Torres News_Edition 112_21 December 2023

Stories and events of the Kaurareg homeland of Kaiwalagal, the Torres Strait homeland and

Thursday, 21 December 2023 Cape York homelands of the Anggamuthi, Atambaya, Wuthathi, Yadhaykenu and Gudang Peoples.

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Christmas joy in remote toy drive

ABOVE: Rita Kebisu and Team Leader Ryan Fitch from ECAP. STORY AND PIC

BY CARLI WILLIS

Christmas is on its way to the more remote communities of Zenadth Kes, thanks to a toy drive

by Queensland Health’s Early Childhood Approach Program (ECAP).

ECAP Community Engagement Officer Rita Kebisu said play time was an important part of a child’s early development and they had gotten behind the Christmas Toy Drive in the hope it would bring a little extra cheer to remote islands with limited access to retailers.

“We worked closely with TSIRC and Mura Kosker to find out what

programs are running in community and we found some communities children don’t have a space to play,” she said.

Ms Kebisu’s team, based at the Thursday Island Government Office Hub on Douglas St, and Mura Kosker were taking toy donations in at their respective offices.

“Just give Lazaria a call or drop into the neighbourhood centre,” Ms Kebisu said.

“I really appreciate Mura Kosker for coming on board for assisting as well getting toys, and also the community of TI. “Indigenous and non-Indigenous

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families have been donating toys.

“We know when we deliver the toys to the outer islands the kids are going to be overwhelmed with what they have to play with, because they don’t [have the same] opportunities as here on TI or further south.”

Ms Kebisu said delivery was likely to be made in the New Year so families still had time to donate and were welcome to contact her directly if they have questions.

“Whatever you think kids could play with, we’re able to ship out,” she said.

“I’m not talking about big playing playgrounds or slides or anything,

just little things that we can put together for kids to play with or even like play mats.

“We’ve been getting books as well, for parent or carers to read to the children.

“We’ve just overwhelmed with the support that we’re getting, big esso everybody.

“We all need a bit of joy in the New Year, especially with what we’ve been through this year.”

ECAP was launched in August this year to help improve the lives of children who may be vulnerable to developmental delays or difficulties.

02 NEWS

THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Season’s Greetings

Premier names new Cabinet

az, h S , e in t n, Chris e r r a D one at , y r e v Diat e lora and F ould w d n A a li IM r S a C and T s w e N ders, s a e e r r r o d T e e lu th our va ll a h erry is M w a o t s d e n k li nd frie a s r e is t Safe, a adver d n a as Christm ear!

Y w e N Happy

Torres News

Your North Queensland airline connecting the islands of the Torres Strait with Cairns and Bamaga

FLY WITH A QUEENSLANDER

Last Friday formerDeputy Premier Steven Miles was sworn in as Premier and earlier this week five new ministers were sworn in to his new Cabinet.

Nikki Boyd was to take on the portfolios of Fire, Disaster Recovery and Corrective Services, Bart Mellish took on Transport, Main Roads and Digital Services (replacing Mark Bailey), First Nations MP Lance McCallum adopted Employment, Small Business, Training and Skills Development, Charis Mullen would have responsibility for Child Safety, Seniors, Disability Services and Multicultural Arts (replacing Craig Crawford), and Michael Healy has Tourism and Sport (replacing Stirling Hinchcliffe).

Other changes include a promotion for Grace Grace, who no longer has Education, but added State Development and Infrastructure, including the Olympics, to her previous portfolios of Industrial Relations and Racing.

Youth Justice Minister Di Farmer has taken on Education, while Police Minister Mark Ryan also has Community Safety.

Housing Minister

Meaghan Scanlon was the new Local Government, Planning and Public Works Minister.

First Nations Minister Leeanne Enoch has retained her portfolios as Minister for Treaty, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Minister for Communities and Minister for the Arts.

The new Cabinet met for the first time on Tuesday.

“I want Queenslanders to know that every single member of my government is on their side and will be working day and night to deliver a better Queensland,” the new Premier said.

Mr Miles also said he intended to create a new Queensland Leaders Forum, “to bring together business, industry, community and unions in the one room to work together for Queensland’s future”.

He said regional communities were the backbone of Queensland’s economy.

“We’re also Australia’s most decentralised state with strong regional communities that back themselves, their industries and their futures,” he said.

TOP: Premier Steven Miles, Governor Jeanette Young and new Deputy Permier Cameron Dick at Government House. ABOVE: Premier Steven Miles faces the media with Deputy Premier Cameron Dick. Pics supplied.

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023

GBK management under scrutiny Native Title Service provider Gur A Baradharaw Kod [GBK] is seeking legal counsel following recent questions put forward by Senator Lidia Thorpe in Senate Estimates last month, GBK chair Ned David says.

Senator Thorpe raised questions about GBK’s management of its finances and its corporate structure in the hearings.

Mr David said the questions – nine in total – were sent to Native Title funding body, the National Indigenous Australians Agency [NIAA], and Native Title regulator, the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations [ORIC].

He said GBK was happy to be transparent and provide responses to any question put forward to them, within the legal parameters with which it may respond.

He said he had also offered an open invitation to Zenadth

Kes communities to get in touch directly with the organisation if they wanted clarification on GBK’s organisational matters.

“I’m happy to, and I’m keen to go to any forums in any community and have people ask me questions in front of everybody,” he said.

“I also encourage everyone – don’t believe everything you see on social media.

“The advice that we’ve got from our legal counsel is not to respond directly to any of these social media posts.

“The only way we can explain ourselves and give information to people is we can only give the facts.

“The two organisations are mina important organisations for GBK. “NIAA, they’re the ones we get most of our monies from, the millions of dollars that we get.

“We have done every single thing that they’ve

asked us to do, in terms of acquitting our monies.

“From the board’s perspective in our administration, we’ve got no trouble providing that information to anyone.”

Mr David said GBK was responsible for reporting its finances to ORIC. “The regulator is the one that makes sure that you do your reports right, when you have your meetings, write up your finances, make sure that your rulebook is up to speed,” he said.

Mr David said it was NIAA’s and ORIC’s responsibility to answer those questions.

“We welcome this process… [we] want these rules in place where you got that sort of accountability and where people can come in and check your books, make sure you’re doing the right thing,” he said.

Mr David said he had responded directly to Ms Thorpe, questioning her motives.

GBK Ned David wants communities and organisations to contact GBK directly in response to questions raised by Senator Lidia Thorpe. Picture: Carli Willis.

GBK took over the Native Title Services Provider role from the Torres Strait Regional Authority on 1 July 2022 and in 12 months, Mr David said, had made record investment into the 21 member Native Title bodies.

“In 12 months, we have invested over a million dollars into

our PBC’s and our communities, [to] the end of June 2023,” he said. “This year, we’re going to match that money, that investment even more.”

The Torres News contacted Senator Thorpe’s office for a response but had not heard from her by our print deadlines.

International visitors escorted off Kirriri Kirriri (Hammond Island) locals are concerned about three strangers – thought to be Chinese nationals – who made their way from the back of Kirriri, before they were escorted to the wharf earlier this month.

The Torres News was told the three male persons were Chinese immigrants who were brought to the north end of Kirriri via a ‘banana boat’ from Papua New Guinea.

It was not known if the immigrants were in Australian waters legally.

Torres News was aware the visitors did not have the required Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) approvals to enter Kirriri.

It was understood a local person contacted TSIRC after the three visitors approached them and attempted to communicate, using what appeared to be a translation device.

During this communication the visitors used the device to tell locals they were from China.

The nationals were then thought to have been taken to Border Force by water police.

In a response to a request by Torres News, an Australian Border Force spokesperson said, “The Australian Border Force does not comment on operational matters”.

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said community members

should report any concerns to local police or call 000.

“I urge local people to contact my office with any concerns and I can refer them to the relevant authorities,” she said.

“Any instance of crime and suspected illegal activity on our borders is unacceptable.

“I understand people will feel uncertain or unsafe if they see strangers in their community who they

believe have arrived illegally.”

Ms Lui said she had spoken to Australia’s Border Force, who said they urged anyone who saw anything that ‘didn’t feel right’ to flag it with them.

“Observations from the community can help stop crimes,” she said.

Police Media advised there were no crimes on record for that day.

TSIRC was asked for a formal response but did not reply in time for our print deadlines.

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04 NEWS

THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Waiben-based marine Weather diverts Horn Is flight south to Townsville inspector welcomed

BY VELMA GARA

STORY AND PICS

BY CARLI WILLIS For the first time in three years Torres Strait and NPA communities have a full time marine inspector based on Waiben to service the region.

New Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) marine inspector Sophia Nolan said until her appointment inspectors weren’t island-based.

She said it was a visit in the early 2000s that inspired her to work here.

“I sailed through here in the early 2000s and I had really fond memories of the town, the people, the islands, the waterways,” she said.

