The committee behind the Weipa Running Festival are among a record 21 community-focused individuals and groups nominated for Weipa Town Authority’s 2025 Australia Day Awards. See who else has been nominated for the three award categories on Page 7.
Space addition
Cape York’s reputation as the place to be in the local space race has skyrocketed after Equatorial Launch Australia abandoned its plan to offer launch services from south-eastern Arnhem Land in favour of relocating to Weipa. Read the full story on Page 3.
Jeannie Little OAM
(formerly Jans nee Ling)
In Loving Memory
In Loving Memory of Gaarkamunda Beloved wife of Ian Little.
Cherished daughter of the late Mr Edwin Ling and Mrs Amy Ling (nee King).
Dear sister to Ivan (dec), Keith (dec).
Sister-in-law to Ailsa Ling, Priscilla Ling-RossKelly, Peter & Frankie Little, and David (dec) & Pam Little.
Loving mother to Diana Jans and Keith Jans.
Adored grandmother to Jack Wilkie-Jans.
A Funeral Service to honour and celebrate Jeannie’s life will be held:
Date: Friday, 20th December 2024
Time: 9:00am
Location: The Service will be conducted at
Uniting Church Mapoon before final rest at Mapoon Cemetery, Mapoon
Monto Funeral Services 07 4166 1204
The Western Cape Centre would like to wish all of our community members a happy holiday season and all the best for the New Year ahead.
Please note that our office will be closed from the 20th December 2024, re-opening 6th January 2025.
PLUMBING
KAP fails in bid to reverse gillnet ban
KATTER’S Australian Party has slammed Premier David Crisafulli and the State Government for ignoring calls to debate the banning of gillnet fishing in the Gulf of Carpentaria, including around Kowanyama.
KAP moved an unsuccessful disallowance motion in Parliament on 10 December to reverse the former Labor government’s gillnet bans being debated in
Parliament. KAP has branded the ban “ideologically-driven decimation” of the local commercial fishing industry, and party leader Robbie Katter said the lack of support for the motion from the new Liberal National Party government was incredibly disappointing.
“The Crisafulli government had a chance to put its talk into action,” he said.
“The now-agriculture minister was quoted before the election as committing to use peerreviewed science to determine the future of Queensland’s gillnet fishers, not UNESCO-driven ideology.
“The minister and the government’s team have had two months to order peer-reviewed science, or agree with us that there is no reason to wipe out
Queensland’s sustainable supply of home-grown seafood.” The gillnet ban came into effect on 17 May and while Gulf of Carpentaria commercial fishers and KAP have been critical of the decision, it has been welcomed by environmental groups, Traditional Owners and fishing charter operators as a way to ensure the sustainability of local fisheries.
Time for a break: paper hits pause over holidays
AFTER 50 editions, today’s edition of the Cape York Weekly is the last for the year as the team prepares to take a well-earned break over the festive season.
Editor Lyndon Keane said 2024 had been a significant year for the masthead, which notched up its 200th edition in September, as well as for Cape York itself.
“It’s been a huge year on the Cape and, while I think we’ve had a few small wins, there’s still plenty of work to do to en-
sure the long-term economic and social sustainability of this part of the world we all love,” he said.
“From cost of living pressures to road infrastructure to a general lack of political interest, we will keep fighting for what’s important to Cape York and our readers.
“We know genuine regional journalism is becoming rarer and rarer, so to be able to celebrate our 200th edition with our readers earlier this year was
pretty special; there wouldn’t be a Cape York Weekly without you and our loyal advertisers, so thank you on behalf of the team.
“It’s our privilege to tell your stories each week and we can’t wait to get back into it after everyone has a bit of a break and reset.”
Everyone knows news does not really take a break, even for Santa Claus, so you will be able to keep up to date with breaking stories on the website during the three-week non-printing period.
If you’ve got a story you want to see shared during the silly season, you can still submit a news tip by emailing editor@capeyorkweekly.com.au or sending a message via the Cape York Weekly Facebook page. The Cape York Weekly team wishes all its readers and advertisers an extremely safe, happy and enjoyable Christmas, and looks forward to keeping the spotlight on the region when the first edition of 2025 returns on 14 January.
Santa’s little helpers have arrived on Cape York and are preparing to run amok, which means we are officially done for 2024, and will be back to share the region’s stories with our first edition for the new year on 14 January.
NT space operation set to make move to Weipa
By ANDREW MCLAUGHLIN
AN Australian multi-user commercial space launch company has announced it is halting its plans to offer launch services from Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory, and will instead move its launch site to Weipa.
Equatorial Launch Australia (ELA) made the sudden announcement on 9 December that it would “immediately cease operations” in the NT after it said it was unable to finalise a muchdelayed lease deal in Arnhem Land.
The company had built the foundations of the Arnhem Space Centre (ASC) 35 kilometres from Nhulunbuy, in the northeast of the NT, which would have comprised two launch pads capable of supporting a variety of different rockets, a horizontal integration centre, and a launch and mission control.
ELA’s decision comes less than two months after Space Centre Australia – which plans to build a spaceport on Cape York – had appointed former prime Minister Scott Morrison to its board as a non-executive chairman.
The advantage of launching from Australia’s far north is its proximity to the equator, allowing rockets launched towards the east against the earth’s rotation to place payloads in orbit faster and cheaper than those launched from lower latitudes.
In August 2023, ELA mission and orbit specialist Stephanie Marsh said “the surface of the Earth is travelling faster at the equator than at any other point on the globe … due to the rotational motion of the planet”.
“As a result, rockets launched from sites near the equator receive an additional natural boost to get into orbit, reducing the
amount and cost of fuel needed, and thereby increasing payload capacity,” she said.
ELA had hoped to host up to 50 launches each year from the ASC. But, despite appeals from ELA, the Northern Territory Chief Minister’s department and the Gumatj Corporation since February 2024, the Northern Land Council (NLC) had been unable to issue a head lease for the ASC or provide any official reasons for the delays.
“This decision has been forced by the inability of [ELA] to finalise a lease for the expansion of the Arnhem Space Centre,” a statement from ELA reads.
“The decision came after the NLC failed to meet its own specified deadline for the approval of the head lease for the fourth time over the last 12 months in October 2024.
“The continued delays from
community connected all-year round
Sea Swift has provided regular, reliable deliveries of essential goods and services to the Torres Strait for over 35 years We are passionate about working with councils and remote communities, and keeping the Torres Strait connected.
Swift is a key provider in the Torres Strait and an active advocate for
the NLC have made the existence of the spaceport in the Northern Territory challenging, and the most recent delay to late 2025 to allow consultation with Traditional Owner groups had the potential to put ELA in breach of its contractual obligations with launch clients, and jeopardised a previously secured major funding round.”
As a result, ELA has been negotiating with the Queensland State Government about a possible alternative site on Cape York.
