strategy.”

Ms Lui said she believed voters would have “clear choice” on election day, and immediately went on the offensive against Mr Kempton.

“As the Labor candidate for Cook at the election, I will continue to fight for more cost of living relief, better health and education services and good, secure jobs for the communities I represent,” she said.

“LNP candidate David Kempton still hasn’t apologised for the Campbell Newman government sacking 402 frontline health workers in our community when he was an assistant minister, or when he gave false hope to 150 Skytrans staff who had lost their jobs.

“Our community will have clear choice about who they want representing them.”

year were a huge success, which were held in conjunction with the East Weipa last ore event. It was a fantastic turnout by the community, and there was plenty on offer for all age groups. Be sure to get down to the next one if you missed out.

The last month also saw visits from both our State and Federal Members of Parliament, Cynthia Lui and Warren Entsch. We always welcome visits from any members of Government, or any political party to come and visit us on the ground and get a better understanding about our communities needs and aspirations.

We have another busy month ahead with lots of community events on the calendar, so I look forward to seeing you all out and about amongst the action.

feature and double slide! These transformative projects, made possible through WTA's capital funding, will elevate our playground experiences. Remember, during this period of transformation, we kindly ask everyone to adhere to the barricading and signage instructions.

Cook MP Cynthia Lui (centre), pictured with Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Leeanne Enoch and Bundamba MP Lance McCallum, is seeking a third term representing Cape York and Torres Strait at the October state election.

Wujal residents preparing to heal for ‘brighter future’

By CHISA HASEGAWA

WITH most Wujal Wujal residents expected to be home by June, the community is preparing to begin the healing process after they were devastatingly displaced for more than four months following the ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper flood event in December 2023.

Right in the heart of the community in front of the local store, there will be a smoking ceremony,

blessings, traditional dances and activities to welcome residents and service stakeholders back.

Local Elder and Wujal Wujal Justice Group acting chief executive officer Lucille Cassar said Wujal Wujal and the surrounding communities would be celebrating the rebuilding that has occurred together.

“It’s time for everyone to come together and share this healing process, and thank all the parties in-

volved throughout the disaster and recovery to get to where we are today,” Ms Cassar said.

“People sort of want to put that trauma and sadness behind them and look forward to the future as a brighter future.”

Organisers and Elders from the Wujal Wujal Justice Group have based the event around a family fun day.

“There are lots of activities planned to happen during the day.

East Weipa | the last ore & Sunset Night Market

Saturday 18 May

7.45pm-8.00pm

keeping your pet indoors for the evening or making sure they are secure in your yard.

ensuring they're wearing a WTA registration tag (with up to date details) or name tag with a contact phone number.

ensuring they're exercised and well fed so they're as calm as possible.

providing distractions i.e a tv or radio playing at home, treats, toys and where possible, your presence.

People are coming together and putting resources together to make it a lovely and happy day in community,” Ms Cassar told Cape York Weekly

Members of Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council, Cook Shire Council and Douglas Shire Council will join with residents and other stakeholders from 11am-5pm on Friday, 7 June to celebrate the community’s homecoming, rebuilding and recovery efforts.

Funding to aid victims of Jasper

COMMUNITY health, environmental management, small business and rural landholder support, as well as rebuilding community recreational facilities, are the main focuses of a new major disaster assistance package announced by the Federal and State Governments to help south-eastern Cape York communities bounce back from Tropical Cyclone Jasper.

The Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements will build on the momentum for communities continuing to rebuild following the December extreme weather event, and ensure they are better prepared for future disasters.

A $3 million Rural Landholder Recovery Grants Program specific to Far North Queensland local governments has been announced.

“The Rural Landholder Recovery Grants Program will help rural communities in the north with ongoing clean-up efforts, and I’m particularly pleased to see FNQ benefit from a range of the other measures designed to help with longer-term recovery,” Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt said. For more information about the funding, visit www.qra.qld. gov.au.

It's important to make sure our furry friends are safe during this time!

Wujal Wujal Justice Group Elders have organised a healing and homecoming celebration for residents who have returned to the community in June.

WTA chair opens door to new engagement strategy

IT can be easy for individual voices to be lost in the roar of the crowd, but Weipa Town Authority (WTA) is hoping a novel new approach to community engagement will allow people to have their say in a more intimate environment.

The organisation held its first Open Door Day on 2 May, and Chair Jaime Gane said the concept was aimed at developing “meaningful community engagement” and ensuring accessibility, transparency and collaboration between WTA and residents of the township.