“So in September, I visited the island for four weeks, and made the decision to move here.”

Ms Nolan said her role was to regulate safety onboard

Desley Thompson (left) and Sophia Nolan (right) will be running safety workshops in the region next year. commercial vessels through inspections, education and the review of incidents and reported marine safety concerns.

“I think safety is one of the things that we want to make come to the forefront for people out on the water,” she said. “We want to minimise incidents, we want everyone to come home safely.”

Brisbane-based Safety Liaison Officer Desley

Thompson visited recently to do some community safety workshops with Ms Nolan.

“We talked about some of the issues that have been issues and concerns from community members,” Ms Thompson said.

“As well as in preparing for journeys, especially over this Christmas and New Year break.

“A lot of people know how to prepare and but

it’s just a matter of doing it and making sure that you do have that safety equipment on board.

“Letting people know when you’re going, where you’re going and filling up with plenty of fuel.

“Make sure there’s plenty of fuel there, and life jackets safety equipment, all the safety equipment on board.”

She said safety workshops would be held in the new year.

A Qantas flight from Horn Island to Cairns was redirected to Townsville last Saturday night, after Cairns Airport was closed because of rain and floods from ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper.

Thursday Island resident Samat Sagigi was travelling to Cairns for work in cyclone recovery but his flight was instead redirected to Townsville.

Samat said while other planes tried to land in Cairns his flight had enough fuel to travel further south.

He said aboard the plane was government staff, a doctor, families, Elders, children and babies.

Qantas prvided passengers with accommodation, meal vouchers, and cab vouchers in Townsville.

Samat and other passengers spent a number of nights in Townsville but were

expected to fly to Cairns earlier this week.

On Monday afternoon the Cairns Airport posted an update on social media which read: “The team at Cairns Airport, with support from a number of external businesses, have worked throughout today to pump water out, clear and inspect the runway, along with its lighting and infrastructure. We are happy to report

the runway is now clear and the runway lighting is operational, so the aerodrome will be serviceable for aircraft movements from Tuesday.”

They said airlines would assess their own flight operations and procedures to determine when they could recommence services.

The Bruce Highway was also closed around Ingham.

Samat Sagigi at his accommodation in Townsville.

CYNTHIA LUI MEMBER FOR COOK Cook Electorate Office Closure: Our office in Cairns will be closed from Wednesday 20th December until Monday 8th January, 2024.

Warmest thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.

May peace, love and prosperity follow you always.

P: 07 4223 1100 | E: cook@parliament.qld.gov.au Commonwealth Centre, Suite 3, Cnr Grafton & Shields Sts, CAIRNS Q. 4870 Facebook: facebook.com/CynthiaLuiMP | W: cynthialui.com.au

NEWS 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023

Monwell’s message: take time to talk

BY GILMORE JOHNSTON & CARLI WILLIS The festive season can be a joyous time but for some it can also be one of the most stressful times of year.

Zenadth Kes local Monwell Levi wants community to know that although it may not be easy, it is OK to talk about how they are feeling.

“Don’t be afraid to talk, you know, there are people out there willing to listen, you just got to pick the right people that you trust,” he said.

After overcoming many personal challenges, such as ADHD, PTSD, and self-harm, Monwell’s journey to becoming a talented musician was an inspiration to many.

He said he drew his strength from resilience and compassion, which was shaped by his early years.

Despite facing homelessness, substance abuse, challenges with

gambling and suicide ideation, Monwell’s unyielding determination led to a remarkable path of recovery and selfdiscovery.

“When I used to play back home on St Paul, I used to invest in that vision of playing in front of a crowd,” he said.

“I started busking [in Canberra] and people were starting to throw money at me, it was few bucks - $60 was pretty good.”

Monwell said during a time of “darkness” he wrote one of his favourite songs in a room by himself in a men’s shelter.

“I lost my way but I ended up finding myself, I clawed my way out mentally,” he said.

He said since moving into a better headspace, he had begun making a podcast called Holding on to Hope with Lifeline to share his journey with others.

“It’s getting tougher every year, inflation’s building up mental strains,” he said.

Monwell Levi spoke from the heart about mental health with Radio 4MW presenter Gilmore Johnstone. Picture: Bonnie Levi.

“My mind is clear now, I don’t hoard bad memories, I’ve sort of thrown them out.”

*If you or anyone you know needs help: Mura Kosker on 07 4069 1663, Wakai

Waian Healing on 1800 732 850, Lifeline on 13 11 14, MensLine Australia on 1300

KOEYMA ESO FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF GBK THROUGHOUT 2023 GBK’s offices, including MGNM services, will be closed until Tuesday 2nd January 2024. . On behalf of the entire team, we wish you a safe and joyful holiday with your family and loved ones. We look forward to continuing our work together in 2024 and beyond.

789 978, Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467, Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636,

Headspace on 1800 650 890, ReachOut at au.reachout.com, QLife on 1800 184 527.

10x3 @ $5.40 rate $162incl [$147.27ex] Emailed price & PROOF PDF: ______________ - PO:_________________ by 4PM FRIDAY 15/12/23 Harish Nair <harish.nair@torres.qld.gov.au> for Yorkston, Dalassa <Dalassa.Yorkston@torres.qld.gov.au>

06 NEWS

Season’s Greetings St Pat’s takes on STEM focus from torres shire council

On behalf of the Torres Shire Mayor, Councillors and Staff, best wishes for a joyous festive season and a prosperous New Year.

Au Esoau, Koeyma Eso and thank you for your support in 2023.

Dalassa Yorkston CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER December 2023

The Board, CEO and Staff of Mura Kosker Sorority wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

MURA KOSKER SORORITY CHRISTMAS CLOSURE Date Saturday, 23rd December 2023 until Monday, 1st January 2024

Office Hours All Offices & Outreach Centres: Closed On call emergency numbers: 0429 651 230 or 0474 028 348

If you are experiencing an emergency or any life-threatening situation, please contact “000” as well as the useful numbers below: DV Connect Womensline

1800 811 811 (24 hours)

DV Connect Mensline

1800 600 636 (9am–midnight)

DV Connect Sexual Assault Helpline

1800 010 120 (7:30am–11:30pm)

Lifeline Counselling

131 114 (24 hours)

Relationship Australia QLD

1300 364 277 (8am–8pm Mon to Fri)

North QLD Women’s Legal Service

1800 244 504 (9am–1pm Mon to Thurs)

Kids Helpline

1800 551 800 (24 hours)

Parent Line

1300 301 300 (8am–10pm)

Mensline Australia

1300 789 978 (24 hours)

TN0694

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ETSRA. PO#:_____________________ *15x4 [60] ad Tahlae Nona <tahlae.nona@tsra.gov.au>

D/L: 12noon FRI 16/12/22

THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

North Queensland Cowboys NRLW team cocaptain Tallisha Harden and Francis Tapim were special guests at the opening of the new Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Learning Hub at St Pat’s College in Townsville last week.

Francis, a representative of the local Torres Strait community, was full of praise for the hub.

“It is absolutely wonderful and lots of Torres Strait students from various islands are boarders there,” he said.

Many of the girls play in junior AFL and rugby league competitions.

St Pat’s College spokeswoman Isabel Bowrey said the building was a transformative step forward in providing contemporary learning opportunities and fostering the leaders of tomorrow in the STEM fields.

College principal Amber Hauff said she was excited.

“The STEM Learning Hub is a testament to our commitment to providing the best educational opportunities for young women in North Queensland,” she said.

“This facility is designed to nurture and inspire students’ passion for STEM subjects, setting them on a path of success and innovation.”

Tallisha Harden and Francis Tapim at the launch.

Torres and Cape health facilities ready

Cape York, Torres Strait, and Northern Peninsula Area health facilities are well prepared and have completed emergency management planning for the looming natural disaster season.

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service Executive Director Disaster Management Danielle Hoins said preparations for summer started months in advance to ensure the region’s health facilities were ready.

“Whether it’s a cyclone, bushfire, floods or prolonged power outages, our region has seen it all,” she said.

“Natural disasters are unpredictable which is why preparation is important, not only for the health service, but everyone in the community.”

Ms Hoins said every health facility in the TCHHS had individual emergency management plans in place and staff members were familiar with these.

“Emergency generators at all our health facilities are regularly tested and well supplied with adequate stocks of

fuel,” she said.

“Our facilities are also well stocked with food and medical supplies.

“We have backup satellite systems in place for most of our facilities in the event voice and data services go down.

“This has been a

significant advancement for emergency communication channels to support facilities and reduce the impact on business continuity in the event of a disaster or emergency.

“All in all, all our health facilities are as prepared as they possibly can be.’’

