Torres News_Edition 20_24 February 2022

Torres News Thursday, 24 February 2022

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

EDITORIAL  E: editor@torres.news

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ADF tracks accused ship in Straits

BY KANTESHA TAKAI

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has confirmed the Chinese warship accused of firing a military grade laser at a RAAF Aircraft last week has passed through the Torres Strait.

The unprovoked incident occurred in the Arafura Sea, off the coast of the Northern Territory, where a Chinese PLA-N Luyang-class guided

missile destroyer and a PLA-N Yuzhao-class amphibious transport dock vessel steamed east towards the Coral Sea. The ships were later sighted in Torres Strait waters on Friday morning, before the Department of Defence released an official statement on Saturday, condemning the act as unprofessional and unsafe.

The RAAF Aircraft was conducting routine maritime surveillance

All times in Canberra local

within Australia’s exclusive economic zone when it was targeted by the Chinese vessel’s laser.

While all modern warships are equipped with lasers, the Department of Defence has confirmed the actions of the ship were not within professional military operating standards and had the potential to endanger military lives.

Both ships are in the Coral Sea.

ABOVE: laser-equipped: A PLA-N Yuzhao-class amphibious transport dock vessel transits the Torres Strait on 18 February 2022.

BELOW: tracking west: A Headquarters Joint Operations Command storyboard depicting the movements of a PLA-N Luyang-class guided missile destroyer and a PLA-N Yuzhao-class amphibious transport dock vessel, including their passage into the Arafura Sea and through the Torres Strait into the Coral Sea. Note the lasing incident against a Royal Australian Air Force P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft that occurred on 17 February 2022. Pics courtesy Australian Defence Force.

Proudly delivering essential services to Cape York and the Torres Strait in for 35 years!

02 NEWS

THURSDAY 24 FEBRUARY 2022 TORRES NEWS

A pathway forwards for Council infrastructure

A WORK IN PROGRESS: Torres Shire Council acknowledged W4Q funding on their Facebook page, and thanked the community for their patience during the works in front of St. John’s Community Care Office and Laifoo’s Convenience Store.

A Works for Queensland funding allocation of $4.5 million to local councils in the Torres Strait Islands is delivering key infrastructure and job opportunities, Member for Cook Cynthia Lui MP says.

“This is a fantastic initiative for our remote communities in the Torres Strait and for our communities’ economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic,” Ms Lui said.

She said the Torres Shire Council was using their Works for QLD funding to support the construction of staff housing and roads and drainage management on Thursday Island, including sections of the Douglas Street footpath (pictured).

The Torres Shire Island Regional Council was refurbishing fuel tanks on Boigu, Erub and Mabuiag Islands, and

carrying out essential building, repair and maintenance works to cabins at the Warraber Resort.

“We’ve already seen Works for Queensland deliver community hall, sporting facility and footpath upgrades for communities in the Torres Strait, and I always look forward to seeing these projects when I visit,” she said.

“So far, Works for Queensland has created more than 21,000 jobs throughout regional Queensland, helping to drive economic recovery where it’s needed the most.”

Eligible projects range from roadworks to town beautification, parks and playground upgrades, renewable energy installations, tourism, water and safety.

For more information visit: www.

dlgrma.qld.gov.au/works-for-queensland

Sea Swift search for new CEO Sea Swift Chief Executive Officer Dr Rochelle Macdonald has stepped down from her role at the helm of Australia’s largest private shipping company Chairman Steve Boulton says.

“Sea Swift has commenced a formal executive search process to replace the role of Chief Executive Officer, formerly held by Dr Rochelle Macdonald, who is leaving to pursue other interests and opportunities,” Mr Boulton said.

“We sincerely thank Dr Macdonald for her contribution to Sea Swift in her time as CEO. “Rochelle’s commitment to business improvement and her dedication and strong focus on safety and risk has been greatly appreciated, as has her key role in strengthening stakeholder relationships for the business.

“We wish her all the best for her future endeavours.”

During the recruitment process Mr Boulton said he would take on the role as Executive Chair, supported by Mark Hope and Lino Bruno, who continue in their roles as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, respectively.

Sea Swift has more than 35 years of experience providing essential shipping services and project freight in Northern Australia, and makes a significant contribution to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across the region with depots in Cairns, Weipa, Seisia, Horn Island, Badu Island, and Thursday Island as well as in the Northern Territory.

For more information, visit www.seaswift. com.au

CORRECTION: page 1 Edition 16 (Thursday 27 January 2022) Island & Cape, who operate the Badu Express service station on Badu Island, would like to be clear that the $3 price increase discussed in the article, and in the headline, was not relevant to their site and that their fuel was not, and is not, $3 a litre.