“Working with the Queensland Government, ELA has identified a potential alternate site and have commenced planning and regulatory clearances for its contracted launches in Q3 2025,” the company said.
“The new site, named the Australian Space Centre Cape York, will be at Weipa in Queensland.”
Equatorial Launch Australia has announced it will move its operation to western Cape York after ongoing consultation and leasing delays caused the company to scrap its plan to offer launch services from Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory.
O
Cape star goes national to voice lofty ambitions
By CHISA HASEGAWA
JUST six years after picking up a Sherrin for the first time, a Weipa Australian football star’s inspiring journey will take her all the way to Canberra to be a voice for her community.
Delphina Day, 18, was announced as one of the winners of the 2025 ABC Heywire competition last Wednesday after her story was selected as one of 38 out of hundreds of entries across the nation to represent her pocket of Australia.
“It’s just such a surreal feeling; I just did it because one of my teachers encouraged me to submit and see if anything comes out of it, and I just never pictured myself in this situation today,” she said.
ABC Heywire, a national storytelling competition for regional, rural and remote youth, attracts hundreds of young people aged 16-22 who are looking to drive projects for their often unheard and under-represented communities.
The winners will attend the Heywire Regional Youth Summit in Canberra early next year, where their ideas aimed at improving the lives of young people in remote Australia will be presented at Parliament House before the young people take their ideas back to their communities.
For Ms Day, those ideas will stem from her passion for AFL and how it can change lives.
She said she had always been a lover of all sports, having tried netball, swimming, gymnastics, soccer, BMX, speedway racing, and even cheerleading, but when the AFL Cape York clinic came to town when she was 12, she never looked back.
“I’d never ever touched an AFL ball in my life, but when I picked it up, it was just like it was meant to be,” she said.
“I always knew when I grew up, I’d want to do something
with my sport, I just didn’t quite know what it was at a young age because I tried so many, and when I found AFL, I just knew.
“In a weird way, you could say it’s like an addiction; some people are addicted to substances, but I’m addicted to footy.”
AFL Cape York game development team member Matt Mellahn, who ran the clinic that awoke Ms Day’s love of the sport, said she was a natural from day one.
“I do remember her quite well; she was at St Joey’s at the time and she was a very strong AFL player from the start,” he said.
“She was one of the first girls that really stood out, and we’re
pretty spoiled with the talent that we get across the Cape.
“She’s a lovely girl and she deserves everything she gets, because she’s a wonderful and talented young lady.”
Ms Day, who was adopted by parents Scott and Kris Wallace at a young age, said footy helped her find her way.
“As an Indigenous kid, I suppose stuck between two worlds, living with white parents and being black, I was looked down on by my Indigenous community but also judged by the Weipa community,” she recalled.
“It was just so hard; I always just felt stuck and really lost, and footy helped me so much mentally.”
Despite the hardships, she said she would not have had it any other way, and thanked her parents for everything they had done to support her dreams.
Now, she encouraged other young people to go after their dreams, letting nothing and no one stop them, just as her parents had taught her.
“My biggest life lesson is that there’s going to be so many people in your life that are going to tell you that you can’t and you won’t make it, but you’ve just got to use that negative fuel and turn it into something that pushes you, so that at the end of the day, you can walk away knowing that you’ve proved them wrong,” she reflected.
WTA Christmas closures
WEIPA Town Authority (WTA) has released its closure dates for the 2024 Christmas period. The WTA office and library will close at 12pm on 24 December and reopen on 6 January, with the Weipa Aquatic and Sports Precinct gym and kiosk to close at the same time, with after-hours access for members only.
In good news for those trying to keep cool, the Weipa Aquatic Centre will only close from 25-26 December, and will be open on other public holidays from 9am5pm, as well as all other days as per usual operating hours.
Slashing teaching red tape
CAPE York and Torres Strait teachers will soon be able to spend more time educating and less time on paperwork following a State Government push to slash red tape. The government’s Teacher Red Tape Reduction Working Group had its first meeting on 9 December and has been given a mandate to reduce education red tape by 25 per cent.
In addition to the advice of the working group, the government will consult with teachers from around the state throughout term one next year.
Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said the working group would provide advice on ways to stop, reduce and refine the mounting list of non-teaching duties.
“By slashing unnecessary red tape, we will give teachers more time to focus on their core work with students,” he said.
Whooping cough warning
AS cases of pertussis (whooping cough) continue to rise across Cape York and the Torres Strait, parents and caregivers are being urged to ensure everyone’s vaccinations are up to date.
There have been 134 notifications of whooping cough had been recorded across the region so far this year, compared to zero for the same period last year.
“In fact, we had no recorded cases at all in 2023 and, indeed, no previous recorded cases since 2019,” Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service’s Dr Allison Hempenstall said.
“We’ve had clusters of cases right across the region throughout the year, including at Cooktown and Weipa, with new cases still being reported at Weipa.
“Across Queensland, 12,590 confirmed cases of whooping cough have been recorded so far this year, compared to 549
Weipa footy star Delphina Day has been announced as a 2025 ABC Heywire winner.
Family celebrates another Christmas lights victory
By CHISA HASEGAWA
SPENDING weeks putting up ex-
travagant Christmas lights might not be everyone’s idea of fun, but you have to admit there is nothing quite as magical as driving past a beautifully illuminated house in December.
Bringing the magic to western Cape York Mahogany Avenue were Penelope and Lachlan John-
son, whose dazzling display secured them the People’s Choice Award in this year’s Weipa Town Authority Christmas Lights Competition last Thursday.
The long-running competition celebrated the town’s best light displays in three categories – Most Festive Display, Most Creative Display and People’s Choice.
Ms Johnson, who has participated every year, said it was a big
effort, but the joy it brought to the community made it all worth it.
“I love the lights, but I do it for the kids; when you hear the kids gasp with excitement when they see the lights, it’s really special,” she said.
“I started putting them up at the start of November, so I made sure I had them finished and up by the first of December so I could turn them on.”
This year was the Johnsons’ third win across different categories, with the pair awarded Most Creative Display in two previous competitions.
“People’s Choice is the town’s vote, so it’s definitely a different feeling to not just have the judge’s kudos,” Ms Johnson said.
“It really makes all the effort worthwhile when the community love it.”
Be wary of Christmas leftovers
CHRISTMAS, hot weather and upset stomachs do not have to go together if Cape York residents follow a few simple food safety tips this festive season, according to Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS).
While the sweltering conditions cannot be avoided, TCHHS public health medical officer Dr Allison Hempenstall said there was plenty that could be done to ensure food poisoning did not add to discomfort levels.
“During the festive season, we can expect many more gatherings of family and friends and sharing of food to occur during the festive season,’’ she said.
“We want people to enjoy themselves, but also make sure there are no unfortunate aftereffects. Preparing food for a lot of people can be risky, especially at this time of the year, when several generations get together, the weather is hot and the fridge is overloaded.”
