Bailey, Keira, Cooper and Damien Fogarty swung into the Christmas spirit as Weipa hit the right notes for Western Cape College’s Tropical Carols Night. Read all about it on Page 2.
Lakeland fatal
THE Hope Vale community is in mourning after a 60-year-old female resident was one of two people killed in a single-vehicle accident on south-eastern Cape York on Sunday afternoon. The Queensland Police Service said initial investigations indicated at about 1:50pm on 8 December, a Toyota LandCruiser was travelling southbound, approximately five kilometres south-west of Lakeland on the Mulligan Highway, when it left the road and rolled into Ed-
monstone Creek. The occupants of the vehicle – a 60-year-old Hope Vale woman and her passenger, a 59-year-old Manoora woman –died at the scene.
Cape York Weekly understands the victims were sisters who were
returning to Cairns after attending a funeral in the region.
The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the crash.
Witnesses or anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Policelink on 13 14 44.
Pilot project out to help with diabetes monitoring
A FINGER-prick-free blood glucose monitoring project for people with diabetes is under way on Cape York.
Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) diabetes educators Lynda Marshall and Alex Rayner said the project aimed to encourage a deeper understanding of how a person’s day-to-day food choices, activity levels, taking or missing medication, stress and sleep impacted on their health.
Eighty-two Cape residents are currently participating in the project and Ms Marshall said it was providing a pain-
less way to learn more about managing diabetes, especially in a remote community.
“We would hope that, as a result of this, they will see that small changes to healthier swaps can make a big difference to their diabetes management,’’ she said.
“Previously, people with diabetes had to prick their finger multiple times a day to see what their glucose level was, and this would just provide a snapshot of the level at that exact moment.
“The finger-prick test wouldn’t tell the person with diabetes if that glucose level
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was climbing or dropping –multiple pricks a day were required to understand what was happening across the day.”
By utilising a continuous glucose monitoring device, a sensor can be inserted just under the skin with a sticky patch, negating the need for multiple daily finger pricks.
Weipa Hospital rural generalist Dr Emily McLeod said continuous glucose monitoring could be a convenient and effective adjunct for people living with diabetes.
“In my practice, I’ve found it particularly useful for people on insulin who are strug-
gling to complete their monitoring with finger pricks,’’ she said.
Aurukun resident Stephen Deemal said the project had made a big difference in the way he managed his diabetes.
“It’s way better than before; there’s no more pain on the finger,’’ he explained.
“You get a reading straight away, and you can make immediate adjustments to your diet or medication as needed.’’
In addition to Aurukun, the project is also being run in Coen, Hope Vale, Wujal Wujal, Kowanyama, Pormpuraaw and Lockhart River.
College gets tropical for annual carols celebration
By CHISA HASEGAWA
It may be wet on the Cape right now, but that didn’t dampen the Christmas spirit at Western Cape College (WCC) as students, staff and families hit the right notes at the Tropical Carols Night on 4 December.
Despite thundering rain, the Weipa community rocked its best tropical shirts for the annual event on Wednesday afternoon
as glow sticks and classic holiday tunes filled the school’s indoor sports hall.
A WCC spokesperson said attendees made the most of conditions to deliver a colourful, festive end to the school year.
“The night went off without a hitch, and the turnout from the community was fabulous, despite the wet weather,” the spokesperson said.
“Our instrumental music
band kicked off the night with a great performance and each year level sang with excitement.
“The songs ended with a performance from our graduating year 6 class of 2024, followed by a visit from Santa.”
The spokesperson added the stalls selling glow sticks and Christmas goodies, which fundraised to send students to an upcoming sports carnival in Townsville, had been a huge hit.
“We thank the community for their generous support for both the Light up the Night Stall and our Christmas stall that was held last week,” the spokesperson said.
“The money raised goes towards sending our students to The Challenge Games in Townsville. Thanks to all who made the night so successful; we wish everyone a safe and happy break.”
Aurukun resident Stephen Deemal gets his blood glucose measured by TCHHS diabetes educator Lynda Marshall as part of a project under way on Cape York.
Olive and Ayda Robins embraced the tropical Christmas theme.
Santa’s elves Bianca Evans and Jane Ostler kept the atmosphere fun and energetic as emcees for the carols.
Fingers pointed as NPA’s water infrastructure fails
By LYNDON KEANE
AMID finger pointing and claims previous state governments are to blame for a series of embarrassing sustained outages, one Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) resident has come up with her own solution to ensure water security for her community the next time the region’s taps run dry.
The 3,800 residents of Bamaga, Injinoo, Umagico, New Mapoon and Seisia were left without any town water for periods of almost 24 hours at a time over the past week as Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) and water supply contractor Veolia struggled to repair infrastructure at the Jardine River pump station, which supplies town water to all five communities.
