Torres News Edition_51_29 September 2022

Thursday, 29 September 2022

Stories and events of the Kaurareg homeland of Kaiwalagal, the Torres Strait homeland and Cape York homelands of the Anggamuthi, Atambaya, Wuthathi, Yadhaykenu and Gudang Peoples.

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Big win for Torres Strait 8 I am reminded of previous landmark decisions led by our people, in the Maritime Strike, and Uncle Koiki with the Mabo Case – Yessie Mosby CLIMATE CHANGE WIN: Masig – Storm Surge. Pic by 350 Australia. INSET – CLAIMANT: Yessie Mosby. Pic by Mary Harm.

BY JILLIAN BOWIE “We won!” Yessie Mosby shouted in the heart of the village on his tiny island home of Masig. It was a cry of joy for a landmark decision for the Torres Strait 8, which came in early last Friday morning.

Yessie took the call from Australian Climate Lawyer Sophie Marjanac, who told him the United Nations Human Rights Committee (UNHRC) had agreed the Australian Government

failed in their human rights obligations to adequately protect Torres Strait Islanders from the adverse effects of climate change.

The legal complaint was lodged with the UNHRC in Geneva in May 2019 against the Australian Government for their inaction in protecting Torres Strait Islanders against climate change, in particular on the low-lying islands of Masig, Warraber, Boigu, and Poruma.

In their complaint, eight traditional owners of the

islands claimed changes in weather patterns had direct and harmful consequences on their livelihood, culture and traditional way of life, and severe flooding caused by the tidal surge in recent years had destroyed family graves and left human remains scattered across the beach.

“We were picking up the bones of our great aka like we were picking up shells on the beach,” Yessie said emotionally.

The historic win has set several ground-breaking

precedents to international human rights law.

Gur A Baradharaw Kod (GBK) land and sea council chair Ned David said a collaborative effort of organisations and individuals behind the scenes had brought about the result.

He said the case was born from discussions in 2018.

Since then, he said, Ms Marjanac had worked tirelessly with GBK, Client Earth and 350.org, who represented the claimants with support from barristers

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from 20 Essex Street Chambers in London and the Victorian Bar. “Whilst the campaign and initiative is a Traditional Owner effort for First Nations people directly impacted by climate change, this is a win for everyone that cares for the environment and the future of our children, irrespective of your identity and nationality,” Mr David said.

“The next important step is for dialogue between the government and Traditional Owner representatives who

fought for this.

“GBK looks forward to engaging with all governments and stakeholders.”

Mr Mosby said he was left shaking and emotional by the call.

“The feeling I had on the phone was indescribable,” he said.

“I am reminded of previous landmark decisions led by our people, in the Maritime Strike, and Uncle Koiki with the Mabo Case.”

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02 NEWS

THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2022 TORRES NEWS Hundreds of young people took part in a rally in Brisbane last Sunday, calling on Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers to protect their future by ensuring no new funding for fossil fuels in the October budget update.

The action was organised by the Australian Youth Climate Coalition (AYCC), as part of the organisation’s Power Shift youth climate summit, at which over 350 young people built skills to take action on climate change.

“Whether we live far in the bush or in the middle of a city, all of us want clean air and water, a healthy environment,

Youth call to end funding for fossil fuels YOUNG PROTESTORS: Top Right to Bottom Left: Phoebe McIlwraith; Will Hazza; India Logan-Riley; Tiahni Adamson; Ebony Pierik; Teila Watson & Jarod Woods. Pic supplied.

and a safe future to grow up in,” AYCC’s National Director Alex Fuller said.

“But pollution from

burning coal, oil and gas is causing a warming world, with more extreme weather like

bushfires, drought and floods.

“That’s why young people from across the country gathered in the Treasurer’s local city to call on the newly-elected Albanese government to ensure no new funding for coal and gas expansion is included in their October budget update.”

Seed Indigenous Youth Climate Network State Coordinator and Power Shift MC Tiahani Adamson said Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander communities were on the front lines of fossil fuel extraction and climate change impacts.

“We need this Government to follow the leadership of First Nations communities fighting to protect Country and the climate, instead of bankrolling more fossil fuels,” she said.

PNG PM visits Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomed Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, the Honourable James Marape MP, to Australia last weekend.

The two PMs attended the Prime Minister’s XIII Rugby League matches on Sunday evening at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium.

Rugby league has formed a key part of the relationship between Papua New Guinea and Australia for decades.

The first PM’s XIII was played in 2005 at Lloyd Robson Oval in Port Moresby, with the match to return to PNG next year.

Prime Minister Albanese said the event was an opportunity to celebrate a shared passion for sport and culture as well as support for each country’s respective men’s and women’s teams.

“Australia’s relationship with Papua New Guinea is special and unique; we hold common history, values, and an enduring bond as neighbours, partners and friends,” he said.

“We also share a vision of what we want to achieve together – a more prosperous, unified and secure region.

“As our nearest neighbour, we will continue to work closely with Papua New Guinea to deepen cooperation across all areas including sports, economic recovery, infrastructure, security and climate resilience. I am honoured to welcome Prime Minister Marape to Australia.”

THE PRIME MINISTERS: Anthony Albanese and James Marape in Sydney. Pic supplied.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2022

PAVING EXPANSION: Ngurapai International Airport.

Pic courtesy of Torres Shire Council.

Work underway to expand paved area at Ngurapai international airport Work is underway to expand the paved area of the Ngurapai Airport apron after a study revealed some aircraft were parking on grass.

Torres Shire Council Mayor Yen Loban said the Airport Development Business Plan, completed in July this year, recommended the work.

“I am pleased to announce that paving has commenced and is well underway as is other minor terminal upgrades,” he said.

“However, further work needs to be done to the apron and there is additional demand for hanger space at the airport.

“Council calls on the Albanese and Palaszczuk Governments, and the Australian Defence Force, to support the funding of the Stage One upgrades of this important strategic transport infrastructure.”

Torres Shire Council commissioned Landrum and Brown (L & B Worldwide Australia Pty Ltd) to undertake the study which was to include: • Development of a robust forecast that will provide a guide to future development; • Runway length analysis and development to sustain future growth of the airport; and, • Airport Development Options.

CEO Dalassa Yorkston said the airport was the gateway to not only the region but internationally.

“It is a key strategic and defence asset and a critical part of enhancing the region’s economic development,” she said.

She said the study was commissioned with regard to CASA and the Commonwealth Department of Home Affairs advice and feedback, “in order to make safe our porous borders and to address current safety concerns”.

“The study found that there is insufficient paved area that leads to some aircraft being required to be parked on grass areas,” she said.

“This is not ideal and stakeholder feedback strongly recommend the need for more paved area.”