Extensive disaster preparedness and recovery information, as well as disaster-related health information is available at: • http://getready.qld.gov.au/ • http://www.health.qld.gov.au/ disaster/ • http://www.disaster.qld.gov.au/ • www.health.qld.gov.au/heatsafe

New First Nations language program on offer for 2024 Expressions of interest are open for the First Nations Languages Education Program (FNLEP) which aims to teach and strengthen Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages.

The FNLEP was developed in partnership with First Languages Australia (FLA), the national peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages.

The initiative recognised each community had different aspirations and needs for teaching and sustaining First Nations languages.

As well as funding a local language plan, it could also support up to 60 First Nations language educators in primary schools across Australia.

The program was aimed at progressing Target 16 of Closing the Gap, to support a sustained increase in the number and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages spoken.

Communities register their interest before they work with FLA to develop a local plan.

“It’s important to know that Indigenous

languages, from the oldest continuing cultures on earth, will be taught in classrooms around the country,” Assistant Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy said.

“All students, Indigenous and nonIndigenous will benefit from this program that will ensure First Nations languages thrive into the future.”

Expressions of interest are open until 28 February 2024.

For more information, visit: www.education. gov.au/schooling/firstnations-languages

Mura Kosker Sorority empowers Torres Mura Kosker Sorority empowers Torres Strait Islander families Strait Islander families

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023

07

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Torres Strait Island-based organisation MuraIsland-based Kosker Torres Strait Sorority provides free and organisation Mura Kosker confidential services, helping Sorority provides free and local families that need support. confidential services, helping Founded over years local families that need30 support. ago,Founded Mura Kosker Sorority was over 30 years started by a group of local Torres ago, Mura Kosker Sorority was Strait Islander women who started by a group of local Torres wanted to support each other and Strait Islander women who advocate for local women and wanted to support each other and their families. advocate for local women and Now, Mura Kosker Sorority’s their families.

Mura BuaiMura Wellbeing is Now, KoskerProgram Sorority’s the Queensland GovernmentMura Buai Wellbeing Program is funded Family Wellbeing Service the Queensland Governmentin the Torres Strait region, where funded Family Wellbeing Service local families can access a range in the Torres Strait region, where of services including parenting local families can access a range programs, playgroups, and of services including parenting cultural support. programs, playgroups, and The support. aim is to improve the cultural emotional and is physical wellbeing The aim to improve the of families, children, and young emotional and physical wellbeing people. of families, children, and young Mura Kosker CEO Aletia people.

Twist said Kosker the incredible team Mura CEO Aletia at Mura Kosker Sorority and Twist said the incredible team particularly their Mura Buai at Mura Kosker Sorority and Wellbeing is helping particularly Program their Mura Buai local families access a range of Wellbeing Program is helping tailored services from budgeting local families access a range of and management, tailoredhousehold services from budgeting and

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clinical and therapeutic services including to services family clinical andcasework therapeutic mediation and domestic violence including casework to family intervention programs. mediation and domestic violence “The wonderful intervention programs.thing about our “The program is that it’sthing led by the wonderful about community for the Torres Strait our program is that it’s led by the Island community.

That Strait way, community for the Torres we’re able to meet local needs Island community. That way, that unique in thislocal area,” she we’reareable to meet needs said.

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In participating with the program, staff saw the changes in program, Keira as In participating with the she took responsibility, making staff saw the changes in Keira as positive changes for her family. she took responsibility, making Keirachanges was for empowered positive her family. to haveKeira her voice heard and gained was empowered to insight that the changes were not have her voice heard and gained only but also insightforthather thechildren, changes were not herself. only for her children, but also The Mura Buai Wellbeing herself.

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Mura Buai Wellbeing lineage Program staff helped Keira to The Mura Buai Wellbeing see that she needed to take Program staff helped Keiracare to of her to kids. see herself that she for needed takeThey care encouraged Keiraherto kids. make They good of herself for choices for her kids and build up encouraged Keira to make good her spirit, reminding her that she choices for her kids and build up is hera good spirit,mother. reminding her that she They worked to help Keira is a good mother. create better home Theya worked to helproutine, Keira manage a weekly budget and create a better home routine, meal plan, as well as help her to manage a weekly budget and find transport to take her children meal plan, as well as help her to to medical appointments. find transport to take her children Since attending Mura Buai, to medical appointments.

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08 NEWS

THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Stay ‘fire safe’ - local warning offered for lithium batteries

Townsville Stable celebrates

BY ALF WILSON

A rise in structural fires caused by lithium ion batteries across the state has Queensland Fire and Emergency Service concerned.

Thursday Island Fire & Rescue Station officer Luke Smith (pictured right) called on families in the Torres Strait and NPA to make sure they were fire-safe during the festive season.

“What we see is people moving towards a greener energy solution, however not going through reputable manufacturers, but going for chargers that aren’t designated

by that manufacturer to charge that device,” he said.

“If you use them incorrectly they can be quite dangerous.

“When they’re damaged or charged inappropriately the batteries will catch fire and in extreme cases they can explode.”

Mr Smith said it wasn’t ideal to leave lithium ion batteries on charge for periods longer than necessary because they may overload and catch fire.

“They’re very hard for us to put out with water and we actually need to submerge them

totally in water for a period of time completely to extinguish that battery,” he said.

Mr Smith also urged people to consider checking electrical equipment that was stored before it was pulled out for Christmas.

“If Christmas lights have been stored away for a period of time, take a really good look at them before using them,” he said.

He said people should also be careful not to double-connect power boards, as this posed a potential for them to overload and cause fires.

Mary-Ann Whap and children Malachi WhapHughes, 11, Heze WhapHughes, 6, and Aryanna Whap-Hughes, 9, (above) and Badu Islander Ishmail Tamwoy (left) were happy to celebrate Christmas in Townsville with the 37th Stable at Riverway event.

“We have really had a good time here and this is a great Christmas event,” Mary-Ann said.

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THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS PO Box 92 THURSDAY ISLAND QLD 4875 ICN 3712 / ABN 44590587098

Kaurareg Native Title Aboriginal Corporation Community Notice Christmas Closure The Kaurareg Native Title Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC wishes to advise or members, communities and stakeholders, that we will be closed for business from Friday 22nd December 2023 at 3pm and reopening on January 2nd 2024.

We take this opportunity to extend a warm thank you to our members, our communities and our stakeholders for their valuable partnerships and contributions to our corporation throughout the 2023 year.

We look forward to working with you all again in 2024.

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Safe and Blessed New Year.

Koeyma Eso, Au Esoau, Many Thanks For urgent matters over the closure period please call our General Manager on 0460519717

COP28 ‘heartbreak’ for activists

BY CARLI WILLIS Climate advocate Tishiko King has returned from COP28 in Dubai feeling “heartbroken” and let down by the refusal of governments to phase out fossil fuels.

The 28th United Nations Framework Conventions of Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP28) global climate summit in Dubai wrapped up a day later than scheduled after global leaders ran a prolonged debate on whether to “phase out” or “transition away” from fossil fuels.

President for COP28 was the head of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), and UAE politician, Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, who said the final agreement to transition away from fossil fuels was historic.

“We have language on fossil fuel in our final agreement, for the first time ever,” he said.

But United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said

the final deal fell short of the long-demanded call for oil, coal and gas to be phased out.

“To those who opposed a clear reference to a phase out of fossil fuels in the COP28 text, I want to say that a fossil fuel phase out is inevitable whether they like it or not,” he said.

“Let’s hope it doesn’t come too late.”

Ms King said the agreement of 200 nations to merely transition away from fossil fuels was not enough to halt the devastating effects of climate change experienced by Torres Strait Islanders and their Pacific Island neighbours.

On this decision, Ms King felt devastated.

“It broke my heart because it failed (us),” she said.

“How do we return back to our communities and tell them? “[Tell them], ‘Well, as a globe, we had leadership not able to agree to phase out

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fossil fuels’.”

COP28 was Ms King’s third COP conference after attending COP26 and 27 as a passionate climate advocate with 350.org, a Kulkalaig woman from Masig with Badulagal connections (Themu Clan) based in Naarm (Melbourne), and a marine biologist, ocean ambassador and philanthropist.

“I went to represent my community and the ‘Our Islands, Our Home’ campaign,” she said.

“Advancing seas are threatening our homes and our islands, damaging freshwater supplies, crops, burial grounds and our sacred cultural sites.”

The summit was held in a city that boasted a state-of-the-art circular economy, but was also one of the world’s top producers of fossil fuels.

The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) said sea levels in the region were rising at a rate of between 6-8mm per year.

Ms King said Australia polluted at least three times more than the United Arab Emirates.

“As a developed nation, in the global south, we have a responsibility for our people and our neighbours,” she said.

“As the ocean absorbs 70 per cent of our emissions and our structures change, our people can’t fish because the fish are gone.

“We can’’t pick our fruit, we can’t live off the land.”

TOP: Pacific Climate Warriors, 350 Pacific.

ABOVE: Ms King at the global day of action.