While NPARC says repairs were being completed, Seisia community leader and 2023 Queensland Young Australian of the Year Talei Elu went to the extraordinary length of organising a GoFundMe campaign to purchase portable camp showers for use by families and Elders during what she said would be assured future water outages.
“The water infrastructure we have here is old, so we expect them (the outages),” Ms Elu said.
“When this one happened and it was going to be throughout the night and then got extended, that was the catalyst for me to contact a lot of our young community members … to do a fundraiser to get some [camp showers] for our community.
“We’re up to 21 camp showers for our households, and they are easy to use and easy for the Elders to carry as well.
“It’s a contingency for when the water goes out again.”
The outages come on the back of a community-led online petition for NPARC to sack its chief executive officer, Kate
Gallaway, over perceived trust breaches and a “severe lack of transparency”, and the sixmonth involuntary appointment of a financial controller and governance adviser in the wake of criticism of the council’s strategic, operational and financial management.
The council said the cause of the outages was a lack of funding to undertake infrastructure upgrades, not internal operational issues, with Ms Gallaway adding “Veolia and NPARC are working closely to source further funding to upgrade the equipment and system”.
Ms Elu criticised the council for its communication with residents during the water security failure and said she was disappointed the situation had become a “political football”.
“The communication from the council and Veolia was not as good as it could have been, in my opinion,” she said.
“I don’t like the fact there’s a blame game; it shouldn’t be a political football – it’s a critical piece of infrastructure and without it, it’s a massive public health risk and a disaster waiting to happen.
“It’s Australia in 2024 – we’re a developed nation and I don’t understand why on Cape York and in some Indigenous communities, we don’t have adequate secure water infrastructure.”
Another NPA resident, who spoke to Cape York Weekly on the condition of anonymity, said they believed community confidence in the council’s executive staff had hit a new low following the latest water woes.
“We get the pipes and stuff are old and need money to upgrade, but the way the outages were communicated by the council staff was disrespectful and didn’t give much time for people to prepare,” they said.
“We had families who
couldn’t wash or flush toilets for almost a day, and had no water to drink in a hot part of the year; businesses couldn’t open because they had no water.
“It’s disgraceful and all of us know it’s a certainty water outages are going to happen again soon.”
Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy did not respond directly to questions about whether she had concerns about the leadership of NPARC’s executive team, instead blaming former Labor governments for not making remote infrastructure upgrades a priority.
“This failure of NPARC’s water infrastructure is a result of Labor stripping millions from water and sewerage maintenance grants across Queensland,” she said.
“The local MP, David Kempton, and I will work together with NPARC to urgently resolve the situation for residents.”
Despite having the Jardine River on their doorstep, Northern Peninsula Area residents were without water for almost 24 hours at a time last week after a major failure of the region’s pumping infrastructure. Seisia’s Talei Elu (inset) says the ongoing water security failures should not be used as a “political football”.
Events centre gets new manager
STEPHEN Wishart will take the reins as the new manager of the Cooktown Events Centre following a council decision in October to resume control of the community facility.
Mr Wishart will bring extensive experience in community engagement and facility management to the role after previously holding leadership positions in Belgravia Leisure and Next Gen Health Clubs, where he worked closely with communities to deliver exceptional recreational and event experiences.
With a reputation for fostering positive relationships across community, sporting and event sectors, Cook Shire Council said Mr Wishart’s emphasis on collaboration and partnership development would ensure the centre continued to thrive as a hub for the Cooktown community.
After being announced as the new manager, Mr Wishart wasted no time in shining the spotlight on what his initial priorities would be for the centre.
“I’m excited to join the Cooktown Events Centre at such a pivotal time,” he said.
“My immediate focus is on setting up robust systems and processes to ensure we deliver excellent customer service, particularly as we gear up for launch.
“In the New Year, I look forward to focusing on enhancing the programming and delivering ac-
tivities and services that truly resonate with the community and meet their needs.”
Mr Wishart’s appointment coincides with the facility reopening under council management on 20 December, and the launch of the centre’s Merry Fit-mas! gym membership campaign.
Mayor Robyn Holmes welcomed Mr Wishart to the team and said his appointment was significant for the community.
“Stephen’s wealth of experience and commitment to community make him an outstanding choice to lead the Cooktown Events Centre moving forward,” she said.
Current PCYC Cooktown gym memberships will cease at midnight on 17 December, with the centre set to close on 18-19 December for systems upgrades.
“His leadership will help us strengthen our connection with residents and visitors to ensure the centre provides opportunities for sports, recreation and events.”
New manager Stephen Wishart talks to Mayor Robyn Holmes about his plans for the Cooktown Events Centre after Cook Shire Council resumed control of the building earlier this year.
the season to avoid mosquito bites
CAPE York and Torres Strait residents are being urged to take all possible precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes this wet season on the back of a recent spike in dengue fever cases.
Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service public health medical officer Dr Allison Hempenstall said while mosquitoes were active all year round, they tended to be far
more prevalent in normally wetter seasonal conditions between November and April.
“But no matter the time of year, our advice to local communities remains the same. The very best protection against mosquito-borne diseases is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes in the first place,” she said.
“Some mosquito-borne diseases circulate locally and are
relatively common, such as Ross River fever and Barmah Forest virus disease, and we have had 10 cases of Ross River and three cases of Barmah Forest virus disease within the health service region so far this year.
“But we have also had an unusually high number of dengue fever cases, with a total of 54 confirmed cases so far this year as a result of outbreaks on
Mer, Warraber, Masig and Erub islands in the Torres Strait.
“Previously, we had not had any cases of dengue fever on Cape York and the Torres Strait since 2019.”
Dr Hempenstall said the number of patients presenting with dengue fever was an “obvious” sign the virus was now present in mosquito populations right across the region.
Weipa welcomes its new head of town authority
By LYNDON KEANE
THE new chief executive officer of Weipa Town Authority (WTA) says he has been blown away by the warm welcome offered to his family by the western Cape York community.
Town superintendent Tobias Rissman is now five weeks into the job after relocating from Groote Eylandt with his wife, Ellen, and 16-month-old son, Gordon, and told Cape York Weekly that Weipa’s community spirit had been his biggest highlight to date.
“Like any new job and new company, it’s a lot to get your head around at the start, but it’s a very welcoming town; I’d say that’d be the biggest highlight for us so far,” he said.
With a diverse career in mining, including water infrastructure project management and heavy mobile equipment delivery, Mr Rissman said the unique nature of Weipa and WTA operations under Rio Tinto, and what he described as the “sort of inevitable” normalisation of the township were major drawcards in applying for the role.
“Why I took the role is because it’s a very diverse role, which I am looking forward to,” he said.
“It covers community events, the [Weipa Aquatic and Sports Precinct], the finance and corporate services, and town planning, and that super diverse role really
appeals to me. I think, eventually, a path to normalisation will definitely be on the cards – it’s sort of inevitable.
“There’s a piece of work that has to be done from Rio’s side to be able to get to that initial stage.”
With the wet season approaching and school holidays now here, Mr Rissman said his initial priorities involved ensuring Weipa’s youth were engaged over the coming months.
“The current priorities for the community are to be getting the youth centre up and running, and the one on the cards at the moment, the first one, is probably just the December school holiday program for the kids, to make sure that they’re engaged on the school holidays,” he said.
A fan of the outdoors, Mr Rissman said the similarities between Groote Eylandt his family’s new home had softened the transition, adding his first foray
into Weipa’s fishing had been less than successful.
“Weipa’s similarities to Groote, the outdoor lifestyle and being on the water, that’s pretty much why we moved here. My first [fishing] session, I went to Andoom Creek, and then after I did that, every other local said ‘you shouldn’t have gone there for your first session’, so that wasn’t a big success,” he said.
“I haven’t been out too many times since.”
NEWS IN BRIEF
Annual report adopted
COOK Shire Council has adopted its 2023-24 annual report at its 26 November ordinary meeting.
The report highlights the challenges of operating with a small ratepayer base and the unique financial impact caused by the Tropical Cyclone Jasper flood event in December 2023.
Mayor Robyn Holmes said the annual report demonstrated the council’s commitment to the community and developing future resilience for the region.
“These financial statements demonstrate that Cook Shire is in a reasonably good financial position as we transition into the next financial year,” she said.
“With 83 per cent of our budget sourced from state and federal grants, we rely on external funding to sustain local jobs and reinvest in our community, however, we have robust measures in place to address the timing of grant receipts and ensure financial stability moving forward.”
The annual report is available to read on the council website.
One edition to go
THE final edition of Cape York Weekly for 2024 will be printed on 17 December, with the first edition back for the new year scheduled to be 14 January.
Distribution of both editions to our readers across Cape York will be as normal, weather permitting.
You can keep up to date with breaking news during the printing closure period on the Cape York Weekly website.
Story leads can still be emailed to editor@capeyorkweekly.com.au or sent via our Facebook page during this time.
Save the date for Expo
STUDENTS and families will have first-hand access to information about employment opportunities in their own backyard when the 2025 Western Cape Careers Expo is held on 5 June.
The event will be hosted by Western Cape College (WCC) and provides a platform for stakeholders to showcase or recruit for their business, organisation or institution.
A WCC spokesperson said the 2024 expo allowed students in years 7-12 to make meaningful connections, seek career guidance and experience workplace visits.
A networking event for exhibitors will be held in Weipa the night before the expo on 4 June. For more information, call WCC industry liaison officer Fiona Marshall on 0499 686 080.
New Weipa Town Authority boss Tobias Rissman says he is excited to be in a role that will play a part in the “inevitable” normalisation of the western Cape York township.