She said key elements of the proposed 1–5-year Plan in the Master Plan were: • Remediation of existing main apron pavement; • Expansion of the main apron to the southwest; • Addition of approximately 4000 square metres of leased hanger reserve; • Construction of a small terminal building to accommodate fixed wing QA operations; • Construction of a new Council depot that affronts the expanded apron area; • The existing passenger terminal will be extended to the east to accommodate baggage inwards from the planes; • The existing passenger terminal will also be extended to the west to provide a covered area for baggage Tugs and outgoing baggage; • Passenger terminal facilities will be upgraded to provide a higher level of amenity for both airport passengers and airline users; • New sewer waste, water and electrical to be allowed for sewerage to be treated (small treatment plant on the North Side); • Apron expansion will occur in a south westerly direction; accompanied by the reconstruction of the existing apron pavement; • Expanded hanger reserve lease area will provide for 4000 square metres of new lease sites; • Reducing the length of the Runway 14/32 to 900 metres with the existing southern end of the runway to become taxiway access to the whole airfield system; and, • Runway 14/32 to be designated as non-instrument approach.

Mayor Loban said $17.76 million was needed to undertake the Stage One Upgrades.

NEWS 03

Archbishop of Canterbury on his way to visit Waiben

The Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby will visit Australia with his wife, Caroline in October.

During the long-planned 14-day visit, starting next Tuesday, he will travel from Perth to Thursday Island, visiting Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and regional centres.

Archbishop Welby was scheduled to meet Anglicans delivering diverse ministries and services, including First Nations groups, to discuss issues of reconciliation and multicultural ministries.

As the senior bishop and the spiritual leader of the worldwide Anglican Communion Church, the Archbishop was committed to a journey of understanding and healing with Indigenous people.

In Sydney, he planned to spend time with Ray Minniecom, pastor Scarred Tree Indigenous Ministries with St John’s Anglican Church in Glebe.

Archbishop Welby was also expected to meet people across the country affected by climate change, an issue which the archbishop has spoken about extensively.

He will talk to Thursday Islanders coping with rising sea

ARCHBISHOP JUSTIN WELBY. Pic supplied. levels, as well as those affected by flooding in Lismore and the Anglican groups that are providing on-the-ground support.

Anglican Church of Australia Primate, Archbishop Geoff Smith said he was delighted Archbishop Welby was visiting Australia.

“We are looking forward to this visit immensely,” he said.

“In a world plagued by division it is good to be reminded of our common values and to cement the ties of the Anglican Church of Australia with Anglicans around the globe.

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“We look forward to this visit reinforcing our shared values and letting us draw strength from each other as we confront the imperatives of our time.”

Archbishop Welby will also meet with young people in Anglican schools and spend a day meeting with the Bishops of the Anglican Church of Australia.

In Adelaide he will take part in the celebrations of the 175th Anniversary of the Diocese and he will ordain two Aboriginal women as priests during a visit to the community of Yarrabah, near Cairns.

04 NEWS

THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2022 TORRES NEWS

Comedy gala ‘World Cup’ of fun

BY CHRISTINE HOWES A comedy gala featuring a line up of some of Australia’s best stand up comedians will be a “guaranteed belly laugh” for Torres Strait audiences next week, English performer Georgie Carroll says.

SELF-DESCRIBED NURSE, COMEDIAN AND GENERAL IDIOT: Georgie Carroll. Pic supplied.

Ms Carroll – a selfdescribed nurse, comedian and general idiot – said the show they were bringing to the Thursday Island Sports Complex was like a World Cup of comedy.

“We’re bringing comics from all over the world,” she said. “We’ve got an Italian, a Singaporean, an Arab, me representing the UK.

“We’re going to bring a little bit of joy to places that have got a lot of joy anyway, I’m sure, but don’t get the live entertainment they deserve.”

She said they had already been to regional Western Australia, Sydney and Tasmania.

“It’s so nice to travel around, just to have a gang of comedians, because it’s quite a lone wolf sport,” she said.

“So we spend all day together being bonkers and then get up on stage and try and beat each other.

“It’s pretty cool.”

She said it meant a guaranteed belly laugh.

“Basically, it’s like the

World Cup of comedy, we just want to be funnier than the other one, so it’s a proper good hour-and-a-half of a guaranteed belly laugh,” she said.

“The first person out onstage is always the canary down the mine, that’s what we call them – we send them out first and work out ‘what do they like?’

“Whatever the audience needs, we want to make sure they’ve got it.”

She said she was excited to come to Queensland to visit several towns she’d never been to before.

“I’ve played Queensland so often, the Queensland

comedy scene is probably the strongest in the country, I would say,” she said.

“Although Melbourne has the most and the most famous ones, Queensland is the breeding ground, it’s got a massive comedy scene “But I’ve never been to Cairns, I’ve never been to Townsville, definitely not been to Thursday Island.

“Everywhere we go we just have a blast and people rock up and then we hang out afterwards, I’m getting a real taste of what the rest of Australia is.

“I’m very familiar with all the main city centres, but this is just real fun.”

Push to get kids into early childcare Reforms to help get more Indigenous children into early education will mean all Indigenous children will be able to access 36 hours of subsidised childcare a fortnight from July next year as part of ‘Closing the Gap’.

Minister for Early Childhood Education Anne Aly sad the move would help to ensure Indigenous children were school-ready.

“These simple changes will benefit around 6,600 First Nations families, boosting the hours Indigenous children are eligible for subsidised care from up to 24 hours a fortnight to 36 hours,” she said.

“Not only do the changes help ease cost of living pressures, they provide even more opportunities for First Nations children to access the development, education and health benefits of early childhood education and care helping ensure they are school-ready.

“It’s essential all governments work together and in partnership with First Nation people if we’re to Close the Gap and improve outcomes in early childhood education.”

Only 4.3 per cent of children in early education and care identify as Indigenous despite being 6.1 per cent of the population of children aged 0-5 years.

It was understood access to high quality early education and care could impact a child’s

readiness for school but Closing the Gap targets for school readiness went backwards in 2021.

Minister for Education Jason Clare said they needed to turn that around.

“For the first time, the Closing the Gap report said the school-readiness of Indigenous children has gone backwards,” he said.

“We have got to turn this around and a big part of that is getting rid of the roadblocks stopping them from going to early childhood education and care.”

Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney said early education would benefit Indigenous children for the rest of their lives.

“This is a practical measure directed to closing the gap in an area where we are going backwards,” she said.

“It will make a difference to Indigenous children across the country.”

The Government said it would also invest $10.2 million to establish the Early Childhood Care and Development Policy Partnership between the Australian and State and Territory Governments and Indigenous representatives.

The partnership was to be co-chaired by SNAICC – National Voice for our Children to help drive the development of community-led policies and programs that Indigenous families need for their children to thrive.

NEWS 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2022

Simultaneous fun run event for Reef good to go

run4reef will raise muchneeded funds to help protect the Reef, with 15 per cent of registration income supporting the Great Barrier Reef Foundation’s innovative ‘plant a coral initiative’, WWF-Australia, WWF-NZ and local government organisations based on event location.

Non-runners can also get involved and support the cause by donating online and signing up to become a Reef Fan. Participants and Reef Fans who enter early will automatically have the chance to win a range of prizes including a complimentary trip to the Great Barrier Reef, a premium new car courtesy of race sponsor BYD (first 40,000 registrants).

To register for one of the 23 local run4reef events, or show your support part by becoming a Reef Fan, visit run4reef.org Pics supplied.

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encourage people to register and help promote and save the Great Barrier Reef,” she said. run4reef Race Director and Olympian Steve Moneghetti called on all climate conscious Aussies to come together.