The price hike is related specifically to TSIRC sites, not

Island & Cape. The Torres News would like to apologise for unintentionally implying otherwise.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 24 FEBRUARY 2022

NEWS 03

Torres Strait team wins All Nations event This Torres Strait touch team is the pride of our region after winning their division of the Queensland All Nations event, held at Coomera on the Gold Coast last weekend.

Competing in the Open Mixed Division, they won their grand final against Philippines on Sunday, after a semi final victory and four qualifying round wins.

Players returned to Waiben on Monday.

The event was part of Queensland Touch Football’s two day Festival of Touch.

The All Nations tournament allowed participants to represent their heritage and nation at an affiliated touch football tournament, which also celebrated the many and diverse cultures that make up our sporting communities.

Full story next week!

Notice is given to financial members of the Torres Strait Islanders Media Association Inc. that the Annual General Meeting has been rescheduled for Thursday, 10th March 2022, at the TSIMA OFFICE (UPSTAIRS), Thursday Island. Meeting will commence at 5.30pm.

BIG WIN: Team Torres Strait, who won last weekend against the Philippines. Pic supplied.

NPA women bag driveway giveaway

STORY Shanella Majid PICS SUPPLIED Women of Seisia and the NPA were treated to some ‘goodie bags’ last week, thanks to human rights activist Khadija Gbla and charity organisation Share the Dignity Australia.

The well-known activist used her online platform and networks to crowd fund a covid relief effort that would end up supporting eight different communities around the country.

The goodie bags included sanitary items, shampoo and conditioner, some health and beauty products, Carmex lip balm and a little something nice such as makeup, nail polish, notebooks and other small gifts.

The contents were worth well over $50.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Elu family set up their driveway to host the bag giveaway for a few hours on two separate days last week.

Dituni and Talei Elu, and Peri Mudu gave up their time to distribute the bags to Seisia and NPA women.

Bags specifically for mums and bubs included diapers, Curash goods and pacifiers.

Free large hand sanitisers were also available to help households be more germ free.

Young mother, Shawntae from New Mapoon said it was a “nice set up”.

“This helps a lot of people specially on dragging week,” she said.

Alice Sebasio, from Seisia, said it was a big help.

“This helps a lot especially if you just came out of isolation,” she said.

ACTIVIST: Khadija Gbla.

Community members across the board expressed their gratitude to the organisers and Share the Dignity Australia.

“Thanks Khadija for the goodies and helping our community,” Mazorie Townson, from Seisia, said.

“I feel good, I feel better, happy, and it’s nice to get support for our remote community.”

Young women also appreciated the bags said htey helped to ease some of the financial burden of buying sanitary products.

Young NPA community member Felicia Atu said she thought it was great.

“I really needed more toiletries, but I didn’t want to spend a lot of money, especially with our local shops being so expensive,” she said.

Talei, who helped organise the giveaway, said she was appreciative of all the women and girls in the NPA who helped get the message out about the giveaway.

“It’s good to see women lift each other up and support each other with things like this, I hope we can continue finding opportunities to support women in our communities,” she said.

All members of the Torres Strait Islanders Media Association are invited to attend.

AGENDA (a) The receiving of the Annual Report 2020/2021 (b) The receiving of the Auditor’s report 2020/2021 (c) The appointment of Auditor (d) Appointment of Board of Directors (e) Special Resolutions For more information please contact: Diat Alferink (Operational Manager) on 4069 1524 or email address: opsmanager@tsima4mw.org.au

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04 NEWS

THURSDAY 24 FEBRUARY 2022 TORRES NEWS

Hearing Australia works to ensure kids are school ready One in three Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander children experience chronic ear disease, prompting Hearing Australia to encourage all parents and carers to get their kids checked for the 2022 school year.

They said poor hearing can make it difficult for kids to engage and learn at school.

To reach communities across Australia, Hearing Australia’s Hearing Assessment Program – Early Ears (HAPEE) program has partnered with local people and community services to help improve the hearing health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

New HAPEE spokesperson Elsie Seriat said early hearing checks were critical.

“It’s really important that kids get their ears checked early at the start of the school year which we know is a critical time for them to learn and grow,” she said.

Elsie said there was more flexibility than ever for parents to access hearing checks.

“Booking a hearing check is easy and now with telehealth appointments you can have a hearing check anywhere in Australia,” she said.

“That’s important for families who may not have access to services nearby, to be able to phone up and get that initial consultation.”

She said all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged 0 – 6 not yet attending full time school were eligible for a free hearing check.