BOTTOM: Ms King at the Moana Pavilion with reps from Vanuatu, Niue and Fiji.

PICS BY: 350.org With the support of 350.org, the Torres Strait 8 filed a complaint against the Australian government in 2019.

In March 2022, the Albanese Government committed $40 million to deliver aging infrastructure across the Torres Strait, a sum that was matched by the Queensland Government in March 2023.

By September 2022, Australia was found by the UN Human Rights Committee to have violated the rights of Torres Strait Islanders by neglecting climate action.

The case set a global precedent that would pave the way for the global Loss and Damage Fund being established at COP27 in 2022.

But Ms King said at COP28 she was advocating for governments to increase funding, as there were

gaps between the allocations and what was needed.

“It’s actually been inadequate, where on my island of Masig with the funding that’s been allocated, we can only build 100 metres and that’s just not good enough,” she said.

“We have the right to remain on our homelands.”

Ms King said by inadequately funding adaptation measures, the government was refusing to pay the required loss and damage.

She said 350.org would continue to work with Traditional Owners and the Native Title Service Provider Gur A Baradharaw Kod (GBK) to advocate for better outcomes.

“For me, you know, we have to continue to do this because we don’t have a choice,” she said.

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Year

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IN REVIEW

Mayoral Message

Welcoming the Governor of Queensland Her Excellency Hon. Dr. Jeanette Young AC PSM

Torres Shire Council acknowledges the traditional owners of Kaiwalagal, the Kaurareg traditional owners and traditional owners of Zenadth Kes, elders past, present and emerging. The Mayoral Column provides a good opportunity to report to our constituents on the progress made in our communities and the strategic direction of Council. This column has been a regular form of communication along with talks on TSIMA Radio.

Council was honoured to host Her Excellency The Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland and Professor Graeme Nimmo RFD, husband to the Governor on their visit to Thursday Island on 26 January 2023.

80th Anniversary of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion Council acknowledges the Committee for Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion at Anzac Park, Thursday Island.

As we move towards the end of 2023 and the festive season, I would like to take the opportunity to reflect on the major achievements of Council in our focus to improving the quality of lifestyle of our communities.

Torres Shire has a proud and vibrant community with a multicultural tradition embracing both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Council has represented our community at important forums and deputations to various State and Federal government departments and strongly advocating on behalf of our constituents for improved services for our communities of Prince of Wales Island, Horn Island and Thursday Island. Council has been very busy in 2023 in delivering projects. Here are some highlights.

On behalf of the Torres Shire Councillors, Executive Management and Staff, I would like to wish our residents and local business people a blessed Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Council looks forward to continually serving our people and communities in our municipal obligations into the New Year.

I would also like to extend our thanks and best wishes to our fellow Councils - Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) and key stakeholders particularly the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) for their constructive engagement, support and collaboration throughout the year.

Well wishes for a safe and joyous Christmas and we look forward to continued collaborations in 2024. This has been a really big and busy year. One to remember.

For further information on any of the abovementioned subjects, please contact the Chief Executive Officer, Dalassa Yorkston on Ph (07) 40691336 or email – dalassa.yorkston@torres.qld.gov.au

Mayor Cr. Yen Loban

TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL

Cost of Living Summit

Led by the last surviving members of the TSLIB, the march went down Douglas Street with the Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, AO, DSC. It was a great day of community coming together to commemorate and remember those who served and Council acknowledged and thanked the TSLIB for their courage and contribution in defending our country during a time when those serving were not even classified as citizens. Lest We Forget.

The Premier’s Cost of Living Summit was hosted in our shire on 20 March 2023 and welcomed by the community. Council successfully called for the Costof-Living Summit. Council also called for a score card to be published comparing socio economic data from our region with the rest of Queensland with a view to closing the gap. The Queensland Statistician has agreed to produce this scorecard on the 23rd August each year, which is the anniversary of the first Torres Strait Island Councillors Conference on Masig Island, 1937.

At the Summit, Minister Bailey referred to the direction and importance of the Masig Statement and the realisation of self-determination by 2037. He announced $80M over 5 years to be spent on marine infrastructure, $64M for a freight disadvantage subsidy to assist lower freight costs. $1.2M for a new Ferry and a bus to TI for school children. $500,000 ferry maintenance package was announced, along with continuance of pathway construction. Council was to receive $3.7m for this construction along with $700,000 for Victoria Parade shared path.

Torres Strait & NPA Regional Organisation of Councils On 6 March 2023, Torres Shire Council, Torres Strait Island Regional Council and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council met and officially signed the Torres Strait & Northern Peninsula Area Regional Organisation of Councils (TS&NPAROC) Charter.

TS&NPAROC is a Regional Organisation of Councils representing the Torres Strait Island Regional LGA, the Torres Shire LGA and the Northern Peninsula Area LGA. Our Mission is to work cooperatively on a regional basis to achieve enhanced regional resource sharing between councils together with advancing our coordinated advocacy for our agreed regional priorities.

More highlights cont.

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IN REVIEW

Consul-General of Japan to Australia visit to the Shire It was a pleasure to host and meet with the Consul-General of Japan to Australia Mr Gomakubo Junji and Consular Mr Muto Toshikazu during their visit to Thursday Island. In 2011, an International Friendship City agreement was signed between Thursday Island and the Town of Kushimoto, Japan and each year Council is committed to hosting the Annual OBON Japanese Ancestral Ceremony.

Road Works | Thursday Island After significant lobbying, including to bring forward this large road works project, Torres Shire Council had secured commitment from the Department of Transport and Main Roads (DTMR) to undertake a reseal and line marking program along the Thursday Island “ring road” (a State road). Council contributed additional funding to maximise the resealing project and took advantage of the heavy machinery and equipment mobilised by the State government. This allowed us to undertake further local roads sealing.

Road Works at Wasaga Village, Horn Island Council was successful under the Queensland Resilience and Risk Reduction fund (QRRRF) managed by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) in securing $630,269 with a Council contribution of $97,876 for the reconstruction of Outie Street, Horn Island. After awarding the tender, the road works were undertaken.

Welcoming New Australian Citizens During our Ordinary Council Meetings each year, Council facilitates residents to become Australian Citizens. These citizenship ceremonies are conducted as prescribed in the Australian Citizenship Act 2007 and the Australian Citizenship Regulations 2007 under the authority of the Minister for Immigration Citizenship. As Mayor and the authorised person to receive the pledges as an Australian Citizen of the Commonwealth of Australia, I facilitated a number of ceremonies this year. It was so great to have immediate family along with Australian Border Force Officers to witness each occasion.

Dhukur | New Council Vessel named and blessed As Mayor, I had the great honour of christening the new vessel with a young coconut in the presence of community members, Elected Members and TSC staff. Council officially named the vessel “Dhukur”. Deputy Mayor Cr. Bani explained the language name given and its significance to the naming.

Dhukur is the name used for the stick used when hunting and looking for crocodiles. Council would like to thank the State Government for the grant funding to purchase this important marine transport resource that will be used for Council’s compliance and services in the Shire.

Toad Busting Awards Congratulations over 600 toads collected by our Toad Busters this year. Council sponsors the annual Toad Busting competition because of its importance in removing a relentless pest, making our environment safer for native frogs and other wildlife and getting young people involved as citizen scientists.

More highlights cont.

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Year

IN REVIEW

Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival The Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival was hosted by Council and what a successful festival it was. The Indigenous Advisory Committee considered the historic signing of the Masig Statement at the 85th Anniversary celebrations of the first Councillors Meeting in 1937; the Palaszczuk Government’s support for, and introduction of, the Path to Treaty Bill and Prime Minister Albanese’s support for the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

The Masig Statement is the Voice from the Deep (Malungu Yangu Wakay – Kala Lagaw Ya – Mirkar - Meriam Mer) and that was this year’s theme.

Dance Teams from islands across the Torres Strait performed to the appreciation and delight of all Festival participants. The island was alive with sounds of cultural celebration, the drums, the smell of delicious island food. NITV covered every day of the Festival and The Point was broadcasted during the festival. It made me proud of my traditions, my culture and our people. I was very proud of council. My thanks go to Dalassa Yorkston, our CEO who, along with Council staff put in the huge efforts that ensured the festival was such a success.

More highlights cont.

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Advocacy

Council continued to advocate on behalf of ratepayers, residents and the region.

This advocacy included submissions and appearances before the Commonwealth and Queensland Parliaments. There were both a deputation to the State community cabinet in Cairns and a deputation to the

the Queensland and Local Governments, which we saw as critical to successfully addressing pressing issues that included high cost of living, housing and the development of the region.

Federal Parliament during the June Parliamentary Sitting in Canberra.

Along with my fellow councillors and the Chief Executive Officer, we impressed upon all Ministers present the need for a renewed and collaborative approach between

We raised our concern about the numbers of vehicles being imported onto particularly Thursday Island and have been advised that our proposed scheme, based on one adopted for Lord Howe Island is currently subject to the Queensland government obtaining legal advice.