“It’s time for Aussies of all abilities to pull on their running shoes and come together to help raise funds to preserve Australia’s treasured Great Barrier Reef,” Moneghetti said.

“Whether you’re in Sydney, Perth, Cairns or Auckland, and running, walking or jogging, we’ll all be running as one to raise awareness and much-needed funds for the Reef and other worldleading climate initiatives.

“The inaugural run4reef event is truly something people of all ages and abilities can proudly take part in to give back to our planet and I’m calling on all of us to get involved.”

NG

Thousands of kids, families, competitive runners and environment lovers are gearing up take part in world’s first simultaneous running event raising awareness for the Great Barrier Reef to be held in 23 cities and towns across Australia and New Zealand – including Waiben – next month. run4reef events will include kids fun runs, five and 10km all abilities events, and a special race2zero 10km event, with a $1000 male and female cash prize for competitive runners – all participating simultaneously and tracking time through connected technology displayed on big screens.

Waiben run4reef event manager Elsie Seriat said they were excited.

“We are excited to be one of the host location for this amazing event and would like to

YEARS

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Scholarships are valued up to $15,000 per year for full time study and $7,500 for part time study.

Applications close 10 October 2022.

Scan to find out more or visit acn.edu.au/puggy Puggy Hunter Memorial Scholarship Scheme is funded by the Australian Government and administered by ACN.

26.09.22

COVID-19 vaccinations are available from all health facilities!

Don’t forget, you need booster doses to make sure you stay protected against COVID-19.

Talk to your doctor, nurse or health worker about how to stay up to date with vaccinations.

Please keep protecting yourselves, your family and the community by washing your hands regularly and staying home if you are sick.

If you are sick please get tested for COVID-19.

COVID-19 Get the Vaccination clinic coming to your community.

COVID-19 vaccine

You can get a RAT test from your local Primary Health Care Centre or hospital, most council o�ces or purchase them from a pharmacy.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

More information at health.

OVID-19 Vaccination clinic Protect yourself, your ming to your community.

Protect yourself, your family family and and your your community community

 qld.gov.au/torres-cape

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service @torresandcapehhs

Find out more

06 NEWS

THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2022 TORRES NEWS

Support for Long COVID on My Health Record COMPILED BY THE AUSTRALIAN DIGITAL HEALTH AGENCY

Support for vaccinating younger kids The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI), has recommended COVID-19 vaccination for some children aged six months to under five years who have an increased risk of getting very sick from COVID-19.

They said the COVID-19 vaccination will help reduce this risk.

Children aged six months to under five years are able to receive a COVID-19 vaccine if they: • are severely immunocompromised • have a disability • have complex and/or multiple health conditions which increase the risk of severe COVID-19.

For more information, visit the Department of Health and Aged Care website at https:// www.health.gov.au/initiativesand-programs/covid-19-vaccines/ who-can-get-vaccinated

The World Health Organization estimates approximately 10-20 per cent of people experience a variety of mid- and long-term effects after they recover from COVID-19.

Most people who get COVID-19 will have symptoms for a short time and then get well within a few weeks.

The time it takes to get well from COVID-19 is different for each person and depends on how sick you were with COVID-19 and if you have any other existing health issues.

Sometimes COVID-19 causes a person to feel unwell for many months after the initial illness.

This is called long COVID. Long COVID can last for many weeks and months, even after a person no longer has the virus.

Even people who had a mild COVID-19 infection and did not need to go to hospital can still have long COVID. Some symptoms of long COVID include: • extreme tiredness • coughing • breathlessness • fever • chest pain • joint pain • problems with memory and concentration.

Many long-term side effects from COVID-19 are still not known.

Keeping up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines will help protect you from long COVID.

Torres shire CounCil To lead, provide & facilitate a sustainable, safe and culturally vibrant community

PUBLIC NOTICE COMMUNITY CONSULTATION MEETINGS Torres Shire Council Mayor and Councillors would like to advise our local constituents that Council will be hosting a round of community consultation meetings.

These are opportune times for community members to engage with your Councillors and for Council to hear any concerns and/or issues first hand.

Council looks forward to meeting with the residents and encourages all community members to attend.

TRAWQ (Rosehill & Waiben) Horn Island and Prince of Wales TRAWQ (Tamwoy, Aplin & Quarantine) Port Kennedy

10am – Saturday 22 October 6pm - Monday 24 October

Rosehill Zar-Zar Horn Island Sports Complex

6pm – Wednesday TRAWQ Hall 26 October 6pm – Thursday 27 October

PKA Hall

Dalassa Yorkston CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER September 2022

What is Long COVID? Long COVID occurs usually within three months from the onset of COVID-19, with symptoms and effects that last for at least two months.

There are many things that can change a person’s risk of getting long COVID: • Vaccination – a vaccinated person is less likely to develop long COVID. • The variant of COVID-19 – different variants of COVID-19 can affect a person’s chances of getting long COVID. For example, the Omicron variant is less likely to result in long COVID than the Delta variant.

It’s very important to engage with your healthcare providers to help manage day-today.

My Health Record can help in the management of long COVID by keeping information, like specialist referrals, test results and medicines in one secure place.

My Health Record helps you to share information between healthcare providers and remember the details of your medical history.

If you’re dealing with a chronic condition, this means you won’t have to bring print records when travelling between healthcare providers.

After each health check, your GP can upload a shared health summary to your My Health Record, with details of the consultation, to help track your wellbeing over time.

• Your age and sex – younger people and males are less likely to develop long COVID. Some studies are showing women are more likely to develop long COVID. • Underlying health conditions – people with certain pre-existing conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity and asthma, are more likely to develop long COVID. With thanks to The Australian Digital Health Agency.

‘Distinguished’ work recognised Three Torres Strait Islander academics have been recognised for ‘distinguished work’ in their field with a Matthew Flinders Award from South Australia’s Flinders University.

The University recently celebrated 25 years in the Northern Territory, where the awards were presented to Professor Jaquelyne Hughes, Professor James Smith, Associate Professor Karla Canuto and her son Associate Professor Kootsy Canuto.

Prof Karla Canuto said she did Sports Science at James Cook University before working for the University of Queensland on Waiben as a research assistant for a project aimed at preventing Type 2 Diabetes.

“It was fantastic, I loved everything about it,” she said.

“I was so well supported by everyone on TI who took me under their wings.

“That first job in research gave me enough

CELEBRATING: Elsie Seriat OAM , Associate Professor Karla Canuto, her daughter Ruby Canuto, Professor Jaquelyne Hughes and Associate Professor Phillip Mills OAM. Pic supplied. insight to see how powerful research can be.

“I also returned a few years later working for Queensland Health in the Healthy Lifestyle Team.”

She had experience across a wide range of research projects all focused on improving the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Her recent focus has been on building the capacity and capabilities of researchers in

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Health.

She said it was nice to be formally acknowledged for her work.

“It was nice to have a formal acknowledgment from Flinders University at the 25 years in the Territory celebration,” she said.