Food-borne illnesses affect an estimated 4.1 million Australians each year, and Dr Hempenstall said many types of bugs could cause food poisoning.
“Poultry, chicken, turkey, rolled and stuffed roasts, sausages and mince dishes should be cooked fully,” she said.
E N Z E D W E I P A
A transfer of Ownership Notice & Goodbye from Andrew Sands
It is with pleasure that I, Andrew Sands, announce that Luke Puglisi has taken control of ENZED Weipa and that I will no longer be involved with its operations
After nearly 8 years at ENZED Weipa, Luke brings a wealth of experience and commitment to our core values I am secure in the knowledge the business will continue our high level of customer service with no immediate changes to the products, services, or dedicated team that you’ve come to know
In my 38 years of supplying Weipa and surrounds, I have developed a great affection for the region and its people ENZED began supplying products to Weipa when Barry Sands opened ENZED Cairns in 1982 The business continued to grow and in 1999, ENZED Weipa opened with just a container and a truck!
And now, as this chapter in my life closes, it would be remiss of me not to mention the efforts of several of the people who have made ENZED Weipa the success it is today
Elizabeth Sands, Lee Bell, Bree Harris-Ellis, Natalie Cavanagh, David Sands, Peter Bremner, Darren Hard, Jason Miller, Craig Philip as well as all of the Hose Doctors and people who have worked with us over the years, I want to express sincere gratitude for your trust and support over the years I would also like to thank the businesses and people who have supported our endeavors – without customers, there is no business!
I can’t wait to see Luke make ENZED Weipa his own and I hope for your patronage will continue long after this period of change
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays & New Year, Andrew Sands
Cres, Evans Landng, QLD, 4874
The Johnson family celebrates their third Weipa Christmas Lights Competition win.
Weipa sets new mark for awards
By LYNDON KEANE
THE outstanding contributions of Weipa residents and groups to the western Cape York community has been reflected in a record number of nominations being submitted for the 2025 Australia Day Awards.
Weipa Town Authority (WTA) unveiled the diverse list of nominees last week, which include mental health advocates, community champions and the committees behind some of Weipa’s highest-profile annual events.
Awards will be presented in three categories – Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year and Community Spirit Award.
Cape York Boxing Weipa founder and coach Scott Wallace is among the nominees and said he had been thrilled to see his name on the list after dedicating years to promoting youth sport in the community.
“I haven’t really thought about it too much, but it’s an honour,” he said.
“I’m pretty rapt, but that’s not why I do it; I do it for my kids, all the kids of Weipa – it’s just to get kids into sport, expose them to it and take them further.”
Fellow nominee Jamie Thomas, who made the list after returning junior soccer and futsal to Weipa, told Cape York Weekly he had been surprised by his nomination.
“I was pleasantly surprised – I wasn’t expecting it,” he said.
“It’s nice to be recognised for the work I’ve been doing in the community, I feel really thankful.”
WTA Chair Jaime Gane said the record number of nominations reflected Weipa’s community spirit and praised the contributions of those in the running for awards.
“This year, we’ve had a record number of 21 people nominated for our annual Australia Day Awards for a variety of different reasons, which is a testament to this com-
munity and the outstanding people who contribute greatly to making Weipa a better place to live for all of us,” she said.
“The Australia Day Awards night is great way to celebrate and thank the nominees for their efforts throughout the previous year, and do something special for them in return.
“These people always put the community before themselves, so it’s nice to put them to the front
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for once and show our gratitude.”
In January, the father-and-son pairing of Reuben and Hunter Slingo were named the 2024 Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year respectively, with Naty Linnehan and Scott Kootoofa sharing the Community Spirit Award.
The 21 nominees for the 2025 awards are 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, Talke About It Tuesday, Theona Down, Tracey Small, the Weipa Gymnastics Club, Weipa parkrun, the Weipa Rodeo Association, the Weipa Running Festival committee and the Weipa Social Netball committee.
Winners will be announced at a presentation ceremony at the Albatross Bay Resort on 22 January.
PUTTING VICTIMS FIRST
ADULT
CRIME
ADULT
TIME
New laws are now in place to make Queensland safer.
The new laws mean the rights of victims now take priority over the rights of young criminals in sentencing, young offenders can now receive adult sentences for serious crimes, and detention for young offenders is no longer a last resort.
NO LONGER A LAST RESORT
The government will keep young people on track with new early intervention and rehabilitation programs.
To find out how these new laws will help restore safety, search Making Queensland Safer.
the Queensland Government, William Street, Brisbane.
Jamie Thomas, pictured coaching the under-8 Weipa FNQ Futsal Club at the Far North Queensland titles in Cairns in November, is one of 21 nominees for Weipa Town Authority’s 2025 Australia Day Awards.
Building a sustainable, culturally vibrant and connected community
Area Region
NPARC Services – 2024/25 Holiday Season H OURS OF OPERATION:
Jardine Ferry
23 December 2024 8am – 5pm
24 December 8am – 2pm
25 December Closed
26 December Closed
27 December 8am to 5pm
28 December 8am to 5pm
29 December 8am to 5pm
30 December 8am – 5pm
31 December 8am – 2pm
1 January 2025 Closed
Umagico Supermarket
24 December 2024 8am - 6pm
25 December Closed
26 December 8am - 1pm
27 December 8am - 8pm
28 December 8am - 8pm
29 December 12pm - 5pm
30 December 12pm - 5pm
31 December 8am - 7pm
1 January 2025 Closed
2 January 8am - 5pm
2 January 8am - 5pm (resume normal hours)
Rangers
Closed 25 December 2024 – 1 January 2025
Batching Plant
Closed 25 December – 1 January 2025
Property & Facilities
Closed 25 December 2024 – 1 January 2025
3 January 8am - 8pm (resume normal hours)
Injinoo Service Station
Christmas Operating Times
24 December 8am - 12pm
25 December Closed
26 December 8am – 12pm
31 December 8am – 12pm
1 January 2025 Closed
*All other days - trading as below:
Normal Hours of Operations
Mon – Friday 8am – 5pm
Sat – Sun 2pm – 5pm
NPA Airport
Social Housing Maintenance
Contact Housing via the Blue Phone or Maintenance Call Centre 1300 738 616
Maintenance After Hours Emergency 1800808107
Noise Complaints
Contact Police on 000 or via Police Link
Community Services
Closed 25 December 2024 – 1 January 2025
Regulatory Services
Small skeleton crew 27 – 31 December 2024
Waste Transfer Station
23 December 2024 8.30am – 4.45pm
24 December 8.30am – 4.45pm
25 December Closed (Skip bin on driveway)
26 December Closed (Skip bin on driveway)
Will operate as normal depending on Flights
Aged Care
Closed 25 December 2024 – 1 January 2025
Limited services provided from 23 December 2024 – 5 January 2025
Parks & Gardens
Small skeleton crew 27 – 31 December 2024
27 December 8.30am – 4.45pm
28 December 8.30am – 2.45pm
29 December 2pm – 5pm
30 December 8.30am – 4.45pm
31 December 8.30am – 4.45pm
1 January 2025 Closed (Skip bin on driveway)
Kerbside collection (Bin truck)
25 December 2024 No collection
26 December No collection
27 December Bamaga, Umagico + Commercial
30 December Seisia, New Mapoon & Injinoo
31 December Bamaga & Umagico
1 January 2025 No collection
Normal on call arrangements as per Council website: www.nparc.qld.gov.au
All NPARC Offices - Bamaga, New Mapoon, Seisia, Umagico, Injinoowill be closed from 25 December 2024 & re-open on 2 January 2025
Be on the lookout for Elder abuse: CCLC
AN organisation supporting senior members of Cape York and Torres Strait communities is urging people to be vigilant for signs of Elder abuse and financial exploitation amid concerns it is being ignored in some remote areas.