“Whether you have burning questions, suggestions for improvement, or simply wish to learn more about the efforts being made on your behalf, the Open Door Days are your chance for a one-onone discussion,” Ms Gane said.

The Open Door Day strategy will allow stakeholders to sit down with Ms Gane and have their questions answered and suggestions listened to face to face.

The new chair said she expected the monthly sessions would add to the conventional engagement WTA was already undertaking.

“I just thought it would be good to try something new, and give the community a different opportunity to engage,” Ms Gane explained.

“We do already do quite a bit of

formal community engagement at things like the community markets and events, but at the same time, that engagement with individuals is usually quite brief and can easily be interrupted, so I thought this would give people the chance to have a proper conversation and really be heard.”

Ms Gane said the Open Door

Days would continue as long as there was community interest and take-up.

“The plan is to have them once a month if the community think it is of value, and people actually take up the opportunity,” she said.

“We have received really positive feedback so far, so I think it will be a good thing.

Three Cape York airports to share in $4.8m funding

THREE Cape York airstrips will share more than $4.8 million for upgrades to improve safety and accessibility for users.

The Federal Government announced last week the Kowanyama Airport, Aurukun Aerodrome and Lockhart River Aerodrome were among 21 facilities across the country receiving funding as part of its Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program (RAUP).

Lockhart River will receive $2,956,799 to upgrade aeronautical ground lighting, while Kowanyama’s runway and taxiway will get a $1,443,440 reseal and restoration.

Aurukun Shire Council will use its $436,600 funding allocation to purchase and install an Aerodrome Weather Information Service (AWIS) system, which provides pilots with current weather information used for flight planning and on approach to the airstrip.

Aurukun Mayor Barbara Bandicootcha

Councils to encourage good habits

THE Queensland Government will provide more than $1.4 million to 19 remote councils across the state to promote physical health and wellbeing in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

The announcement will allow local governments to use the funding to plan for initiatives focused on sport and recreation, and healthy eating.

Research has shown First Nations adults were almost three times more likely to report having diabetes or high sugar levels compared to non-Indigenous adults, with the prevalence in remote communities even greater.

Eligible projects under the funding include planning for playgrounds, sporting facilities, cultural activities or infrastructure, community kitchens, food storage or preparation areas, as well as business case preparation.

“The other elected members are very supportive of the concept, but it will just be me for at least the first couple, until we get some feedback from participants and see how they go.”

For more information about the next Open Door Day, keep an eye on the WTA Facebook page or call 4030 9400.

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman said the announcement was in response to feedback received from remote councils.

“Our government wants all Queenslanders to live happy and healthy lives, no matter where they live,” she said.

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) will undertake maintenance dredging from mid-May 2024 at the Port of Weipa.

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

said the upgrades would improve the capacity of the community’s airport.

“Aurukun Aerodrome is the primary airstrip for the region, and serves as a crucial lifeline during disasters like bushfires and floods,” she said.

“The project will provide real-time weather information to the pilots to help them optimise flight planning and reduce safety hazards. It will not only improve the aerodrome’s regulatory compliance, but will contribute to increased safety levels for both operations and passengers.

“The upgrades will provide the potential to open the aerodrome to a more competitive market by allowing a greater variety of aircraft to land.”

Assistant Minister for Regional Development Senator Anthony Chisholm said the local upgrades would improve the liveability of the three communities.

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

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

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

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

Maintenance dredging notice

- July 2024 | Notice for Weipa community

Aurukun’s airport is one of three on Cape York receiving more than $4.8 million for infrastructure upgrades through the Federal Government’s Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program.

Weipa Town Authority Chair Jaime Gane says it is hoped the new monthly Open Door Day concept will provide another method to effect “meaningful engagement” with the Weipa community.

Residents rapt as $4.7m found for maligned road

COOK Shire Council has announced $4.7 million in funding for significant upgrades to Cameron Creek Road has been given the green light in a move set to improve the area’s disaster resilience.

The long-awaited infrastructure upgrade is being jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) to the tune of $4,406,780, with the council also contributing $400,000 to the project.

The project will focus on upgrading a 5.46-kilometre stretch of Cameron Creek Road, starting from Endeavour Valley Road, with enhancements including

the installation of concrete culverts and causeways to improve drainage and the sealing of the road surface.

The council spent more than $300,000 in maintaining the road between 2013 and 2019, and Mayor Robyn Holmes said the upgrade would provide a multitude of benefits to both road users and the organisation’s bottom line.