“And it was extra special to have Uncle Phillip Mills there, who started me on this trajectory by allowing me to be one of the

Queensland Health staff in that Grad Dip cohort about 16 years ago.”

Professor Hughes was the inaugural Clinical Research Professor in Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Health Advancement and a specialist physician (nephrologist).

She said the award was a public statement to the research community of the University’s support for their program of research, and their esteem.

07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2022

TORRES STRAIT NAIDOC AWARDS 2022 If you know someone in your community who deserves to be recognised for their contribution, nominate them for a Torres Strait NAIDOC Award today.

Award Categories include:

ARTIST OF THE YEAR AWARD YOUTH OF THE YEAR AWARD ELDER OF THE YEAR AWARD SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR TRAINEE OF THE YEAR COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR COMMUNITY TRIBUTE OF THE YEAR AWARD BUSINESS AWARD TORRES STRAIT NAIDOC PERSON OF THE YEAR

Nominate now online: https://www.torres.qld.gov.au/naidoc-awards/2019-naidoc (Nomination Closes on Friday 21 October 2022) For further information contact our office on: 40831 200 or Email: emily.beckley@torres.qld.gov.au

08 NEWS

THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2022 TORRES NEWS

Torres Strait 8 win marks a series of international ‘firsts’

BY JILLIAN BOWIE From Page 1 The Torres Strait 8’s successful bid to the United Nations Human Rights Committee (UNHRC) has brought about a series of firsts.

The case was not only the first legal action brought by climatevulnerable inhabitants against a nation state, it was also the first time an international tribunal had found a country violated human rights law through inadequate climate policy; the first time a nation state was found responsible for their greenhouse gas emissions under international human rights law; and, the first time peoples’ right to culture was found to be at risk from climate impacts.

The UNHRC took into account evidence climate change was destroying ancestral graveyards and the availability of food sources caused by saltwater seeping into the soil, subsequently killing off Islanders’ traditional diet, as well

as accounting for the Islanders’ close, spiritual connection with their traditional lands, and the dependence of their cultural integrity on the health of their surrounding ecosystems.

It therefore found Australia had failed to take timely and adequate measures to protect the Islanders, violating their rights to enjoy their own culture and be free from arbitrary interferences with their private life, family, and home.

Lawyer Sophie Marjanac said it was now up to the Australian Government to act on the decision.

“The Australian Government must act on this decision and take decisive steps to protect the islands of the Torres Strait and their ‘Ailan Kastom’,” she said.

“This is an historic victory for climate justice.

“It is a victory for all peoples who are the most vulnerable to runaway climate change.

“This case opens the door for further legal actions and compensation claims by

TORRES STRAIT 8: (L–R) Yessie Mosby, Nazareth Fauid, Stanley Marama, Kabay Tamu, Keith Pabai, Nazareth Warria, Daniel Billy, Ted Billy. Pic supplied by 350 Australia.

LEADING THE WAY: Lawyer Sophie Marjanac and GBK chair Ned David in London on the day the case was planned: 16 September 2018. Pic supplied. other climate affected people, and will give hope to those fighting for loss and damage at this year’s international climate talks in Egypt.”

Torres Strait 8 claimant Yessie Mosby said the Torres Strait and people who were affected, especially in other Indigenous nations, would celebrate.

“The morning of September 23, I woke up and saw the sky filled with frigate birds,

my totem the ‘Omer’,” Yessie said.

“It was an awesome sight, and very rare to see frigate birds fly in the hundreds, they were hovering above my home.

“This was a sign from our ancestors. I expected good news.

“The Torres Strait 8 never had doubts.

“We always prayed and trusted God and His Word.

“I saw our elders sitting there crying after being told by experts that within 30-50 years they will need to relocate us and we will lose our home.

“One of the elders said, “I am not leaving my akas and athes who are buried here, I will go down with my island home,” [and I knew] I had to join this fight.”

He said it was only the beginning.

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“We are expecting obstacles from the government in front of us, but we won’t stop fighting,” he said.

“This is our home.

“We will continue to educate every island about what we can be doing at grassroots level.

“People can go onto our website https:// ourislandsourhome. com.au to keep updated.

“The Petition is still on there, waiting for

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signatures.

“We need at least 50,000 signatures.

“We fought this fight on our cultural knowledge under International Law against the white man’s law through their own processes.

“For those who know culture and tradition, don’t stop learning and teaching it.

“It will protect our future generations.”

Mr Mosby shared a treasured memory he held dearly and told his own children about whenever he made a warup.

As a child he would call out to his aka Edith Boyd, asking permission to pick some ‘warup warup’ off the tree in her yard, to glue the skin of the warup onto the drum.

“Aka would tell me how happy she was that I would show that respect and ask permission,” he said.

“As I walked away she called out after me, ‘Yessie, make sure you tune the warup properly, in due time, the world will listen.”

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09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2022

- OFFERS AVAILABLE IN STORES 26th September to 9th October 2022 -

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10 NEWS

THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2022 TORRES NEWS

Sea is the limit for scientist Madeina David A young female scientist from the remote island of Iama is making big waves in marine biology after being recognised as one of James Cook University’s top alumni.

Former Tagai school captain, Madeina David, 24, was awarded JCU’s Early Career Outstanding Alumni for the College of Science and Engineering earlier this month.

Through her work at TSRA, she has used her degree in Marine Science to connect traditional knowledge and modern science, while inspiring the next generation of Torres Strait Islander scientists to protect and preserve local waters, including the Great Barrier Reef.

Growing up in a fishing family, Ms David said she understood how critical oceans were to Torres Strait Islanders.

“My parents are my inspiration, they always taught me about the importance of the marine environment to our lives and identity as Torres Strait Islanders,” she said.

“They are very proud and have always been my biggest supporters.

“Moving from a small island of around 300 people with plenty of family nearby, to Thursday Island for high school and then Townsville

for university was hard, but worth it.

“Being able to understand and translate complex science and data in local language is helping bridge the gap between science and Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) to support a healthy, sustainable future for our oceans and marine species in the Torres Strait.

“I love everything about marine, fisheries and conservation, I just want to do everything.

“I am well supported in my role with TSRA’s Sea Team and by my manager to share and grow my knowledge – merging the best science with TEK.” TSRA Sea Project Manager Moni Carlisle said the award was a win on many levels – for Madeina herself as well as women in science and conservation in the Torres Strait.

“Women in science are the minority, even more so for young Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal scientists, who often don’t have the same access to science mentors, university pathways and educational support services due to resource allocations in remote communities,” Ms Carlisle said.

“Madeina is an outstanding young leader who is driving change

AWARD WINNER: Madeina David, 24, is connecting science and traditional conservation. to benefit not only the entire Torres Strait region, but also the marine science world as it learns from, shares and incorporates the knowledge systems from our nation’s first scientists.

“Her work brings together scientists, Traditional Owners, rangers and communities in a way that considers and values the rights, data, knowledge and

lived experiences of Torres Strait Islanders.

“Madeina has achieved and contributed strongly to the scientific community and at only 24 years old, she is just getting started.”

In TSRA’s Sea Team, Ms David’s work ranges from environmental management activities such as coral monitoring and turtle tagging, to training rangers in seagrass monitoring and mentoring students at her former Thursday Island high school.