Another HAPEE community spokesperson, Daniella Borg, who is a Noongar woman from Perth, Western Australia, has also joined forces to promote the importance of hearing health and early learning.

As a mother of 9 and grandmother of 10, Daniella has firsthand experience in ensuring children get the best start in life with healthy hearing.

“For children to get the most out of their education they need to be able to engage meaningfully in their learning,” she said.

“Hearing trouble can prevent them from enjoying and succeeding in school.”

Daniella and Elsie have joined HAPEE spokespeople Luke Carroll and Emma Donovan, in raising awareness about the importance of children getting hearing checks.

Hearing Australia Managing Director Kim Terrell acknowledged the important milestones the HAPEE program has achieved as it approached its third year.

“Since 2019, Hearing Australia has conducted hearing checks for 12,778 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children,” Kim said.

“Unfortunately, around one in four had undiagnosed ear disease or hearing loss and have needed clinical help.”

He said as well as providing free diagnostic assessments, HAPEE aimed to upskill and support primary care providers, early education staff, and parents and carers with the ability to identify, manage and monitor potential hearing loss in young children.

“With the ongoing support of the Australian Government and our partners, we are dedicated to significantly improving the hearing health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” Kim said.

Resources are available for parents and educators to support hearing health through the HAPEE Ears for Early Years program.

Visit https://www. hearing.com.au/HAPEE

for more information.

Morris takes care of security

Security guard Morris Nawia was in charge of the south west corner of the Barlow Park field at last week’s Yarrabah/Northern Pride and Cowboys/Rabbitohs games in Cairns. He said he was

born on Waiben but moved to Cairns 10 years ago and has been working in security for the past five years.

More footy news on Pages 9-12 

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 24 FEBRUARY 2022

05

06 NEWS

THURSDAY 24 FEBRUARY 2022 TORRES NEWS

Kids can help protect from COVID The more people who choose to get vaccinated, the greater protection is offered to our whole community, Torres & Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) Chief Executive Ms Beverley Hamerton says.

“There are many

people in our community who are at greater risk of serious illness from COVID-19,” she said.

“New data also shows you are 20 times LESS likely to die of COVID if you have had your booster.”

She said the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine was safe, and fully approved

and recommended for people aged five years and older.

“We’ve seen in other areas of Australia and around the world that children are more susceptible to the emerging strains of COVID-19,” she said.

“Like adults, some children who get

COVID-19 will be asymptomatic.

“However, there are children who have become seriously ill and needed hospitalisation after contracting COVID-19.

“For children, a significant risk of contracting COVID-19 is a long-term inflammatory syndrome, which affects about one in every 3000 children, and can cause illnesses

such as fever, rash, and intestinal, heart, and neurological issues long after their recovery from COVID-19.

“Vaccinating children also helps the community, as we’ve seen that children can play a significant role in spreading COVID-19 in family environments – with grandparents and other older family members being a significant concern.

“Vaccination can reduce the risk that your child will spread COVID-19 to others.”

She said the usual hygiene practices should be very much still in play.

“As well as vaccination, we urge Torres Strait, Cape York, and Northern Peninsula Area residents to observe common sense hygiene practices,” she said.

“Please wear masks

as directed, practice social distancing – at least three big steps – and good hygiene, including frequent washing of hands with sanitiser and get tested if you have symptoms, no matter how mild.”

For more information about the Torres and Cape HHS vaccination program: https://www.

health.qld.gov.au/ torres-cape/html/covid19-vaccine-rollout

Mission not impossible COVID-19 Get the Vaccination clinic coming to your community.

COVID-19 vaccine

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

CONGRATULATIONS Torres, Cape andand Protect yourself, your family family and your your community community

NPA residents - we have now reached tect yourself, your family and your community 80% double vaccinations!

Talk Talk to to our our staff staff at at your your local local clinic clinic about about the the vaccine vaccine and and how how you you can can be be This week’s clinics: 24 – 25will Feb be free and voluntary. involved.