We discussed food and grocery prices with

Minister Crawford, who expressed support for our proposals to help drive down prices.

Minister Hinchliffe was most interested in our recommendations regarding the Olympic Games and Tourism, Minister Scanlon was pleased to receive our report on our Coastal Hazard Adaptation Plan in response to Climate Change.

Ministers Enoch and Fentiman discussed with us various solutions proposed by Council regarding housing.

Minister Grace was an enthusiastic supporter of the proposed Summit.

IN REVIEW

Council sought an additional $1.3m for road infrastructure, a commitment to the development of the Rose Hill boat ramp after the feasibility study is completed in December this year, a combined 10-year Infrastructure Plan and other Planning to prevent duplication in service delivery, and cost shifting and to ensure critical infrastructure such as water may be secured for the future.

Council also submitted to Minister O’Neill MP Minister for Home Affairs regarding the Review into Australia’s

Aviation and Maritime Transport Security Settings, to the Joint Select Committee on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament Inquiry – Public Hearings, to the Queensland Parliament’s Community Support and Services Committee regarding the Path to Treaty Bill 2023, to the Commonwealth Productivity Commission Inquiry on Closing the Gap, to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence on the Defence Strategic Review.

Health Service Review Along with other regional leaders, Council raised serious concerns regarding primary health in our Shire and region (especially those that involved preventable deaths) after the death of a toddler that was referred to the coroner. I would like to acknowledge and thank Hon. Shannon Fentimen MP, Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women for exercising her powers to initiate the current TCHHS Health Service Investigation.

Council at its Ordinary Council Meeting of 20 June 2023 resolved to ensure that the lived experience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander patients, health workers and community was included in the Review; to support the unions campaign but also sought local representation on the Working Groups conducting the Inquiries; and to have the Mayors of Torres Shire Council, Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council and Torres Strait Island Regional Council, and the Chair of the Torres Strait Regional Authority to sit with the Minister for Health as a gatekeeper to the review, thus ensuring that the spirit of the Masig Statement was honoured and gave practical force to a voice from the Shire and region on this important Review.

Waiben Esplanade Seawall Project Award A great win for our Shire when the Waiben Esplanade Seawall Rehabilitation Project won the 2023 Coastal Engineering Award! Thanks to $2 million in Betterment funding from the Australian and Queensland governments, the old seawall has been replaced with a new concrete barrier that’s expected will protect the Waiben Esplanade from waves and severe weather

for a century with only minimal maintenance. Council would like to thank our staff, all the local tradies and businesses who contributed to this awesome project. Council also acknowledges our local Rosehill community members for your patience during the construction phase.

Horn Island Subdivision Completion Council is pleased to advise our community that the new subdivision is completed and a large number of freehold land housing blocks will soon be on the market for our community members to purchase. This project has been proudly funded by multiple grant funding agencies including the Commonwealth Government’s statutory authority the Torres Strait Regional Authority, the Queensland Government Interim Capital Works Funding and Building Our Regions Round 5 Funding Streams.

New Housing Construction on Horn Island Council is pleased to award the construction of 9 new rental homes on Horn Island for our community. Housing remains a high priority for Council and we will continue to advocate to both State and Federal Government on behalf of our shire and region.

The Hon. Dr. Steven Miles MP Premier of Queensland As the year closes, we wish to thank The Hon. Anastacia Palaszczuk MP for her service to Queensland and the Torres Strait. We welcome our ongoing collaboration with Premier Miles and his government.

NEWS 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023

Gurr Era Op to open at Bangarra Award-winning choreographer and performer Ghenoa Gela will premiere her landmark new production Gurr Era Op at Sydney Festival from 13-19 January.

Gerr Era Op means “the face of the sea”.

Ghenoa’s 60-minute film has been described as a visionary masterpiece of contemporary storytelling exposing the devastating impact of climate change on the Torres Strait Islands.

Produced in creative association with Force Majeure and collaboration with ILBIJERRI Theatre Company, Gurr Era Op invites audiences on the journey of four mainland-born Torres Strait Islander women as they confront the imminent threats posed to their home, culture, and identity by the rising tide of climate change.

“What would you do if you could never go home?” and “What happens to your identity

when the physical place that holds your ancestral foundations disappears?” are some of the poignant questions Ghenoa asks as water laps on the doors of her family home, causing destruction to her ancestral homelands.

Drawing on her fear of displacement, Ghenoa described the work as her, “contribution to the collective voices of Torres Strait Islander peoples who are standing up, fighting to bring visibility to the rising waters”.

This ground-breaking performance by an ensemble of First People creators was a celebratory sharing of culture and a call to action in the face of climate devastation.

Gurr Era Op interweaved hybrid Torres Strait Islander contemporary storytelling, movement and spoken word. *Gurr Era Op plays at The Studio Theatre at Bangarra from 13-19 January. Tickets: $65.

Torres News

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Freecall 1800 732 850 Email enquiries@ wakai-waian. com.au 40 Douglas St Thursday Is. Our very own cultural safe, Psychological and Counselling support service that delivers to youme first nations and non-indigenous people throughout “Zenadth Kes” region. The Social, emotional wellbeing bor youme in the community e responsibility and business bor youme everyone.

A scene from Ghenoa Gela’s Gerr Era Op. Pic by Ashley de Prazer.

TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL To lead, provide & facilitate a sustainable, safe and culturally vibrant community

PUBLIC PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE

NEW NEW YEARS YEARS EVE EVE FIREWORKS FIREWORKS Council will be closing the following sections of road to ensure public safety from: Council be closing the following sections of2020 road to- ensure public safety from: 4pmwill Thursday 31st December 1am Friday 2021

4pm 31st December 2023 – 2020 1am Monday January 2024 4pmSunday Thursday 31st December - 1am 1st Friday 2021

St John’s Church in South Townsville held its Christmas dinner last Saturday night, with many Torres Strait Islanders happy for some good cheer and a feed.

Organiser Therese Cowley said more than 50 people were at the Christmas event where families prepared a variety of festive meals and desserts to share on the night. Story by Velma Gara.

NE N ZO E O I S U N EXCL ION ZO S U L EXC

Victoria Parade from Engineers Wharf to Jardine Street Victoria Parade from Engineers Wharf to Jardine Street Signage indicating closure and detours will be in place and barricaded areas Signage indicating closure and detours will be in place and barricaded areas will be visible at all times during this temporary road closure. will be visible at all times during this temporary road closure.

Any queries, please contact Councils Works Manager Anyqueries, queries, please please contact Councils Works Manager Any contact Torres Shire Council Daniel Pemberton on mobile: 0455 677 956 Daniel Pemberton on mobile: on 4069 13360455 677 956 Dalassa Yorkston CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER DALASSA YORKSTON December 2023 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER DALASSA YORKSTON December 2020

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BY VELMA GARA Artist Gail Mabo has one of her artworks featured on the sails of the Sydney Opera House as part of Badu Gili: Celestrial.

Badu Gili: Celestial, the vibrant new animation of powerful First Nations storytelling, featured the work of Gail Mabo and international First Nations artist Nikau Hindin, a Te Rarawa and Ngāpuhi woman from Aotearoa/New Zealand.

Using Gail’s star maps constructed out of bamboo and

cotton, and Hindin’s Māori aute (bark cloth), the digital animation explores the ancient practices of celestial navigation across two cultures, with vibrant symbols and sounds bringing to life the stories of our skies and waterways.

The daily experience explores First Nations stories in a spectacular six-minute projection on the Opera House’s eastern Bennelong sails with screenings from sunset and later in the evening between 9pm and 10.30pm.

Gail Mabo’s work on the sails at Opera House. Pic by Sydney Opera House.

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Months in the making, large-scale art artworks put together by boarding students from all over Zenadth Kes have been permanently installed at the Torres Strait Kaziw Meta boarding home on Waiben.

Their creations included totems, cultural symbols and stories from the students’ homelands.

The art project was a partnership with Island Stars artist Joey Laifoo, who also enlisted the help of artist mentor Eddie Nona.

Udiwad Tapim from Murray Island said she was proud to be part of the project.

“It’s nice to see how the other students have different styles of art and how Uncle Joey is able to, like, put it all together,” she said.

“To know that it will be permanent and it will stay here for the future kids who are bought here from other outer Large-scale art installations at Torres Strait Kaziw Meta boarding islands – they can see that we’ve been doing some nice home, helping connect young people to Country and culture. things here at college.”

Pics by Carli Willis.

NEWS 17

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023

Four Winds of Zenadth Kes wins People’s Choice Badhu artist Harry Nona’s canvas Four Winds of Zenadth Kes has been named the 2023 Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award: People’s Choice award-winner, making him a two-time prize winner in the Torres Strait region’s most prestigious art awards.