The Cairns Community Legal Centre (CCLC) is a not-forprofit providing free legal and social support services to those experiencing disadvantage in the Far North, with its Seniors Legal and Social Support Service (SLASSS) team offering dedicated assistance to seniors affected by, or at risk of, elder abuse or financial exploitation.
Elder abuse is any act within
a relationship of trust resulting in harm to an older person, while financial exploitation can include a range of actions, such as the illegal or improper use of someone’s property or finances, or humbugging, where family members take advantage of an Elder by eating their food, pressuring them for money, and using their house and car without giving any care or support in return.
SLASSS team member and social worker Lauren Esposito said regular outreach visits were undertaken across Cape York and the Torres Strait to provide on-the-ground support.
“When undertaking outreach,
both the social worker and lawyer are able to meet with the client together, often at their home, aged care facility, hospital or other safe place,” she said.
“If it’s not possible to meet with clients in person, the team will do their best to facilitate contact in the most accessible and culturally safe way.”
The 2020 Australian National Elder Abuse Prevalence Study found one in six older people living in community experienced Elder abuse, but Ms Esposito said “anecdotal observations and the stories we are told” led the team to believe the incidence of abuse was much higher.
“One of the major barriers to
addressing abuse is the level of shame and fear of reporting that it often carries for victims,” she told Cape York Weekly
“Working with small communities and taking into consideration the cultural aspect of what family and friends means in a small community makes it more difficult to curb the incidence of abuse. People often find it hard to access our service without others knowing, and there is a very real fear of the repercussions if they do speak with us.”
For support regarding Elder abuse or financial exploitation, call the CCLC on 1800 062 608 or the Elder Abuse Prevention Unit on 1300 651 192.
Kepple shares summer memories at exhibition
By CHISA HASEGAWA
A COEN painter is keeping generations of stories and memories alive on canvas at UMI Arts’ final exhibition of the year, The Summer Show.
Wik Mungkan artist Marilyn Kepple was one of 12 First Nations talents showcased when the exhibition opened late last month, treating the Cairns community to her signature colourful style representing the vibrant flora and fauna of Country.
Her works, depicting water lilies, file snakes and jabiru birds, will be available to view at UMI Arts until 20 February 2025.
“Growing up as a child in Coen, my earliest memories are of camping and hunting with my family,” Ms Kepple said.
“My pieces are centred around the animals and the flora, because those are the memories of my childhood and spending time with my family, and I’m telling my story through my artwork.”
Ms Kepple’s eye-catching pieces fit perfectly with The Summer Show’s theme, showcasing the beauty of the Cape’s landscape and its inhabitants after the wet season.
“What I see is what I interpret in my work, so I see a lot of bright colours after wet season,” she said.
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.
“There’s a different feeling after wet season – it’s more happy; it’s like the animals and the landscapes are refreshed.
Support includes:
“When it’s dry, it gets really dry, and you get a different scenery; the animals and the plants don’t look so healthy, but when it’s after the wet season, they’re flourishing again.”
The artist said her paintings were also an amalgamation of the various stories that had been passed onto her by her family, and they have helped her stay connected to her culture.
“There’s stories that have been passed on to me from my brothers and older sister and mother, so that’s my way of interpreting them and showcasing them, and hopefully that can be one way for people to learn about traditional ways of life and how we used to live,” she said.
“Also, because two of my siblings are now deceased, I’d like to keep their memories alive as well and to honour them, because I feel it’s very special that they shared their stories with me before they passed.
“I lived in the Western world for a long time, but I also have that cultural background as well because of how I was brought up and what I was taught, and painting has helped me be connected to Country and to the stories.”
• 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.
NEWS IN BRIEF
School holiday program
WITH the wet season set to keep kids indoors, Weipa Town Authority (WTA) has launched its December and January school holiday program to give parents a helping hand when it comes to keeping the township’s youngest residents entertained.
The program promises fun-filled days of creativity and adventure, and tickets will be available seven days before each week of activities begin.
Week two is currently under way until 20 December.
To book your tickets, or for more information, visit the WTA website or call 4030 9400.
Santa’s lolly run
FIREFIGHTERS will help Santa Claus deliver lollies to good children in Weipa and Napranum on Christmas Eve as part of Rio Tinto’s 2024 lolly run.
The special North Pole guest will be visiting all streets in both communities, so keep an eye out for him riding the fire truck, which will sound its siren as it arrives in each new street.
Residents will also be able to live track Santa’s progress on the Rio Tinto Weipa Facebook page.
In the event fire appliances are required to respond to an incident, Santa will not be able to make his rounds.
For more information, call Michael Thompson on 0460 041 328 or check out the Rio Tinto Weipa Facebook page.
Changemaker workshop
THE Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF) will host a two-day workshop in February 2025 aimed at leadership development for those who want to play a more active role in the Weipa community.
The workshop will be run in partnership with Cape York Natural Resource Management and is open to individuals who have a strong desire to drive meaningful change within their community, an interest in finding innovative solutions for complex challenges, a commitment to exploring new approaches for building a thriving community, and an interest in driving local action to prepare for drought effectively.
ARLF chief executive Matt Linnegar said the workshop “empowers individuals who wish to make a real difference in their communities”.
The workshop will be held on 12-13 February at the Weipa Motel Resort.
For more information, or to register, visit www.programs.rural-leaders.org.au/ changemaker-region13-weipa.
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 to know more Contact us on 1300 605 092 or email evp@raatsicc.org.au Funded by Department of Social Services
Marilyn Kepple’s vibrant artworks are keeping her culture and generations of memories alive. Photo: Lovegreen Photography.
Candidate geared up for election
By LYNDON KEANE
THE candidate hoping to replace retiring MP Warren Entsch as the Liberal National Party (LNP) representative for Leichhardt is urging Prime Minister Anthony Albanese not to get “trigger happy” and set up a wet season federal election for Cape York and Torres Strait voters.