She works with local rangers to track marine life, monitor ocean health and find ways to incorporate cutting-edge technology such as drones, artificial intelligence and eDNA to monitor land and sea from the region’s remote island communities.

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said the TSRA was proud to support Madeina’s journey from a TSRA cadetship to permanent role as a Senior Natural Resource Management Officer.

“While studying at JCU, Madeina was able to learn and earn on the job as a TSRA Cadet,” Mr Stephen said.

“She’s now an award-winning university alumni who is using

her degree to make a significant difference for our communities, our people and our way of life through science.

“Zenadth Kes is the perfect place for more of our young people surrounded by sand and sea to dive into science and environmental studies.

“The Torres Strait is the northernmost part of the Great Barrier Reef, home to culturally significant and scientifically important seagrasses, marine migratory species like dugong and sea turtle species and abundant fish communities.

“Madeina is inspiring the next generation of Torres Strait Islander scientists – she’s creating a legacy her family, community and our whole region can be proud of.

“Her achievements create a sense of hope and optimism not only about the future of our oceans, but for bright futures and world-class opportunities for young people in the Torres Strait.”

Ms David graduated from JCU with a Bachelor of Science in 2021.

Learn more about the TSRA at www.tsra.gov.au or follow us on Facebook.

Remote falling behind in reliable internet

JCU EARLY CAREER OUTSTANDING ALUMNI for the College of Science and Engineering: TSRA’s Madeina David.

LOCAL LEADERS: TSRA Chief Executive Vonda Malone and TSRA’s Madeina David.

INSPIRING WOMEN IN SCIENCE: Left to right – Rubyann Sailor, Nina Lui, Moni Carlisle (TSRA), Madeina David (TSRA), Lucy Abednego and Ayesha Tom. Pics courtesy of TSRA.

Fast, reliable and affordable internet is needed for businesses to take up advanced digital technologies and – to nobody’s surprise at this end of the country – investment in digital infrastructure in rural and remote Australia is falling behind, the Australian Government Productivity Commission says.

The Commission’s second interim report of its 5-year Productivity Inquiry has examined the role data and digital tools and applications could play in Australia’s continued prosperity.

“Digital technology and data have already transformed our economy and society, but we have not yet tapped into their full potential,” Commissioner Dr Stephen King said.

“Technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotic automation and big data analytics could revolutionise how businesses operate and help lift Australia’s productivity growth by reducing costs, improving the quality of goods and services, and increasing product choice for consumers.”

The report identifies several barriers that could limit further adoption of digital technologies including inadequate internet, lack of skills, uncertainty about benefits, security concerns, cost and legacy systems.

“We do well in Australia on basic aspects of technology and data use, like internet coverage, but are falling behind in more

advanced areas such as business uptake of analytics and artificial intelligence,” Dr King said.

“We also need fast, reliable and affordable internet to enable businesses to take up advanced digital technologies.

“Government can help by improving investment in digital infrastructure, particularly in rural and remote Australia, forming digital partnerships with the private sector, and ensuring we have a future ready workforce.

“Businesses of all sizes also should be encouraged to invest in digital technologies and cyber-security.

“Consumer trust will be vital to underpin these investments.

“Digital technology and data will continue to shape global economic growth and social change in coming years.

“Whether we fully realise the productivity dividend offered by these opportunities will depend on how effectively governments, businesses and individuals can recognise and safely harness these changes for Australia’s benefit.”

The Productivity Commission is now inviting comment on Australia’s data and digital dividend to inform its final report.

Submissions close on 7 October 2022.

A full copy of 5-year Productivity Inquiry: Australia’s data and digital dividend is available at the Commission’s website: www. pc.gov.au

11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2022

TORRES STRAIT Marine Safety Program Increase your survival time and reduce your rescue time Good preparation is essential for your safety before heading to sea. Good skippers always plan for the journey ahead, but they should also plan for the unexpected, because there’s always a chance that something may go wrong. Your engine might breakdown, the weather may change for the worse or navigational equipment could fail. Any number of things could combine to create a situation where you need to be rescued.

The two most important rules to surviving in this type of situation are always the same...

Increase your survival time and reduce your rescue time.

We reduce our rescue time through carrying and using equipment like EPIRBs and flares, which alert others to our location when we are in distress. These items are essential safety equipment, and good skippers carry them on all voyages.

One of the most important items to help increase your survival time is a good quality, properly fitting lifejacket.

A lifejacket will keep you on the surface in the event that your boat is swamped or sunk, and will allow you to stay afloat indefinitely. It is the one vital piece of equipment which will give you the ability to manage a very bad situation, and make good decisions to help keep you and your family alive.

Lifejackets are life savers - wear them This is the most effective way to maximise your survival time in the water.

Without a lifejacket, you will not stay afloat in open rough water long enough to be rescued. You will not be able to help yourself, or those around you, and a very bad situation will become rapidly worse.

Do you have your LIFEJACKET? Check

WHAT TYPE OF LIFEJACKETS?

► Australian Standard 4758 PFD type 1 is required for recreational boats. ► Children must have a properly fitting lifejacket. ► Lifejackets must be in good condition to comply with boating safety laws.

HOW MANY DO I NEED?

► One lifejacket for every person on board. ► One child lifejacket for each child. ► Water skiers and PWC riders should wear PFD type 2 or 3.

HOW ARE THEY CARRIED?

► It is compulsory to wear a lifejacket if you are under 12 years old (from 12 months old and up to, but not including, 12 years old) in an open boat that is less than 4.8m in length and underway. ► Lifejackets should be worn at all times by all passengers on a boat if possible. ► If not worn, lifejackets should be laid on your lap. ► Extra lifejackets should be kept clean, dry and accessible. ► Lifejackets should never be used as seat cushions.

HOW ARE THEY MAINTAINED?

► ► ► ►

Good quality lifejackets are an essential piece of lifesaving equipment on all boats, regardless of how far they are travelling. They have saved the lives of thousands of people around the world, including here in Torres Strait.

It is essential that you carry a lifejacket for every person on board your boat, and ensure that all children have a good quality, properly fitted lifejacket. Lifejacket design and quality has improved dramatically recently, and manufacturers are now providing lifejackets which can be comfortably worn at all times when travelling in a boat. You should include these in your boat’s safety equipment.

Lifejackets should be clean and dry and free of mould or mildew.

Inflatable lifejackets should be serviced annually.

Lifejackets should be inspected for tears and repaired or replaced accordingly.

Lifejackets should be checked to ensure zips are not seized.

Lifejackets are available at the various boating and marine stores on Thursday Island, as well as various other outlets in Torres Strait and Far North Queensland.

If you have any questions at all about lifejackets, or any other piece of safety equipment, please contact the Torres Strait Marine Safety Program officers on the numbers provided.