Four Winds of Zenadth Kes also received the runner-up prize at the exhibition’s opening night celebrations in November, where guest judge Avril Quaill described it as a “beautiful and profound work”.

Mr Nona was surprised and humbled to win the award.

“My passion for art has been reignited,” he said.

“I took a break to focus on crayfishing, but I feel more empowered to keep creating artworks that tell my people’s stories, like the Four Winds of Zenadth Kes. “I wasn’t too sure if it was the painting or the story itself that attracted people, but I am very honoured to receive the People’s Choice award, and I thank those who voted.

“I am currently working on a new story-

telling canvas, and I look forward to submitting it to sell at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre in the new year.”

Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) chair Napau Pedro Stephen congratulated Mr Nona for taking home the two major prizes.

“This award-winning entry holds significant value for Torres Strait Islanders, as it depicts the seasonal changes that dictate our way of life,” Mr Stephen said.

“The community and visitors have voted, and I was proud to see Mr Nona recognised for his artistic talents on a piece that has caught the eyes and hearts of the public.

“The TSRA and Gab Titui Cultural Centre look forward to receiving more works from Mr Nona.”

Voting for the People’s Choice award closed on 30 November – more than 400 votes were counted.

Comments submitted about Mr Nona’s winning entry included: “Amazing!” “Very striking piece expressing the four winds in our region” “Lasting joy” “Amazing depiction of the four winds and what they mean for the people of Zenadth Kes.”

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Harish Nair <harish.nair@torres.qld.gov.au> -- Director Corporate and Community Services, 4083 1226, M: 0408 752 272

TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL To lead, provide & facilitate a sustainable, safe and culturally vibrant community

Council Services during 2023/24 Festive Season Thursday Island & Horn Island SHIRE OFFICE CLOSED 12 noon, Thursday, 21 December 2023 REOPEN Tuesday, 2 January 2024 LIBRARY CLOSED 12 noon, Friday, 15 December 2023 REOPEN 9am, Monday, 8 January 2024 GARBAGE Domestic and Commercial Collections NO KERBSIDE PICKUP on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day (affected residents reminded to put bin out the day before and Council will collect) NORMAL SERVICE OTHERWISE WASTE TRANSFER STATIONS (Thursday Island and Horn Island) OPEN Weekdays from 9am to 4.45pm OPEN Weekends from 9am to 12 noon CLOSED Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day NGURUPAI (HORN ISLAND) SPORTS COMPLEX CLOSED 12 noon, Saturday, 16 December 2023 REOPEN Monday, 8 January 2024 TORRES SHIRE SPORTS COMPLEX (TI) – STADIUM / POOL / GYM CLOSED from 12 noon Thursday 21 December 2023 to Tuesday 26 December 2023 OPEN 12noon to 6pm Wednesday 27 December 2023 to Sunday 31 December 2023 CLOSED New Year’s Day – Monday 1 January 2024 OPEN NORMAL HOURS Tuesday 2 January 2024

TOP: Harry Nona with his piece Four Winds of Zenadth Kes. ABOVE: Harry with guest judge Avril Quaill.

Pics by Lewis Bin Doraho.

Dalassa Yorkston CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER December 2023

18 NEWS

THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Alup nearly full for 2024

BY CARLI WILLIS AND JENNIFER ENOSA International and interstate visitors are flocking to a tiny retreat, known as Alup, on one of the pristine beaches of Badu Island.

Owner operator, Nancy Nona, said she was almost entirely booked out during 2023, and 2024 was already looking the same.

She said the experience had become popular for the tranquillity it offered and healing effect it seemed to have on those who visited.

“When they experience the island, they experience the culture and traditions,” she said.

“Me gathering the food, cooking, weaving and styling the place.

“I’d like for them to see what our culture is all about because we do have a rich culture.”

In March this year the tiny piece of paradise proved it was having a

big impact on its visitors when it made one of the top four destinations in the world on Forbes’ Best Places to Travel in 2023.

“I couldn’t believe it would be you know, Torres Strait made it on the world map from a little place,” she said.

“The photos or videos don’t do it justice, it’s the feeling when you’re walking on the land, because it’s ancestral land.”

Ms Nona said her children inspired her, although sadly her daughter was no longer with her, but she said she kept a memorial on site in honour of her life.

“Alup is peaceful like if you want to visit for healing,” she said.

“It’s a place to go, to sit by the beach, hear the ocean sound and put a fire on.

“I look after you mina propa good and you just got to come and be there for the

experience, that feeling “That’s another kind of beautiful feeling.”

But Ms Nona said it had been a long journey to get the destination to the standard it is today.

She said when she first got the land there were no structures on it and she had slept under a tree on the beach. “[It’s been a] long journey, but beautiful journey – I thank the Lord for guiding through all this,” she said. “[It was] just a fireplace, mina basic like under that one tree and that tree is still there.”

“I keep it there because that’s the memory [of] how it started, from ground up.”

Ms Nona said Alup was named after Baler shell, seen on the beach at low tide.

“I wish mum and dad could be here because they taught me about the land,” she said.

“Mom with the cooking and the weaving.”

Ms Nona said she

wanted to encourage anyone in Zenadth Kes thinking of doing the same thing to take the leap.

“If anyone wanna get into that sort of thing, I’m here, just reach out,”she said.

Ms Nona said Americans formed a large portion of visitors who visited Alup. Pics by Rachel Jane and Nancy Nona.

TIMETABLE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE DUE TO QANTAS SCHEDULING, SOME FERRIES MAY NOT OPERATE

Ph: (07) 4069 1586

J All TI transfers include complimentary bus service on Thursday Island J

TN0461 • 02/11/23

Christmas and New Year Ferry Schedule

TOURS REBEL MARINE THURSDAY ISLAND/HORN ISLAND – CHRISTMAS NEW YEAR SCHEDULE 24thFERRY December 2023 to 3rdTS January 2024&& CONTRA 28X5Day AD – NO FERRY SERVICE 24 December to 3 January 2024 J Christmas Day & New Year’s Christmas Day and New Years Day - No Ferry Service

FROM

Sunday 24th December

Monday 25th December

Tuesday 26th December

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Thursday 28th December

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Monday 1st January

Tuesday 2nd January

Wednesday 3rd January

TI

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14:00 15:15 QF2491 15:30 QF2496 17:15 17:30 QF2490

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***WATER TAXI AVAILABLE ON REQUEST***

15:15 QF2491

NO FERRY SERVICES

08:00

NO FERRY SERVICES

TI

Ph 07 4069 1586

16:30

16:30

* TIMETABLE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

Email info@rebeltours.com.au

15:30

Text 0499 994 524 - ENSURE A REPLY IS RECEIVED

P J 07 4069 1586 • E J info@rebeltours.com.au Book tickets at our secure website www.rebeltours.com.au AVOID THE QUEUE! TEXT J 0499 994 524 – ENSURE Ayour REPLY ISonline RECEIVED SCAN ME and ***BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL for these ferries: 06.15AM/06.25AM*** BOOK ONLINE @ WWW.REBELTOURS.COM.AU Book your ferry BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL for these ferries: 06.15AM & 06.25AM now using this QR

Important: Horn Island Bus Pickups must be requested the day before • Please note: Please be aware that we will have ferries to meet every Qantas and Skytrans flight from Cairns. If you can not see a ferry that suits your flight please call the office on 4069 1586 • Sunday ferry 13:45/14:00 only operates when Qantas operates that flight • Office hours are Monday to Friday – 08:00 – 17:00 – Please consider these hours to make bookings – our office is not manned outside of these hours and we can not look up bookings or emails. We answer the phone whilst the ferry is running, but please try to book during office hours. Schedule may change without notice.

code, pay online.

19

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023

Building a sustainable, culturally vibrant and connected community.

Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council wishes all a Safe and Happy Festive Holiday.

