Torres News_Edition 163_23January 2025

Thursday, 23 January 2025

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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Bumper year for ships ahead Torres Shire Council Mayor Elsie Seriat welcomed cruise ship Viking Venus Master Captain Tony Fast (left) and his passengers to the Torres Strait last month.

The ship was the last for 2024, but 2025 is already shaping up to be a bumper year for locals and tourists alike, with a massive 17 ships planning to make their stops here on Waiben. Council CEO Dalassa Yorkston said the forthcoming Tourism and Business Centre would further enhance the region’s appeal as a hub for economic activity and community events for the passing trade.

See full story and pics on PAGE 3 N

Pic supplied.

Keeping your community connected for more than 35 years Sea Swift provides regular, weekly essential services up and down the east coast of Australia, through the Torres Strait, into Weipa, and throughout the Northern Territory. We’re proud to supply fresh food and other essentials to enhance the health and wellbeing of your community.

Sea Swift is the lifeblood of many remote communities across the Torres Strait and Cape York.

Check our website for the latest news and updates for your community.

Live schedules at www.seaswift.com.au | Connect with us on social media!

seaswift.com.au 1800 424 422

02 NEWS Australia Day Ambassador Emeritus Professor Roland (Roly) Sussex OAM. Pic supplied.

THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Aus Day Ambassador Roly Sussex to join events on Waiben ABC broadcaster, linguist and Australia Day Ambassador Emeritus Professor Roland (Roly) Sussex OAM will be the special guest of the Torres Shire Council over the next week, as part of the community’s 26 January celebrations.

“It is a pleasure to welcome Emeritus

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Professor Roland (Roly) Sussex OAM to our Shire and the Torres Strait,” Mayor Elsie Seriat said.

“Roly will be part of our friendly community for a few days, and we hope he enjoys his short stay and departs with some lasting memories.

“This year’s Australia Day Awards and Family Fun Day will be held at the Thursday Island Sports Complex with the Award Ceremony commencing at 10.30am.

“Community members are welcome to join the family fun day with free entry to the

Swimming Pool and free sausage sizzle.”

She said she hoped Roly would enjoy his time here.

“Australia Day is about so much more than the events of one day – it is about who we are as a nation and what we aspire to be,” she said.

“I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone, including Roly, a Happy Australia Day – Always Was, Always Will Be’”.

See Torres Shire Council Australia Day Awards & Family Fun Day advertisement on P8 N

Emeritus Professor Roland (Roly) Sussex OAM has a PhD in Russian and general linguistics from the University of London and was a Professor of Russian at the University of Melbourne from 1974 to 1989 and a Professor of Applied Language Studies at the University of Queensland from 1989 to 2010.

He has ongoing research projects in language, society and culture, intercultural communication, communication and pain, Australian English, and language communication in digital media and online learning.

He has broadcast a weekly segment with ABC Radio since 1997 and has written several books. His most recent, Word for Today, was published in 2020.

He is an Order of Australia Medal holder, a Fellow of the Queensland Academy and a Chevalier des Palmes Académiques (the title indicates he holds a French order of knighthood for academics and cultural and educational figures).

The Australia Day Ambassador program is one of the longest-running and most successful national Australia Day programs, sending high-achieving Australians to more than 300 community celebrations nationwide every Australia Day. Ambassadors are past recipients of the Australian of the Year Awards, sportspeople, scientists, business people, actors and community workers who have contributed greatly to their community.

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NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2025

2025 set to be a bumper year for cruise ships M From PAGE 1 Seventeen ships are expected to cruise into Thursday Island port in 2025, Torres Shire Council says.

They said the return of cruise liners marked a significant step towards revitalising the local tourism industry, offering a boost not only to artists and vendors but also to the broader community.

“The presence of these visitors provides a wonderful opportunity for cultural exchange and economic growth within the Shire,” Mayor Elsie Seriat said.

“Local businesses and artisans are encouraged to take full advantage of this influx of tourists by showcasing their unique crafts and talents.

“The council’s initiatives, such as the Meet and Greet service, aim to create a welcoming atmosphere and ensure that both visitors and residents feel comfortable and safe.

“Community members are urged to embrace these changes with optimism, knowing that the council is committed to balancing

economic benefits with health and safety considerations.”

CEO Dalassa Yorkston said the forthcoming Tourism and Business Centre would further enhance the region’s appeal, as a hub for economic activity and community events for the passing trade.

“This development, combined with the steady flow of tourists, positions the Torres Shire as a vibrant destination rich in culture and opportunity,” she said.

“As the Shire opens its arms to the world once again, it does so with a renewed spirit and a focus on sustainable growth for the future.”

MEANWHILE, cruise ship Viking Venus – one of the largest cruise ships to stop in the region – Master Captain Tony Fast and his passengers were welcomed to Waiben and the Torres Strait by Mayor Elsie Seriat OAM last month.

Fourcroy washes up on Warraber Island

BY CARLI WILLIS A Seaswift vessel, the Fourcroy, ran aground at Sue Inlet on Warraber Island on Thursday last week, prompting an investigation into the cause of the incident.

The ship was reported to have run aground at 1700 hours on 16 January and successfully refloated at 1100 hours on 17 January.

Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) had the Torres Strait listed as a ‘Particularly Sensitive Sea Area’ due to its ecological, socio-economic, cultural heritage or scientific significance.

AMSA Executive Chairman Chris Pearce said the Fourcroy would undergo a ‘comprehensive in-water assessment’ at the completion of its journey.

“AMSA will work closely with the vessel’s owners during this process to ensure

Cr Seriat expressed appreciation for the local community’s partnership with the Viking Venus and its owners, as well as their relationship with Ports North who coordinated the visit.

Tourism formed a significant component of economic development in the Torres Shire, and Mayor Seriat said the Council’s partnership with Ports North and the cruise ship companies was an important element in

that economic development.

Captain Fast presented Cr Seriat with a plaque depicting the coat of arms of the Viking Venus and expressed his great pleasure in being able to do so.

Mayor Seriat presented the Captain with a miniature Dhari carved from local timbers and a certificate of commemoration of the event.

Council’s free Meet & Greet service offers local

arts and craft stall holders an opportunity to promote their work – contact our staff on 4069 1336, email admin@torres.qld.gov.au or head to our website www. torrres.qld.gov.au to register your interest.

Pics supplied.