Sitting down with Cape York Weekly last week, paramedicturned-political aspirant Jeremy Neal pulled no punches when asked what he thought it would mean for candidates and communities if the election was called for early March 2025, as many Canberra observers are tipping.
“I’m not going to lie, it’s going to be very difficult,” he said.
“We’ve got a wet season coming up and if it’s anything like the last one, we’ll have communities cut off in a matter of days, if not weeks.
“Depending on how long we have to campaign over, it’s going to determine how we’re going to campaign up the Cape.
“The idea is just being in front of actual people up in the Cape, you know, then to be seen in front of organisations and heads of government up there; it’s being in front of actual people, hearing their issues.”
Mr Neal was preselected by the LNP in September and said while he expected an early election to be held, he believed it would be
detrimental to communities across northern Australia as the wet season became a priority.
“I’m not too sure what the game is for the current government for
calling it or having it earlier on,” he said.
“I do worry that if they are a bit trigger happy and go early, that we aren’t going to be able to get
around to being in the communities to hear what they need, what they want, especially from Canberra.”
Mr Neal will be supported with his campaign by wife Leearna and
Merry Christmas
sons Taj, 15, Kai, 12, and fouryear-old Winston, and said he decided to throw his hat in the ring to replace Mr Entsch after seeing “how Canberra directly affects our lives, even though it’s so far away”.
“We’re talking four days’ drive from Canberra, if you’re lucky,” he said.
On the subject of driving, Mr Neal said he expected road infrastructure to be a key concern raised by Cape York voters during the campaign, adding he was committed to ensuring funding for future stages of the Cape York Region Package remained a priority.
“We have to be realistic, this is not going to be an overnight fix,” he said when asked what his vision for sealing the Peninsula Developmental Road (PDR) would be if elected.
“We need to identify the areas along the PDR that do go under first [during the wet season] and be working hard on those areas to start with.
“I know some of the roads are [State Government] controlled and some are with councils; I don’t mind who owns the roads – if the locals need it, I’ll be advocating for it.”
So far, only two candidates have been formally announced to contest Leichhardt, with former Cairns Taipans player Matt Smith set to fly the flag for Labor when voters head to the polls.
Liberal National Party candidate for Leichhardt Jeremy Neal says he is concerned a federal election being called during the wet season will have a negative impact on Cape York and Torres Strait voters.
community connect
December 2024
From the general manager
Here we are at the end of 2024, and what a busy year it’s been for the Weipa community and our operations. There’s plenty to reflect on as we look back on our achievements and milestones.
We’ve had some notable achievements, including record production months and meeting our Indigenous employment targets. We’ve also increased local spending and community engagement.
I’m grateful for the hard work and dedication from our teams across all areas. Your efforts have made Weipa a better place to live and work.
A special thanks to our Movember team, The Great Northern Flavour Savers, for your impressive fundraising this year. Thank you to everyone who supported this cause.
Our Inclusion, Equity, and Diversity committee, We Belong, also hosted a well-received morning tea for International Men’s Day with strong community support. Mental health and well-being remain top priorities for us.
This year, we invested over $580,000 into local communities as part of our agreements, along with providing in-kind support for local events
and festivals. You can find a summary of the events and engagements we’ve attended throughout the year on the back page.
We also spent significant amounts with Indigenous businesses and local businesses, aiming to keep our spending local whenever possible.
Santa will be doing his annual lolly run on Tuesday, 24 December, with two fire trucks and our Emergency Services team visiting Weipa and Napranum.
Keep an eye on our Rio Tinto Weipa Facebook page for live updates on the truck locations and when they’ll be in your area. Please a safe distance from the moving vehicles and keep children off the road.
With school holidays in full swing, it’s important to ensure our children stay safe while enjoying their break. Please remind them to avoid dangerous areas such as train tracks and mining sites, even if they appear inactive. Let’s work together to keep our community safe.
Finally, I wish everyone a happy and safe festive season. Whether you’re traveling, staying home, or working, please stay safe, take care of your
friends and family, and I look forward to seeing you all in the new year.
Stay safe, Steve Dunstone
Employment update
During the September/October school holidays, we had the pleasure of hosting six students from boarding schools in Cairns and Townsville, along with local students from Northern Peninsular Area State College and Western Cape College, for a work experience program. They got a close look at their areas of interest within our operations.
Over 4-5 days, the students rotated through different teams, gaining valuable insights into our operations, career pathways, and various roles. They were placed in areas such as Emergency Services, Environment, Land and Rehabilitation, Diesel Fitting, Fitter & Turner, and Administration, both in our Northern and Southern Operations.
It was a fantastic opportunity for these students to explore potential career paths and see firsthand what it’s like to work in these fields.
Wrapping up the Mo-moment
Movember is a cause that means a lot to many of us here, especially since we’ve seen firsthand how mental and physical health issues can affect men, particularly in remote communities like ours.
Every year, our incredible Movember team, The Great Northern Flavour Savers, comes together to raise awareness and support for men’s health issues, including mental health, suicide prevention, and prostate and testicular cancer.
This year, the team decided to try something new and exciting. Led by our Movember team captain Fiona Langsdorf, Sodexo’s National Health and Wellness Manager Kodie Carter, and the Albatross
Bay Resort, they organized a fantastic fundraising event that really brought the community together.
The event had everything from informative talks on men’s health, live music, and trivia to mechanical bull rides and over $4,000 in raffle prizes donated by local groups and businesses.
One of the highlights was the live leg waxing of our Northern Operations HEQ Superintendent Gerard Montafia —a promise kept after we hit our $8,000 fundraising goal. The night raised over $2,000 from raffles and mechanical bull rides, adding to our team’s total of over $14,000 for Movember.
A huge thank you to everyone who supported the event, especially Sodexo, Albatross Bay Resort, and local businesses. With such overwhelming success, the team is already planning an even bigger and better event for next year!
Ely Bursaries now open
The Ely Bursary Education Assistance Scheme is now open for 2025 applications.
The scheme provides financial support for local Aboriginal people attending boarding school or higher education, like TAFE or university, and can be used for things such as tuition fees, school resources, uniforms, and IT equipment.
Bursaries are available to local Aboriginal people from, or currently living within the vicinity of Mapoon, Napranum, and New Mapoon communities who have a traditional or historical affiliation with that community.
To find out more about this program, please reach out to Tania Johnson on 0400 564 207. Applications close on Friday, 17 January 2025.
Paving the way for career success
There are lots of different ways you can start a career in mining, and it’s never too early (or too late) to start learning on the job.
One of the ways we support our younger generation to get a head start in their careers is by offering first-hand on-the-job experience through our school-based apprenticeship program for Year 12 students.
2024 has been a great year for our current trainees, with every student participating in the program being offered a full-time apprenticeship in their chosen field for next year.