NPARC Services – 2023/24 Holiday Season Hours of Operation: Waste Transfer Station

Saturday 23 December 2023 Sunday 24 December Monday 25 December Tuesday 26 December Wednesday 27 December Thursday 28 December Friday 29 December Saturday 30 December Sunday 31 December Monday 1 January 2024

8.30am – 2.45pm 2pm – 5pm Closed (Skip bin on driveway) Closed (Skip bin on driveway) 8.30am – 4.45pm 8.30am – 4.45pm 8.30am – 4.45pm 8.30am – 2.45pm 2pm – 5pm Closed (Skip bin on driveway)

Umagico Supermarket

Manager will be on call – t: 0427 276 868 24 December 2023 9am - 6pm 25 December Closed 26 December 9am - 1pm 27 December 7.30am - 8pm 28 December 7.30am - 8pm 29 December 7.30am - 8pm 30 December 9am - 3pm 31 December 9am - 3pm 1 January 2024 Closed 2 January 7.30am - 7pm 3 January 7.30am - 7pm (resume normal hours)

Injinoo Service Station

Acting Manager on call – t: 0427 853 986 Christmas Operating Times 23 December 2023 2pm – 5pm 24 December 2pm to 5pm 25 December Closed 26 December Closed 27 December 8am to 5pm 28 December 8am to 5pm 29 December 8am to 5pm 30 December 2pm – 5pm 31 December 2pm – 5pm 1 January 2024 Closed 2 January 2pm - 5pm 3 January 8am – 5pm (resume normal hours) Normal Hours of Operations Mon – Friday 8am – 5pm Sat – Sun 2pm – 5pm

Jardine Ferry

Manager will be on call - t: 0457 304 489 23 December 2023 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 2024 Closed 2 January 8am - 5pm (normal hours) 3 January 8am – 5pm

Kerbside collection (Bin truck) 25 December 2023 26 December 27 December 28 December Injinoo 29 December 1 January 2024

No collection No collection Commercial collection Seisia, New Mapoon & Bamaga & Umagico No collection

NPA Airport

Will operate as normal depending on Flights

Aged Care

Closed 25 December 2023 – 1 January 2024

Parks & Gardens

Small skeleton crew 27 – 29 December 2023 On call for other days – t: 0437 400 578

Waste water

Small skeleton crew 27 – 29 December 2023 On call for other days – t: 0456 377 830

Roads

Small skeleton crew 27 – 29 December 2023 On call for other days – t: 0498 448 787

Rangers

Acting Ranger on call – t: 0476 038 613

Batching plant

Closed 23 December – 2 January 2024 Manager will be on call – t: 0439 769 717

Property & Facilities

Executive Manager on call – t: 0436 951 784

Community Services

25 December 2023 – 1 January 2024 - Closed 2 January 2024 – resume normal trading hours

Regulatory Services

Animal Management officer will be on call 25 December 2023 – 1 January 2024 – Closed - Small skeleton crew for dog pound duties each day. t: 0457 454 217 OPEN NORMAL HOURS - 2 January 2024

s ffice O C PAR ew All N maga, N ia, eis (Ba n, S noo) o o Map co, Inji om fr gi Uma closed 023 e 2 b will cember n 2 e 23 D -open o 4. & re ary 202 Janu

20 NEWS & CLASSIFIEDS

TORRES NEWS

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TRADES & SERVICES Thursday Island. contact your local funeral company on TOMBSTONES for your loved one,

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For help with funeral arrangements When sori come, wherever wherever you youare are When sori time time come, When sori time come, wherever you are Every yawor blo ume em difrnt Waibeni Indigenous Waibeni Indigenous Funeral Services Funeral Services Are Arehere herefor for you 24/7 Are here for you 24/7 Are here for you em 24/7 Every yawor blo ume difrnt Services ForFuneral help with funeral arrangements for your loved one, Waibeni contact your local funeralIndigenous company on Thursday Island.

Every yawor blo ume em difrnt Every yawor blo ume em difrnt Phone Barry 0499 320 990 • www.wifs.com.au When sori time come, wherever you are For help with funeral arrangements For helpfor with funeral your lovedarrangements one, for your loved one, contact your local funeral company on contact your local funeral company on Thursday Island.

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News 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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CIRCULATION COVERAGE AREA – Covering news and events of the Torres Strait and the Northern Peninsula Area including: Badu, Bamaga, Boigu, Dauan, Erub, Horn Island (Ngurupai), Iama, Injinoo, Kerriri, Mabuyag, Masig, Mer, Moa - Kubin (Arkai) and St Pauls (Wug), Muralag, New Mapoon, Poruma, Saibai, Seisia, Thursday Island (Waiben) - TRAWQ and Port Kennedy, Ugar, Umagico, Warraber and everywhere in between.

PUBLISHED – every Thursday.

CIRCULATION NUMBERS – 1010.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula regions. We pay our sincere respects to the Elders and the Peoples of the Torres Strait and the Northern Peninsula Area, across whose traditional lands and seas we report.

This newspaper is dedicated to recognising, preserving and promoting the traditional cultures and customs of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples of these regions.

Our offices are sometimes unattended. Please call and leave a message or email editorial, advertising or accounts.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023

Fifita to miss 2024 All-Stars

BY ALF WILSON Champion NRL forward David Fifita will miss the Indigenous All-Stars game in Townsville in February after sustaining an injury at pre-season training with Gold Coast.

The barnstorming second-rower is among the most highly-rated forwards in the NRL. He sustained a partial tear of his pectoral muscle at an early Titans training session.

The 23-year-old, who has ties to Badu island and enjoys massive support around the Torres Strait, underwent surgery recently.

Titans officials are hopeful he will be fit

for the club’s first NRL match of the 2024 season on 9 March at Robina Stadium, but it means he will miss the 16 February All-Stars match.

David had an outstanding season for the Titans in 2023 when he made the Dally M team of the year and regained his Maroons jersey, playing in all three games of the 2-1 Origin series win over NSW. David played 44 NRL matches for Brisbane (2018-20), and 62 for the Titans (2021-present).

He has lined up four times for the Indigenous All-Stars and famously carried the Torres Strait Islander flag when the match was held in

David Fifita (left) and his cousin Andrew Fifita after the 2021 Indigenous All-Stars game in Townsville. Pic supplied.

Townsville three years ago.

One of the most damaging forwards in the NRL, David

has also represented Queensland eight times, the PM’s XVIII once, and Australia 9s on four occasions.

SPORT & CLASSIFIEDS 21

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Rugby league coach Rothana Baira (here in her playing days) says the expansion of the QRL’s Women’s Premiership competition is great news for women and girls in the Torres Straits. Pic by Alf Wilson.

QRLW set to expand Talented Torres Strait Islander and NPA women rugby league players will have more opportunities in football following expansion of the QRL’s Women’s Premiership competition.

Eight teams played in the 2023 season with the Mackay Cutters which was the closest team in terms of distance to the Straits and NPA. The Cutters also included players from Cairns and Townsville.

Next season, the QRL has announced the competition will include two more teams – Sunshine Coast Falcons and Western Clydesdales.

But the big news for players from the Straits and NPA is Cairns-based team, Northern Pride, will gain entry in 2025, and the Townsville Blackhawks will join the league in 2026.

It was all part of a three-year expansion

model that would see the Women’s Premiership match the statewide footprint of the men’s Queensland Cup. In the Queensland Cup, the Ipswich Jets were signed up to join in 2025, and the Redcliffe Dolphins in 2026.

In more good news, the QRL has discussed the future inclusion of the Papua New Guinea Hunters, should funding be available to support their entry.

Former-playerturned-coach Rothana Baira said she was looking forward to all the great things that were about to happen in the women’s game.

“This will create an amazing opportunity for our girls coming through,” she said.

“I have a daughter, Lyrech, now at the Mackay Cutters and doing really well with another contract for next year.

“Also, my other

daughter, Jahntae is coming through. “[She] has just turned 18 and [is] part of the Blackhawks space.

“The women’s space is growing and I can’t wait to see where it leads.”

QRL general manager of pathways and performance Glenn Ottaway said the Women’s Premiership was an important cog in the game overall.

“While the NRLW is played at the back end of the year, the (Women’s) Premiership remains the primary competition from which the Queensland Maroons team is selected,” he said.

“Our ability to deliver expansion on the back of strong female participation growth creates the opportunity for the game to expand at a national level, including at least one additional Queensland NRLW team within the same period.”

Dear Readers, TORRES NEWS IS LOOKING FOR A WEEKLY PAPER DELIVERY CONTRACTOR. Job includes collecting bundles of newspapers from Peddells Ferry, Seisia wharf, and distributing throughout the four outlets in the NPA. Paid weekly and only a short run for one hour max, must have own transport.

Please contact myself Diat Alferink – Editor in Chief, Torres News at editor@torres.news or call on 0497 618 738 Applications close: Thursday 21/12/23

22 SPORT

THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Touch comp winners celebrate season’s end

The Starp Em team that won the Opens mixed final were (back row, from left) Jamaine Gibuma, Sam Guligo, Robert Nona, Terence Mosby, Matatia Dorante, Shotaro Dorante, Fauziah Mosby, Myron Ahwang, Hagiga Mosby; (front row, from left) Mikasa Donald, Florria Mosby, Samaka Laifoo, Teya Yusia, Rina Manuel, Faith Mosby. Trophy presenter: Jack Sagigi.

BY FAUZIAH NONA. PICS BY LEWIS BIN DORAHO Four social-mixed teams and six open teams, with an age group ranging from 12 to 72 years old enjoyed Waiben’s this year’s touch football season, which finished up earlier this month with a well-fought finals series.

Organiser Hagiga Mosby said it was great to see people over 40, 50 and 60 playing. In a game of touch.

She said teams were usually six against six, with one point awarded per touchdown, but in the social division the rules were modified in an effort to attract older people into the game.