The vaccines involved. The vaccines will be free and voluntary.

o our staff at your local clinic–about the vaccine and Horizon how youBuilding can be Adult vaccine Thursday Island Green ed. The vaccines will be free and voluntary.  Adult vaccine - Thursday Island Tamwoy Hall (24/02 only)

 Adult vaccine – Horn Island Primary Health Care Centre (25/02 only)  Adult and child vaccine – Hammond Island Community Hall (24/02 only)  Adult and child vaccine – New Mapoon Primary Health Care Centre (24/02 only)  Adult and child vaccine – Seisia Primary Health Care Centre (25/02 only) Next week’s clinics: 28 Feb – 4 Mar  Adult vaccine – Thursday Island Green Horizon Building  Adult and child vaccine - Thursday Island Tamwoy Hall (Adult: 28/02, 2/03, 3/03, 4/03, Child: 1/03)  Adult and child vaccine - Horn Island Primary Health Care Centre (Adult: 2/03, 4/03, Child: 3/03)  Adult and child vaccine - Bamaga Primary Health Care Centre (Adult: 28/02, Child: 1/03)  Adult and child vaccine - Umagico Primary Health Care Centre (2/03 only)  Adult and child vaccine – New Mapoon Primary Health Care Centre (3/03 only)  Adult and child vaccine - Seisia Primary Health Care Centre (4/03 only)

Pfizer vaccinations and boosters are available at all local Primary Health Care Centres, Pharmacies and Hospitals. Talk to the team at any of these locations to book your next dose.

Bookings can be made for children aged 5 – 11 at your local Primary Health Care Centre or Hospital.

Vaccination teams will also continue to visit the outer islands in the Torres Strait regularly.

Full schedule at health.qld.gov.au/torres-cape Walk in, or call 3497 3442 Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

Find out more

all in the moment: Ellen writes down her “gosh, yes!” events as they happen.

So many people are sick here and we’ve been told to isolate.

It’s difficult.

When you live in an overcrowded house and a small community, it all leads to ‘community transmission’.

And to top all that up, people don’t seem to care, or maybe they don’t understand it at all.

Yep, community transmission is happening up here on Waiben, this virus is spreading faster than fire burning through dry grass, even though it’s raining.

The government tells us they themselves are self-isolating in their official homes and right there we have it: social responsibility right from the top, in their ginormous, not-so-crowded homes.

This is going to get a whole lot worse before it gets any better.

So, what are you doing?

Are you hiding in a cave or under a rock, waiting for it to blow over?

This thing has a destructive power like we’ve never seen before, and I’m not just talking about the virus itself, which certainly has the power to change the course of everyone’s lives.

I don’t know about you, but a few months ago I remember we were all carrying on with our lives again as if nothing was

A friend reminded me of this: probably, when all this coronavirus trouble has passed, we’ll all be ok, our resident COVID columnist Ellen Mosby writes ... going to happen.

How little we knew then.

That was my point right there – society changed, just like that.

The freedoms we had come to expect were suddenly withdrawn from us and we’re told to ‘stay home’.

So what are you doing there?

Are you bickering with your wife or your husband or your partner?

Are you sniping at your kids?

Why not take this opportunity to learn something epic?

Something to help propel you forward, when those of us fortunate enough to emerge to the other side do so.

Here’s something I’ve done with a few of my friends, I’ve started with reading a book about something to improve myself.

I’m pretty sure we all have room for upgrade in one’s self, myself included.

After reading the first chapter, grab a pen and mark in the book

or on a notebook any passages that have made you stop and think ‘gosh, yes!’.

When you’re done, go through another chapter and another chapter until the end of the book just the same way.

Once you’ve done that go back to your first chapter and find all the passages you highlighted – are they still ‘gosh, yes!’?

If so, write them out into your notebook.

Once you’re done, go through your notes and make notes of your notes, and think about what might be useful to you in your life.

Do more research if you have to, but start implementing some of those ‘golden nuggets’.

If you and I do that, we will leap ahead and when this virus goes away, we’ll be better positioned to get back to our missions in life.

I tell ya, time sure does fly when you’re having fun.

In the meantime, continue the protective measures that also help to prevent community transmission.

This is especially important if you plan to get together with family and friends.

And, of course, if you are travelling in a plane, train, ferry or taxi, stay safe and be kind to everyone around you.

NEWS 07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 24 FEBRUARY 2022

Excellence in Law scholarship goes to Alicia

BY VELMA GARA Female Indigenous barristers are few and far between in Queensland but the inaugural winner of the Joshua Creamer and Kara Cook Excellence in Law Scholarship, Alicia Smyth, hopes to help change that.

Her aim, she says, is to create recognition for the low numbers of female Indigenous barristers and aids.

Reports there are only two Indigenous women out of more than 240 female barristers in Queensland has prompted the establishment of the scholarship.

“This was one of the main reasons the

award was created – to help support female Indigenous law students,” Brisbane Councillor Kara Cook said.

“Alicia is an impressive young woman from the Torres Strait who has an incredibly strong desire to make a difference in the world through her studies.”

Alicia said she felt it was a huge honour.

She said would be mentored by Cr Cook and Barrister Joshua Creamer, who specialised in class actions, human rights and Native Title.