The traineeship programs start in Year 11, with students attending the workplace weekly during the school term and undertaking practical training blocks during the school holidays.
Not only are these students set up for success with the foundational skills they have learned on the job over the past twelve months, but they are also well on their way to building strong careers in mining and beyond.
Santa’s Annual Lolly Run
Santa’s Annual Lolly Run will be held on Tuesday 24 December from 2.30pm. Two Rio Tinto fire trucks will be visiting the communities of Weipa and Napranum. Please refer to the Rio Tinto Weipa Facebook page for live updates.
Rio Tinto Community Relations office closure The Rio Tinto Community Relations Office will be closed from Tuesday 24 to Friday 27 December and on Wednesday 1 January 2025.
Ely Bursaries now open
Applications for the 2025 Ely Bursary Education Assistance Scheme are open until Friday 17 January 2025.
For planned power outages and live updates on unplanned outages please visit: https://weipaelectricity.riotinto.com or our Facebook page facebook.com/RioTintoWeipa
International Men’s Day BBQ success
We Belong is our fantastic site-based inclusion, equity, and diversity committee, dedicated to making our workplace more dynamic and inclusive.
On November 19, the team hosted a BBQ breakfast to celebrate International Men’s Day, bringing the
Bella celebrates 25 year milestone
Bella Savo has been a cornerstone of our business since she joined Comalco in 1999 as a Community Liaison Officer. Over the past 25 years, she has built vital relationships between our organisation and Traditional Owners, playing a key role in transforming the Indigenous Lands Use Agreement into the Western Cape Communities Co-Existence Agreement (WCCCA).
Currently, Bella works with our Cultural Heritage team, where she helps identify and protect culturally significant sites within the mine lease, such as middens, scarred trees, and stone artefacts. She has also contributed to the rehabilitation of Country by returning scarred trees to areas where mining has ceased.
As a mother of four and grandmother of eight, Bella is a role model not only to her family and clan group but also to women in the mining industry and the Western Cape communities. She says, “I love a challenge and I love my job. I would love to see more women in mining.”
Thank you, Bella, for your 25 years of dedication and fostering collaboration.
community together for a meaningful event.
The breakfast featured inspiring guest speakers who led important conversations about the unique challenges men and boys face, how to prioritize mental and physical health, and ways to make a positive impact in our community.
A huge thank you to everyone who attended, and a special shout-out to the We Belong committee for making this event possible!
Bob Brown celebrates 40 years
If you’ve met Bob Brown, you know how knowledgeable and passionate he is about the Mission River Bridge. And if you haven’t, Bob just celebrated 40 years with the business—what a feat!
Bob’s journey began in October 1984 with Comalco, working as a boilermaker in the main workshop. Since then, he’s worn many hats across different departments and has thrived in his current role as a structural officer at our Northern Operations since the mid-1990s.
When asked what he loves most about his job, Bob shared that it’s the variety of challenges and opportunities that keep things interesting, along with the amazing people he gets to meet and work with every day.
Outside of work, you’ll often find Bob camping along the East Coast of Cape York or hiking and exploring the beautiful place he calls home.
Bob’s dedication and commitment over the past 40 years is truly inspiring. Thank you, Bob, for your incredible years of service!
Bridge and train track safety
School holidays are in full swing, and we love the freedom and lifestyle our children can enjoy here on the Cape. However, we’d like to remind parents to please talk to their children about the dangers of trespassing on train tracks and fishing off the Mission River Bridge.
Sometimes, it can be hard to hear oncoming trains, which can be surprisingly quiet, and it can take
nearly a kilometre—the length of the Mission River Bridge—for a train to stop. This means they cannot stop quickly enough to avoid a collision if people are crossing or walking along the tracks.
If your kids are heading off on their bikes to throw in a line, please remind them to follow the signage about fishing near the Mission River Bridge and to stay clear of the bridge itself and oncoming traffic.
Lastly, we kindly ask everyone to avoid throwing fish frames off the bridge, as we have a team of divers working in the water, and ensuring their safety from unwanted water predators is paramount.
Social investment
We’ve had the pleasure of sponsoring a wide variety of events, projects, and initiatives through our social investment programs this year.
From community festivals and events to laser equipment, development workshops, and silk arts, we’ve supported a diverse range of activities.
This year, we’ve invested over $580,000 through our Community Development Fund (CDF) and our Sponsorships and Donations Program into communities across the Cape.
We’ve also attended 38 community events in Weipa, Napranum, Aurukun, Mapoon, and the Northern Peninsula Area.
If you’re interested in applying for funding through our 2025 Sponsorships and Donations program, applications will be open from:
• 1 March to 30 April 2025
• 1 July to 30 October 2025
Applications for funding through the Community Development Fund can be submitted at any time throughout the year.
We look forward to continuing our support for these wonderful community initiatives!
Working at Amrun
Interested in what it’s like to work at Amrun? Find out first hand from some of our employees who are working our 7 on 7 off Amrun roster.
Community feedback and complaints
At Rio Tinto the strength of our relationships with the communities where we operate, and broader society, is fundamental to our business.
Rio Tinto is willing to learn from our mistakes, by listening to understand and genuine partnering, we will deliver better long-term outcomes for everyone.
Every complaint will be carefully considered and a written response will be provided. We encourage open communication and collaboration to work towards an agreed resolution for all involved.
If a resolution cannot be reached, your complaint will be escalated to management who will reassess the issue and undertake an internal investigation to confirm the next steps. An independent tribunal may be considered for complaints of a serious or complex nature.
How can I provide feedback or make a complaint?
Complaints can be made anonymously, please let us know if you wish to remain anonymous.
1800 820 711
to speak to our Communities and Social Performance team, Monday to Friday, 8am-4pm. RTAWeipaFeedback@riotinto.com
In person at Rio Tinto Community Relations, Artie Wales Drive, Weipa. Monday to Friday, 8am4pm.
Aiden’s Story Jason’s Story
Symposium has big momentum
By LYNDON KEANE
BRINGING key government and business stakeholders to the region to discuss its future in May 2025 will provide a strong platform for success, according to the chair of Weipa Town Authority (WTA).
Planning is well under way for the second Western Cape Futures Symposium, which will be held in the township on 7-8 May, after the inaugural event in 2023 was heralded an overwhelming success.
The long-term economic and social prosperity of the region will be the only topic on delegates’ lips when doors open at the event and WTA Chair Jaime Gane said she was looking forward to having a diverse range of stakeholders, including politicians and business operators, on hand to have their say.
“The symposium provides an opportunity to bring people into our region to participate in a truly collaborative forum, and hear about local aspirations from the people on the ground,” she said.
“Usually, these type of events are held in and focused on the major centres, which makes it hard to get noticed if you are a small remote community or region.
“Holding an event on the western Cape means that the focus is totally on us, and with such a strong group of partner organisations working together, makes it hard for government to ignore.”