For TSC’s timetable of cruise liners arriving on Thursday Island in 2025, see their advertisement on P9 N

Calling First Nations Torres Strait Islander and Artists!

Aboriginal artists are invited to enter the 2025 Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award.

To enter, submit: Completed entry form Artist profile/biography Statement of Supplier Advice of Bank Account Details Artwork created in last 12-months All entries should be addressed: Gab Titui Cultural Centre Corner Blackall St & Victoria Parade Thursday Island QLD 4875

Seaswift vessel, the Fourcroy, grounded on Warraber Island last week. Pic supplied. compliance with safety and environmental standards before the vessel resumes service,” he said in a statement.

“There were no reported injuries to the crew, no significant damage to the vessel and no pollution originating from the vessel.”

A spokesperson for Seaswift also said there were no environmental impacts.

“Sea Swift operates in some of the most challenging and tidally severe waters in the country,” they said.

“Despite this, we are committed to keeping the Torres Strait and remote communities in Northern Australia connected as safely and reliably as possible.”

They said regular schedules would not be impacted.

Entries close Tuesday 1 April 2025 For more information contact our Exhibitions and Public Programs Manager: 07 4069 0888 leitha.assan@tsra.gov.au shop.gabtitui.gov.au Artwork: “WARUP” by Normie Young 2023 Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award Entrant

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2025

04 NEWS

THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Sam joins popular reality TV program I’m a celebrity ...

BY ALF WILSON Proud former NRL champion rugby league forward Sam Thaiday is again in the limelight as a contestant on the popular television program I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!.

The new season of the program started on Sunday night at 7pm on Channel 10 and 10 Play.

Now aged 39, Sam was one of the game’s best forwards and played 304 matches for the Brisbane Broncos between 2003 and 18.

During his celebrated rugby league career Sam lined up 29 times for the Queensland Maroons in State of Origin and played 32 matches for Australia between 2006 and 2017.

Sam also played three times for the Indigenous Allstars and twice for the Prime Minister’s side.

His late father Billy Thaiday was born on Yam Island and worked on Waiben whilst his mother Julie grew up in rural Western Australia and served in the Royal Australian Air Force.

Sam was educated at Townsville’s Kirwan High School and played in the local competition with Brothers Club.

A former prop or second-row forward, Sam has expressed a desire to line up at some stage for the Iama side Magun Warriors at an Allblacks carnival.

When he played for the Broncos he was not allowed by then coach Wayne Bennett to do so for fear of being injured.

The program will be popular around the Torres Strait, where Sam has a big following.

Contestants head into the African jungle where they participate in often weird and unusual challenges.

MV Reef Connection removal. Pic supplied.

MV Reef Connection wreck lucky 13th to be gone I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! contestant Sam Thaiday. Pic TEN. As the program progresses challengers are eliminated until just one remained and was crowned the winner.

Sam chose to represent the charity “Find Your Feet”, which supports boys in building

emotional resilience.

He said hoped his journey would inspire viewers.

It will be season 11 for the popular program and the second to be hosted by dream duo Robert Irwin and Julia Morris.

Flashback to his playing days when Sam met two junior players with an Eddie Mabo painting behind them. Pic Alf Wilson.

Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) has finalised a $2.7 million project to remove 13 wrecks from Far North Queensland after removing all traces of the wreck of former charter vessel MV Reef Connection from Warul Kawa (Deliverance Island) in December last year.

The 18-metre vessel caught fire and sank during a voyage in February 2015.

All of its seven crew survived, but the whereabouts of its wreckage was unknown until it was discovered a year later by Torres Strait Regional Authority rangers, washed ashore on Warul Kawa – an island of deep spiritual and cultural significance for Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Maritime Safety Queensland General Manager Kell Dillon said he was pleased to finally close the chapter on the MV Reef Connection.

“It is even better that Warul Kawa has been returned to its natural state and that MSQ was able to involve Torres Strait Islanders to ensure their spiritual and cultural needs were met during removal of the wreckage,” he said.

“This brings to an end a single $2.7 million contract to remove 13 wrecks from Far North Queensland. But this contract is part of a bigger story.

“To date, MSQ has spent $7.7

million removing wrecks from our Cairns maritime region as part of a War on Wrecks that has so far seen over 120 wrecks removed from this region

by MSQ or our partner agencies since 2018.

“This has been important work, but I want vessel owners to understand that the legal responsibility for maintaining, salvaging or removing their vessels from Queensland waters remains with them.

“MSQ does so only when vessel owners fail in that responsibility, and will seek to recoup the costs of the removal operations from the owners, through the Courts if required.”

The MV Reef Connection was the last vessel remaining to be removed

by MSQ under the salvage contract with Carpentaria Contracting, with its removal hit by a series of delays and practical difficulties.

These included travel restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, challenging sea and weather conditions and short tidal windows that prevented the salvor’s vessel, laden with the required heavy machinery, from accessing Warul Kawa’s shoreline.

The end for the MV Reef Connection finally came on 20 November 2024 when contractors removed it from the shoreline and barged away its wreckage.

The following wrecks were removed under the $2.7 million contract awarded to Carpentaria Contracting.

Vessel Name/ID

Removal Location

Ester

Horn Island

Venture 111

Badu Island

Remains of Reef Connection

Warul Kawa (Deliverance Island)

TK Enterprise

Horn Island

Odee

Horn Island

Fleetwood

Prince of Wales Island

Ocean Pearlz

Horn Island

Owen Pearl

Friday Island

Unknown Barge

Horn Island

Sea Rose

Seisia

Taipan

Loyalty Beach

Telopea

Seisia

SV Tia Wanako

Albany Island

NEWS 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2025

Sisters’ five boys set for 2025 school year STORY AND PICS

BY ALF WILSON The past week has been hectic for sisters Ellie and Patricia Joe as they prepare their five children for the new school year which starts on Tuesday.

They live in South Townsville and 41-year-old Ellie’s children are Sesmo, aged 13, Brendan, 12, and Michael, 11.

Patricia, aged 49, is the mother of Thaddeus, aged 11, who will be a pupil at Town High and Eric, nine, who will be at Townsville South Primary School.

“During the first few

weeks of 2025 we have been busy preparing the children for the school year after their holidays,” Ellie said.

The family said they were proud of their Moa Island Kubin Village heritage.

“We are very close all year around but over the last months we have been getting together big time,” Ellie said.