Fishing industry acknowledged in Torres Strait
THE Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) marked World Fisheries Day late last month by highlighting its commitment to supporting the region’s Traditional Inhabitant Boat (TIB) fishers through a project aimed at addressing challenges facing the industry.
For centuries, Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people of the region have relied on their deep knowledge of the sea and traditional fishing practices to feed their families and maintain a healthy ocean with sustainable fish stocks.
Today, TIB fishers continue to uphold these principles in their commercial operations by balancing cultural heritage with sustainable practices.
The industry faces growing challenges on multiple fronts, including ageing fishing assets, supply chain disruptions and safety concerns, leading TSRA to launch phase one of the
Wapil 2 project, which is an initiative designed to strengthen the economic viability of TIB fishers while respecting cultural priorities and practices.
Outgoing TSRA chairperson Pedro Stephen said the project strongly aligned with this year’s World Fisheries Day theme.
“World Fisheries Day’s focus on sustainability and innovation is at the heart of the TSRA Wapil 2 project,”
Mr Stephen said last week.
“We’re offering grants to help TIB commercial fishers replace aging equipment, like outboard motors and trailers, and provide essential items like safety kits and training opportunities.”
Full-time commercial TIB fishers are encouraged to submit an expression of interest to TSRA’s fisheries program to access Wapil 2 phase one grants and training resources.
Tagai students embrace health check messaging
YOUNG people on Thursday Island are learning about the importance of regular health checks and building healthy behaviours following a Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service initiative at Tagai State College recently.
As part of activities to promote regular health checks, a Young Persons Health Check was held over the past fortnight and Torres Strait men’s and women’s health program co-ordinator Lily-Annie Ahmat said an annual health check was vital for youth.
“The Tagai event aims to encourage young people to build healthy behaviours from an early age,” Ms Ahmat said.
“By providing the event with consent
from parents and carers, it overcomes barriers for young people to access health services, such as shame, stigma, and confidentiality.
Clinical nurse consultant Yoko Mills said early detection and prevention were the focus of the Young Persons Health Check, which has been held annually for the past nine years.
“This builds trust and rapport between students and health staff,’’ Ms Mills said.
“Prompt follow-up of students with abnormal results is an important process for their health and wellbeing.”
Students attending the health check were also eligible for prizes as part of completing their check.
A diver spearing kaiar (tropical rock lobster) in the Torres Strait. Photo: Tony Gordon.
One of the Tagai Young Persons Health Check raffle winners, Naeda Nona, collects her prize and is congratulated by senior public health officer Mario Assan.
Shelter at capacity for Christmas
By CHISA HASEGAWA
A CAPE York dog rescue service is urging people to think carefully before parting ways with their pets during the Christmas season.
The Cape Animal Protection Service (CAPS) received $1,750 as part of a Christmas donation project by dog food company SavourLife – a much-needed donation to help cover the operating costs of an at-capacity shelter.
CAPS vice-president Rebecca Roberts said the shelter was already completely full, with many dogs being brought to local pounds during the holiday season.
“It’s up this time of year because a lot of people are going away or their changing lifestyles, and they’re not able to take their dogs with them, so we do see quite an influx,” she explained.
“A lot of people also breed to sell at Christmas, and then they basically get put into the local pounds, and we get asked to take them.”
Ms Roberts said the funds would contribute towards CAPS’ seasonally high vet bills, as well as necessary repairs on the Weipa facility.
“We’ll be putting the money towards our vet bills, which are quite
a lot now that it’s coming up to the end of the year,” she said.
“We’ve got $10,000 worth of heartworm dogs in care, so all the funds will go directly to that at the moment.
“We also need to do some repairs on our cages; we’ve got dogs that will come through and they’ll chew the cages because they’ve not been caged before, so we need a bit of fundraising to help us re-
the actual kennel as well.”
Alongside the SavourLife donation, CAPS will also be hosting another puppy photo session after the success of the first Santa Paws photoshoot.
“On adoption day the other week, we did a tropical Christmasthemed photoshoot, our caretaker dressed up as Santa, and all the funds went directly back to CAPS and the vet bills” Ms Roberts said.
“We got a lot of people asking if we’re going to do it again, and now we’re booked out and got over 20 people coming, so it’s amazing.
“It was a quick idea, but we hope to keep it going because it’s a great fundraiser, and clearly people want to take part.”
Ms Roberts said while the shelter was at capacity and could not accept any more dogs, it could still help with rehoming.
However, she urged dog owners and potential adopters to really think before another dog ended up looking through the bars of a cage in a pound.
“It is that time of year when people are leaving, we have a lot of dogs through the pound, and we’ll be dealing with a lot of rehoming and things like that,” she said.
“We can assist with rehoming, but they really need to consider the amount of dogs that are going to come through, and the amount of breeding that’s happening at the moment.
“They’re not a present, they’re a lifelong commitment.”