Cook Shire Council has joined the 10 partner organisations – including James Cook University – involved in the sympo-
sium and Jennifer McHugh, program coordinator of Development in the Tropics for The Cairns Institute, said there had already been plenty of interest from potential speakers and panel members on the strength of the inaugural event.
“Planning for this year’s event has been significantly different from the inaugural one in 2023,” she said.
“Unlike last time, we’re no longer promoting an untested concept for the western Cape.
“Instead of having to explain our vision, we now have people approaching us, eager to be involved.
“Interest in the 2025 symposium is already so high that we’ve decided to cap attendance; in 2023, we had 180 registrants, and we fully anticipate exceeding that number in 2025.”
Ms Gane said while key themes were expected to remain relevant, a diversity of speakers meant additional, potentially unique opportunities for the region, were likely to be discovered.
“I think we will keep many of the same themes from the last event, as they are all still relevant, but having different speakers can further highlight potential opportunities for the region.
“There are people all over the country doing exciting and innovative things which we could learn from and potentially replicate.
“One of the new themes will be around the transitioning economy, and what opportunities exist post mining.”
Merry Christmas from Bob Katter
As we celebrate this Christmas, let’s take these words and strive to be instruments of peace, love, and joy in our families and communities.
The prayer of St. Francis of Assisi reminds us of this. He prayed,
“Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood, as to understand; to be loved, as to love; for it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen.”
Even if you’re not a believer - it’s a lovely story - a little kid being born out the back of a pub in a stable. Not many kids are born in a shed, but this kid did and he went on to become the most important person, I believe, in human history.
Merry Christmas to you all. Let this season be one of true meaning.
Space Centre Australia chief executive officer James Palmer and AusWaste Environmental Services owner Kenny Read participate in a panel session at the inaugural Western Cape Futures Symposium, with the event scheduled to return to Weipa on 7-8 May 2025.
Community Feedback and Complaints
At Rio Tinto the strength of our relationships with the communities where we operate, and broader society, is fundamental to our business
Rio Tinto is willing to learn from our mistakes, by listening to understand and genuine partnering, we will deliver better long-term outcomes for everyone
Every complaint will be carefully considered and a written response will be provided We encourage open communication and collaboration to work towards an agreed resolution for all involved
If
How
Cruise passengers soak up Cooktown
BOATS are not an uncommon sight on Cooktown’s Endeavour River, but it’s not every day locals see a 224-metre vessel docked on their doorstep.
Cook Shire Council’s visitor information team welcomed more than 600 passengers aboard cruise ship the Seven Seas Explorer to the town on 12 December as part of a 14day voyage from Bali to Sydney.
The wet weather cleared up for the ship’s second Australian stop after berthing in Darwin, allowing passengers to explore the historic landmarks, beautiful scenery and rich culture of south-eastern Cape York.
A spokesperson for Regent Seven Seas
Cruises said the Cooktown visit had been praised by guests.
“The area remains a near-wilderness offering dramatic mountains, eucalypts, mangroves and rainforests, heathlands, grasslands, and rivers for the adventurous traveller,” the spokesperson said.
“Guests enjoy the tropical botanic gardens established in 1878 and looking at the colourful, curious plants long-used for food and medicine by local Traditional Owners.”
The passengers will continue their voyage down the coast to Cairns, Townsville, Airlie Beach and Newcastle before arriving in Sydney.
The Western Cape Communities Trust wish to notify our shareholders of the following office closure period Closed from Friday 20 December 12:00pm
Reopening on Monday 6 January 8:00am
We would like to wish all a safe and joyful holiday season with your loved ones For any urgent enquiries
Cruise guests disembark at the Cooktown wharf to experience the town during the Seven Seas Explorers’ visit last week.
Cook Shire Council’s visitor information team helps cruise passengers with local tips during the Seven Seas Explorers’ stopover on south-eastern Cape York on 12 December.
A very Cape York Christmas carol
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
DEAR Santa,
It’s me again. Did you get the letter I sent you last year? I figure it must have gotten lost in the mail, because I didn’t get a reply from you, and I’m still waiting for that new boat to materialise in the driveway.
I’m sure you didn’t see what I asked for and it was all just a horrible misunderstanding, because only a sociopath would deem socks and T-shirts suitable recompense for a year spent keeping out of trouble and having no fun to ensure I stayed on your nice list. What a rort.
Anyway, I thought I’d try a new approach for 2024 and offer up some Christmas wishes for our part of the world up here on Cape York. Well, I guess it’s not really “up here” compared to your place at the North Pole, but you know what I mean.
I feel like making wishes for up here is a bit like a hot, humid rewrite of A Christmas Carol, because there are definitely glimpses of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come when we talk about making the northernmost part of the state a political priority, and what’s been done – or, more frequently, not done – to help develop the social and economic sustainability of
the communities we love so much.
Christmas Past on the Cape is much like the letters I write to you every December – penned with an innocence and good intentions, only to be then either completely ignored or have someone tell me year after year they know what’s best for me, and that a new school backpack is a much cooler present than the Lego pirate ship I’d asked for.
What’s the point in asking me to write to you specifying what I’d
like for Christmas, only for you to get me something else?
Like a road that remains unsealed, despite a decade or more of begging for it to be under the tree on 25 December.
You didn’t even have to wrap it or put a bow on it.
The road itself would have been more than enough. Here’s some free advice to avoid perpetuating the festive season disappointment, Santa: don’t let politicians do your Christmas shopping
If we ponder Christmas Present, it’s anything but. We’ve got crippling cost of living pressures due to successive governments who don’t think things like fuel, clothing and everyday household items are essential to life on Cape York.
We’ve got elected leaders who I doubt could even point to our backyard on a map, yet seem to have their hearts set on pulling the puppet strings on our futures from thousands of kilometres away. It’s like getting a completely unsuit-
able present from mimosa-sozzled Aunty June and immediately wondering if you can return it for something that’s not completely shit. The only problem with Cape York’s Christmas Present is that store credit isn’t available until the next election.
We’ve got to be hopeful about our Christmas Yet to Come, because I believe it’s one with the potential to be filled with incredible growth and prosperity, but only if our stockings are stuffed with what we really want, and the political elves you’ve got side hustling on the North Pole payroll deliver what our communities actually need. And that doesn’t include jocks, cheap aftershave that could strip paint, or hollow political platitudes.
I hope that all makes sense, Santa. I think I’ve got my A Christmas Carol storyline arse about face, but I blame the eggnog.
You get the gist, I’m sure. Aren’t you meant to be all-seeing and all-knowing? If not, what’s the bloody point of keeping those famed naughty and nice lists? I bet plenty of politicians have found themselves on the latter, but they always seem to get what they want, whether they deserve it or not. What’s that all about?
Until next year
Lyndon
PS: So, where are we at with that boat request? I bought one of those captain’s hats and everything.
