Torres News Edition_28_21 April 2022

Torres News Thursday, 21 APRIL 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

 Edition 28  $2 incl. GST

ADVERTISING  M: 0419 828 639  E: ads@torres.news

Torres Strait players a BIG basketball presence

BY VELMA GARA

Our Torres Strait boys and girls who played in the National Indigenous Basketball Tournament (NIBT) played their hearts out with effort and energy over the Easter weekend on the Gold Coast.

They joined more than 150 other young athletes, all of whom proudly represented their states or territories on and off the courts at a series of Inspiration and Motivation sessions.

NIBT was hosted by Indigenous Basketball Australia, which was founded

by NBA Champion and four-time Olympian, Patty Mills, who watched the opening ceremony from his home in Brooklyn, New York.

On social media, Mills could be seen island dancing with dance group Gerib Sik and his father Benny Mills, who was at the three-day event.

Heaps more pics & stories on PAGES 12 & 13 

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

SUPPORT: Patty Mills sent a special message to athletes, coaches and teams at the opening ceremony which he watched from home in Brooklyn. He also joined in with the Island dancers on social media.

02 NEWS

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THURSDAY 21 APRIL 2022 TORRES NEWS

We will remember The 107th Anniversary of the landings at Anzac Cove, and those who served, will be commemorated by our communities in ceremonies throughout the region on Monday morning.

Remembering these men and women and their sacrifice is the core of the Anzac spirit.

Services will focus on the several Memorials throughout the Straits, which carry more than 1200 names of men who served in World Wars I and II as well as those from the Torres Strait who served or volunteered until the mid-1980s.

For more see our double page ANZAC Day feature PAGES 8 & 9

work in progress: Work is underway to add more names to the Wall (see below) Memorial on Waiben to go alongside those who have served. Photo: Liberty Seekee.

Search for more names is underway

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Work is underway to identify more names to be listed in the granite on the Anzac Park Wall Memorial.

Australian War Memorial Indigenous Researcher Kerryn Ah Chee is working with local historian Vanessa Seekee on the project.

“I am currently working closely with Vanessa Seekee at Torres Heritage museum on Horn Island,” Kerryn said.

“We are reviewing the nominal roll on Waiben.

“Therefore, we are seeking any information from families or anyone in the community to help us with this.

“If you have any information or questions concerning this project please let us know.

“It’s important to have recognition for servicemen and women from the Torres Strait, to recognise the commitment and hard work contributed.

“For families to share the names and journey is giving the opportunity for their family members to be recognised.”

Vanessa said they were looking for community members with family who have served in the Defence Force, in either conflict or peacetime, whose names are currently not on the wall.

“We will be working with the Hon Warren Entsch, who is in full support of the project, to explore the best funding opportunities

that are available,” she said.

Mr Entsch said it was important work.

“It is important that the Wall Memorial be updated to reflect the incredible contribution the Torres Strait community has given to the Defence Forces,” he said.

Vanessa said some families had already come forward.

“Some families have come forward to add names, such as the Assan family for their father and grandfather, Anthony Assan (Tony),” she said.

“Tony served with the 2 Royal Australian Regiment in the Malayan Emergency, departing Brisbane for Penang in 1955, returning to Australia in 1957.

“Research is currently underway to acquire his service records.

“The George family have come forward for their father, William Santo George, who served with the American Small Ships in World War Two. “American records can be difficult to locate, however the steps to acquire his records are underway.”

Please contact either Kerryn at kerryn. ahchee@awm. gov.au or Vanessa at intheirsteps@ bigpond.com if you have any questions and to help ensure more names are added.

For more see ANZAC feature on PAGES 8 & 9

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 21 APRIL 2022

Churches join for Easter services story and pics BY JILLIAN BOWIE A combined Easter Sunday Church Service was held at Demaga Uraba Ware Community Hall, Senpol community, Mua Island on Easter Sunday.

Hosted by Christian Mission Fellowship International Torres Strait, other ministries that joined in the celebration was ACC (Australian Christian Churches) Lighthouse Church, Kubin, Power of the Spirit Ministry, Badu Island, and Kozan Outreach Fellowship Church, Senpol.

An evening service followed at ACC Lighthouse Church at Kubin.

Free Skills Development Workshops for Torres Strait Islander & Aboriginal Artists

Combined services: A wonderful day of family, food, and fellowship was had by all.

FABRIC DESIGN WORKSHOP When: 10-12 May 2022 Where: Gab Titui Cultural Centre

Aunty Cessa Muhamad and Aunty Gertie Kris at Senpol.

Aunty Rose Abednego and Ama Denna Nona, enjoying time with family and friends.

Lothamo Boyd with his Aunty Lillian Ahmat, Senpol.

Richard Bowie Jnr and David Bosun (right).

Pastors Barbara and Kamaira Guligo from Power of the Spirit Ministry.

Pastor Rita Kaitap of ACC Lighthouse Church, Kubin.

Funding support for Reconciliation Week Eight far north Queensland organisations, including Torres Shire Council, will share the Queensland Government’s Celebrating Reconciliation grants program for this year.

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Minister Craig Crawford said recipients would receive support to run events as part of this year’s National Reconciliation Week.

“The theme for 2022 National Reconciliation Week is Be Brave. Make Change,”

Mr Crawford said.

Torres Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Dalassa Yorkston welcomed the funding support for her Council’s 2022 Reconciliation Day event.

“This funding means people in the Cape and Torres Region will be able to come together in celebrating reconciliation,’’ she said.

“Building strong relationships within our community supports reconciliation and builds respect

for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives within our region.”

National Reconciliation Week is a national campaign each year from 27 May to 3 June that commemorates two significant milestones in Australia’s reconciliation journey – the successful 1967 referendum and the 1992 High Court Mabo decision.

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said Celebrating Reconciliation brought people together in the spirit of truth-

telling, understanding, respect and reconciliation.

“Since launching in 2018, this dedicated grant program has supported more than 100 reconciliation events across Queensland, and in 2022 there will be events in Cooktown, Aurukun, Thursday Island, Cairns, Bamaga and New Mapoon,” Ms Lui said.

For more information on Celebrating Reconciliation grants please visit https://www. qld.gov.au/recgrants

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THURSDAY 21 APRIL 2022 TORRES NEWS

13YARN – 24/7 national crisis line support open now

Changes to ADVERTISING DeaDlines Due to upcoming public holidays please note the following changes to deadlines for the Torres News:

Issue: Thursday 28 April

(ANZAC Day public holiday 25 April)

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CULTURALLY SAFE CRISIS SUPPORT: 13 YARN is run by First Nations people for First Nations people. Pic from website.

Aboriginal & Torres Straits Islanders have access to a new 24/7 national crisis support telephone service, ensuring they can receive culturally safe and appropriate health services where and when they are needed.

13 YARN (13 92 76) was co-designed

by Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples with the support of Lifeline Australia and peak organisation for Indigenous suicide prevention, Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Australia.

Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, said the service would be staffed by Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people.

“Every life lost to suicide is a national tragedy and has a devastating impact on individuals, families and communities,” Minister Hunt said.

“Sadly, suicide accounts for 40 per cent of all deaths of Indigenous children, and the suicide death rate among Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples is approximately twice that for non-Indigenous people.

“This vital service is about ensuring that all Aboriginal & Torres Straits Islanders have 24/7 access to culturally

safe crisis support during the darkest times.

“It will save and protect lives.”

Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention David Coleman said the service would support First Australians who may be at risk of suicide, experiencing suicidal ideation or other mental health crises, or who were recovering from a suicide attempt.

“Lifeline collaborated with Gayaa Dhuwi to develop this crisis telephone service so Indigenous Australians are able to access the help and support they need where and when they need it,” Assistant Minister Coleman said.

“Research has shown a gap in mental health services designed and staffed

by Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“With the launch of 13YARN we are ensuring culturally safe and appropriate support is a phone call away.”

13 YARN is one of the key measures the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan (the Plan).

The Plan has driven significant investment into and reform of Australia’s mental health and suicide prevention

system, ensuring it was suitable and available to all Australians.

As part of the Plan specific mental health and suicide prevention measures for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples included: establishing regional suicide prevention networks; implementing culturally sensitive, co-designed aftercare services; and establishing the National Closing the Gap Policy Partnership on Social and Emotional Wellbeing.

Anyone experiencing distress can seek immediate advice and support through Lifeline (13 11 14) or through the 13 YARN platform (13 92 76), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), or the Government’s digital mental health gateway, Head to Health.

If you are concerned about suicide, living with someone who is considering suicide, or bereaved by suicide, the Suicide Call Back Service is available at 1300 659 467or www. suicidecallbackservice.org.au.

Young Australians needing support can access free services through Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), their local headspace or online through eheadspace (https://headspace.org.au/ eheadspace/).

Pfizer vaccinations and boosters are available at your local Primary Health Care Centre, Hospital and Community Pharmacy for both adults and children aged 5 and above.

Anyone 16 and over can receive their booster from 3 months after their second dose.

A fourth dose (second booster) is available for: • Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people over 50 • Non Indigenous people over 65 • Residents of aged care or disability care facilities • Those who are severely immunocompromised (fifth dose).

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

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NEWS 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 21 APRIL 2022

TSRA re-connects with Kirriri community The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) has restarted community visits as COVID-19 restrictions ease across Queensland.

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said a recent Kirriri (Hammond Island) visit earlier this month was among TSRA’s first face-to-face community engagement sessions since COVID-19 reached the region in late 2021.

“TSRA Board and staff have been working differently and keeping connected online for the past few months, so it is wonderful to start visiting communities again,” Mr Stephen said.

TSRA Board Member for Hammond Seriako Dorante hosted the community meeting to share updates and information, including what the community should know about the TSRA’s current Common Funding Round.

Mr Dorante said the meeting was an

opportunity to reconnect on local priorities and aspirations for the year ahead.

“There was significant interest around exploring funding opportunities to support partnerships, community groups and local ideas for engaging our young people in healthy, safe and positive activities,” Mr Dorante said.

“I would like to thank all of the community members who attended and shared ideas.”

The TSRA aims to improve the lifestyle and wellbeing for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people living in the region through programs supporting economic development, fisheries, culture, art and heritage, native title, environmental management, governance and leadership towards healthy and safe communities.

For more information about the TSRA visit

www.tsra.gov.au

COMMUNITY VISIT: TSRA staff joined community members on Kirriri earlier this month

L–R: Anima Pearson, Rita Dorante and Josie Cowley.

Pre-COVID services back Fewer than 200 COVID cases for at least seven consecutive days across the region means a change in focus to resuming several services Torres & Cape Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Beverley Hammerton says.

She said high rates of vaccination had helped to slow the rate of transmission.

She said services back on deck included general medicine, Chronic Hepatitus B and Fibro Scan Clinics, Cape York Kidney Care Outreach and Post-Acute,

Rehabilitation and Aged Care (PARAC) on Waiben.

“COVID Care at Home, testing and vaccinations will continue to be offered,” she said.

She said given continuing case numbers across the nation, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) had recommended a fourth dose of COVID-19 vaccine – either Pfizer or Moderna – to increase protection for the winter for four at-risk groups.

• Aboriginal and Torres

Strait Islander people aged 50 years and older • Adults aged 65 years and older • Residents of aged care or disability care facilities • People aged 16 years and older who are severely immunocompromised.

“The fourth dose may be administered from four months after the third dose, or fourth dose for immunocompromised people, or four months after recovery from a COVID-19 infection,” she said.

L–R: Josie and Therese Cowley.

TSRA Board Member for Hammond Seriako Dorante (standing) hosted the community meeting: in front from the right was Annie Garnier, Anima, Beauty and Orepa Pearson with Scotty and Bob in the back there.

New funding for cultural safety Cairns-based Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) is taking steps to improve health care for First Nations people by inviting tender submissions for cultural competency training.

Through the tender process, NQPHN will select appropriate provider(s) to plan, develop, and deliver Cultural Competency and Safety activities to mainstream primary health care services from the Torres & Cape to Mackay

Hospital and Health Service (HHS) regions.

NQPHN CEO Robin Whyte said the health needs of First Nations people were about than physical health.

“Evidence shows Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people are more likely to access health services in environments that are physically, spiritually, socially, and emotionally safe,” she said.

She said it was an open-tender opportunity for a broad range of potential

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providers or consortia who could demonstrate the capability and capacity to deliver on the objective of improving the cultural competency of mainstream primary care services.

Applicants interested in applying for the tender should visit NQPHN’s online procurement portal at www.nqphn.com.au/

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Tender applications close on 10 May 2022.

For more information on NQPHN, visit www.nqphn. com.au

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06 HEALTH

THURSDAY 21 APRIL 2022 TORRES NEWS

Can kindness change lives in this pandemic?

Acts of kindness in our community can help us live longer, our resident COVID columnist Ellen Mosby writes ...

What if you haven’t seen your neighbour or a family member or that person who lives on another island for months, or at least for ever, since this COVID-19 pandemic hit?

Should you go and check on them?

Well actually that’s probably a good idea, but if they are fine you may want to be extra cautious.

Some people are really nervous around germs these days.

With all the talk of viruses and contamination and masks, the pandemic has put us all into an almost paralysed state.

By all means check, but expect them to be happy to see you?

Maybe not.

Before COVID-19 came along we all said it was impossible to reduce

road traffic and hence pollution, we all said it was impossible to reduce commute times and work from home, we all said it couldn’t be done.

Now we can’t say those things because that’s exactly what has happened.

Maybe, if anything at all good comes out of this pandemic, it’s that we don’t completely go back to how things were and we consider carefully how we proceed into the future.