Cooktown celebrates seniors at Christmas luncheon
ONE might say there is nothing quite as festive as a hearty roast meal surrounded by loved ones, which is exactly how the seniors of Cooktown kicked off the holiday season.
More than 90 of Cooktown’s wisest came out for the annual Endeavour Lions Club Seniors
Christmas Luncheon at the Cooktown Bowls Club on 28 November to enjoy a three roast meat meal with a side of vegetables as they caught up on each other’s lives and the year that has been.
Endeavour Lions Club member
Sarah Greaves said the lunch had been a wonderful way to celebrate some of Cooktown’s longest term residents.
“They’ve done so much for us over the years, and our community is a testament to their contributions,” she said.
“It’s just a nice way to acknowl-
edge all the efforts of those senior citizens in our community.”
Ms Greaves said the luncheon had also been an effective way to support a local business and stay connected, praising the efforts of the bowls club’s new chef.
“The chef did a fabulous job, everyone was really pleased with their meals, and for someone who’s just started, I think he’s proving himself to be quite a good cook,” she said.
“The bowls club have had a pretty rough year with the flooding, so it’s good to help support them as well. I just love going out there and seeing everyone dressing up in Christmas clothes, having a good time and catching up with old mates.
“It’s nice to check in with those guys and see how everyone’s going; it’s a great way to end the year.”
Escaping Violence Payment
RAATSICC are excited to announce the Escaping Violence Payment (Cairns-based trail) has been extended until 30 June 2026.
The Escaping Violence Payment offers support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have experienced Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) to have access to financial support and goods / services for their immediate needs to live safely.
1300 663 411 E | info@raatsicc.org.au W | www.raatsicc.org.au F | facebook.com/raatsicc
Support includes:
• Financial assistance up to $1,500 in cash or vouchers
• Up to $3,500 in goods and services (Eg. removalists, bond, items for a new home)
• Confidential support and referrals up to 12 weeks.
Eligibility
an Australian citizen, permanent resident or holder of a protected special category visa over the age of 18, living in Australia. have changed your living arrangements within the last 12 weeks due to intimate partner violence are experiencing financial stress. have not accessed EVP in the past 12 months. Want
vamp
CAPS is ramping up its fundraising efforts with an adorable Christmas photoshoot as the shelter reaches full capacity during the holiday season.
Cooktown celebrates its senior citizens at the annual Endeavour Lions Club Seniors Christmas Luncheon.
Monthly Community Update
Message from the Chair
Hi Weipa,
The countdown to the end of the year is on, and its been a busy time trying to fit everything in before the Christmas break.
We lit the town Christmas tree, and held the annual Christmas Markets in the storm surge shelter which were a great success. The stallholders all reported that they had a very successful day, and were grateful to the WTA for hosting such a fabulous event, and to the community for showing up in force. All in all it was a great (and sweaty) morning haha.
I have to give a special shout out to our fabulous WTA staff for organising and decorating the event, and a huge thank you Mr & Mrs Claus and Santa's helper, who go above and beyond each year to make sure that our community have an opportunity to get the much loved Santa photos. They even kitted up again on Sunday, to provide a calm Sensory Santa experience for some of our youngest community members who don't do so well with large crowds and lots of noise. We can't thank you enough for volunteering
your time each year to make this time of year extra special.
Our Australia Day award nominations have now closed, and we received a record number of nominations from people wanting to highlight the contribution that some members of our community make. If you nominated someone, thank you. There are many unsung heroes in our community, and it's great to see them receive some recognition for all they do. If you have been nominated, congratulations! It means that people think highly of you and your efforts, and they don't go unnoticed. People like you are the reason Weipa is such a special place to live.
In the lead up to Christmas, those who have lived on the Cape for some time will be making all the preparations that go hand-in-hand with this time of year. Wet season has begun, and the possibility of Cyclones always looms. If you are new to town, there are plenty of things that you can do to prepare just in case. Things like having some jerry cans of fuel ready to go, some water and extra food stored, giving the yard a clean up, and
Weipa's Best Christmas Lights!
The festive magic is shining across Weipa, and now it’s your turn to decide who takes home the People’s Choice Award in this year’s Christmas Lights Competition thanks to Mitre10.
Voting opens Wednesday, 11 December, and it’s never been easier to cast your vote—just scan the QR code and choose your favourite display.
Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the creativity and holiday cheer lighting up our town. Your vote could help decide the winner of a $500 Mitre 10 voucher! Get involved and spread the joy—vote for your favourite light display today!
having a chat to your neighbours or friends who have been through a few wet seasons and know what to expect.
I would also recommend going to check out the WTA Disaster Dashboard, where all information about potential weather events, warnings and advice will be posted, or give our friendly office staff a call, or drop in and see us.