Patricia said her two nephews will be going to Townsville High and the younger one to Townsville South Primary School.

“Last week we have been getting around to purchasing books and stationery required by

the five children for the new school year,” Patricia said.

During the school holidays and festive break the family enjoyed their time together.

“Over Christmas, we stayed at a relative’s house in North Ward suburb not far from the Strand and we went for walks,” Patricia said.

“The kids loved the water park there and we also had a big feast.”

One of the other highlights over the break was to attend the fireworks and lights display from the Strand Beach to celebrate the coming of 2025.

They could even see the lights across

TN0999 12 issues: 16/1/25 to 3/4/25 Ellie (back row right) with sister Patricia & children. the water on nearby Magnetic Island and said it was great.

“We also keep in touch with relatives in the Torres Strait,” Ellie said.

“As sisters, we

support our children’s education as we realise it will lead to a career when they finish school.

“Being committed Christians we also have enjoyed the time over the Christmas break.”

First Nations clean energy strategy launched

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First Nations Clean Energy Strategy launch. BELOW: First Nations Clean Energy Network co-chair Karrina Nolan. Pics supplied.

Energy ministers from around Australia joined First Nations clean energy leaders to launch the First Nations Clean Energy Strategy late last year, honouring a strategic commitment by governments to put First Nations front and centre of the country’s clean energy transition.

At the tri-annual Energy and Climate Change Ministerial Council (ECMC) meeting on Friday 6 December, Federal Minister for Climate and Energy Chris Bowen joined State and Territory Energy Ministers and key strategy design advisors from the First Nations Clean Energy Network at the launch.

First Nations Clean Energy Network co-chair Karrina Nolan said they had been heard.

“We support the First Nations Clean Energy

Strategy and its action framework to shape policies, programs and partnerships and ensure investment into First Nations clean energy solutions,” she said.

“The barriers and opportunities to realise our clean energy aspirations have been heard.

“First Nations, industry and government have honoured a commitment to First Nations communities – putting First Nations front and centre of the energy transition – and can address access to

affordable power, and ensure benefit-sharing, partnerships, and First Nations-led projects.”

She said the new strategy was a signal the government was backing them.

“Resourcing the First Nations Clean Energy Strategy is an investment in consent on our terms,” she said.

“This welcome initial investment is a positive signal to First Nations, and the market, that First Nations clean energy aspirations must be enabled and benefits ensured to deliver mutually beneficial outcomes in Australia’s clean energy transition.”

She said the strategy meant domestic and global investment could be “turbocharged” into First Nations-led clean energy projects and partnerships.

“Equity and strong partnerships are the purest form of consent,

reducing risk, cost and delay,” she said.

“The Strategy gives the green light to industry to step up and commit to genuine partnerships with First Nations in clean energy solutions across Australia.

“The Network is completely grateful to

All enquires welcome 4031 7688 or freecall 1800 062 608 www.cclc.org.au

the First Nations Clean Energy and Emissions Reduction Advisory Committee members for their steadfast commitment to work with government, industry and First Nations in developing the First Nations Clean Energy Strategy.”

HOW DOES A CULTURAL RECOGNITION ORDER HELP ZENADTH KES PAMLEH? The benefits of a granted Cultural Recognition Order includes: Elimination of legal obstacles for cultural families.

Recognition of the parental rights and responsibilities of cultural parents raising children.

Legal registration of cultural children in the name of their cultural parents.

Reduction of generational trauma through inappropriate revelations of the practice We will be visiting your community soon.

Meet with our Cultural Support Officers to ask questions and confirm if you should apply for a Cultural Recognition Order.

For more information speak with our Cultural Support Officers

1800 571 102

office@ocmokk.qld.gov.au

06 NEWS

THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2025 TORRES NEWS

TSRA Rangers share Torres Strait Traditional Ecological Knowledge in Raratonga

Pics by Nitish Narayan thanks to RISMMS/SPREP @PILN 2024.

TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Torres Strait Cultural Keeping Place The TSRA is calling for Expressions of Interest (EOI) from suitability qualified Suppliers for the development of a feasibility study for the establishment of a Torres Strait Cultural Keeping Place on Thursday Island.

Tender documentation can be obtained by sending an email to tender@tsra.gov.au with “EOI REQUEST – TORRES STRAIT CULTURAL KEEPING PLACE” in the subject line or on www.tsra.gov.au – under tenders Tenders are to be clearly marked as “TENDER RESPONSE – TORRES STRAIT CULTURAL KEEPING PLACE” by email to tender@tsra.gov.au Alternatively, tenders may be posted to “TENDER RESPONSE – TORRES STRAIT CULTURAL KEEPING PLACE” PO Box 261 Thursday Island Qld 4875.

Tenders must be received by 4:00pm AEST 19 February 2025

Senior Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Ranger Nelson Gibuma has taken what he learned from an exchange at the sixth Pacific Invasive Learning Network (PILN), held by the Government of Cook Islands in August last year, to the Elders of Warul Kawa in his community of Boigu.

“We will look to apply these learnings into our 12-month roadmap for the Ugul Malu Kawa IPA,” Mr Gibuma said.

Traditional Owner Rangers from the TSRA joined more than 70 invasive species professionals and practitioners at the PILN. Mr Gibuma and Ranger Supervisor Terrence Whap were in Raratonga to exchange Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) with invasive species battlers from across the Pacific.

They were there to find ways to manage the invasive black rat (makas) population on Warul Kawa (Deliverance Island),

part of the Ugul Malu Kawal Indigenous Protected Area (IPA).

“The knowledge shared at PILN will help us tackle challenges in Ugul Malu Kawa IPA,” Mr Gibuma said.

“We learnt how Tonga has eradicated rats from 10 of their islands, if they can do it, we can remove them from Warul Kawa.”

On their return to Zenadth Kes, Mr Whap and Mr Gibuma presented their insights to fellow TSRA Rangers to reaffirm their conversation practices and efforts.

“Building and maintaining a resilient ecosystem is a shared

The Pacific Invasive Learning Network (PILN) connects Pacific professionals and practitioners to share knowledge, expertise, tools, and ideas vital to effectively managing invasive species.

PILN enables multidisciplinary country teams to work together on strategies with critical input from other national teams and experts from throughout the region, resulting in a common vision and a plan for effective conservation action.

responsibility,” Mr Whap said.