It’s pointless planning right now.

The world is still not back to normal and we don’t know yet what the economic landscape will look after this is all over.

Through all the lockdowns we had people still went about their lives in their own merry way, doing whatever their little hearts desired, whenever

always be kind: Friends Sylvia and Ellen swapping pot plants. they wanted.

I saw people supposed to be in ISO still going to the shop daily (yagurr,

community transmission gurr).

In lots of places it’s illegal to do some of the most basic things you

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thought were ‘rights’ that couldn’t, wouldn’t and shouldn’t ever be taken away.

I say to people all the time to be kind always, but have I ever told you why?

I don’t know who said it but it’s about this: “everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about, be kind, always”.

A friend sent me a text message and I didn’t reply.

I could have, but I didn’t.

She reached out again in a non-judgemental way, she was open and friendly and she didn’t try to fix things unless I asked her to.

See, I was fighting a battle she knew nothing about, but she was being kind to me.

Acts of kindness have the potential to make the world a happier place.

They can boost feelings of confidence, being in control, happiness and optimism.

They may also encourage others to repeat the good deeds they’ve experienced themselves and this contributes to a more deadly community.

You may know of, “it is better to give than to receive” but did you also know this is backed up by research?

People who are kind and compassionate see clear benefits to their wellbeing and happiness.

They may even live longer.

Kindness can also help reduce stress and improve our emotional wellbeing.

We all have so much going on in our lives, competing strains and

stresses, not to mention the current pandemic.

This can see kindness pushed to one side in favour of what is urgent or trending now.

It can be easy to signal kindness by posting online and following a trend, but harder to commit to kindness in our daily words and actions.

If we take the time to be kind to other people we can reap the emotional dividends.

It can really make a difference, especially for people who are vulnerable or struggling.

Perhaps now is a time to re-imagine a kinder society that better protects our mental health.

I reckon kindness should be built into a business decisions, government policy and official systems in a way that supports everyone’s mental health and also reduces discrimination and inequality.

But you and I – we can make our own commitments to showing kindness in our words and our actions.

Let’s take a few minutes to think about doing something kind for a friend or even a stranger today.

Go on now, what are you waiting for?

Be kind always!

New plan to improve heart health A new strategy dedicated to reducing the impact of Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) and Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) will strengthen Queensland’s response across our health system, from early prevention to ongoing care.

Young people aged between five to 14 years – particularly Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people – are at the highest risk of developing the conditions.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D’Ath released the Ending Rheumatic Heart Disease: Queensland First Nations Strategy 2021-2024 last month.

She said they were leading the way with a targeted action plan, and now a strategy, to address the prevalence of ARF and RHD among First Nations peoples.

“Both RHD and ARF are preventable conditions,” she said.

“Unfortunately, Australia has some of the highest documented rates of RHD in the world, with a significant number of patients living in the north of the Queensland.

“This strategy will strengthen Queensland’s response across the health system, from early prevention, to the care and support of those living with ARF and RHD.” RHD, a potentially fatal condition

where a person’s heart valves have become stretched or scarred, is caused by repeated cases of ARF, an illness caused by the body’s autoimmune response to strep bacteria.

Heart valve damage, caused by ARF and RHD is likely to require surgery.

Blood may flow backward through stretched valves that do not close properly, or may be blocked due to scarred valves not opening properly.

When the heart is damaged in this way, the heart valves are unable to function adequately, and surgery may be required.

Untreated, RHD causes heart failure and those affected are at risk of arrhythmias, stroke, endocarditis and pregnancy complications.

These conditions cause progressive disability, reduce quality of life and can lead to premature death.

The Strategy involves a range of health partners and aims to deliver equity of access and outcomes for Queensland’s First Nation Peoples. It builds on the earlier 2018 Action Plan to address RHD. “RHD is serious,” the Minister said.

“Currently, there are more than 3000 patients on the RHD register in Queensland.”

To view the strategy, visit the Queensland Health website.

NEWS 07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 21 APRIL 2022

Climate change call-to-act postcards delivered LEFT – standing their ground: Protesters outside of Warren Entsch’s office in Cairns.

RIGHT – postcards delivered: Kabay Tamu, Ian Larry Snr, Belford Larry Jnr & Daniel Billy.

Pics supplied.

More than 1800 postcards calling on local MP Warren Entsch to pledge action to protect the Torres Strait from climate impacts have been delivered to his office in Cairns.

Each of the 1800 postcards featured Torres Strait Islander art and carried messages from Torres Strait Islanders and supporters across Australia.

They were handed over to Mr Entsch’s office following a rally.

Warraberalgal man from the Kulkalgal Nation in the Central Torres Strait and Traditional Owner Daniel Billy said he had travelled from Warraber to be at the protest.

“I have travelled from my island home to deliver these messages because I would like to see climate action for Zenadth Kes, not just words or promises,” he said.

“I would like to see the future generations of Zenadth Kes be safe on our Island home for the coming thousands of years.”

The Our Islands Our Home campaign, led by the Torres Strait 8 who have brought a human rights complaint against the Australian Government, organised the postcards and the rally.

They said Torres Strait Islanders were on the frontline of the climate crisis, and urgent action was needed.

For more: https://ourislandsourhome.com.au/

Nominate a local achiever for a training award Nominations for the 2022 Australian Training Awards are now open.

This year’s awards will celebrate 16 recipients, including four Australian Government categories, 11 State and Territory categories and the Outstanding Achievement in the VET and Skills Sector Award.

Federal Employment, Workforce, Skills, Small and Family Business Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch said the awards were a chance to highlight success stories of exceptional people and business who went above and beyond to ensure our skills base.

“I encourage Far North Queenslanders to nominate exceptional locals working in the VET sector – whether they are apprentices, trainees or businesses,” Mr Entsch said.

“If you know

someone who is doing a great job, nominate them today.

“Let’s show the rest of the nation what our locals can do. It is important we showcase the talent and perseverance of our hard-working community.

“These people and businesses are doing their part to help Australia bounce back after a couple of very difficult years for us all.”

The Australian Training Award nominations are open until Tuesday, 31 May 2022.

The Australian Training Awards are set to take place in Adelaide on Friday, 18 November 2022.

More details and how to nominate can be found at: www.

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08 ANZAC DAY FEATURE

THURSDAY 21 APRIL 2022 TORRES NEWS

When a wartime submarine be pass Mer

BY ALF WILSON

At the height of World War II in 1942, as Australia looked set to be invaded by the seemingly unstoppable Japanese, a heavily armed enemy submarine seen off Mer in the Torres Strait never threatened the local population.

That was almost 80 years ago during World War II and even today the incident is spoken about.

Some of the questions asked are why the crew of the Japanese submarine never came ashore or even opened fire on the weakly defended Mer. I first heard about the Japanese submarine back in 1996 whilst on Thursday Island

covering the Island of Origin football carnival for the national magazine Rugby League Week.