Alicia has studied for dual Bachelor degrees in Law and International Relations at Griffith University, and said she

“It’s about to go down” – ZMK

a rare but special event: ZMK on stage in Cairns three years ago. Pic by Republican RnB.

BY VELMA GARA It’s finally happening – Townsville fans will get to see and hear ZMK – aka Zechariah Michael Kelly – perform live TOMORROW night at the Bank Nightclub.

They have been waiting to see him perform since last year but due to COVID-19 restrictions the timing hasn’t been right – until now.

“My management has been working hard on making sure things were right this time and I’m super thankful,” he said.

So what can fans expect tomorrow night?

“All I can say is ‘it’s about to go down’,” he said.

“Nothing but feel good vibes and a good time!”

ZMK relocated to Cairns from his Iama

home two years ago, searching for something greater, which turned out to be music.

ZMK acknowledged his parents for their influence and inspiration.

“Growing up as a child in church, I would like to say thanks to my parents for giving me inspiration and confidence,” he said.

“Today I stand as a musician entertaining the world with heartfelt tunes and melodies.”

It’s too early to say where ZMK will be performing next but this year looks like more music, an album and music videos.

He said he was keen to set up a platform for other up and coming musicians, especially from Torres Strait.

“There’s so many other artists out there and I would love to build up the scene,” he said.

wanted to be involved in human rights.

“It is important there are Indigenous female barristers as the legal profession needs to reflect the diversity of clients and cater to those clients’ needs,” Alicia said.

“Indigenous people have a large range of legal barriers such as access to the legal system, legal representation and understanding the legal system.”

Miss Smyth grew up

in Rockhampton and is proud of both sides of her family.

“On my mum’s side I am Torres Strait Islander, specifically Badu Island,” she said.

“My great grandad was Jaffa Ahwang, and on my dad’s side I am Scottish.

“My nan, Alima Ahwang, is also a proud Torres Strait Islander woman and often reminds me that I come from a line of strong women.”

scholarship winner: L to R – Barrister Joshua Creamer, student and winner Alicia Smyth and Brisbane Councillor Kara Cook. Pic supplied.

08 NEWS

THURSDAY 24 FEBRUARY 2022 TORRES NEWS

Strait talkin’ with Tari from Strait Fitness There is NO SHAME in wanting to move your body to keep it healthy and fit.

Moving your body should not be hard or complicated.

Here are some tips to help you overcome any ‘excuses’ you might have!

1. I have no idea what to do?

Answer: Start with the simplest form of moving your body – going for a walk or dancing. If you can’t, however, get out your door to walk, walking on the spot and around your house is just as good.

2. I slaik!

Answer: Being slack only happens as long as you allow it too. Moving your body actually releases endorphins – nature’s own happy pill – into your body, which boosts your mood and gives you more energy.

3. I shame!

Answer: There’s is NO SHAME in taking care of your body. Let me ask you – wis wei now when you get diabetes, them same people you shame from gor come help you? NO!

So meke this one for you – keep healthy POR YOU. Por your pamle. Por your pikkinnis and your grandchildren. For your mental health!

4. I don’t have appropriate footware and clothing!

Answer: You don’t need the best of the best. Work with what you have. I workout in thongs – it’s better for my damper thraik.

5. I don’t have equipment!

Answer: You don’t need equipment. All you need is a positive attitude and to start.

If you’re wanting to up the anti – grab a can of anything out of the cupboard and use it as weights or use a bag of rice.

6. What do I eat/drink to build muscle and get energy?

Answer: Protein is crucial to building muscle as well as carbohydrates. We need carbohydrates to fuel our bodies – but make the swap from ‘white’ to brown! Brown rice keeps you fuller for longer.

Change from white bread to brown bread. White potatoes to sweet potatoes. Make sure to add heaps of fruit and

vegetables to your diet also – important for your muscles and fuelling the body.

7. I don’t have time!

Answer: Next time you boil the jug – do some squats. When you’re doing the dishes – march on the spot (yes, this sounds silly – but it works!) or do some planking – 30 seconds on – 15 seconds rest. You’ll be amazed at the results.

Don’t forget – moving your body should be fun.

There’s a reason why we need to keep moving – what we DON’T use – we LOSE! If you’re on Waiben get outdoors and use the amazing gym equipment, free for everyone to use – and they’re easy to use, you can get your workout done in 20 minutes!

Try this next time you’re out: • 20 x leg press • 20 x chest press • 20 x step ups • 20 x pull downs • 5 x rounds of each Have a good week, Tari.

Are you an

emerging leader in our community?