Torres Strait Marine Safety Program Australian Maritime Safety Authority 80 Douglas Street, Thursday Island QLD 4875 PO Box 471, Thursday Island QLD 4875 P: (07) 4090 3079 F: (07) 4069 2573

Maritime Safety Queensland 4 Hastings Street, Thursday Island QLD 4875 PO Box 109, Thursday Island QLD 4875 P: (07) 4069 1351 F: (07) 4069 2190

12 NEWS

THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2022 TORRES NEWS

Voters back the Voice

HISTORICAL MOMENT FOR FNAWN. Torres Strait Writers Panelists. L-R Thomas Mayor, Jillian Bowie, Lenora Thaker, Samantha Faulkner, and John Harding at the Opening Night of the Summit.

Tandanya Aboriginal Cultural Institute, Adelaide. Pics supplied.

FNAWN summit honouring First Nation stories

BY JILLIAN BOWIE Honouring Stories: Looking Back, Look Forward was the theme behind this year’s First Nations Australia Writers Network (FNAWN) summit in Adelaide last weekend.

The fourth national bi-annual summit was hosted on Kaurna country (Adelaide) at Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute and showcased a handful of the nation’s best First Nations writers, storytellers, and poets.

For the first time in FNAWN history, a Torres Strait Islander panel, which included Thomas Mayor and Lenora Thaker, presented at the Summit.

The gathering overall was a reflection on the journeys of First Nation writers and storytellers who have brought us through to the present, and a look at the visions and strategies that lay ahead for the future of our stories through various platforms and genres.

The weekend was jam packed with expert panel conversations and workshops covering topics from writing development to illustrations, stand-up comedy, poetry, editing, and podcasts.

An Industry Roundtable Day was spent on the Monday following the Summit with about 30 potential stakeholders from state and federal government organisations and literary agencies

discussing how they could better support FNAWN and its members.

FNAWN Patron Dr Jackie Huggins AM said she was, “humbled by the many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander warriors of the pens,” as she reflected on her own beginnings as a writer, historian, and revisionist.

“As First Nations writers, storytellers, and poets, we are gifted and thereby have that gift of a shared responsibility to put forth our stories – our right to selfdetermine our shared history and those memories which can never be laid to rest by our people,” she said. “This is our ancestral inherent right as carriers of our stories.”

Dr Huggins was presented with a Lifetime Patron Award by the FNAWN Executives and Board of Directors.

Newly appointed National Coordinator, Wiradjuri woman Jessika Spencer said First Nations literature was her biggest passion.

“And where a lot of my activism comes through,” she said.

“It’s important that our people share stories in our own way, without people talking for us.

“To be a part of something as incredible as FNAWN, and under the mentorship of Yvette Holt, feels surreal.

“I’ve wanted to be an Author since I was a little girl, so this is an absolute blessing.”

A survey has shown the majority of Australians – nearly two thirds – are supportive of the Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

The campaign for the constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through a Voice to Parliament, said they welcomed the results of the Resolve Political Monitor survey, released by The Sydney Morning Herald earlier this week.

They said the survey result was consistent with other polls.

From the Heart Director Dean Parkin said the survey recognised Australians were wanting to support the Voice to Parliament as it provided a fair, practical and safe opportunity for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people to be recognised in the Constitution.

“There is clearly a huge amount of goodwill in the Australian population,” said Mr Parkin.

“This goodwill is certainly similar to the discussions I am having on the ground with people all over Australia – whether it be in regional Northern Territory or in Melbourne and Sydney.

“A referendum will be a unifying moment for our country and deliver a Voice to Parliament which is fair, practical and safe.

“Australians are practical people, and they want to be part of a change that has a real impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“We can’t keep doing the same things because we’re just not seeing the changes we want to see for Indigenous families and communities.

“By having Indigenous people work with Government and Parliament on issues that have a particular impact on Indigenous people, for example remote education

and health, we will see laws and policies that actually work on the ground.”

MEANWHILE the Uluru Statement has released an ad to support its Voice referendum campaign to inform the Australian public on how voting “Yes” for a First Nations Voice could change history.

The ad campaign centred around narrator, proud Pitjantjatjara and Nyungar man Trevor Jamieson, as he told a story about how First Peoples achieved a Voice to Parliament with the help of Australians everywhere.

The story illustrated what a future might be if we all supported the Voice at the upcoming referendum.

Uluru Dialogue Co-Chair Pat Anderson AO, who featured in the ad, urged the Australian public to listen to the call to action and talk about Voice with family, friends and work colleagues.

“We are on a journey to nationbuilding, but we cannot do this alone,” she said.

“This referendum requires all Australians to get behind it.

“Silence never made history and History is Calling.

“It’s up to all Australians to answer.

“We call upon the nation to continue walking with us on this final stretch to a better future.”

The ad was directed by Kamilaroi and Wiradjuri man Jordan Watton, alongside Director of Photography, [XX man] Tyson Perkins, and music composer, Yuwaalaraay/Gamilaraay/ Yorta Yorta and Yuin man James Henry.

To view and download the ad, visit here. For more information on the Uluṟu Statement from the Heart, visit https://ulurustatement.org/

MENTOR: FNAWN Chairperson Yvette Holt facilitating the IV National Summit in Adelaide.

Peak body FNAWN, is an advocacy and resource service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander writers and storytellers.

It exists to foster the development of skills, advocate, and lobby on behalf of First Nation writers, and support ongoing development opportunities.

It is the only First Nation’s writers’ network of its kind across the globe.

FNAWN boasts over 156 members across Australia and growing rapidly since its conception out of the Guwanyi Indigenous Writers Festival in March 2011, with a 30 per cent increase of Torres Strait Islander writers.

HISTORY IS CALLING: TVC still frames. Pics supplied.

NEWS & CLASSIFIEDS 13

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2022

Youths following in footsteps of proud railway tradition

BY ALF WILSON TWELVE young Torres Strait Islander men and women in Townsville have completed a Certificate 2 in Rail Infrastructure resulting in most of them gaining jobs around Australia.

The students, pictured, trained for their Certificate 2 in Rail

Infrastructure which was funded by the Queensland Government through its Skilling Queenslanders for Work Initiative.

Torres Strait Islanders have a very proud tradition in railway construction in Queensland and Australia, after setting tracklaying world

records in Queensland and Western Australia.

The youths are following in the

footsteps of their fathers, uncles and grandfathers, many of whom left the Torres Strait after

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AUTHORISATION MEETING FOR THE TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL SEAS CLAIM (TSRSC) GROUP – PROPOSED CONSENT DETERMINATION OF NATIVE TITLE Members of the TSRSC group – the Meriam Le, Erubam Le, Ugarem Le, Masigalgal, Porumalgal, Warraberalgal, Iamalgal, Mualgal, and Badulgal island communities* – are invited to attend an Authorisation Meeting.

DATE: TIME: VENUE:

SATURDAY, 8 OCTOBER 2022 REGISTRATION FROM 8:30AM FOR 9:30AM START THURSDAY ISLAND NEIGHBOURHOOD & COMMUNITY CENTRE (EVENT SPACE AT BACK OF BUILDING), 156 DOUGLAS ST, WAIBEN (THURSDAY ISLAND)

When sori time come, wherever you are Waibeni Indigenous Funeral Services Are here for you 24/7 PURPOSE OF THE AUTHORISATION MEETING The purpose of the meeting will be to consider: authorisation of a proposed Native Title Determination Agreement for parts of the TSRSC Part B (QUD27/2019) and TSRSC Part C (QUD227/2022); amendment of the boundary of the TSRSC Part B; and nomination of a corporation to represent the proposed determined native title holders (PBC).