During that carnival I met respected elder Dalton Bon, a religious Anglican Minister and hospital Chaplain on TI. Dalton recalled the submarine incident during the war when he was on Mer, about 80 kms from TI, and one of scores of Australian controlled islands in the Torres Strait.

“A Japanese submarine was spotted near Mer and we were all rushed into the bush but they never came,” he said.

Mr Bon said that especially during the Battle of the Coral Sea, there was concern on TI that an invasion would take place.

The subject of the Japanese sub has come up many times since then and was raised more than once whilst I was on Badu Island covering the 2007 Queen’s Birthday weekend for the Koori Mail.

Opinion was divided about why the craft never attacked Mer. One explanation was that Mer is surrounded by natural reefs which would make it impossible for the sub to negotiate the waters to fire its guns.

But why then didn’t it attack surrounding islands or, at least, why did crew not come ashore and loot?

Another possible explanation was that the commander of the Japanese submarine had worked on Mer before the war.

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“... during the Battle of the Coral Sea, there was concern on TI that an invasion would take place.”

DALTON BON His name was apparently Captain Otto who was well known to islanders during his time with them gathering beche-de-mere (sea slugs) in pre-war years and was friendly with some locals.

Some of the living witnesses to the incident were young children, who are now elderly.

One, aged just three at the time, said he was later told by older locals that a Mer diver had seen the submarine submerged about six nautical miles off the beach.

This version seems to back up the report by Mr Bon. He said the submarine was frightened away after a diver came back to Mer and the local Torres Strait infantry sent an urgent wireless message to Allied planes on Horn Island.

“A plane came over and the Jap sub left quickly,” he said.

Townsville-based father Elimo Tapim was a baby on Mer during the year in question.

He said a Jap sub had landed on nearby Dauar Island, in the Mer group.

“The Japanese sub captain knew some of the people on Mer and Dauar Island on a first name basis and didn’t want to hurt them as he has worked with them,” she said.

“So he went to Dauar and the Japs took on water and left.

“The Japanese captain had worked with some locals in the beche de mer industry.”

Another respected

Minister, Father Gaidam Gisu, said he was also a “puppy” on Mer back then.

“The Captain of the Jap sub had worked with some of the islanders diving and family and friends told me he got the water and left them in peace,’ Father Gisu said.

Back in 2007 an eye witness to the incident, a Mr Doyle, provided his written account from when he was a boy.

“I have a vivid recollection of the day the incident occurred,” Mr Doyle wrote.

“I was playing on the place Keuk with my uncle Raymond Gisu, cousins Dick Pai and Auda Dawita and Norm Barsa.”

On the day, Mr Doyle said they could hear a continuous aircraft type noise from nearby Dauar Island.

“As we were gathering stones ready and waiting for the approaching aircraft the noise was getting louder and louder – the sub would have been about 150m to 200m from us,” he said.

He said there were two policemen – Mani Edagi and John Bourne – and his mother Lena waving to them from the main road entrance at Gigo.

“As we approached them we they were holding belts and island brooms and the big guys took to the beach road so I followed with my mother in tow and she later told me she couldn’t catch me,” he said.

“However we all ended up in a shallow waterhole in the bush at Gigrid with the family already there, the Gisu’s and the Salee’s.”

Mr Doyle said two Australian Kittyhawks were flying looking for the sub as it had been

reported to Horn Island by two local wireless operators.

“The commander Captain Otto was well known to islanders during his time with them gathering bechede-mere (sea slugs) in pre-war years,” he said.

“I was later told in later years that some locals helped provide water for them which I very much doubt.

“Through my 20 years of airforce experience I believe the long distance subs were equipped with larger tanks to store water and fuel.

“However Captain Otto was told about the wireless operators on Mer by somebody.”

Mr Doyle said the other question was why the Japanese did not attack.

“Because they were ordered by Captain Otto not to as the people were friendly and had no means to defend themselves,” he said.

“The only danger he was facing was the two wireless operators informing Horn Island of the sub’s presence.

“On viewing through the periscope he would seen islanders armed themselves with spears and tomahawks heading towards Gelam Hill which was a very sad defence.”

By this point, Mr Doyle said, the Kittyhawks were buzzing over Mer and Dauar Islands but added that Captain Otto, with his extensive local knowledge, was one step ahead.

“The sub was hiding in the bottom of Mebgor Reef, and why it was not detected,” he said.

“When the Kittyhawks retreated back to Horn Island, he made his move towards New Guinea.”

Mr Doyle said the ‘all clear’ was given to get out of their hideouts and as they emerged some Islanders were seen to have armed themselves.

“I saw my mother talking to a middle aged man named Ray Bobby who was armed with a spear and tomahawk,” he said.

“She told me years later that if the Japs had come ashore, he would have been the first to be executed as he was wearing a maroon overcoat with a United States Marine Corp Insignia underneath.”

In conclusion, Mr Doyle said, Captain Otto’s sub was not lost and had been trying to attack Horn Island where most of the Allied aircraft were flying sorties from.

“He was selected through his knowledge of the Torres Strait and was exposed by the wireless operators,” he said.

“If he had penetrated to Horn Island, his goal would have been achieved.

“The Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion, with limited fire power on TI, was no threat to him.”

One thing most agree on, was the Jap sub was lost during the Battle of the Coral Sea, or its aftermath, soon after.

The win by the US fleet at the Battle of the Coral Sea and at Midway turned the war in the Allies favour, ensuring a Japanese invasion was no longer a real concern.

The story of the Japanese submarine will live on, even though though witnesses are getting fewer and fewer through the passage of time.

ANZAC story behind our Memorial walls Every yawor blo ume em difrnt For help with funeral arrangements for your loved one, contact your local funeral company on Thursday Island.

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

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

Some men, such as Edward Eugene McNulty, had served in

became officers due to their bravery and personal character.

Many served in Gallipoli, such as James Cadzow, Archie

the Boer War before putting his age as lower to join the army for WW1.

After suffering Malaria, and Nephritis, he was repatriated home from France.

Others, such as Charles Graham, would serve in WW1 and WW2, even after losing his two brothers, George and John, in WW1.

Still others, such as James Hilton Cadzow and Archie Torres Pearson, joined as privates and

Many suffered illnesses such as mumps, and pneumonia, malaria and dysentery, while others were wounded more than once.

Sidney Lauder, 18, was wounded twice and then killed in action, all in 1917, leaving his brother Arthur, 20, to return home after multiple illnesses and wounds.

Those listed here are only a handful of men born in Torres

Continued from P9

Pearson, Thomas Tasker, Cyril Smyth and Sidney Launder.

Strait who volunteered for service in World War One. Many have their name on the Honour Board in the Thursday Island council chambers, others are listed in the National Archives.

They were men who had mothers and fathers, sisters, brothers and sweethearts who waited for their return.

Some came home wounded, others suffered invisible wounds and others did not return at all.