“This funding marks a pivotal moment for our community,” she said.

“Cameron Creek Road has long been a concern for local residents, and these upgrades will not only improve safety and accessibility, but will also help preserve our environment and

reduce future maintenance costs.

“We are grateful to both the Australian and Queensland Governments for their support and commitment to enhancing our region’s infrastructure.”

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt said the project would boost Cameron Creek Road’s capacity to withstand future extreme weather events.

“The community has petitioned hard for this funding, and we’re very pleased to deliver because these upgrades will build a better Cameron Creek Road that is less likely to be damaged by future floods,” he said.

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said the value of remote

infrastructure projects like the Cameron Creek Road upgrade were “undeniable”.

“Less repairs to disaster-damaged infrastructure saves money on materials and labour, which are at a premium in areas like Cook Shire, due to our location and the reduced construction window we experience through storm season,” she said.

“Connectivity in these parts of our state is also paramount [and] this betterment project will make sure Cameron Creek Road can be reopened sooner in the wake of any future flooding.”

Weather permitting, works are anticipated to commence in July 2024, with an estimated completion by June 2025.

NEWS IN BRIEF

World Heritage sessions

THE State Government will host a number of in-person and online information sessions this week to provide an update on the status of its proposed World Heritage tentative listing for parts of Cape York.

Facilitated by the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation, sessions were held in Laura on 13 May, and in Cairns on 14 May.

The roadshow will make its way to Coen on 16 May, with online sessions available on 15 May for Cape York residents who cannot make it to the in-person locations.

To find out more, visit www.environment/ desi.qld.gov.au and search “Cape York World Heritage information sessions”.

To book an online session, email capeyorkworldheritage@des.qld.gov.au.

Dredging commences

USERS of waterways surrounding the Port of Weipa are being asked to pay attention as annual maintenance dredging gets under way this month.

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) said the seven-week project was scheduled to commence from mid-May, with the aim of ensuring safe, navigable shipping depths are maintained.

The dredge vessel, TSHD Brisbane, and its support vessels have minimal manoeuvring capability, and NQBP is asking boaties to take care and pay attention to warning flags and lights during the project.

NQBP will also undertake dredging at Amrun on behalf of Rio Tinto during the span of the project.

Cast vote for Coen’s Jodi

CAPE York and Torres Strait resident are being asked to give Coen health worker Jodi Hamilton every chance of being crowned the overall 2024 Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) Local Hero by voting for her online.

Ms Hamilton was announced as the Cairns region winner of the award earlier this month for her dedication to remote healthcare accessibility, and work with the RFDS and Coen clinic.

The tireless aged care advocate has been pushing for a palliative and aged care facility in Coen, which would allow community members to die with dignity at home.

To throw your support behind Ms Hamilton, visit www.rfdslocalhero.com.au and vote for her as Queensland’s overall local hero winner.

Resident Jenny Bradley discusses the $4.7 million Cameron Creek Road upgrade announcement, and the impact it will have on the liveability of the area, with Cook Shire Mayor Robyn Holmes and CEO Brian Joiner.

Recycled paper bags show RAW talent at exhibit

By CHISA HASEGAWA

USING an Uber Eats bag as a head is not a usual artistic practice for Jane Dennis, but the outside-the-box creativity has won her the People’s Choice Award at the recent Cooktown School of Art Society (CSAS) RAW exhibition.

Family and Community Site Visits Community Registrations

Registrations are now open for our first Amrun Family and Community Site Visit!

When:

Time:

Saturday, 25 May 2024 8:00am - 3:00pm

This unique and exciting opportunity will give your family a behind the scenes tour of our Amrun Operations.

Children must be 4 years old and above to attend. If you have any questions please contact RTAWeipaFeedback@riotinto.com.

Limited seats available. Register your interest via the QR code or visit https://form.jotform.com/240867361977875.

RAW, which was on display at the Elizabeth Guzsely Gallery, encouraged artists to be just that – unrestrained and unconventional in their work – to fully express themselves with no fear.

Ms Dennis said she was “chuffed” after winning People’s Choice gong for the first time.

“As a professional artist, I tend to have what I would call my standard art, which I know sells, so it’s kind of like my bread and butter,” Ms Dennis explained.

“For me, this exhibition was fantastic and I loved it, because it allowed me the freedom of creating something that’s not for sale.

“It was just a genuine expression of the playfulness of art, and not having anything too serious.”