Cape York Weekly Puzzles Page
Quick Workout
Note to Editor: Created in QUARK XPRESS. VER.4.03
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.
GREAT RADIO CONNECTING NORTH QLD
Claire McKeown, Tanna de Tournouer and Eva Ginn from the 5km podium at the Weipa Running Festival.
Cowboys rest behind the chutes between events at the Laura Rodeo and Campdraft in July.
Pride captain Kyle Schneider embraces Seagulls rival Joshua Stuckey after the teams thrilled a vocal John Street Oval crowd during their clash in Cooktown.
Jockey Lacey Morrison is all smiles as she returns to scale aboard Rough Cut Jewel at the 150th Cooktown Races on 9 November.
Connections of Choir Boy prepare to celebrate after he panelled the field to claim the feature Cooktown RSL Memorial Club Cooktown Cup in November.
Dan Tonon shows the crowd how it’s done during the Ringers Iron Man Challenge at the 2024 Weipa Rodeo. It was standing room only at the 2024 Laura Races.
Jamie Hutton opts for the putter a long way out on the 18th hole during his final round of the Weipa Goodline Open on 5 May.
Weipa Running Festival half marathoners prepare to tackle the 22-kilometre course before the sun makes an appearance.
It was a racetrack like no other when competitors saddled up at the Northern Peninsula Area Red Dust Rodeo and Show in September.
Kaleb Ara works hard to remain upright during his ride in Weipa.
Cooktown
Memorial Club Cooktown Cup,
drink is never enough.
Pearl Adams sheds defenders in junior rugby league action in Cooktown in July.
Weipa charity golf effort earns McGrath invitation
THE success of a local fundraiser has organisers packing their bags to attend one of the biggest high teas in the country in Sydney next month.
Weipa’s Melanie Turner, Lauren Haimes, James Hunter and Rhiannon Bell have been invited to the 2025 Jane McGrath High Tea after the Pink Ribbon Charity Golf Day at Carpentaria Golf Club exceeded all expectations and raised more than $10,000 for breast cancer awareness.
The annual high tea will be held on 5 January, on day three of the Pink Test between Australia and India, and honours Jane McGrath, the late wife of Australian cricketing star Glenn McGrath and co-founder of the McGrath Foundation.
Ms Turner said the club was put into a raffle to win tickets to the event after golfers raised $10,536 teeing off in Weipa in October, and praised competitors and the community for their
generosity in digging deep for a good cause.
“We all felt very privileged, honoured and humbled to be invited to such an important event that raises awareness and funding for such a great cause. Weipa is an amazing community and very generous; we aim to look after each other and give where and what we can time after time, no matter what the cause,” she said.
The quartet will use the trip to
Sydney not only to raise awareness of the Pink Ribbon Charity Golf Day on the national stage, but also to plan a bigger and better event when it returns to the Weipa fairways in 2025.
“The planning will already start on the way down to Sydney on the flight,” Ms Turner said.
“We had so many participants that said at the end of the golf day this year that they wanted to be involved in 2025, and they had great ideas to share as well.”
Weipa parkrun celebrates dual milestones
COMMITMENT and dedication to running were front and centre when two participants notched up special individual milestones at Weipa parkrun #396 on 14 December.
With the temperature soaring, even at the 7am start time, conditions tested the 23 participants who contested the 5-kilometre circuit.
Tash Tapper completed her 100th parkrun
when she crossed the finish line on Saturday, doing so in a time of 27 minutes, 37 seconds to be the quickest female home.
Rose Robins also ticked off a major achievement by completing her Run Down Under with Run the World, a journey more than 14,000km in the making.
Michael Collins was the first male home in a time of 24:13.
Luke O’Day, Sam Aschenbrenner and Nigel Tait celebrated personal best performances in completing the course.
Leigh Jewell, Donna Jewell, Lily Jewell, Camille Freiberg, Fiona Dyer and Emma Eyre were the eager volunteers.
Weipa parkrun is held every Saturday at 7am, with participants meeting near the hospital roundabout at Nanum.
SPORT IN BRIEF
Country showdown named
THE Northern Pride will attempt to take a bite out of the Burleigh Bears’ season when the teams clash in the 2025 Hostplus Cup Country Week round in July. Queensland Rugby League last week announced Country Week had been locked in for the weekend of 26-27 July.
The Pride, under the stewardship of new coach Russ Aitken, will be aiming to mirror their 2024 Country Week result when they take to the paddock against the Bears on 26 July. While the venue for the game is yet to be announced, it is hoped Country Week will return to Cape York for a third consecutive year.
Golfers ham it up at dawn
EIGHTEEN players ignored muggy and still conditions in the quest for Christmas pork at the annual Dawnbusters Leg of Ham event on 15 December.
Josh Martin brought home the bacon to claim the prize with nett 18, with runner-up Jim Lucas carding nett 20 to return to the car as a pork roast-carrying bridesmaid.
Rounding out a protein-filled morning on the course, Natalie Donahue bagged the Hoffman’s and a frozen chicken.
Jamie Hutton was impressive in securing both the men’s long drive and nearest to the pin prizes. Rachel Dick continued her big-hitting ways to claim the women’s long drive for the second week in a row.
Humble in victory, 43-marker Martin said he believed he was always in with a chance with such a high handicap.
Conditions test golfers
BRUTAL December conditions punished Cooktown Golf Club members when they contested the 2024 Medal of Medals and Race to the Bay showdowns on 14 December.
Graham Burton claimed top billing as the Medal of Medals champion, with Chris Hatton crowned runner-up.
In the Race to the Bay, Daniel Biddle returned to the clubhouse as the year’s champion, with Wal Welsh and Steve Butler having to settle for second and third.
Welsh went within 18 inches of a hole out on the 14th, with Burton going even closer on 9/18, while Brent Hetaraka bagged the pin prize on 2/11.
Tash Tapper gets a bit silly after celebrating the milestone of completing 100 parkruns in sweltering conditions in Weipa on 14 December.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR DEDICATION
Thank you for being able to manipulate your way through the positives and negatives that the recent buyer put you through before buying this property . . . can I thank you for your dedication in ensuring the transaction completed against the odds. It was only because of your tenacity and professional determination that you were able to bring about a comparatively pleasing result.
Brian
My process of buying my property with Deb was seamless. Dealing with Deb was professional, polite and nothing but pleasant. Attention to detail was outstanding, looking at prospective from the buyer and sellers point of view was nothing but fair. I would recommend anyone buying or selling a property to look at Deb Duffy with professional eyes.
Kim Dunstan
Working with Deb was a great experience! She was extremely helpful, efficient, and knowledgeable throughout the home-buying process. Her resourcefulness made navigating the details much easier, and she provided clear guidance when needed. I appreciated her professionalism and would gladly recommend her services to others.
Dr Avril Howard