Those who returned have marched the same route down Douglas Street, as we do, every Anzac Day.

ANZAC DAY FEATURE 09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 21 APRIL 2022

ANZAC story behind plaques, plinths and pillars This coming ANZAC Day we will remember and honour those who serve and have served in varied ways, perhaps the most visually by the names engraved on memorials throughout the Straits, local historian Vanessa Seekee writes.

It is through these Memorials, which include walls, plaques, plinths and pillars, that their memory has been maintained.

In generations to come, when we have passed from living memory, it will be these memorials that will carry the Torres Strait’s military legacy and sacrifice.

There are 1,236 names of men who served in both World Wars, and those who were killed in World War Two (WW2) on tablets that adorn various memorials throughout Torres Strait.

The outer islands have memorials listing those who served from each island, while the Horn Island WW2 Memorial lists the names of those who were killed in the area during WW2.

All those who served from Torres Strait from WW2 till the mid 1980’s are listed on the wall in Anzac Park Thursday Island, with the statue of a Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion soldier standing vigil.

Bamaga has a WW2 memorial, listing the names of North Peninsula Area men who served.

The Honour Board for World War One (WW1) in the Torres Shire Council foyer lists the names of those from Torres Strait who served in WW1 and a list of those men who served in the area during WW1, but were born elsewhere.

During WW1 the National Archives lists 58 men who were born in Torres Strait who served, while the Honour Board in the Council chambers lists another 62 under the heading Citizens of Thursday Island, a total of 120 from the area who volunteered.

Some names are families of the area today.

The following men have awards listed beside their names: M.M – Military Medal, M.I.D - Mentioned in Dispatches, D.C.M – Distinguished Conduct Medal.

• Geno John Elarde • Cyril Douglas Savage M.M & M.I.D • Bertie Bootle Jardine

• John Sing • James Hilton Cadzow • Thomas Patrick Tasker • Thomas and John Ian Dunwoodie • Archie Torres Pearson M.I.D • Norman Compion Farquhar • Alexander Brown Mills • Matthew, William and Glamor Garr M.M • George Joseph Dan • Daniel Hodges • Edward Eugene McNulty • Ernest Kidson Thorpe D.C.M & M.M • Richard Oliver Garvey • Charles, John and George Graham M.M • Arthur, Cyril and Claude Smyth • Sidney and Arthur Lauder • Eric Corran These are only a handful of those who are listed, however among them are men who were decorated for courage in the field, those who served on Gallipoli and those who did not make it back to Torres Strait, but who lie in cemeteries across France, Turkey and Belgium.

Here are some of their stories.

Capt. Cyril Douglas Savage, 25, joined the

Army on 13 April 1916 and returned to Australia on 5 July 1919, having served with distinction in the 30 Battalion.

He rose through the ranks from Private to become a Captain, being awarded the Military Cross and a Mention in Dispatches.

The Military Cross is awarded in recognition of “an act or acts of exemplary gallantry during active operations against the enemy on land to all members, of any rank”.

His Military Cross was earned for his conduct during August 1918, when on three separate occasion he led his men, displaying exceptional bravery under heavy shell fire, rescuing three men from a burning tank, while moving and inspiring his men forward to assist in the capture of Foucacourt and in the battle of Amiens.

His careful handling of his men led to small casualties, while his

Private Matthew Garr. conduct was of the highest order.

Mention in Dispatches is awarded to an officer or soldier when they perform a noteworthy action.

Capt. Douglas earned his award when on the night of 28 July 1918, he displayed great keenness and devotion of duty, including the direction of stretcher bearers.

Sgt. Archie Torres Pearson, 21, volunteered

on 18 October 1914 and saw service on the Gallipoli Peninsula before being transferred to France.

He too joined as a private and rose to the rank of sergeant, serving predominately with the 2 Infantry Battalion.

He was severely wounded on the 24 July 1916, when shot in the back, neck and shoulder, contracted Trench Fever in August 1917, and then Influenza in May 1918.

When a corporal he was awarded the Mention in Dispatches for capturing an enemy position at Pozieres under enormous enemy fire. He returned home on 10 May 1919.

George Joseph Dan, 20, is an example of determination to join the defence forces.

He first tried on 1 November 1915, when underage and having just recovered from Tuberculosis.

He was admitted to the army, however after seven days in camp, his parents requested he be discharged as he was under age and recently recovered from both a hernia and TB. Once again, at 21 years old, he volunteered on 17 October 1916, and was accepted and sent to France with the 7 Light Horse Regiment.

On 12 October 1918, he suffered severe wounds to the face and head, before being immediately repatriated back to Australia.

He was discharged in April 1919.

Ernest Kidson Thorpe, 20, joined on

2 June 1915 and served with the 4 Light Field Ambulance in France, and Belgium.

RQMS Bertie Bootle Jardine.

Sgt Ernest Kidson Thorpe.

Tony Assan from Leitha Assan.

He rose to the rank of Lance Sergeant within the army being awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal (D.C.M) and Military Medal (M.M).

Whilst on attachment to the 11 Light Horse Regiment on 25 September 1918, he was in charge of the Australian Medical Corps detail during the assault on Semakh.

During this assault he showed great gallantry and devotion to duty in dressing wounded under severe enemy fire.

He repeatedly collected wounded soldiers and dragged them to a building where they were safe from enemy fire, where he dressed their wounds, before returning for more wounded.

He returned to Thursday Island and spent the rest of his years here, and is buried in the Thursday Island Cemetery.

served together. Here are some of the Torres Strait families who sent their boys off to WW1.

Elizabeth, he was wearing her ring around his neck, this was never recovered.

His cousin Cyril, 20, served with the 15

Daniel Charles Hodges, 21, joined the

army on 17 February 1916 and departed Australia on the SS Hawkes Bay on 20 April for France to join the 47 Battalion.

After a few short months of active duty in France, Daniel was severely wounded in both arms and his left leg.

Such were the injuries to his leg that it had to be amputated in France before his repatriation back to Australia.

He was discharged on 9 May 1917 and returned home to the Far North.

A prosthesis was fitted, however it is remembered that he always wore pants, and carried his wartime service with dignity, never speaking of France, so much so that many in the community did not know of his sacrifice.

He died on 20 September 1952, and is today commemorated by the Australian War Graves Commission in the Thursday Island Cemetery.

There were many occasions where brothers and cousins joined and

Matthew, Glamor, William & Paulincho Garr

Carlos and Mary Ann Garr had four boys who went to WW1, Matthew (26), Glamor, (21) William (22) and Paulincho.

William joined on 27 August, while Glamor joined on 22 November 1915.

Glamor served with the 26 Infantry Battalion, William with the 4 Pioneer Battalion.

William was killed near the village of Longueval, France on 30 November 1916 during the Battle of the Somme.

He was buried in the Longueval Rd Cemetery.

Glamor was wounded in the chest, on 5 August 1916.