Ms Dennis, who is also the president and secretary of the CSAS, said the idea was inspired by an Uber Eats order in Cairns and the Cooktown art group’s life drawing class.

“I went down to Cairns and got some Uber Eats and next thing you know, I’m collecting paper bags and I thought ‘my god, I have another obsession’,” she laughed.

OUR

“We have a very beautiful collection of models at the Thursday night life drawing class, so I wanted to draw them on the paper bags. The bags are actually a combination of four separate models.”

Although the People’s Choice Award is only done at the society’s smaller exhibitions, Ms Dennis said there was an enormous amount of raw creativity showcased in the gallery.

“This is the first time we’ve done [RAW] and there were over 70 pieces, which is outrageous,” she said.

“It’s about three times as much as we would normally get.

“The plan with this exhibition was just to encourage people to be really creative and express themselves, so it was such a beautiful range of work and there was something for everyone.”

The artist said she would love to host the RAW exhibition regularly to help other artists feel the same freedom of expression she did.

“I didn’t have to worry about pleasing anybody and it was just pure expression, so I’m really wanting for other people to be in the same boat,” Ms Dennis said.

“Since I’ve taken over the gallery, I realised that we need to grow new artists and we need to have a cultural future.

“Artists are loners, so it’s sort of trying to reach out to them and saying ‘hey, we’re your people, come and join us’.”

WE WILL RE-OPEN FOR THE 2024 SEASON ON MONDAY, 27TH MAY, 2024

OPENING HOURS: 9AM – 4PM MONDAY – FRIDAY

Cooktown artist Jane Dennis was the people’s choice winner at the RAW exhibition.

The prize-winning piece was a combination of life drawing models on paper bags.

Underground return to drive 100 local jobs

MORE than 100 jobs could be created in Mount Carbine following the announcement EQ Resources is gearing up to recommence underground mining.

The boost to mining operations comes on the back of a $20 million secured debt facility provided by the Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC), with the funding to allow the purchase of new plant equipment, as well as drill testing and trial mining to explore Mount Carbine’s tungsten resources.

It is anticipated the debt facility will provide a mechanism to extend the life of the mine by up to six years and create up to 100 local jobs by accelerating EQR’s processing expansion and underground development programs.

CEO Kevin MacNeill said the decision

was a “strong endorsement” of the company’s strategic approach to becoming a leading global tungsten miner.

“This financing not only supports our recently announced expansion program to double capacity at Mount Carbine, but we also consider this a strong endorsement of our corporate strategy to further establish ourselves as a leading and responsible producer of globally relevant critical minerals,” he said.

“We look forward to contributing to the development of clean energy technologies alongside our offtake partners using highquality tungsten powders in battery technologies and energy storage applications.”

The return to underground mining will be supported by the Queensland Critical

Minerals and Battery Technology Fund, and QIC state chief investment officer Allison Hill said the $20m would allow the tungsten mine – Australia’s largest – to add to the supply of the resource ahead of forecast global shortages.

“There are relatively few mines globally in a position to fill anticipated supply-demand gaps for tungsten as existing outputs are challenged and demand for clean energy technologies grows,” Ms Hill said.

“Mount Carbine is one of them, where workers are on track to produce around 3000 tonnes of tungsten concentrate every year.

“While the existing open-cut mine is forecast to reach its end of life by 2029, supplydemand deficits are expected to run well beyond into the 2030s.”

Bromley mixes new tech with old burning method

TRADITIONAL burning practices have been successfully reintroduced into the Bromley Indigenous Protected Area to maintain and restore habitat for threatened species, including the endangered palm cockatoo.

The new fire management program was developed with the assistance of a Looking After Country grant from the State Government, with Cape York Natural Resource Management providing planning support.

Bromley Aboriginal Corporation co-ordinator Chrissy Warren said the reintroduction of traditional Indigenous burning methodology would allow for a transition to “an appropriate fire regime” in the area.

“The program has brought fire management into a landscape where, in some areas, there has been no fire for many years and a more recent history of wildfires in others,” she said.

“This program is providing a gradual transition back to an appropriate fire regime, and has provided opportunities for individuals to learn history and known ecological and cultural values to develop individual burn methodologies and operational maps.”

Nine Traditional Owners

have become accredited fire managers through the program, and now undertake on-ground inspections of Country to inform decision making around fire management.

Ms Warren said traditional fire management had long protected rainforest patches as food sources for palm cockatoos, and preserved their hollow nesting trees in the adjacent woodland.