Christmas holidays in Weipa are awesome, and if you are spending your first Christmas in town away from family, don't despair. This is such a welcoming community, and there are plenty of people who invite newcomers to Christmas day festivities which usually include kiddie pools or water slides, back yard cricket or other games, more food than you can eat in a week, plenty of laughs, and maybe a cold beer or two. Wet season also means all the freshwater creeks around town fill up, so there is much to explore and plenty of great day trips to be had. Make friends with some locals and enjoy what living in the Cape has to offer.
and the whole WTA team, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas, and safe and happy New Year.
My first year in this role has been a huge learning curve, and I have
Nominees Announced!
We are thrilled to reveal the incredible nominees for the 2025 Australia Day Awards, to be celebrated at the Albatross Bay Resort in January 2025. These outstanding individuals and groups have gone above and beyond, making a lasting impact in our community.
Annabelle Slingo
Des Land International
Women's Day
Jack Barton
Jamie Thomas
Judey Haeusler
Kym-Maree
Prentice
Lorraine Woods
Mia Waite
Noella Taramai
Penelope Johnson
Scott Wallace
Shayna Reeves Talk About It
Tuesday
Theona Down
Tracey Small
Weipa Gymnastics Club
Weipa Parkrun
Weipa Rodeo Association
Weipa Running Festival Committee
Weipa Social Netball Committee
JaimeGane
As cyclone season approaches, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and prepared. The Weipa Disaster Dashboard is your trusted hub for all things disaster-related, providing real-time updates, emergency contacts, weather alerts, and practical advice to help you safeguard your family and property.
Our approach focuses on the key pillars of Prevention, Preparation, Response and Recovery, ensuring our community is equipped to handle the unexpected. Visit the Weipa Disaster Dashboard to check weather forecasts, stay updated on road closures, and access tips on what to do before, during, and after a cyclone.
CHAIR JAIME GANE
Vacation care service a game-changer for Weipa
By CHISA HASEGAWA
WORKING parents across Weipa are breathing a big sigh of relief as the community’s outside-of-school-hours care (OSHC) service officially opens its doors for vacation care.
After the service was closed about 12 months ago, parents of young children struggled with childcare in the community, with many having to give up full-time work hours for kids’ drop-offs and pick-ups.
The Diocese of Cairns began work to reopen the OSHC at St Joseph’s Parish School and, after months of delays due to staffing issues, services recommenced last week with a full team.
Mum-of-three Tida Cousins said the timing could not have been better, with wet season holiday boredom now a distant thought as she prepared to return to work after maternity leave.
“Having it open back up is a lifesaver,” she said.
“I think my work’s been pretty flexible, allowing me to finish work at three just to pick the kids up after school, so when it does start back up next year as an after-school care, I’ll be able to work longer hours.
“They’re loving it because they have all these activities; with all the rain, we can’t get out, and if mum and dad are too busy working, there’s nothing for them to do, so it’s good and
it doesn’t make me feel so bad leaving them.”
Diocese of Cairns Catholic Early Learning and Care (CELC) director Alison Forster visited Weipa last week to help staff and children settle in.
“At the moment, we’ve got about 15 children attending, and that will vary over the holidays,” she said.
“We’ve got St Joseph’s children now, but it might be a bit busier next week when Western Cape is broken up as well.
“We’re pretty heavily booked in the last week of the holidays, particularly when teachers have their week back at school to prepare, but it’s been nice to have a smaller group to settle in.”
Ms Forster said CELC staff would visit Weipa often to ensure the staff felt like part of the early learning community.
“We’re going to have a regular routine of our support staff coming up to Weipa, much like they go and visit the centres around Cairns,” she said.
“We really want the Weipa ladies to be a part of our whole community, and we’ll be bringing them down to Cairns as well to meet with other CELC leaders; we don’t want them to feel like they’re isolated.”
She said energy at the new OSHC had been great, with appreciative parents, motivated staff and a tightly-knit group of children.
Napranum students ready for high school
THE next generation of Napranum leaders are off to begin their high school journey after graduating from Kluthuthu Christian College (KCC) to a wave of applause.
Surrounded by parents, friends and community members, nine students celebrated their milestone achievement at the KCC graduation awards night late last month.
Principal Vernon Clark congratulated the students on their academic achievements
and said the Napranum community was thrilled with their success.
“Students were celebrated with awards and trophies for their achievements in the company of traditional Elders, the mayor of Napranum, Roy Chevathen, distinguished guests and their proud parents and relatives.
Traditional Owner and board member Jacqueline Malacoola opened the ceremony with a Welcome to Country,” Mr Clark said.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Apudthama burn continues
THE Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) is set to continue planned burns in Apudthama National Park until 15 December if weather conditions permit.
The burns aim to mitigate the risk and intensity of bushfires and their potential impacts on communities, infrastructure, parks and forests.
As a result of the planned burns, smoke may be seen in nearby areas in the Northern Peninsula Area.