Surviving this injury he went onto receive the Military Medal for action on the 30 July 1918 during the attack south of Villers Bretonneux.

He displayed great coolness and exceptional bravery under very heavy artillery fire, successfully carrying message books in the face of certain death.

By his action, support was received and the position saved.

He returned to Australia on 15 May 1919.

Matthew joined on 18 May 1916, and served with the 47 Battalion.

He suffered from Pyrexia, Mumps, and Tonsillitis and then was wounded in the back during his time in France, before being killed in action in Belgium.

His body was never recovered and his name is inscribed on the Menin Gate, Ypres Memorial in Belgium.

Arthur, Cyril and Claude Smyth

Arthur Montague Smyth, 25, served with the 54 Battalion, and was killed by a shell at Pozieres on 19 July 1916.

According to letters from his mother

Battalion at Gallipoli and was reported Missing in Action on 9 May 1915.

His death was not confirmed for 12 months, as his body was never found, but his name is now on the Lone Pine Memorial, Gallipoli.

Their cousin Claude, 20, served with the 14 Field Ambulances and survived the war, being repatriated home after suffering a severe gas attack in France.

Continued opposite P8 

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10 NEWS

THURSDAY 21 APRIL 2022 TORRES NEWS

Torres Strait fishing partnership reels in state prize

TSRA Chairperson: Napau Pedro Stephen.

TEAMWORK: TSRA Member Yen Loban with Quinten Hirakawa and Keith Brightman, TSRA Fisheries team. Pics supplied.

A capacity-building fisheries workshop between Traditional Owners, the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) and Fishwell Consulting on Waiben won this year’s People Development Award at the Queensland Seafood Industry Awards last month.

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said the award aligned with TSRA’s dedicated Fisheries Program, which aimed to support a sustainable fishing industry owned and operated by Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal peoples.

“More than 20 local people from various communities and fishing interests – including tropical rock lobster, beche-de-mer, reef line and prawn fishing – attended the workshop to further develop skills and networks in sustainable fisheries

management,” Mr Stephen said.

“I am proud of this award, which recognises the value of creating partnerships between Traditional Owners, scientists and the commercial fishing sector to build capacity, professionalism and best practice in our fishing industry.

“Climate change impacts, including rising sea levels, means a focus on local training, skills and support to future-proof our fishing industry is more important than ever,” he said.

TSRA Fisheries Portfolio Member, and Member for Ngurapai and Muralag, Yen Loban said workshop participants were already using the training to successfully advocate for changes to fisheries management and commercial fin fish resources around top western communities.

“Fishing is in our blood, it’s our culture, livelihood and a major source of employment and income for the Torres Strait,” Mr Loban said.

“Investing time and effort to build skills, capacity and awareness of new opportunities and technology will help support a sustainable and effective local seafood industry into the future,” he said.

The workshop, held on the 17-19 May last year, was facilitated by fishing industry expert and Fishwell Consulting Director Dr Ian Knuckey.

It included sessions on logbook data collection, fishery independent surveys, fish population dynamics, stock assessments, harvest strategies and principles of fisheries management.

There were also sessions on

Ailan View

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fisheries legislation in the Torres Strait, committee roles and responsibilities, and effective representation and advocacy.

Dr Knuckey said the workshop used real-life examples to equip participants with skills and knowledge to influence and advocate for the region’s aspirations.

“Everyone shared a desire to learn, collaborate and work together to ensure current and future generations can enjoy the economic benefits of sustainable fishing of Torres Strait seafood resources,” Dr Knuckey said.

The Queensland Seafood Industry Awards showcase the Queensland seafood industry by recognising and celebrating the positive contributions of individuals, partnerships, businesses

Fishwell Consulting Director: Dr Ian Knuckey. and organisations towards a sustainable and profitable Australian seafood industry.

The People Development Award acknowledges demonstrated excellence in developing and undertaking a people development activity that has contributed substantially towards a higher performing workforce for the seafood industry.

State Award winners go to the National Seafood Awards later in 2022.

For more information about TSRA visit www.tsra.gov.au For more information about the Queensland Seafood Industry Awards visit https:// queenslandseafoodmarketers.com. au/queensland-seafood-industryawards

Queensland small businesses set for month of celebration Queensland’s Small Business Month 2022 celebrations will get underway next month to mark the sector’s resurgence after the impacts of COVID-19 and flood events.

Minister for Employment and Small Business Di Farmer said the focus will be on encouraging Queenslanders to support small business that are the heart and soul of local communities.

“After a tough two years our small businesses deserve to celebrate and to welcome more customers through their doors,” Minister Farmer said. “There are more than 448,000 small businesses in Queensland, which account for 97 per cent of the business

sector, contributing around $117 billion to the state’s economy.

“We want to draw attention to the thousands of small businesses at the heart of Queensland’s economy and showcase their amazing work, spirit and successes.

“During Small Business Month there will be expos, networking opportunities and procurement workshops, Indigenous and multicultural business events and forums along with a celebration of the Mentoring for Growth program’s 20th anniversary.”

Queensland Small Business Month 2022 is an important part of the State Government’s

commitment to deliver networking, awareness, promotion and collaboration opportunities that enable small business to build strategic partnerships and connect with government, industry and each other.

In the lead up to and during May, we will have packs available to upload through our Business Queensland site to assist businesses and other stakeholders to start planning and host their own Queensland Small Business event or project.

For businesses that want to share in the celebration of Queensland Small Business Month visit:

www.business.qld.gov. au/qsbm

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12 SPORT – NIBT

THURSDAY 21 APRIL 2022 TORRES NEWS

Torres Strait players a BIG basketball presence

BY VELMA GARA Their dreams finally became reality as the National Indigenous Basketball Tournament for 16 girls and boys teams from all over the country tipped off on the Gold Coast over the Easter weekend.

Not only were the players taking part in the NIBT, some attended the JR. NBA camp in the days beforehand for an opportunity to be selected to attend a junior competition in Florida.

Talented athletes, Mia Nakata and Lennon Bann, were chosen to take what IBA founder Patty Mills said was a demonstration of the IBA and the NBA’s commitment to pathway development.

Nakata and Bann, both members of the Queensland South teams, were also chosen for the Asian–Pacific Under-16 team to play in Orlando, Florida in August this year.

For three days young players from all over Australia had the opportunity to see what it was like to attend such a tournament: they got to network, make new friends and gauge their own game to see how it could improve for the future.

They brought their own coaches, assistant coaches, managers and referees.

Teams were picked earlier this year at the IBA-hosted Indigenous Community Basketball League, which saw major cities like Darwin, Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane, along with Bendigo, Narromine, Cairns and Thursday Island host weekly games to then select teams to participate at the NIBT. IBA was commended for their efforts in hosting this tournament with

special mention to Patty Mills’ parents, Benny and Yvonne Mills, and the many staff and volunteers who made it a reality.