She added the program had employment and social benefits for the Bromley Traditional Owners.

“The Traditional Owners all live off the Bromley property,” Ms Warren said.

“The opportunity for employment and the resources to support spending time on Country is a key priority.

“They also have Country on

“By building the capacity of the Bromley Traditional Owners, this project benefits adjoining properties and the wider community, and creates a skilled and qualified workforce through the delivery of accredited fire training.”

NEWS IN BRIEF

Cooktown chamber AGM

THE date for the Cooktown Chamber of Commerce and Tourism’s annual general meeting has been set.

Chamber members will converge on the River of Gold Motel in Cooktown at 9:30am on 21 May to address a full agenda, including the appointment of a new management committee for 2024.

Updates on the tourist brochures, and business and community services directory will also be provided at the AGM.

For more information about the meeting, email cooktownchamberofcommerce@ gmail.com or call 0450 308 995.

Remote councils get boost

REGIONAL and remote councils across the state, including on Cape York, will share $300 million in funding to deliver essential local infrastructure and services under a record round of the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland program.

The 2024-27 program round has been given a $100m boost to the funding pool to benefit the 65 councils outside the southeast corner of the state.

Under the program, councils can propose local projects, such as housing supply and supporting infrastructure, water infrastructure, community safety, roads and drainage, disaster resilience and community sports facilities to be funded.

New guidelines released last week will also allow local governments to put part of their allocated funding towards planning for key infrastructure, as well as staff training to operate essential assets.

Local Government Association of Queensland president Mark Jamieson described the program as being “critical to the liveability and sustainability of 65 councils across Queensland, and the local communities they represent”.

Muster for Coen services

RESIDENTS of Coen have a rare opportunity to engage with stakeholders from more than 20 service providers at the two-day Coen Muster Day this week.

The free event, which will be held from 9am-4pm on 14-15 May, will be staged at the Coen Regional Aboriginal Corporation and Cape York Employment offices on Taylor Street.

Representatives from a range of service providers, including Cook Shire Council, the State Government, Apunapima, Westpac and Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service will be in attendance. For more information, visit www.cook.qld.gov.au.

adjoining properties including Wuthathi, Kutini-Payamu (Iron Range) National Park and Mangkuma Land Trust.

A new program has reintroduced traditional fire management practices to the Bromley Indigenous Protected Area, with nine Traditional Owners now accredited fire managers.

Local partnership provides Kowanyama NDIS solution

A PARTNERSHIP between Kowanyama employment and NDIS providers is ensuring the remote western Cape York community has access to local support workers.

Over the past few months, former RISE Ventures Community Development Program participants Sharissa Charlie and Kim Smith have been working as support workers with uLaunch, the organisation delivering NDIS services to those in Kowanyama living with a disability.

In a collaborative effort, RISE Ventures helped the pair ready all the documentation required to undertake their training, which was provided by uLaunch NDIS business manager Edith Schultz.

NDIS national manager for uLaunch, Sarah Hanson, said the goal had always been to utilise local jobseekers to provide support services in Kowanyama.

“Our vision from the outset was to work closely with RISE Ventures and the community to employ local jobseekers to support the needs of people with disability,” she said.

“Through community consultation, it became obvious that there were people with disability not receiving NDIS support and, traditionally, there is a lack of available, trained staff within the care

economy, particularly in remote towns and communities.”

Ms Charlie said she was finding the work incredibly rewarding, adding it was providing a pathway to develop new professional skills.

“Working with uLaunch gave me the opportunity to learn new skills; it is a rewarding job that we

Ikamba to make a big difference

AN ambitious plan to triple Cape York bauxite miner Metro Mining’s transhipping capacity is under way following the mobilisation of the company’s new offshore floating terminal (OFT).

Named Ikamba, the OFT departed Weipa at the end of April and quickly commenced cargo operations loading bauxite onto the Capesize bulk carrier Jewel, eight nautical miles from the western Cape York shoreline.

The OFT takes its name from the Ankamuthi name for saltwater crocodile, and has been put into operation servicing Metro Mining’s Bauxite Hills Mine after undergoing a significant refurbishment in China.

Metro Mining chief executive officer Simon Wensley said the arrival of the Ikamba was an exciting milestone for the company.

“It has been over a year since Ikamba was loading bauxite off the West African coast,” he said.

are helping our clients,” she explained.

It was a case of seeing the impact her contribution had on individual clients and the greater community for Ms Smith.