“We will continue to collaborate with each other and our stakeholders to ensure the health and sustainability of our region for future generations to come.”

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM acknowledged the efforts of the TSRA Rangers and recognised Nelson and Terrence for taking action to manage invasive species in Ugul Malu Kawa.

“Rangers and their efforts are a critical part in TSRA’s Environmental Management Program which aims to protect the

National PILN Teams bring together national agencies responsible for invasive species management, including those responsible for agriculture, natural resource management, international trade and border control, as well as environment and conservation.

The PILN meeting was made possible with funding support from the Global Environment Facility-funded GEF 6 Regional Invasives Project, the European Union-funded PROTEGE

ecological complexity and biodiversity of Zenadth Kes,” Mr Stephen said.

“The opportunity to network outside the region and bring new perspectives and solutions to our challenges is one we embrace and support.

“On behalf of the TSRA, I would like to thank the Pacific Invasive Learning Network for allowing the Torres Strait to participate and exchange Traditional Ecological Knowledge with other Traditional Owners and Pacific Islander Custodians of land and sea.”

project, the New Zealand Government-funded Managing Invasive Species for Climate Change Adaptation in the Pacific (MISCCAP) project and supported by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) through the PRISMSS program.

Learn more about the TSRA at www.tsra.gov.au and PILN at https://www.sprep.org/ invasive-species-managementin-the-pacific/piln

NEWS 07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2025

‘We should know our basic human rights’ – Bongo STORY AND PIC

BY CARLI WILLIS Wakaid Elder, Uncle Robert ‘Bongo’ Sagigi said he and other tribal elders from Badu island will sit together in a public space on Sunday 26 January to share truth-telling – and the community is invited.

Gazetted by the government as a public holiday, Australia Day is known to many First Peoples as ‘Survival Day’ or ‘Invasion Day’ – the day colonisers landed the First Fleet on the shore of Sydney Cove.

Mr Sagigi said he wanted to use the day to reinforce that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have always been here.

“It is to show that we’re still here and we have always been here, [colonisers] came and [they] can celebrate Australia Day,” he said.

“We will start this year with a bang – on 26 January – yumi go resurrect yumi culture, yumi go reinforce yumi life, about how yumi are the First Nation people of this country of Torres Strait or Zenadth Kes.” He said there were

Elder Robert ‘Bongo’ Sagigi holding up the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. important histories to be told around the experiences of Torres Strait Islander people within a system designed to oppress them.

“I encourage everyone, if you’re here on TI, you’re welcome to come down to ANZAC Park,” he said.

“You can celebrate Australian day, but yumi go sit down as people blo place, and yumi go look at yumi way of living and yumi culture.”

Mr Sagigi said the elders hoped to sit at ANZAC Park, depending on the weather, and it was likely to be in the afternoon after church that morning.

“Grab your own chair and come sit – this one about yumi makem for yumi, no more depending on organisations to set up something,” he said.

He said despite the stances and fights put up by Torres Strait Islanders, he felt the

system was still broken.

He said he felt truth-telling and knowledge-sharing could help strengthen his people and communities.

“We will wakai waian each other,” he said.

“Yumi gotta educate yumi people; language, songs, everything.”

Mr Sagigi said he wanted to start recording and teaching the language and songs before his communities

lost important Elders and knowledge keepers.

“Yumi gotta teach our people before we go lose it and get lost in this wilderness of colonialism,” he said.

He said while culturally he could only share some things among his people, there was much for the wider community to learn and share.

With a certificate in learning about the human rights of Indigenous Peoples

in hand, he said he wanted to share that knowledge with families.

“We should get to know our basic human rights and tell people about their rights,” he said.

“I completed a certificate on human rights, and I now practice it and educate our people who don’t know about their rights, and I will take them through the process.

“People must know significant days and times that our people fought for [their rights].”

He said the Maritime Strike of 1936 was one of the first and most profound stances against colonialism and for human rights that should be learnt from – and he felt that date (14 January) should be celebrated instead of 26 January.

“That was the people’s movement, not controlled by any government.,” he said.

“Let’s get out there and celebrate, because we are people who actually took a stance against colonialism and are not to be dictated to by any source.

“We were here since time immemorial, we were here before white men came to our Country.”

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08 NEWS

THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Torres Strait corals returned to Queensland Museum Pics supplied.

A significant number of coral specimens collected from the Torres Strait Islands 111 years ago has been returned to Queensland after its rediscovery in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History in the United States.

More than 140 corals, which were collected from Mer (Murray Island) by American scientist Alfred Goldsborough Mayor in 1913, were rediscovered two years ago when a post-doctoral research fellow from

REFLECT RESPECT CELEBRA R RATE CELEBRATE

TORRES SH SHIRE IRE COUNCIL

AUSTRALIA A USTR TR RA ALI LIA DAY AWARDS D AY A YA AW WA W ARD RDS FAMILY & FAM FAMIL IL LY Y ILY E E R F FUN DAY F UN D AY A Y

to the Entry l& g Poo n i m zle Swim ge Siz a s u a Free S

Presentation of Australia Day Awards meet our Australia day ambassador SWI SWIMMING WIM WI IMM MMI MIN ING NG POOL O & OL SPA PAL PA ALS LSH SH PA P R OPE RK PEN PE EN SPALSH PARK OPEN F FR O 12 OM 112PM P PM FROM

VENUE: VEN V NU UE: TORRES SHIRE SPORTS SPO S ORTS COMPLEX D DATE: SUNDAY 26TH 2 6TH JANUARY 2025

TIME: AWARDS CEREMONY 10.30AM

Torres Shire Council acknowledges the Kaurareg traditional owners s of the land on which we deliver our local government municipal services. servic ces.

Queensland Museum and James Cook University was conducting postdoctorate studies at the Smithsonian.

They identified the corals as originating from Mer Island.

The rediscovery marked the beginning of negotiations with the head of Indigenous Partnerships at the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and a Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Sea Teams Manager, who began working with the Traditional Owners of Mer to negotiate a way to return the collection home to Australia.

The negotiations resulted in the return of the corals to Queensland, where they have been housed at Queensland Museum Tropics in Townsville under an ongoing care and custodianship agreement with the Meriam Traditional Owners to ensure their preservation and health for future generations.

Mer Gedkem Le Corporation Chairperson Falen Passi said the return of the Mer Corals allowed the Meriam people to reconnect with an important part of their heritage that was taken away.