Anyone visiting Apudthama National Park is asked to observe all signs, barriers, and directions from rangers, and never enter closed areas.
For the latest on planned burns across Cape York, visit www.parks.desi.qld.gov.au/ park-alerts.
$2.75m for science centre
THE State Government has committed $2.75 million over four years to establish a National Indigenous Science Translation Centre (NISTC) at the University of Queensland’s Long Pocket campus.
The NISTC is an initiative of the Indjalandji-Dhidhanu people and their biotechnology startup, Bulugudu Ltd, and will be a combined teaching, research, and development facility.
The centre is set to open in 2025 and Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Science and Innovation Andrew Powell said the initiative would connect Queensland’s thriving biotech sector with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Volunteer grants EOI opens
Mr Clark said regular attendance was one of the challenges many students had overcome during 2024, with a 25 per cent increase since last year.
“Their average school attendance increased from 40 per cent in 2023 to 65 per cent in 2024,” he said.
“Congratulations to all the year 6 graduates on your hard work, perseverance, excellent behaviour and attendance.”
MEMBER for Leichhardt Warren Entsch is encouraging local not-for-profit organisations to apply for funding through the 2024–25 Volunteer Grants program, which is now accepting expressions of interest. The grants range from $1,0005,000 and any not-for-profit organisation supporting volunteers is eligible to apply. EOIs must be received before close of business on 10 January and will be reviewed by a local community committee, with selected organisations then invited to apply for the grant through the Department of Social Services in February 2025.
“The funding can be used to purchase essential equipment, deliver training, or run activities that directly benefit our local volunteers,” Mr Entsch said.
“These grants will go a long way to strengthening volunteer participation in our region.”
To download the EOI form, visit www. warrenentsch.com.au/grants.
There were smiles all round as Napranum’s Kluthuthu Christian College farewelled nine graduates and celebrated their achievements at an awards night in November.
Editor’s top questions answered
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
I WAS intending to pen a ranting missive about the Northern Peninsula Area’s ongoing water woes and how elected officials at both the local and state levels need to deliver solutions, not finger pointing, but it’s nearly Christmas and I don’t want to dull everyone’s festive vibe. Besides, there are only so many times per year you can point out the shortcomings of our public leaders without sounding like an obsessive lunatic.
Instead, with only one edition to go for 2024, I thought it an opportune time to reflect on some of the most frequent – and downright bizarre – questions I’ve been asked by both tourists and Cape York locals over the past 12 months.
Question 1: How long do I need to see Cape York?
Ah, the old how-long-is-apiece-of-string chestnut. Probably the most common question asked by adventurers before setting off on their Cape York trek and certainly the most subjective. How much time do you have? How much of the region do you want to see? Will you be towing a caravan, or do you have access to fast jets and intend to use RAAF Scherger as your base of operations? The F35A Lightning II has a top speed of almost 2,000 kilometres an hour,
meaning you could tick off the patch of dirt between the Torres Strait and Cooktown in about 28 minutes, if my maths are right. It’s a bit quicker than the 70km/h most caravanners seem speed limited to.
Question 2: Have you seen what’s in the paper?
As ridiculous as it sounds, I get asked this weekly by locals. I’m not sure what everything thinks being a newspaper editor actually involves, but I solemnly swear if it appears on the pages, I’ve cast my
eyes over it prior to sending it to the printer. I appreciate your concern, but there’s no need to make sure I read that story about such and such on page 6.
Question 3: How can I get cheap fuel on the Cape?
This one is usually lobbed in my direction while I’m filling up and a visitor has done a double-take after seeing the price of diesel and is in the process of adopting a quivering foetal position next to the bowser. Yes, we’re all painfully aware how
expensive it is to keep an internal combustion engine firing in this part of the world – try having to pay north of $2.50 per litre 52 weeks of the year.
The good news is that there is a way to protect your wallet at the service station. The bad news is that you’re going to have to bring your own siphon hose and a small backpack full of breath mints to take full advantage of your financial cunning. If you’ve got a fondness for Winfield Blues, however,
it may pay to give this plan a wide berth.
Question 4: Can I use roadhouse amenities without buying something?
If you’ve genuinely ever asked this question, you’re up there with the worst kinds of humans. What do you mean can you rock up to a roadhouse on PDR with your hoard of unruly, barely domesticated children to use the toilets and then disappear into the dust without spending a cent? There’s nothing our roadhouse operators love more than having to pay staff to clean amenities blocks sullied by visitors who have contributed absolutely zero to their bottom line. Don’t want to open your wallet? You could always embrace the whole bear-in-the-woods scenario.
Question 5: How long is too long for Pajinka photos?