Applications for the Training Rural Australians in Leadership (TRAIL) Program are now open The TSRA is sponsoring three positions on the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation’s TRAIL Program. TRAIL is an intensive seven day residential program in Canberra. You will develop a strong Due to the impacts of COVID-19, the 2022 range of skills, attributes and knowledge to TRAIL program will be delivered over three engage your organisations, communities and sessions: industry in proactive solutions to long-term issues.

Session 1: 10-11 March (virtual delivery) Session 2: 11 April (virtual delivery) Session 3: 14-18 May (face to face delivery) Who can apply?

Emerging Torres Strait Islander or Aboriginal leaders living in the Torres Strait Region

How to apply

What does TRAIL offer?

A challenging four-day outdoor leadership experience, along with numerous workshops, panel sessions and seminars aimed at building and developing leadership skills.

Applications close 5pm on 28 February 2022. For an application form please visit the TSRA website www.tsra.gov.au/opportunities/leadership-capacity-building-opportunities or call the Torres Strait Regional Authority on (07) 4069 0700 or email info@tsra.gov.au

Every week we hope to present a page of life in the Torres Straits and NPA, showcasing local photographers from across our region. Send your ‘Ailan View’ of life in the far far north with your name and a 25-word

description to ads@torres.news This week Teo from Sea Swift has found us some tropical fruit – known as Uzu in the west and Sorbi in the east – on Boigu Island.

Send us your favourite pic soon!

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 24 FEBRUARY 2022

Cowboys or Broncos

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GAME CHANGER: Johnathan Thurston starred for the Cowboys. story and pics

BY ALF WILSON THE North Queensland Cowboys and Brisbane Broncos are by far the most popular NRL sides with rugby league supporters around the Torres Strait and NPA. Whenever they meet in what is described as a genuine Queensland Derby, the crowd packs in, and tens of thousands watch it on the box.

So when the “Cows” and “Broncs” clash in an NRL trial at Mackay this Saturday night, it will be a genuine “blockbuster”.

Island, NPA and Cape York communities, as well as those in Cairns, Townsville and further south, will be out in force.

The arch rivalry between the clubs has always been there, ever since the Cowboys entered the then ARL season in 1995.

Before then, many in the far north were Broncos fans.

Until 2015 the powerful Broncos were dubbed “Big Brother” usually winning a majority of the clashes.

But that changed in the 2015 NRL grand final when a Johnathan Thurston-led Cowboys beat the Broncos 17-16 in golden point extra time, claiming their first premiership title in their twentieth year of competition.

The tide had turned, and since then there has been several close results between the clubs.

No matter where they were placed on the ladder, these clashes ooze excitement.

Over the past four seasons both clubs have finished well down the ladder but fans can still hardly wait for Saturday night, even though it is only a trial.

The Cowboys fielded a young side in Saturday’s 24-12 win over South Sydney in Cairns last weekend but are expected to field superstars Val Holmes, Chad Townsend, Jason Taumalolo and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow when they tackle the Broncos in Mackay.

Likewise the Broncos are expected to have close to their best team available.

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10 SPORT

THURSDAY 24 FEBRUARY 2022 TORRES NEWS

Broncos draw from star Torres Strait players

BY ALF WILSON

scored a pivotal try for the Brisbane Broncos against the Gold Coast Titans in last Saturday’s trial match.

TN0002 28x2 • 17-02-22

WITH just 26 seconds left on the clock Badu Island’s Brenko Lee

Torres News 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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all in the family: Brenko Lee, left, and his cousin Edrick Lee in Kulpiyam colours at the Murri Knockout. Pic by Alf Wilson. this year and until the end of the 2023 season.

Lee has an impressive record.

In the 2020 season he shone under coach Craig Bellamy for the Melbourne Storm side who defeated the Penrith Panthers 26-20 in the NRL grand final.

Also in 2020 he played a State of Origin match for the

Queensland gMaroons, coached by Wayne Bennett, when they defeated New South Wales 2-1 in the series.

In that same Maroons team was his centre partner Dane Gagai and another cousin, winger Edrick Lee. Brenko was picked for the other two matches but was injured.

Restricted by soft

tear injuries he made just four appearances for Brisbane Tigers in the 2021 Queensland Cup, and was unable to put in any further appearances for the Storm.

Experienced Lee has 67 NRL appearances and 24 tries to his name.

A graduate of Marsden State High School, he played for the Queensland Under 20s in 2013 before signing a contract with the Canberra Raiders and making his NRL debut in 2014.

He was selected for the Junior Kangaroos in 2015 and went on to play 15 NRL games for the Canberra Raiders (2014 to 16), 18 for the Sydney Bulldogs (2017), 20 for the Gold Coast Titans (2018 and 19) and 14 for the Craig Bellamy coached Melbourne Storm (2020).