“I am happy that I am helping and supporting our clients. It is a good feeling that I am able to help

the community and our clients,” she said.

Based on the success of the Kowanyama partnership, Ms Hanson said uLaunch was currently in discussions with other remote communities to see whether they could benefit from the successful model.

“It is exciting to see it in operation at Skardon River.”

Federal Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch toured the Ikamba during a Cape York visit earlier this month and said in a social media post “it’s great to see a small Australian company punching well above its weight”.

The Kowanyama uLaunch NDIS team, including Sharissa Charlie and Kim Smith, are providing a local solution to the traditional problem of a lack of trained care staff in remote communities, and it is paying dividends for clients.

Course creates wellness warriors

By CHISA HASEGAWA

MOST people are familiar with the concept of physical first aid, but in a remote community where it can be weeks before a mental health professional is available, mental health first aid is just as important.

Mental Health First Aid Aus tralia shared a practical, skillsbased action plan to support youth experiencing a mental health crisis when it hosted a 14-hour course at PCYC Napranum on 8-9 May for those wanting to learn about issues prevalent to youth in the 12-18 age bracket.

Course participant Kathryn Sealey, who works at Weipa Com munity Care, said access to mental health support could be challeng ing in remote areas.

“I think mental health, especial ly in rural areas, is huge,” she said.

“There are organisations in the area, but a lot of people do FIFO (fly-in, fly-out), so instead of just being able to have an appointment the next day or in a few days, it can be a couple of weeks.”

Ms Sealey said she learned a lot and was looking forward to passing on the knowledge to her colleagues.

“One thing that was shocking to me was the statistics of young people and their mental health conditions,” she said.

“I guess they’re suffering and not necessarily knowing how to get help, so it was really good to

Workshop facilitator Teresa Gibson from the Royal Flying Doctor Service said participants were taught the ALGEE action plan.

The plan consists of assessing for risk, listening non-judgementally, giving reassurance, encouraging professional help, and encouraging other support strategies.

the young person safe until professional help arrives,” Ms Gibson said.

Co-facilitator from Queensland Health, Nic Madgwick, said two in five young people had poor mental health.

“We cover topics such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, psychosis, and substance abuse

“Those crises include suicide, non-suicidal self-injury, panic attacks, traumas, and also any medical emergency.”

Over the two days, Mr Madgwick said he saw great progress in the participants’ confidence in providing mental health support.

“Some of the reactions that we’ve received from the partici-

mental health looks like, where before, they might not have picked up on early warning signs of what depression or anxiety looks like,” he said.

“They’re saying that the information provided here is very useful and they’ll be able to take it back and use it within their environments where they’re employed.”

Course facilitator Teresa Gibson, participant Kathryn Sealey and facilitator Nic Madgwick reflect on key learnings at the conclusion of the two-day youth mental health first aid training at PCYC Napranum.

WITH the big Liberal National Party and Katter’s Australian Party reveals on who will be flying their colours for Cook ahead of October’s state election out of the way, it’s time for candidates to get down to business.

Being the sort of bloke who enjoys the novel idea of a level playing field, especially when it comes to politics, I thought I’d offer a bit of free advice to the four candidates lining up to get their mitts on the Cook crown five months from now. Think of it as a campaign crash course, if you will.

Tip one is to listen more than you talk. A tough ask for anyone with political aspirations, to be sure, but it’s not a coincidence you have two ears and only one pie hole.

Cook is a monstrous electorate, covering nearly 200,000 square kilometres, which means what’s an issue in Mareeba may not be on the radar of people in Weipa. If it’s flagged as a problem in Port Douglas, chances are Seisia residents probably aren’t devoting much time to pondering it.

Cook is a diverse electorate with diverse people and diverse issues. Sure, there will be some similar themes, such as skyrocketing cost of living pressures, but please make sure you’re asking

Cape York and Torres Strait voters what their biggest concerns are, not telling them.

Tip two is to get your head around the PDR and what needs to be done.

If you don’t think it’s going to be the most discussed issue in any spot you visit between Lakeland and Weipa, you probably shouldn’t be running as a candidate.

My third tip is one I don’t believe I’m actually having to tell adults: be accountable. People, especially those in remote areas, are sick and tired of being told an issue is someone else’s fault.

We don’t care how eloquently you can play the blame game. We aren’t idiots. We know successive governments of both party persuasions have failed the northernmost

part of Queensland. We’re sick of being an afterthought for those elected to represent us, and the next politician to arrive in our part of the world with excuses instead of solutions may very well end up in a crab pot.