Again, this is a persistent query that’s open to personal interpretation. For my money, if it takes you more than a few minutes to grab your happy snaps at the most iconic sign in Australia and then get on with actually enjoying the incredible environment around you, you’re probably doing it wrong. If you feel somehow impelled to take 50 photos, get video content and then launch a drone while dozens of other tourists bombard you with death stares queuing for their turn, you’re absolutely taking too long, and the reason social media has failed society.
Cape York Weekly Puzzles Page
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.
Dynamic duo tie for third in final of Survivor series
By LYNDON KEANE
WEIPA’S Jamie Hutton and Brock Lowrey have done western Cape York proud after finishing tied for third against some of the best amateur golfers in the country at the 2024 Survivor Golf grand final in Port Douglas on Sunday.
After firing an impressive practice round at Palmer Sea Reef on Saturday, the pair went into the 8 December showdown full of confidence against 26 teams from around Australia and returned to the clubhouse with an 8-under nett 63 to share third spot on the podium, just two strokes off the winners.
Speaking to Cape York Weekly after their round, Hutton said playing golf weekly in Weipa conditions had put the duo – competing as team Gingerman and Robin – in good stead against the other teams, but admitted the stifling humidity took its toll.
“It was amazing to finish T3 among teams from all around the country,” he said.
“Unfortunately, we played our final during the practice round on the Saturday, in the rain, which would have had us win today by two shots.
“We were more comfortable in the conditions than others, but
still found the humidity and wet fairways challenging.”
When asked to name their favourite shots of the round, Lowrey gave a nod to some strong putting from off the green to save par on multiple occasions, while Hutton’s tee shot on the 167-metre par-3 15th landed five feet from the hole to be in contention as the nearest to the pin.
“It was a true team effort to make the score, not so much individual brilliance,” Lowrey reflected.
The pair praised the Survivor Golf concept and said they were chomping at the bit to improve their grand final result in 2025, and encouraged more Weipa residents to join the local club and compete when the qualifying round returns next year.
“It has been an unreal weekend at the final, with lots of entertainment and prizes,” Hutton said.
“We would encourage more golfers in Weipa to become members at Carpentaria Golf
Club and try their hand at competition golf – we’ve proven we can compete with the best.”
“Survivor Golf is a brilliant concept, bringing people together from around the country to play a golf tournament with a purpose,” Lowrey said.
“We got to meet and talk to some good blokes, and have some conversations that wouldn’t normally happen.
“We will be back – the fire is still burning because we got so close this time.”
Craven prevails in big Dawnbusters field
FOUR new players joined the ranks of the Dawnbusters family when a field of 17 teed off in sultry conditions at Carpentaria Golf Club on 8 December.
When golfers returned to the clubhouse to cool off and reflect on their rounds, Ross Craven emerged victorious with a handy 40 off the stick for a chocolatebagging nett 15.
Josh Martin made the most of his handicap to card gross 59 and runner-up honours with nett 17.
Scott Andrews took the men’s long drive gong with some straight hitting, while Rachel Dick was the best of the women off the tee with the big stick.
Craven capped off a good round by winning nearest to the pin bragging rights.
Beth Dall was awarded the weekly Hoffman’s prize.
Golfers will contest the front nine in Weipa on 15 December, with competition tipped to be fierce as they battle for a coveted Christmas ham.
The first playing group will get away from about 6am, with new competitors always welcome to join the fun.
SPORT IN BRIEF
Wackers
battle Weipa wet
PLENTY of golfers turned out to contest the 2024 Wackers Championships on 4 December but the Weipa weather decided to throw a spanner in the works to wash out the oncourse action.
A number of players teed of either side of the scheduled showdown in order to put a card in, with Ross Craven (37/33) crowned the A-grade winner and Grant Crossley (44/35) the runner-up.
In B-grade, Viv Chan (45/35) won on countback, with Bruce Brockhurst claiming the bridesmaid title with 49/35.
Another countback was needed to determine the victor in C-grade as Pom (48/34) took the chocolates over Gary Head, who returned to the clubhouse with 49/34.
Close parkrun finish
ONE second was all that separated the first three finishers when 26 participants tackled Weipa parkrun #395 on 7 December.
Yasu Hamilton stopped the clock in 22 minutes, 56 seconds to be first across the finish line, with Ross Dawson and Michael Collins both recording a time of 22:57.
Two newcomers were welcomed, with Yvonne Rowland setting the event’s sole personal best.
Weipa golf AGM
FULL members of Carpentaria Golf Club are being asked to attend the 2024 annual general meeting on 14 December to help appoint a new committee for the coming year.
The AGM will commence at 9am at the clubhouse, with all current standing committee positions set to be declared vacant.
Nomination forms for those wanting to be on the new committee are available at the bar, or members can nominate at the meeting.
In addition to selecting a new committee, the AGM will provide an update on the financial position of the club.
For more information, call the club or check out the Facebook page.
Brock Lowrey and Jamie Hutton get ready to tee off in the 2024 Survivor Golf grand final in Port Douglas.