He has lined up several times for Torres Strait sides at Allblacks carnivals.

In 2015 Lee played in the same Kulpiyam side as Edrick Lee who narrowly lost the grand final of the Arthur

Beetson Foundation Queensland Murri Knockout carnival at Redcliffe.

Hard running centre Lee, was a key player for the Badu side Dhadhin Geai Warriors, who won a subsequent Murri Knockout.

Lee was also a member of the Badu Mulga team, which included former South Sydney and Parramatta Eels back Chris Sandow, and won a grand final of the Zenadth Kes Allblacks carnival on Waiben.

“I also played for Kulpiyam who won a Zenadth Kes carnival with teammate Timana Tahu,” he said.

He has played for Boigu side Malu Kiwai at a Cairns All Blacks carnival and the Newcastle Yowies at the NSW Koori Knockout.

Lee said he had many friends in the Torres Strait including Waiben’s Robert Yorkston.

“I stay with Robert when I get up there and want to say a big hello to him,” he said.

NRLW start sparks fond TI memories

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The conversion by Jamayne Isaako – taken from the sideline after the fulltime siren – enabled a 26-all draw.

The Brisbane side trailed by 26-8 midway through the second half.

Rising star Ezra Mam also scored a try in the match.

“Ezra is my little cousin and his mum is my dad’s oldest sister,” Lee told the Torres News the day after the game.

“He is a very good footballer.”

As he spoke, the 26-year-old Lee was organising a birthday party for his son Chase, who turned one that day.

“I have fitted in well up here in Brisbane, and played the full 80 minutes today – it was a good hit out,” he said.

A former Melbourne Storm and Queensland State of Origin back, Lee started pre-season training with the Broncos on 2 December after signing a two-year contract in May last year.

As a result he will join the Brisbane Broncos for the rest of

THE focus will again be on women’s rugby league this coming Sunday, when the first round of the six team NRLW competition kicks off.

Six clubs will battle it out, with the North Queensland Cowboys expected to enter in season 2023.

All three round one games – Dragons v Titans, Broncos v Roosters and Knights v Eels – will be played at Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium.

Round 2 will be another triple header at Wollongong’s WIN Stadium on Sunday, 6 March.

Rounds 3, 4, and 5 will coincide with the start of the NRL season, followed by a week of semi-finals and the grand final a week after those.

Women’s rugby league is popular in the Torres Strait where some great teams have competed over the years.

One that was a highlight for me was when TI side Sundown Sirens took out the

SUNDOWN SIRENS: Players and supporters celebrate after winning the 2011 ladies Island of Origin final. ladies division of the 2011 Island of Origin on Badu, beating Mabuyag team Bau Au Stingers 20-14 in the final.

Sundown Sirens went into the decider as underdogs after losing 26-8 to Stingers on day two.

The TI Sirens also had

several injuries to key players but started well and led 16-nil at halftime – it was anybody’s game with five minutes remaining when Sirens led narrowly by two points.

But when Lillius Namok scored a try in the final minute

in the corner Sirens had the final and the celebrations started.

Elsie Seriat scored two tries in the final for Sirens and proudly held the flag aloft.

“This was the best ladies final I have ever played in,” she said at the time.

Sirens coach Sasha Busch nominated Angie Nadredre, Elsie Seriat, Thogan Blanket and Jaimee Eales as the best forwards.

Busch said that livewire halfback Kristy Wilson and centre Lillius Namok also shone.

For Stingers backs Sania Whap and Stephanie Mooka were the standouts.

Games were heard live on TSIMA Radio 4MK across the Torres Strait and NITV was there filming the games, which were televised during NAIDOC Week.

The day after the carnival I spotted Sundown Sirens players and supporters travelling in a ute around Waiben displaying the trophy.

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SPORT 11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 24 FEBRUARY 2022

Pride on show as Yarrie tries out at next level HALFBACK Eddie Daniel played a full 80 minutes for the Northern Pride against the Yarrabah Seahawks in a rugby league trial match at Barlow Park in Cairns last Saturday.

Yaza Stephen came off the bench for the Pride, whilst Gideon Gela-Mosby, who was named to play, was rested by officials.

The 28-year-old Daniel scored a try and was one of the best on ground for the Pride in

story ALF WILSON & CHRISTINE HOWES PIC BY CHRISTINE HOWES a curtain raiser to the Cowboys versus South Sydney Rabbitohs NRL trial.

Thauki Satrick lined up in the forwards for Seahawks, who are the reigning Cairns & District Rugby League Club competition premiers.