Our own Torres Strait teams won only one game between them – and it was the girls who saved their best game for last – but they all played with energy and spirit.

The girls came seventh overall after winning their last game against Queensland North, 56 to 31.

During the pool games against Northern Territory Metro, South Australia and Queensland South they suffered heavy losses but as they played each game the team got better.

In the quarter final game they lost against Western Australia, 43 – 25.

In the semi-final they improved, putting more points on the board, but still losing to Victoria 46 – 32.

Maybe knowing that it was their last game of the tournament, in their second semi-final the girls played hard and shot the lights out to get a win over Queensland North, 56 – 31.

The Torres Strait boys also played with effort and energy but lost all their games.

In their quarter finals game against Western Australia they fought hard and went down 48 – 31.

In the semi-final game they met Northern Territory Metro and then New South Wales.

All in all it was a great opportunity for the Torres Strait to play teams from all over Australia.

Attending competitions such as this can only help to improve their skills and development – more games, regular training and shooting practice is the ‘goal’.

Torres Strait Coaching Staff: (L–R) Thomas Loban, Kali McKeown, Michael Loban, Marcella Mosby, Debbie Lui, Anthony Sagigi, Kailu Luffman. Photo by Debbie Lui.

queensland North players: (L–R) Kitione Waigana, Evelyn Pearson, Ava Pilot, Lealon Scrieber, Noah Kirk, Dewron Aitke. Photo supplied by Kaylynn Zaro.

NBL champs support

backing the nibt: L–R – Paul Vandenbergh, Michael Cedar, Danny Morseu & Tyson Demos. Photo

by Indigenous Basketball Australia.

BY VELMA GARA A chance to see the calibre of young basketball talent from all over Australia was an opportunity that couldn’t be passed up by the four former national league players who attended the first ever NIBT for players 14-years-and-under last weekend.

Olympian and NBL Champion Danny Morseu, NBL players Tyson Demos and Paul Vandenbergh, and Townsville Crocodile

and NBL1 player Michael Cedar agreed there were no such junior basketball tournaments when they came through the ranks, yet their perseverance and desire to play professional basketball allowed them to reach their successes.

Together, these former NBL players amassed a total of nearly 800 games.

Hopefully, there were as many, if not more juniors at the NIBT who might further their own basketball careers at the national level thanks to their experiences.

STUDIO PICS: Courtesy of Indigenous Basketball Australia.

SPORT – NIBT 13

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 21 APRIL 2022

NIBT grand finals an exciting finish to successful comp

BY VELMA GARA Western Australia and Queensland South teams – boys and girls – made it to play in the first ever NIBT grand finals.

It was wins all around with the Western Australian boys and the Queensland South girls celebrating.

Western Australia were too strong for Queensland South to claim the inaugural boys champions, winning 59 to 43, while Queensland South girls defeated Western Australia, 36 to 28.

The boys game was tight with the scores levelled at 17 all by the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter, it was still a close game but the boys from the west shot the ball better and applied pressure defense, causing QS to make turnovers.

WA went into half time three points ahead, 31 to 26.

After half time was getting harder to put the ball in the basket with players from both teams starting to show fatigue.

The score lagged at 41 to 34 by three quarter time, but WA started to find their rhythm and quickly moved the ball in transition, making it hard for QS to keep up.

With just over five minutes left in the grand final game, WA held a big 15 point lead.

QS found themselves in foul trouble, which made things difficult, while WA kept playing their team game allowing them to claim the title with a 59 to 43 win.

Initially nerves got the better of both the girls’ teams, with only two points scored by each near the end of the first quarter of their grand final game.

But the lead then changed three times during second quarter, and by half time the score was 15 to 12 with QS in the lead.

Defense was key for the home team after WA scored quickly to close in at the start of third quarter but that only inspired QS to attack the basket with gusto and stretch their lead, 27 to 20.

In the final quarter, it was point for point but the seven point lead was enough to see QS over the line to win the grand final, 36 to 28.

Mya Moke, from QS, was awarded the grand final MVP and selected for the NIBT All-Star 5 girls’ along with teammate Mia Nakata.

Lennon Bann, also from QS, was selected for the NIBT All-Star 5 boys’ along with teammate Jett Wilson and Noah Kirk from Queensland North.

florida-bound: Lennon Bann. Pics supplied by Indigenous Basketball Australia.

most valued: Mya Moke (6) flying high for Queensland South in red.

Spirits high at closing ceremony

ALSO FLORIDA-BOUND: Mia Nakata, right, giving it her all.

IN ACTION: Pics courtesy of Indigenous Basketball Australia.

A LONG AND EXCITING WEEKEND: the Torres Strait teams at the NIBT Closing Ceremony.

14 SPORT

Badu juniors sign up for new season ABOUT 100 youngsters signed on last week for a junior rugby league competition to start soon on Badu Island.

Juniors from nearby islands were also there, and teams will line up in the under-6, under-8, under-10 and under-12 grades from Friday, 6 May. The island is renowned for its quality rugby league footballers.

Three of the hard workers who were behind the groundwork for the comp have been Dawn Baira, Jermaine Reuben and Sandra Baira.

“A mighty effort from Jermaine and the team to get Mulga Juniors back up and running considering COVID over the past couple of years,” a QRL Northern Division spokesman told the Torres News.

Interested parents wanting to sign up their child or volunteer their time can contact Dawn, Jermaine or Sandra.

THURSDAY 21 APRIL 2022 TORRES NEWS

BY ALF WILSON Flying outside back Hagiga Mosby has boosted the premiership prospects of the North Queensland Toyota Gold Stars team after signing up for the remainder of the 2022 season.

The Waiben-born, 21-year-old Mosby shone for the Brisbane Broncos in four games of the recently completed NRLW compeititon, scoring four tries in as many matches.

A speedy winger who is also strong in defence, Mosby is a niece of former Cowboys back Gideon Gela-Mosby, a key player for the Cairns

inspired: Maria Wuruki. Pics supplied.

ready to go: Will Reuben. in the footsteps of the 122 IMP Graduates who have undergone the journey before them.

“The past two years

provided special opportunities for our IMP squads to run an intimate marathon in the central desert of Alice Springs surrounded by their

based Northern Pride in the Statewide men’s competition .

To top off a great season, Mosby was earlier this month named in the Queensland Maroons extended squad.

Cowboys Elite Pathways Coach Ben Jeffries said Mosby was a born and bred North Queenslander and a massive Cowboys fan.

“Having spent time inside some high-performance rugby programs, Hagiga will bring her work ethic and standard straight away, which will help drive our Gold Stars program,” Jeffries said.

Cowboys upset Raiders

SIGNING UP: going through their paces and ready to play were more than 100 kids who signed up for Badu’s new rugby league comp last week at a training camp held on the island. Pics supplied.

BY ALF WILSON

Motivated to train for a New York race Two young Torres Strait Islanders have been selected from across Australia to join the 2022 Indigenous Marathon Project Squad to train for the 42.2km New York City race in November this year.