“For the Meriam peoples, Wes Wes (corals) are a part of us and our sea estate,” Mr Passi said. “They are significant stories to our identity as to the land on which we live.

The corals spawn on the ocean floor just like our sisters and mothers give birth on land – we are all related to one another to the environment in that we live.

“The sea and land do not separate us from the environment. We are spiritually connected to individuals, clans, tribal groups and as Meriam Nation.

“The return of the corals is not just about physical artefacts, but about acknowledging and honouring the

cultural, spiritual, and historical rights of the Meriam people wherever you live while promoting reconciliation and cultural preservation.”

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said the milestone was reconciliation in action through truthtelling and repatriations.

“It has been an important and emotional journey for the Meriam people, led by the Mer Gedkem Le Prescribed Body Corporate in partnership with TSRA,” Mr Stephen said.

“Kemer Kemer Meriam Nation will be reunited with part of their homeland, spirit and culture that was taken more than 100 years ago from the Torres Strait to the United States. This recognition of the enduring connection between Torres Strait Islanders, land and sea is significant for Zenadth Kes (Torres Strait) and more widely, Australia as a nation.”

Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the return of the Mer Corals was an important acknowledgment of their cultural significance to Torres Strait Islander communities and Queensland.

Queensland Museum CEO Dr Jim Thompson said Queensland Museum Tropics housed one of the world’s largest corals collections and was honoured to be entrusted with caring for the Mer Corals.

“Queensland Museum is dedicated to honouring the living cultures of First Nations peoples as a vital part of Queensland’s story,” Dr Thompson said.

“We are humbled by the trust placed in us as a Keeping Place for this significant collection.

“We look forward to collaborating with the Meriam Nation Elders to honour and celebrate the rich cultural heritage and ecological importance of the Mer Corals.”

09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2025

R I E H S C O S U E N R C R O T 17 Cruise Liners arrivingIL Thursday Island

Cruise Liners arriving Thursday Island date 14 FEBRUARY 1 MARCH 20 MARCH 30 MARCH 5 APRIL 18 APRIL 6 JUNE 30 JUNE 5 OCTOBER 10 OCTOBER 17 OCTOBER 21 OCTOBER 2 NOVEMBER 21 NOVEMBER 23 NOVEMBER 11 DECEMBER 17 DECEMBER

cruise liner VIKING SKY VIKING VENUS SCENIC ECLIPSE 2 VIKING ORION NAUTICA PAUL GAUGUIN SILVER CLOUD REGATTA PASPALEY PEARL LE SOLEAL SCENIC ECLIPSE 2 LE JACQUES CARTIER SILVER NOVA VIKING VENUS VIKING ORION LE JACQUES CARTIER LE SOLEAL

passenger no’s.

(930 PAX) (930 PAX) (228 PAX) (930 PAX) (670 PAX) (330 PAX) (254 PAX) (824 PAX) (30 PAX) (264 PAX) (228 PAX) (184 PAX) (728 PAX) (930 PAX) (930 PAX) (184 PAX) (264 PAX)

Torres Shire Council provides a ‘Meet & Greet’ service and offers local arts & craft stall holders an opportunity to promote their work. Contact our friendly staff on: telephone : 40831200 - email: admin@torres.qld.gov.au

Dalassa Yorkston Chief Executive Officer

10 NEWS

THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Adiel Boyd: a loving, gentle girl who will be forever 12 Warning: this story discusses suicide and mental health. If you or anyone you know is affected there are help-seeking numbers and websites at the end of the article.

The story includes images of a young First Nations person who has died, they are published with the family’s permission.

BY RUDI MAXWELL WITH THANKS TO NITV Adiel Boyd was a bright, intelligent and talented 12-year-old Torres Strait Islander girl with a loving, gentle spirit.

Tragically, Adiel took her own life at the end of last year, a few days after Christmas.

Adiel’s family, including her mother Vicky, siblings Jahmon, Tameka and Jodeci, Aunties, Uncles, nieces and nephews, are still trying to come to terms with her death, and they are thankful to their extended family and community for their love and support.

“No family should be dealing with such tragedies,” they said in a statement to NITV. “No parent should be burying their child, especially at such a young age.

“The spirit of suicide is taking our children away and society must work harder, as one, to conquer this disease.”

Adiel was an A+ student who was artistic and creative.

“Adiel was precious,” her family said.

“Her drawings were detailed and intricate.

“She loved learning to speak different languages ... an A-grade student in German and Japanese, and was teaching herself Spanish, Tagalog from the Philippines and Yumplatok, which is Torres Strait Creole.

“She taught herself how to play the guitar and piano and learned how to play the violin at school – that’s what she used the internet for, to learn new skills, new languages and for her studies.”

Her family believes Adiel was targeted by friends online.

“Adiel loved her friends dearly and treasured their relationships,” they said.

“So, feeling rejected and attacked in this space was something Adiel could not comprehend.

“She hated violence and conflict and tried to internalise everything, with no idea on how to process her emotional trauma in her 12-yearold mind and big heart.”

Her mum and siblings did their best to help Adiel deal with the hurt she was experiencing.

“Adiel’s tragedy was an unexpected shock to Vicky and the family, as they thought they were on top of it and did everything they could in their power to support and protect Adiel,” her family said.

“They had open conversations with Adiel, parental control on her phone and spoke to Adiel about the rules of owning a phone and when online.

“They checked in every day with her and checked her messages.”

The only social media platform Adiel had access to was Snapchat, where her conversations were monitored by her older sister Tameka.

When her family became worried about what was being said on Snapchat, they reported it to the school.

They said in Torres Strait Islander culture, it takes a village to raise a child, with extensive kinship systems, roles and responsibilities of Aunties, Uncles, grandparents, and older cousins.

“Today’s society and the impact of colonisation and its westernised systems have wounded our practices and dispersed our people nationally, away from each other and away from our daily customs,” the family said.

“We hope that schools adopt our principles, that it takes a village to raise our children.”

Adiel’s family is calling on schools to become stronger advocates and more active in creating safe spaces for victims of bullying and more diligent in the treatment of perpetrators, saying counselling is needed for both and that teachers and other staff need

appropriate training on how to approach the matter safely, sensitively, and immediately.

“The causes of their behaviour are deeply rooted either through trauma or learned behaviour and should be approached appropriately,” they said.