PROPOSED NATIVE TITLE DETERMINATION AGREEMENT The proposed Native Title Determination Agreement is about: the lands and waters in the area shown on the map above labelled “Kulkalgal/Kemer Kemer Meriam”; the persons who will be determined to hold native title; the rights and interests those persons will be determined to hold; and other interests in relation to the determination area (including an agreement about Customary Rights).

PROPOSED CONSENT DETERMINATION OF NATIVE TITLE If the proposed Agreement is authorised, the Federal Court will be asked to make a “consent determination” of native title (in accordance with section 87A of the Native Title Act 1993). The Court has advised it is available to hold a hearing to make the consent determination on Wednesday, 30 November 2022 at either Ngurupai or Waiben (TBC).

FURTHER INFORMATION

Every yawor blo ume em difrnt For help with funeral arrangements for your loved one, contact your local funeral company on Thursday Island.

Phone: Barry - 0499 320 990 www.wifs.com.au

To receive more information or register your interest to attend the Authorisation Meeting, please contact your island community PBC, or Kerri Nazzari of Dillon Bowers Lawyers on 07 4721 2477 or at Kerri.Nazzari@dillonbowers.com * The members of the island communities comprising the TSRSC group were determined by Finn J in Orders 4(1)(a) to (i) and Schedule 5, clauses 2(a) to (i) of the TSRSC Part A determination (QUD6040/2001).

www.wifs.com.au Phone: Barry - 0499 320 990

14 SPORT Cowboys support solid

THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2022 TORRES NEWS

BY ALF WILSON Blockbusting Reuben Cotter was one of the Cowboys best during their 24-20 loss to the Parramatta Eels in last Friday night’s NRL preliminary final at Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

The Cowboys have now been eliminated from the finals with Parramatta Eels to meet reigning premiers Penrith Panthers in Sunday’s NRL grand final.

Penrith qualified with their 32-12 win over Souths Sydney Rabbitohs in Saturday’s other preliminary sudden death final.

Despite the loss in a match, for which the Cowboys were a shortpriced favourite, most NQ fans would have been delighted with their team’s effort in 2022 season.

Last season the Cowboys finished 15th but this year they charged up the ladder to third after the fixture rounds, ending one game short of a big dance appearance.

Front row forward Cotter ran 85m in the first half and was dangerous every time he touched the ball.

The Eels scored the first try but soon after Cotter charged over Eels fullback Clinton Gutherson to score.

Scores were deadlocked 12-all at half time.

Cotter was in the starting 13 Cowboys team whilst Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow came from the interchange bench and didn’t get a run until later.

Meanwhile more than 25,000 fans packed into the Townsville Stadium with some from the Torres Strait, NPA and Cape York.

Bob Norris drove his sedan from western Cape York for the match and whilst disappointed with the narrow loss, was delighted with the Cowboys performance overall.

“People were tipping us to take out the wooden spoon and we got this far. It was a great effort.” Mr Norris said.

Robert Lui.

Vern Daisy.

Milton Thaiday and Robert Lui, right, at a previous carnival.

Bindal ready to kick off this weekend STORY & PICS ALF WILSON

SOAKING UP THE ATMOSPHERE: Bob Norris from Cape York at the Cowboys game.

Randall Ross hosted relative Phil Naden, who made the trip from New South Wales to see the game.

“It was a long trip for Phil and his daughters to get here,” Mr Ross said.

Phil, who comes from a little community outside Gilgandra called Belladoran, is the CEO of Western NSW Aboriginal Medical Services and the NSW Health Chair of an organisation equivalent to QAIHC here in Queensland.

He travelled with his two daughters Jardi and Yindi Naden.

Also at the game was Uncle Buma from Cairns, a Traditional Owner and Police Minister for Yindinji Sovereign Tribal Government.

Some of the visitors travelled through Cairns to see the Cairns and District Rugby League grand final between Cairns Brothers and Mossman Port Douglas Sharks.

Brothers won the cliffhanger decider, 26-24, at Barlow Park.

ENJOYING THE NIGHT REGARDLESS: From left are Phil Naden, Uncle Buma and Randall Ross at the Cowboys game. Pics supplied.

Former NRL star Robert Lui is one of hundreds of Torres Strait Islanders who will compete at the Bindal Sharks Allblacks carnival in Townsville this weekend.

The ex-North Queensland Cowboys, West Tigers and English Superleague halfback will be a key player for the Eastern Warriors, one of 16 men’s teams.

The carnival is the biggest by far for team numbers in North Queensland and has created additional interest with the cancellation of Waiben’s Zenadth Kes carnival.

It will be held at the Townsville Sports Reserve with men’s, women’s and under 18 sides.

There will also be two reconciliation exhibition games between police sides and Bama Balas in the first and against Souths.

There will also be the inaugural Vern Daisy Cup junior rugby league carnival held in conjunction with the Bindal carnival, starting today.

This carnival is named after legendary north Queensland rugby league player Vern Daisy and sides will battle it out in under 9 and under 11 grades.

Open Mens teams: The Burdekin Delta, Jim Daisy Memorial, Palm Island’s Barracudas Gold and Barracudas Green, Matilda Doolah Memorial – East Coast Eagles, TKDH Bulldogs, Elijah Hero Autism Awareness, Eastern Warriors, Black Bream Charters Towers, Yarrabah, North West United, Walkabouts, Northern Knights, Thupmul, Jumbun Gunjui, Merinya Raiders.

Under 18’s: North Coast Dolphins, Charters Towers Trackers, Palm Island Barracudas, Thupmul.

Women’s Teams: Burdekin, Black Bream Charters Towers, Thupmul Green, Thupmul Grey.

Youngest ZKRL player has bright future

BY ALF WILSON Rising young rugby league speedster Vincent Mau was enjoying quality time on his home Dauan Island with his father Wrench Mau when the Torres News tracked him down last weekend.

At age 17, Vincent was the youngest player in the 2022 five club Zenadth Kes Rugby League (ZKRL) competition on Waiben.

The flying winger lined up on a wing for premiers Roosters, who went through undefeated and beat Mulga Tiger 40-20 in the recent grand final.

“I don’t turn 18 until March next year,” he said.

Vincent now attends the Kazi-Meta boarding college on Waiben.

He spent his primary school years on remote Dauan.

“I went to high school as a boarder at Yeppoon’s St Augustine and finished grade 12 there,” he said.

St Brendon’s is a school renowned for producing quality rugby league stars and Vincent said he had some good coaches there.

“I started playing for Roosters in the club comp on TI and love it,” he said.

It was Roosters coach Terence Yusia who alerted the Torres News to the potential Vincent has.

“For the youngest in the comp Vincent is very good,” Terence said.

When school holidays come around Vincent can’t wait to get back to Dauan to see family and friends.

His dad Wrench is a long

GOOD SUPPORT: Vincent Mau and proud dad Wrench Mau from Dauan Island on Waiben after the recent grand final. serving PLO there.