Seahawks player Milton Mossman said they were never going

to win, but were happy to play and far from unhappy with the results.

He said after a big finish last year – winning the Cairns & District Rugby League grand final – which was followed closely by the devastation of losing one of their key players – they had put up a very nearly brand-new team.

Mossman said it was exciting to be there.

Club President Sam Bann Snr said they took it as an opportunity.

“It was only a trial game, and we just gave a lot of our young boys a bit of opportunity to see what it’s like playing at the next level,” he said.

“We were never going compete with these guys, COVID interrupted our training and these guys started in November, when we were finishing, with all the carnivals, etcetera.

“So we only had a two-week lead in.”

Coach Eddie Prior said it gave him a good start to the year in terms of picking a squad.

“It told me who was willing to step up,” he said.

The heat of the day – 32 degrees and steaming – prompted an early finish to the match, which scored a win for Northern Pride at 40+ to less than 10.

Speaking to the

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

LEFT: TEAMING UP: Yarrabah Seahawks and Northern Pride.

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FEBRUARY & MARCH 2022 Monday / Wednesday & Friday

BELOW LEFT: THUMBS UP: Yaza Stephen & Eddie Daniel.

BELOW RIGHT: ON THE RUN: Eddie Daniel keeping up with play v Yarrabah last Saturday.

“There are two other players trying for the halfback position,” he said.

Daniel has played in scores of Allblacks carnivals for Torres Strait sides, including as a key member of the Erub United team which won the October Zenadth Kes Cup on Waiben.

Torres News, Daniel said he was delighted to play the entire game.

“I felt pretty good and playing at Barlow Park was great,” he said.

Daniel said he would continue to train hard and hoped to gain a position in the side when the Queensland Cup started.

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Correction – Icbl Torres Strait 2022 Aspiring young basketball players

Also, incorrectly reported was the

Mick Loban, said no players can

will be attending the Torres Strait

venue for the Indigenous Community

register after the team selection

team selection session TOMORROW

Basketball League (ICBL) which will

TN0015 24/02/22 – Friday 25 February – not the date

published in last week’s Torres News.

THURSDAY session.

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The ICBL will have a condensed six

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Sport Torres News

12

THURSDAY 24 FEBRUARY 2022

SPORTS CONTRIBUTIONS Please email your stories and photos to our Editor before noon on Mondays.

EDITORIAL  E: editor@torres.news

Hodges and Gagai at their best

TOP: A focussed Jacob Gagai during warm-ups on the field.

BOTTOM: Jayden Hodges, in front – he may be smaller than his Cowboys teammates, but he was also amongst the best on ground on the day.

IN THE THICK OF THINGS: Rabbitoh Jacob Gagai, second from left, part of a tackle on a Cowboys ball carrier. story ALF WILSON PICS CHRISTINE HOWES TORRES Strait Islanders Jayden Hodges (North Queensland Cowboys) and Jacob Gagai (South Sydney Rabbitohs) were amongst the best on the ground when their sides played an NRL trial match at Barlow Park in Cairns last Saturday.

The Cowboys won the

trial 24-12 in front of a big crowd of 7128 people.

Both sides rested star players and fielded many younger ones, some of whom were not named in their club‘s official 30 man NRL squad.

The Cowboys side consisted of players from three Queensland Cup feeder clubs: Townsville Blackhawks, Mackay Cutters and Cairns Northern Pride; and included Hodges,

who was impressive from dummy half.

He controlled play, was instrumental in two tries, and saved another just before fulltime.

Gagai, a brother of former Rabbitoh Dane Gagai who has signed with the Newcastle Knights for this season, started at fullback and switched to the centre in the second half.

He was dangerous in

attack and fired out passes for the two Rabbitohs tries before looking likely to have scored one of his own just before the final siren.

It was Hodges who got his hand on the ball just as Gagai crossed the line, to knock it free and save the four pointer.

In the second half, Cowboys interchange bench player Bernard Lewis made several excellent runs.

Hodges was then responsible for the best

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play of the game, producing a grubber kick which went through the legs of a defender and sat up in the in-goal for Jordan Lipp to score a try.

“I just saw a space there but it was lucky the way it turned out with a try,” Hodges told the Torres News.

Hodges last played NRL in 2014 for Manly but his try assist and a clever precisely-made 40-20 kick

suggests he may be on Cowboys selectors’ radar.

“I just have to play the best I can for the Northern Pride and maybe a spot will come up with the Cowboys,” he said.

Hodges was a member of the Erub United side which won the Zenadth Kes carnival on Waiben in October.

Story and pics from the curtain-raising Yarrabah v Northern Pride game P11 

Rita Gutchen