“Policies and procedures on paper must be more than a tick-the-box, they need to jump off the pages and be active in the school grounds.

“School children should also be more informed and taught how they can play a role in being a part of the solution by recognising and acknowledging bullying when it is happening amongst their peers, speaking out against it, and reporting it to school authorities ...

“School children must be educated in this space because they have eyes where the teachers don’t.”

Adiel’s family says everyone has a role in creating a safer society and combating cyberbullying and bullying.

“Life coping strategies must be taught in schools where the danger lurks,” they said.

“Parents must actively create more of an awareness and educate their children on suicide prevention, cybersecurity, and actions to take against bullying.

“We need to make our children feel safe, supported, and loved, and to be aware of professional support systems out there that can help them, and their families deal with navigating their way through these dark times.”

Adiel’s family says all children are precious, and future leaders and future parents.

“It is important to think about who we are raising as the next generations; what intergenerational trauma are we passing on?” they said.

“What poisons are perpetrators and

predators passing on if society does not fix the system and learn how to deal with these issues effectively?

“We are tired. Tired of the struggles. Tired of the hate. Tired of the violence and toxic behaviours ...

“We need more goodness and love in this world.”

To add to Adiel’s family’s trauma and grief, they say people have been making uninformed accusations and offensive comments towards them online.

“We ask you to STOP! Just STOP!” they said in their statement.

“Think about what you are doing – you have become cyberbullies yourselves, rubbing salt in our wounds by adding your contribution to the very thing you are speaking out against.

“If you have an ounce of goodness and compassion in your heart, that’s what our family needs, if you don’t have anything nice to say, keep scrolling.

“Adiel was loved. She was told every day, ‘I love you’ by her family.”

If you or anyone you know has been affected by this story, please consider asking for help.

Youth • Kids helpline: 1800 551 800 or kidshelpline.com.au • headspace: 1800 650 890 or headspace. org.au • ReachOut.com

Adult • Lifeline: 13 11 14 or text 0477 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service available 24/7 • 13 YARN: 13 92 76 or 13yarn.org.au • Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 or suicidecall backservice.org.au • StandBy Support After Suicide: 1300 727 247

Source: https://www.

sbs.com.au/nitv/article/ adiel-boyd-forever12/3ytuai53q

NEWS 11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2025

Photo Competition 2024 CEQ has been our proud sponsor in 2024 of the Ailan Life photo competition, picking their favourite Ailan Life entry each month. This week we are featuring all of the 2024 winning photos, from which CEQ will pick the Grand Final winner who will receive a $150 GIFT CARD to use at any local CEQ store!

FEBRUARY WINNER The winner of the February 2024 Ailan Life photo competition was Jessica Sabatino with her pic taken near Goodes Island. “Fishing in paradise,” Jessica called it.

Monthly Winner

Monthly Winner

MARCH 2024

FEBRUARY 2024

MARCH WINNER Our March winner was Ashley Tran, whose picture was taken from the top of Green Hill Fort.

“The most effective remedy for healing most illnesses is to live closely with nature. A perfect combination from Green Hill – beaches and the sun,” Ashley said.

APRIL WINNER Francis Ketchell won in April with his pic taken on Erub Island. “I live on a hill on Erub Island, and this is a photo of the sun rising taken from my front yard. The foreground is the beach at Isem village where I grew up with my Grandfather and Grandmother,” Francis said.

Monthly Winner

Monthly Winner

MAY 2024

JUNE 2024

MAY WINNER The winning pic in May was won again by Francis Ketchell and again taken on Erub. “This photo is from my front yard looking westward. The rocky point where ladies used to sit fishing for parsa is now underwater. I made a small canoe from plastic barrels for my wife to fish,” Francis said.

JUNE WINNER Our June winner was Joy Pham. “Taken at ANZAC Park, the frangipani in full bloom under the clear blue sky creates a perfect harmony of nature’s colours and serenity,” Joy said.

Monthly Winner APRIL 2024

Monthly Winner

Monthly Winner

AUGUST 2024

SEPTEMBER 2024

Monthly Winner JULY 2024

Monthly Winner

NOVEMBER 2024

Monthly Winner

DECEMBER 2024

JULY WINNER The winner of the July Ailan Life photo competition was OLSH P-2 Teacher Kirriri (Hammond) Island, Michelle Nolan on behalf of her student’s families! “Welcome to our Ailan Life!

School and education can be both challenging and rewarding. These are some of our favourite photos from our 2024 journey on OLSH Kirriri Island. Au Esoau, Koeyma Eso and thank you,” Michelle said.

AUGUST WINNER Our August 2024 winner was Michelle Sullivan who visited Thursday Island, bought the Torres News and sent a photo through for the competition. “Not a bad way to spend a Sunday on Horn Island,” Michelle said.

SEPTEMBER WINNER The winner of the September competition was Thu Phuong Tran. “My pic radiates the vibrant and joyful spirit of island life in Australia. A man, full of energy, stretches out on the pier, reaching toward the endless blue of the sea. The lush green hills, the gentle waves and the boat anchored in the distance paint a picture of a life filled with natural beauty and peaceful moments,” Tran said.

“Islanders cherish these bright, colourful days where the rhythm of life is intertwined with the ocean’s breeze and the warmth of the sun. It’s a life where every moment is celebrated and the beauty of nature is a constant source of joy.”

OCTOBER WINNER No entries were received in October.

NOVEMBER WINNER Our November winner was Emerson Warden. “A pic was taken using my drone of the cruise ship Le Soleal with Thursday Island in the background – enjoying a morning on the calm water,” Emerson said.

DECEMBER WINNER The winner of the December 2024 Ailan Life photo competition was Rebecca Gunther with her pic taken on Thursday Island. “Holiday wharf fishing with the boyz,” Bec called it.

12 NEWS

THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Wug village families respectfully celebrate unveilings STORY AND PICS

BY FLORA WARRIA As 2024 came to a close celebrations were held at Wug Village (St Paul’s Community) on Moa Island, even though the Community was in mourning sorry business during that time.

With respect to the prominent deceased

TN0461 • 28-11-24

member of the community and family, the tombstone unveilings of the late Mrs Addie Kris (nee Oui) and her daughter the late Annie Bob (nee Kris) went ahead, mindful of the sorry business at hand.

Families travelled from near and far to be with the Kris families for the happy and sad occasions.