Tip four is that if you are bereft of independent though, lack a spine and have your withered political heart set on serving your Brisbane

masters, rather than Cape York and the Torres Strait, in an attempt to bootlick your way to a ministry, don’t even bother coming.

Obsequious, cookie-cutter politicians are a dime a dozen, and of absolutely zero use to us. We’ve got enough social and economic dramas to deal with due to government incompetence and disinterest without having to rely on someone who’s afraid to get their hands dirty and ensure our voices are heard in the big smoke.

My fifth and final tip is to be visible and engaged. This one’s always difficult, given the gargantuan patch of dirt you’re trying to represent, but nothing raises our ire more than fly-in, fly-out political types who rock into town for a photo opportunity and the opening of an envelope, but then disappear before locals can seek advocacy and share what’s on our mind.

You’ve come all this way, so you may as well find out what your constituents think while you’re here. If you can find the time between tone-deaf social media posts and stuffing your face with party pies and those fancy little quiches, that is.

Now, having had this unsolicited wisdom imparted upon you, I fully anticipate it will be completely ignored in favour of those perennial campaign favourites: deaf ears, party lines, mudslinging and finger pointing.

Let the games begin!

With announcement photo shoots and media conferences complete, it’s now time for Cook candidates to focus on improving the liveability of Cape York, and convincing voters they are committed to serving them, not Brisbane.

Cape York Weekly Puzzles Page

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.

Fit the numbers 1-6 once into every hexagon so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers are the same. No number is repeated in any single hexagon.

ICN 1163 | A BN 22 965 382 705

NOTICE OF CONSULTATION

Cape York United Number 1 Claim (QUD673/2014)

23 May 2024 – Lakeland Town Hall

This notice is to advise that Cape York Land Council (CYLC) will be consulting with Traditional Owners of the area shown on the map below in relation to the proposal by the Department of Transport and Main Roads (DTMR) to instal Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) in Lakeland at the junction of the Peninsula Developmental Road and the Mulligan Highway. The infrastructure will include:

• two boreholes approximately 800mm depth; and

• steel reinforcements of the boreholes to support and stabilise the concrete base on which the CORS will be installed (1.5m x 1.8m)

Details of the meeting are as follows:

Who: Traditional Owners of the proposed site

Date: Thursday 23 May 2024

When: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Venue: Lakeland Town Hall, 4 Sesame Street, Lakeland QLD 4871

*Video conference facilities will also be available upon request.

Purpose of this meeting:

The purpose of this meeting is for CYLC to:

• discuss the notice provided by DTMR;

• discuss cultural heritage within the project area; and

• discuss management of the project under the Aboriginal Cultural heritage Act 2003 (Qld).

Please contact CYLC on 1800 623 548 or email crushford@cylc.org.au if you have any questions regarding the meeting or to confirm your attendance by Monday 20 May 2024.

If there are any changes to this meeting this will be advised on CYLC’s Facebook page and website.

MEN’S HEALTH FUNDRAISER

Golf Day!

proposed Development

Make a submission from 15/05/2024- 26/06/2024

Development

Applic Ation for n ew mA poon r esi D enti A l s ub D ivision A n D c ommunity u se

where: Langie Draha Street, New Mapoon QLD 4876 on: (part of) Lot 222 on SP273365

Approval sought: Preliminary Approval for a Material Change of Use for a Variation Request to vary the effect of the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council Planning Scheme and a Development Permit for Reconfiguring a Lot - 1 into 26 lots, plus new road and balance lot.

Application ref: DA2023_002 you may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to: Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council

180 Adidi Street, Bamaga QLD 4876

info@nparc.qld.gov.au 07 4090 4100 www.nparc.qld.gov.au

Public notification requirements are in accordance with the Planning Act 2016

Proposed CORS site

Crocs duo show spirit at intraclub

A SHOWDOWN between teammates across all age divisions allowed the Cooktown District Junior Rugby League Club to shine the spotlight on two of its stars on 11 May.

With no visiting team available to make the trip to Cooktown, the Crocs held an intraclub round for their second of the 2024 season, a format secretary Jacynta Hunt said had been incredibly popular.

“We had great feedback from families on how great it was to play Cooktown versus Cooktown,” she said.

“It was actually a really positive outcome; the kids got to build a lot of confidence in their gameplay because they were playing against their teammates.”

Two club members who spent the entire day on the paddock were Samuel Ryder, 17, and Lucas Giese, 16, who refereed games

to the club than they probably understood.