Any player aged over 50 could be the seventh player on the field and their team would receive three points if they scored the touchdown, while players who were 40+ would earn two points for their team if they scored the touchdown.

In the social-mixed final, Strait Cruizers had a half-time lead against Queensland Health, 5-2.

While Qld. Health had no substitutes, they dug deep but fell short, with the Cruizers winning 11-7.

Both teams fielded players who were 50+ years.

The Opens mixed final between Kulai and Starp Em was a fast and entertaining game.

Both teams scored back-to-back points in the first half where Kulai led 4-3 but at full-time the scores were tied at 8-8.

In touch, this meant a drop-off, and extra-time.

In the end, Starp Em scored three more points, to Kulai’s one, to win 11-9.

During the finals and presentation at Ken Brown Oval, players and spectators enjoyed a free sausage sizzle, fresh fruit and water.

In addition to the senior touch competition, there were drills and skills, and games for juniors twice a week throughout the season.

All up more than 35 kids played.

Hagiga said she wanted to thank volunteers, spectators, players and the following sponsors, all of whom helped to make the season possible: Aka Julie from Laifoo Convenience Shop, Athe Frankee from Makai, Carlee from TI Pharmacy, Uncle Tai from ATS Services, Uncle Fred from CEQ, Athe Tosh from TI Butchers, Uncle Joey from Island Stars and Uncle Lewis Bin Doraho from Lewis James Media.

TOP LEFT: Social-Mixed division winners Strait Cruizers (back row, from left) Ollie Ford, Sally-Ella Sloss, Sharee Yamashita, Amaya Bowen, Michael Zitha; (front row, from left) Mistee Sagigi, Taree Sagigi (and Zion), Fabienne Ahwang and Akila Barkus.

ABOVE: Runners-up in the social-mixed division Qld. Health (back row, from left) Julius Tabua, Brodie Norton, Fauziah Mosby, Briana Moss, Kiwat Abednego; (front row, from left) Ivy Hodges, Mikasa Donald and Keesha Yamashita.

ABOVE: Michael Zitha in action during the social-mixed division final.

ABOVE: Qld Health’s Brodie Norton runs it up the middle for his team in the social-mixed division final.

ABOVE: Runners-up in the Opens mixed division Kulai (back row, from left) George Nona, Michael Zitha, Manu Nona, Rohani Nona, Naomi Dorbyshire Nathaniel Majid, Kiwat Abednego, Meroma Mckeown, Jerry Wuruki; (front row, from left) Fabienne Ahwang, Emily Nona, Mistee Sagigi.

Trophy presenter: Terence Yusia.

ABOVE: Starp Em’s Matatia Dorante scores for his team in the Opens mixed final.

ABOVE: Junior players of the comp. Trophy presenter: Joey Laifoo, from Island Stars. LEFT: Qld. Health’s Briana Moss moves to touch in the final of the social-mixed division.

ABOVE: There was a strong turnout of junior touch players at the recently completed season at Waiben.

SPORT 23

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023

Hawaii run an IMP dream come true

TN0230 8x2 local sports Looking for more 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 ABOVE: Maquilla Brown, Cameron Manning, Alex Blanco and Samara Fernandez-Brown collect their bibs ready to race in Honolulu. Pic by Indigenous Marathon Project..

TOP RIGHT: Alex Blanco was a happy man. Pic supplied.

BY CARLI WILLIS Four young people with ties to the Torres Strait have completed a 42km run in Hawaii as part of the Indigenous Marathon Project [IMP].

Mer Island’s Alex Blanco ran alongside Torres Strait Islanders Cameron Manning, Samara Fernandez-Brown and Maquilla Brown at the Honolulu Marathon.

The quartet were part of the 2020 IMP squad who were denied the opportunity to run the New York City Marathon due to the COVID pandemic that swept the world.

New York was the final destination for IMP hopefuls.

Instead, the 2020 squad graduated via a Midnight Marathon at Simpsons Gap at Mparntwe – Alice Springs.

Honolulu, then, was their

“unfinished business” and the IMP said they were proud to support them.

It came a month after deadly runner and IMP graduate-turned-coach Tristan Nelliman-Adams, Mer and Erub island man Arthur Pitt, and Moa island woman Jade Ware made waves in New York.

Alex said Honolulu was the furthest he’s ever run and it only took him six hours.

“I think running, it’s an individual thing, it’s not like a team sport, you’re literally competing against yourself,” he said.

“My PB is six hours so now I have to train run 5hrs 59 minutes – that’s an achievement.

“And all these other benefits like you get to look thin [and] the health that comes with it, you feel good.

“We’re trying to make

running or looking after yourself a normal thing.”

Alex said locals Elsie Seriat and Harold Mathew had done a great job in building up the program in the Torres Strait.

“We were blessed to have the four of us get to do it in Hawaii,” he said.

“Bala came from Sydney, sister ‘Mac’ from Illawarra and sister Samara from Alice Springs, but she lived in Adelaide.

“It’s my second marathon and my first International marathon.

“I guess the conditions was quite holy – quite hot and not too cold – I enjoyed every bit of it!

“I had to gradually walk up a hill, because it would be mina painful and it’s a long time on your feet in the heat.”

Alex said it took a lot of hard work and dedication to

see results.

“For me, I interpret marathon is it’s really long, I guess the journey itself,” he said.

“I guess the journey talks about life too.” “[During] the training program we had to be consistent. “[You] cannot miss the long run or a quality session even though you know you juggle everything with life.

“Running wasn’t my thing, but it teaches you about getting out of the comfort zone and also that life skills that comes with that.

“It’s also yumi mob suffer from high chronic disease and stuff like that.

“It’s a really high number and just I don’t want to be included as part of the stats.

“You try and make that ripple effect and make change.”

Taipans top Bullets in Qld stoush

BY VELMA GARA The ‘Sunshine State Stoush’ between Cairns Taipans and Brisbane Bullets in Brisbane last weekend did not disappoint with the team from the far north winning by a thrilling, 102-101, in round 11 of the

National Basketball League.

The Taipans got off to a great start, leading by a game-high 13 points at half-time, 56-43.

The Bullets rallied hard in the second half but fell short.

The Taipans desperately needed the win after losing to New

Zealand Breakers at home, 111-82.

There were other close games in the last round with Tasmania JackJumpers losing two games, against Sydney Kings 90-82, and then Perth Wildcats 89-88.

Wildcats forward Keanu Pinder had 15 points, six rebounds,

four assists and two steals in 19.31 minutes of court time in the game against Tasmania.

Illawarra Hawks recorded its second win in a row by defeating South East Melbourne convincingly, 100-72.

Hawks guards Will Hickey and Biwali Bayles had some good

court time, with Bayles recording six points, two rebounds and a steal.

There will be games played over the Christmas and New Year’s break but the Torres News will make sure we have a comprehensive report when we are back in mid-January.

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THURSDAY 21 DECEMBER 2023

Erub team nets First Nations comp

Erub United, winners of the Open Men’s Division

Erub United has successfully defended their championship title at the recent First Nations basketball tournament on the Gold Coast, defeating Binar Black 86-68 in the grand final of their division.

In their pool games, Erub recorded a loss – to Dreamers 50-53 – and two wins – over Binar Black 61-54 and North 63-52.

They qualified for the quarter-finals after they defeated Seahawks 111-45.

That win set up the black-and-yellow team to play Dreamers in the semi-finals, who they lost to in the pool stage.

It was a close game but some sharpshooting in the fourth quarter allowed Erub to break away to win 57-44 to advance to the grand final, their second at a national Indigenous basketball tournament. The last time they won was in

Cairns in 2019.

Erub started strong and enjoyed a big first-quarter lead 24-5 from where they didn’t look back.

They led at half-time 45-22.

That lead had stretched to 29 points at three-quarter-time 69-40. Binar Black fought back in the fourth, shooting many three-pointers but it wasn’t enough.

It was fitting that Erub United captaincoach Jacob Pilot scored the last points

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of the game, a threepointer.

Overall, both teams shot 12 each from beyond the arc.

In the women’s division grand final, the experienced North won all their games – Hoops4Health (51-49), QPS Marabisda (4239), Under-18 North (71-54), Binar (62-59) and Magic (61-30).

In the grand final, North met QPS Marabisda and were too strong, winning 68-50.

The three-day competition was

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North, winners of the Open Women’s Division 1 organised by Basketball Queensland and held at Coomera Indoor Sports Centre.

It attracted 23 teams, across five divisions,

from all over Australia.

Other final results: Open Men’s Div 2 – Binar def Hoops4Health Vintage 46-37.

Opens Women’s Div

2 – Victorian Eagles def Binar (45-35).

Under-18 Boys – First Nation Warriors def Southern Lightning (62-53).

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STORY BY VELMA GARA. PICS BY LEWIS BIN DORAHO

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