ABOVE LEFT: Special family moment. ABOVE RIGHT: Pastor John Levi officiated the unveiling of the tombstones.

ONLINE: WWW.REBELTOURS.COM.AU BOOKBOOK ONLINE: EFFECTIVE DATE 28/10/2024 WWW.REBELTOURS.COM.AU P: 07 4069 1586

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Nakoa Bob Joshua Bob Laura Bob and Norita Bob at their mother’s tombstone

MC Pastor Francis Ketchell.

TIMETABLE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE DUE TO QANTAS SCHEDULING, SOME FERRIES MAY NOT OPERATE. School children have HAMMOND ISLAND SCHOOL FERRY TIMETABLE •priority – Community

Depart Thursday Island • Monday – Friday

Depart Hammond Island • Monday – Friday

members can travel if space

ĞƉĂƌƚ dŚƵƌƐĚĂLJ /ƐůĂŶĚ ĞƉĂƌƚ ,ĂŵŵŽŶĚ /ƐůĂŶĚ 6.40am (Departs Rebel Wharf) ***Bookings essential 7.05am (Arrives Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY permits.

DŽŶĚĂLJͲ&ƌŝĚĂLJ DŽŶĚĂLJͲ&ƌŝĚĂLJ 7.25am (Departs Engineers Wharf) 7.45am (Arrives Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY Please call or email for any

queries. This service does not

ϲ͘ϰϬĂŵ ; ĞƉĂƌƚ Z > tŚĂƌĨͿΎΎΎ ŽŽŬŝŶŐƐ ^^ Ed/ >ΎΎΎ ϳ͘ϬϱĂŵ ; ƌƌŝǀĞ ŶŐŝŶĞĞƌƐ tŚĂƌĨͿ ^ ,KK> & ZZz 3.20pm (Departs Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY 3.35pm (Arrives Engineers Wharf) operate on public holidays, ϳ͘ϮϱĂŵ ; ĞƉƚ ŶŐŝŶĞĞƌƐ tŚĂƌĨͿ ϳ͘ϰϱĂŵ ; ƌƌŝǀĞ ŶŐŝŶĞĞƌƐ tŚĂƌĨͿ ^ ,KK> & ZZz 3.55pm (Departs Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY school holidays or weekends.

ϯ͘ϮϬƉŵ ; ĞƉĂƌƚ ŶŐŝŶĞĞƌƐ tŚĂƌĨͿ ^ ,KK> & ZZz ϯ͘ϯϱƉŵ ; ƌƌŝǀĞƐ ŶŐŝŶĞĞƌƐ tŚĂƌĨͿ P J 07 4069 1586 • F J 07 4069 1408 • E J info@rebeltours.com.au • W J www.rebeltours.com.au ϯ͘ϱϱƉŵ ; ĞƉĂƌƚ ŶŐŝŶĞĞƌƐ tŚĂƌĨͿ ^ ,KK> & ZZz

• 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.

• Bookings are essential for 18:00/18:10 ferry Mon-Fri, and Saturday 06:15/06:20.

• 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.

AVOID THE QUEUE!

SCAN ME and Book your ferry now using this QR code, pay online.

Pastor Ezra Kris.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2025

CLASSIFIEDS 13

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For more information, please contact: Lazariah Nona - Buai Mudh Community Centre Coordinator 07 4069 1663 (“Press 2” for Buai Mudh) tincc@murakosker.org.au

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14 SPORT

THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2025 TORRES NEWS

260+ teams play Goldfield Ashes – some with ‘whacky’ rules STORY AND PICS

BY ALF WILSON

ABOVE: Garbutt Magpies supporters Toni Feltes, Zayne Ross, 2, & Chelsie Dahler.

LEFT: West Indigies players from Bowen Errol & Greg.

Several hundred Torres Strait Islander male, female and young cricketers and many of their supporters participated at Australia’s biggest cricket carnival, the Goldfield Ashes last week.

It was held at Charters Towers from 17 to 19 January and featured 268 teams competing in four men’s and one women’s division.

This was more than a sporting carnival and was a place where people met in a friendly atmosphere, albeit with some wacky rules in play in the lower grades.

About a fifth of those who attended were First Nations people from many different communities.

More than 70 fields were used including at parks, schools, the golf club, the aerodrome

reserve, and numerous private properties.

Players and supporters came from as far away as Brisbane, Melbourne, NSW, Cape York, Mount Isa, NPA, Normanton, Hughenden, Mount Isa, Bowen, Atherton and Coen.

The men’s and ladies’ teams with the most Torres Strait Islanders were the Garbutt Magpies.

Joesiah Briggs from Atherton, Noel Ross, Toni Feltes, baby Zayne Ross, aged two, Chelsie Dahler, Gudaba Riley and Rex Ross were enthusiastic despite the 35 degree heat.

“We have been coming to the Ashes for many years and my late dad Noel also played with the team,” Noel jnr said.

The side won one game of their first two and lost the other.

On field 48 at the Goldfield Sporting Complex, the aptly named West Indigies

men were ready to play another Indigenous team, Black Bream in the B-2 division.

Errol Power and Greg Power from Bowen were sitting in the shade under a tree ready to play for West Indigies.

The side has been competing for decades and captain Glenn Butler said all of his players were Indigenous.

“We are all mates with the Black Bream players,” Glenn said..

Many of the teams have strange names such as Tridanjy Troglodytes, Mad Hatta’s, 99 Problems but a Pitch Ain’t One, Simpson Desert Alpine Ski Team, Fruit Loops and others.

The carnival started in 1948 with just six teams and has expanded to become named as an Aussie Icon.

It was not so much about winning except in the higher division but meeting friends in a wonderful atmosphere.

TN0755

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Garbutt Magpies players Joesiah Briggs from Atherton with Noel Ross.

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West Indigies team members.

Garbutt Magpies brothers Gudaba Riley & Rex Ross.

SPORT 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2025

Noah, Lennon & Mya make state teams VELMA

GARA’S

OUT! IN THIS WEEK’S ‘HOOPS’ NEWS...

On Monday afternoon, the North and South U18 boys and girls teams for Queensland were announced, and there are two or more First Nations players on each of those teams.

A big congratulations to: North Girls – Cheyenne Bobongie, Leah Pearson-Pitt and Taryn Bond.

North Boys – Keenan Williams and Marley Solomona.

South Girls – Jema Sebasio and Mya Moke.