“We couldn’t run games in Cooktown without them,” she explained.

“Sam and Lucas have been with us since they were in under-8s, so they are the only two players who have been with the Crocs for the full duration of how long you can play juniors for.

“They just go from strength to strength.

“It’s so important for the little people to see the big boys who have grown up in the club; that’s their role models.”

Players of the match awards went to Clay Harrigan, Slater Wawryzniak, Lilly DotoiDoughboy, Maiika Hegamaea, Chase Hunt, Kaiden Teece, Dexton Butcher, Sam Solomon Riley and Suzy William.

The Crocs will travel to Atherton for the next round of competition on 25 May.

SPORT IN BRIEF

Hutton form continues

JAMIE Hutton has continued his recent run of red-hot form on the course after winning the special Mother’s Day edition of Dawnbusters on 12 May.

Fourteen players took to the Carpentaria Golf Club course for the event, including two new members.

With both Hutton and Viv Dick finishing the front nine holes with nett 10 on their scorecards, a countback was required to crown the former the winner of the Mother’s Day chocolates.

Newcomer Krystle Ellis picked up women’s longest drive prize, but it was a double-edged sword as she also claimed the Hoffman’s. In a day for the new members, Lenny Dick picked up nearest to the pin bragging rights, while Peter Lamond snared the men’s long drive.

Riders saddle up for clinic

A TWO-DAY horsemanship clinic facilitated by Cooktown Horse Sports will now be held on 18-19 May.

Cape York Weekly is is the only media outlet covering news in every community on Cape York Peninsula Our paper is available in more than 30 outlets and even reaches remote stations via the mail plane To keep up with the latest news in the region, follow us on Facebook or visit our website

The beginner clinic, run by Alyce Saddlier from DNA Horse Breaking and Educating, was due to take place on 27-28 April, but riders will now saddle up this weekend to learn about everything horsemanship.

The clinic will cover a number of beginner horsemanship elements, including the correct fitting of the halter and bridle, and techniques for controlling your horse in different situations.

For more information, email cooktownhorsesports4895@gmail.com.

Nine parkrun PBs set

MORE than 14 per cent of the field recorded personal best times when 64 runners tackled the five-kilometre Weipa parkrun course on 11 May.

In an impressive result, Vide Freiberg, Amanda Allender, Emma Pezzotti, Sandy Aldcroft, Julie Dore, Jayansh Anumula, Sruthi Kyramkonda, Ananya Anumula and Kath Porter all notched up personal best efforts. Chrisden Russ was in a class of his own at the front to stop the clock in a blistering 19 minutes, 35 seconds.

Lucas wins Wackers

JIM Lucas claimed victory by half a stroke when a field of 12 teed off in Wednesday Wackers action at Weipa last week.

Lucas returned to the clubhouse with nett 34.5 to secure bragging rights from runner-up Lenny Dick, who carded nett 35.

No one put their name on the nearest to the pin card on the 15th green, while Steve Wust took the prize on the 18th.

Grant Crossley won the Bradman’s.

before swapping their pink shirts for Crocs jerseys.

Ms Hunt said the pair contributed more

Samuel Ryder and Lucas Giese showed true Crocs club spirit by volunteering their time to referee games before taking to the paddock for their own rugby league showdown.

The Cooktown Crocs got to tackle their mates during intraclub matches on Saturday.

Anglers make most of

FROM barra on the bite at Aurukun to thumper threadfin in the estuaries around Weipa, local fishos have impressed with catches of all shapes and sizes over the past week.

Do you want to be as famous (well, Cape York famous) as this week’s fishos with their impressive river and open water catches?

Do you want to be feature as our next Cape Catch of the Week?

Cape Catches of the Week will showcase Cape York and Torres Strait anglers – big or small – and provide them ultimate bragging rights around the barbecue or campfire.

Flick a photo of your best recent catch to editor@capeyorkweekly. com.au or text it to 0419 891 666.

The better the picture, the better the chance of appearing in the paper!

Weipa’s Sean Slack came out on top after a Chilli Beach battle against this nice green jobfish.

Not to be outdone by her fishing companions, Chris Arnold shows off her barramundi hooked near Aurukun.

Brett Brodie had plenty of reasons to smile after landing this impressive Aurukun barra.

The estuaries around Weipa offered up this solid threadfin salmon for Chris Beck.

Dan Dixon got among the barramundi on the bite during a trip from Aurukun.

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