“I go fishing, crabbing, hunting and diving and catch lots of Barramundi at a location there,” Vincent said.

Wrench was a tough forward in his day, and he also played for Roosters.

“I am very proud of Vincent and loved watching him at Ken Brown Oval being part of the Roosters premiership team,” Wrench said.

I can fondly recall snapping pics and yarning to Wrench when he was a member of the Western Bears team at the 2088 Island of Origin Series on Badhu.

Other players in the Western Bears who were outstanding included Danny Mosby, James Binawell, Waireg Elisala, Bradley Patai, Carl Dai, Jack David, Kevin Daniel and Edward Ingui.

The team consisted of boys from top western Island Saibai, Dauan, Waiben and Bamaga.

When he finishes school Vincent said he wanted to be a mechanic so he will have a lifelong career.

He said he was looking forward to moving to Townsville later in the year to train with the Blackhawks under-18 side.

8x2 local sports

SPORT 15 Looking for more

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2022

Tagai Students selected to represent

local sport?

We’re happy to run it if we have it!

Darts, ballgames, water sports, athletics ... whatever your game is, we’re keen!

Send us your pic of the week, fixtures or finals results by noon on Monday!  EMAIL: editor@torres.news

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

FERRY SCHEDULE FRIDAY 30 SEPTEMBER Daily service operating: THURSDAY ISLAND to SEISIA: 6.30AM & 2.30PM SEISIA to THURSDAY ISLAND: 8AM & 4PM

ABOVE – Sonrae and Terrence at ‘the nest’ home of the AFL Cape York Eagles in Cairns.

TOP LEFT – AFL Cape York Eagles at the Talent Camp in Eagles kit.

CENTRE LEFT – Tagai State College Boys at the Talent Camp in GC Suns playing kit.

BOTTOM LEFT – Sonrae and Nelly at the Talent Camp in Brisbane Lions & GC Suns playing kit.

Pics supplied.

Monday

SATURDAY 1 OCTOBER NO FERRY SERVICES operating

MON. 3 OCT. to FRI. 23 DEC. matches before heading to the beach for a recovery session.

Monday, Wednesday & Friday departures AFL Cape York Development Boarding strictly 15 mins prior to departure Co-ordinator Matt Mellahn said he was impressed by the skills on “Linking the Cape with the Torres Strait” display by the teams and passed on his congratulations to the players.

“Well done to all participants on your selection, particularly the AFL Cape York House boys as well as Terence, Sonrae and Nelly who all took time away from the start of the school holidays and sacrificed personal time PHONE 07 4069 1551 RESERVATIONS ESSENTIAL – TICKET ONLINE with friends, family and community,” www.peddellsferry.com.au he said.

• Passengers please pre-ticket – online, agents, or by phone Selection into the AFL Diversity Concession fares available, conditions apply program was not only based on OFFICE HOURS • MON–FRI, 9am–12noon & 12.30–2.30pm football ability but, more importantly, LUGGAGE • Passengers are required to take their luggage the respect, leadership ability and directly to the ferry with them at boarding time potential each ISLAND young person showed. piece under 20 kg, excess charges otherwise apply) THURSDAY / HORN ISLAND FERRY(1TIMETABLE The AFL Cape York Eagles selected FREIGHT • Items under 20 kg carried, conditions apply.

Please note freight may be delivered 1.30pm to 2pm to travel McDONALD CHARTER BOATS were Steven, Chad, Masie, Jermaine, on the 2.30pm TI-Seisia Service or at other times Rushon, Nelly & Malakye.

Phone: 1300 664 875 delivered directly to the vessel and pre paid.

Fax: (07) were 4090 3628 The Tagai Students selected THE JETTY SHOP & OFFICE, ENGINEERS JETTY, THURSDAY IS. Terence and Sonrae. email: info@tiferry.com.au

Two Tagai Secondary students were among those selected to attend the Brisbane Lions vs Gold Coast Suns – AFL Diversity Talent Camp on the Sunshine Coast last week.

After standout performances at last month’s Chris Johnson and Angie Nadredre AFL Cup in Bamaga, Terence Mosby and Sonrae Lui travelled to Cairns where they met students from the Cairns and Cape York region, who were also attending the talent camp.

They then travelled to the Sunshine Coast and where they were put straight into an AFL skill session when they arrived.

That evening players engaged in team bonding activities and educational sessions with other selected players from around the state, before resting up for the games to be played the next day.

The second day of the camp saw players split into teams before going head-to-head in male and female AFL

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16

THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2022

EDITORIAL l E: editor@torres.news

Sports centre masterplan a start Queensland Deputy Premier Steven Miles MP recently announced Torres Shire Council has been allocated $40,000 to develop a Masterplan for the Thursday Island Sports Complex precinct but Mayor Yen Loban said while they were grateful, they hoped it was only the beginning.

“Sport is the glue that binds our communities together,” he said.

“It is the pinnacle of the weekly social calendar, it brings bragging rights between sporting communities that can last from one season to the next.”

He said the funding came at a time when the 2032 Olympic Games presented a great opportunity.

“Council congratulates the Queensland Government, supported by the Australian Olympics Committee (AOC), together with our sister council (Brisbane City Council) and the Commonwealth Government, in securing the Games,” he said.

“The 2032 Olympic Games presents not only a wonderful opportunity to showcase south-east Queensland, but the whole of the Sunshine State, especially the extraordinary region of the Torres Strait with its rich and diverse cultures, its ancient and surviving languages and customs and its unique physical environment that is second to none.

“The prospect of the Olympics coming to the Torres Strait and specifically Thursday Island is exciting, and we can’t thank the Deputy Premier and the Palaszczuk Government enough for assisting Council with funding to prepare the Masterplan for the Sports Complex.

“We hope this is the beginning, we have fought for so long because time and time again, the natural talents of our young athletes are not tapped or trained.

“They run on the sand but have no spikes to run competitively on the athletics track.

“They have no scholarships that effectively integrate their schooling with their sporting aspirations.”

He said every year 600 students left their families in the Torres Strait for their education.

“Data from Queensland Treasury’s Statistician’s Office demonstrates that they are doing better than the rest of Queensland, they are completing years 11 and 12 at a higher rate than the rest of Queensland,” he said.

“But they cannot stay in their communities or with their families because undertaking remote on-line degrees is a nightmare. “[Our] telecommunications are below university standard and if they attend TAFE, they are often forced to leave their island home to obtain jobs in more lucrative markets.

“Is this what we want for our young people?

“Raise their expectations through support from families and their completion of education, only to have them dashed because of overcrowding and with little or no pathways forward?

“Where are the youth jobs?

“If we are going to get serious about Closing the Gap as part of the 2032 Olympics, there must be pathways between school and sport because, after all, we want to show case many Cathy Freemans and Patrick Mills from our Shire and region.

“We have the talent here, but it will never thrive unless there is investment now.

“With the help of the Palaszczuk Government, Council is very optimistic that this can and will be turned around and the Master Plan for the Sports Complex is the first step.”

OPPORTUNITY BECKONS: Sport complex staff Joseph Passi, Eisha Kepa, Thomas Lewin and Conwell Bani. BELOW: pool side. Pics supplied.