South Boys – Lennon Bann and Noah Kirk.

Two years ago, I wrote an article in Torres News about some Southern Districts Spartans players who were focused on reaching their basketball goal of playing at the highest level.

Noah, Lennon and Mya were the players I spoke with at the time.

All those named here are exceptional athletes and would have worked

very hard to play well at the state champs held recently.

No doubt all the players will be excited, and their families will be so proud of their selection to represent the Maroons at the national championship which will be held in April in South East Queensland.

Opportunity Far north Queensland junior basketball player, Indiah (Indi) Bowyer, grabbed the opportunity with both hands when she was selected in the starting five for Canberra Capitals in Round 12 of the Women’s National Basketball League.

She played against the Townsville Fire.

It was such good news, in previous years Indi was a development player with Townsville Fire and Sydney Flames.

She also played NBL1 North with Townsville Flames and Logan Thunder, so to be given a starting spot in her first year as a rostered player is outstanding.

Indi finished with 8 points and 3 assists.

Back in the day I found this photo (right) on the ‘Old TI’ Facebook page (submitted by Darlene Fell) of the Wongai Men’s Team in front of the Sports Complex.

If anyone knows what year it was taken and who all the players are, that would be great.

I’d like to see if any Torres News readers have old photos to share as it would be wonderful to see images of teams and players from outer islands and also NPA. Could this be a future project - putting together a display of basketball history in the Torres Strait and NPA? So many talented people have played at very high levels, nationally and internationally, and it would be wonderful to acknowledge this for the younger generations to see, especially, the trailblazers from many years ago.

So many teams have competed on the islands and down south, even at the Arafura Games; also the Zenadth Kes Carnival and All Blacks carnivals held in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay and even Gladstone.

If you have photographs, please send them in to us!

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Indi Bowyer (Canberra Capitals guard). Pic thanks to Canberra Capitals.

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Hoops stories If you have any great yarns about games, teams or players, and/or pics let Time Out know via the Torres News today!

Noah Kirk and Lennon Bann (taken in 2023). Pic thanks to Southern Districts Spartans.

Warria ready to make pro-boxing debut M Continued from P16

Thomas Warria, right, and his brother Peter Warria. Pic by Alf Wilson.

“Father Time stops for no one so now is the time to take it to the pros and see how he fares,” Hayden said.

“In more than 35 bouts his record reflects more wins than losses, a big percentage of his losses at State or National Titles.”

Thomas has won the SABLI Golden Gloves Titles in 2017-2019 and in 2023.

He was named best senior boxer at the Golden Gloves in 2019.

Hard-punching Thomas also won a Queensland Title 2023 and claimed silver

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medals at previous events in 2017, 2018 and 2019.

Also silver medals at the Australian Titles in 2017, 2018 and 2023 and a bronze in 2019.

“Thomas was unlucky that he ran into the Lumberjack at the last two Australian Titles, this gentleman is a man mountain 6’7’ 135kg of muscle who walks forward continually,” Hayden said.

“But Tommy went the distance with him on both occasions, a testament to his toughness.

“This is a great opportunity for Tommy to be able to make the jump and debut in front

of his home crowd so we couldn’t pass on the opportunity.

“He is training well and on fight night looking to entertain the crowd as usual, so everybody get down and support Thomas and the event.

“Thomas is very proud of his heritage and a very humble person who is a pleasure to have at the gym, always up to helping the newcomers and with his dry sense of humour livens up the sessions.

“He never complains just gets in and does whatever he is told to do and is ready to Rumble come February.”

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16

THURSDAY 23 JANUARY 2025

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Warria ready to make pro debut

STORY AND PICS

BY ALF WILSON Popular Thomas Warria will make his debut as a professional boxer when he contests the main bout on the Battle at the Port pro-am tournament at Quayside Terminal in Townsville on Saturday 15 February.

The 30-year-old Thomas, who has lost 30kg in weight, will meet Ricky BowlesBrown in a heavyweight bout.

Thomas has family and friends on Mabuiag, Badu and Waiben and said he had been “chasing his dream” to become a pro boxer for several years.

“I had about 40 amateur fights and won 33 of them and am excited about this coming bout,” he said.

“I have been training hard for five weeks and that will continue until the fight night.”

Thomas trains at the Art of Strength Gym under the watchful eye of father and son team Scooter and Hayden Hooper.

“It has been hard work to get to the stage of being fit to fight as a professional and I now weigh about 105kg,” he said.

“But I had been 135kg and feel great now.”

Whilst Thomas doesn’t know much about his opponent, who hails from southern Queensland, he expects to do well.

“I will have heaps of support on the night,” he said.

“All of my friends from the islands have been supporting me on social media.

“There will be more than 500 spectators packed into the venue and the atmosphere will be wonderful.”

With another heavyweight boxer Rocky Savage to turn pro after March, boxing fanatics have described a potential bout between the pair as ‘Torres Strait Heaven’.

The chances of him entering the ring against Rocky at a later date were not high.

“We are mates and have sparred together and whilst I would prefer not to fight him, if the opportunity arises it would be an option,” Thomas said.

“I am sure boxing fans would like it.”

The main support bout on the card was Palm Islander Patrick Clark up against Charlie Bell.

“Patrick will have many fans coming over from Palm Island where I also have been for a tournament,” Thomas said.

Several amateur bouts were also on the card, including one between women.

Promoter Matty Rooney who ran Knuckles Gym said Thomas was an ideal fighter to participate in the main bout.

“Outside the ring Thomas is quietly spoken but once he enters it he packs a powerful punch,” Matty said.

In addition to his boxing skills Thomas was also a hard-running rugby league front-row forward who lined up for Walkabouts at the recent Bindal Sharks Allblacks carnival in Townsville.

He said his other dream was to get back to the Torres Strait soon to catch up with everybody and compete in his second favourite sport.

“I want to go up to TI and play at the Zenadth Kes rugby league carnival late in the year,” he said.

Thomas’ trainer Hayden Hooper told the Torres News Thomas had been with Art of Strength since 2016.

“He has been one of the main senior amateurs for the last couple of years as a heavyweight in Queensland for Sunstate Amateur Boxing League with his entraining style and great persona,” Hayden said.

TN0529 10x7 – 7/3/24 Continued P15 N

Thomas Warria is a proud Torres Strait Islander and ready to make his pro debut.

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