They are Cairns-based Maria Wuruki and Townsville-based Will Reuben (pictured).

Maria is the youngest member of the 2022 Indigenous Marathon Project Squad and has applied for the program for two years.

“I applied for the IMP because I believe it is a good motivation for me, and I’m excited to see what I will get out of the experience”, Maria said.

“Hopefully I will be a good role model for other young Indigenous people.

“I want to be strong and follow the right path because too many young people don’t have support, and often make the wrong choices.

“I want to inspire them and help them make the right choice.”

Will said he was also keen to be a positive role model.

“I want to be a positive male role model for the less fortunate young people I work with in Townsville, and to inspire Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth to believe in tomorrow,” he said.

The 2022 IMP Squad will begin training in a few weeks time under the guiding hand of world marathon champion and founder of the Indigenous Marathon Foundation, Rob de Castella, and following

Flying Hagiga a star

family,” de Castella said, “but we are excited to be able to again take our IMP squad to New York to expand their horizons, run in the footsteps of our very first four IMP graduates and feel the energy of the worlds’ biggest running event.”

But, he said, a ticket to New York wasn’t guaranteed.

Squad members need to commit to their rigorous training schedule, IMP education workshops and running events, continue to lead positively by example within their communities, and complete all educational components before they are offered an entry into the New York City Marathon.

Runners will compete in the Canberra, Gold Coast, Alice Springs and other local events in the lead-up to November.

IMP Coach and Manager Damian Tuck said he was blown away by the quality of applications to join the project.

“We had some really strong applicants again this year, each with strong determination and a powerful reason for taking on such a challenging task and I had to make some really tough decisions,” he said.

“The IMP has the potential to change lives, we’ve seen that, and I know our squad will take a lot from this experience and in turn teach us a lot as well.

“I look forward to supporting them on this journey and seeing what they can achieve.”

A morale boosting victory is the best way to describe the North Queensland Cowboys 18-12 upset win over the Canberra Raiders last Thursday night.

The Cowboys had everything against them playing before a hostile Canberra home crowd at GIO Stadium but with nine minutes remaining

classy back Jeremiah Nanai scored to give the Cowboys the 18-12 lead.

Reuben Cotter had another solid game for the Cowboys and is now an integral part of the team.

The now seventh placed Cowboys had the advantage of an eight-day break leading into this Saturday’s Queensland derby against the Titans at Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

GARBUTT MAGPIES: the first Garbutt Magpies Reserve side to win in 34 years. Pic submitted.

Garbutt Magpies win

BY ALF WILSON Garbutt Magpies scored their first win since 1988 – 34 years ago – in the Townsville Australian Football League’s reserve grade men’s competition earlier this month.

They won against Northern Beaches Suns 8-11 (59) to 3-10 (28).

The side re-entered the reserve grade comp in the 2021 season but did not win a game.

Club official Randall Ross said he was delighted.

“This club has an exciting future,” he said.

He said they were looking forward to a major facilities upgrade at the Harold Philips Oval.

“Our ground and facilities are being upgraded,” he said,

“with the construction of new offices, canteen and storage, followed by new changes rooms and redevelopment of the field and parks.”

Garbutt Magpies is now a fourth generation club which won the A grade men’s premiership in 1982.

The club started in 1955 and one of the founding members was the late Anastasia Maria Ross (nee Kanak).

Some former stars who played with the club include Francis Tapim, Harry Akee, Noel Ross, Porky Ross, Cowboy Ross, Morris Cloudy, Zac Sam, Dennis Saylor, George Akee, Kevin Geia, Ned Pedro, Andrew Namok and John Santo.

A Magpies women’s side has been in the Townsville comp for two years.

SPORT 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 21 APRIL 2022

Camps to select teams for Waiben comp in July

BY ALF WILSON Continued from P16 Two teams – an under-10s and under-12s - from this year’s outer island junior rugby league development camps will travel to Waiben to be a part of Country Week events around the Northern Pride and Souths-Logan Magpies game in July.

They will play a round robin of games against Western United, Eastral Stars, Inner Islands and NPA. QRL League and Club Co-ordinator Terry Abednego said the camps had been a great

success with 71 children registered from Eastern and Central Islands on Iama, and 65 on Mabuiag Island.

“Each camp had two NRL Game development officers and QRL representatives in attendance,” he said.

“Host island community teams from Iama and Mabuiag – the Magun Warriors, Bauau Stingers & Goemu Bau Raiders – were asked to manage the camps in partnership with TSIRC, NRL and QRL to invest in the next generation of players and develop capacity building techniques to build their community teams.”

Iama camp manager Hayden Mosby said logistically flights and freight could have been a nightmare but were well-managed thanks to valuable sponsorships from Skytrans and Seaswift.

“Yam Island rising star, young Dantoray Lui from the Jersey Flegg U/21 Parramatta Eels, also attended the camp and was more than a helping hand during clinics,” he said.

“He shared his humbled beginnings and how his journey has taken him to the Sydneybased Eels.”

Mr Abednego said both camps were a massive exercise.

“Months of planning went into the two events and I would like to congratulate and say ‘Big Eso’ to the many camp volunteers and supervisors who travelled, the Bauau Stingers, Goemu Bau Raiders, Magun Warriors, and also to the community of Mabuiag and Iama for being exceptional hosts of the camps,” he said.

“Meetings were also held at the camps to plan and map out an outer island junior competition and other events, with meeting attendees highlighting the need for an outer islands regional forum.

“Planning for next year’s camps is already underway with the venue for the Eastern/Central camp already identified – the kids will be travelling to the home of the Surumau Gladiators and Wakeyama on Warraber Island.”

He thanked Larissa Bani, Jenni-Sue Hoepper, Saintie Joe, Tigi Bani, Maggie Kelly, Hayden Mosby, Anthony David, Slattery Baragud, Sam Joe, Niki Mackie and all the TSIRC Healthy Lifestyle Officers for their tireless efforts in making the camps a success.

On behalf of the Magun Warriors and

Enterprises Queensland, Gur A Baradharaw Kod Torres Strait Sea and Land Council, Remote Shopping Services, SeeHops Trading, TCHHS and KCD Program.

“Our camp’s success is a reflection of our valuable sponsors,” he said.

Yam Island community Mr Mosby also thanked sponsors: Torres Strait Island Regional Council, Skytrans, Yama Projects, Strait Support, Seaswift, Matt Birney Builders, Erumia Seafood – Yam Island, Everything Unique Clothing, Kenfrost Homes, Island Rooster, Community

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16

THURSDAY 21 APRIL 2022

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

EDITORIAL  E: editor@torres.news

Colourful finish to junior rugby league camps More than 100 budding

Iama and Mabuiag over the

junior competition and two

compete on Waiben in July.

5-12-year-old rugby league

school holidays, resulting

teams – an under-10s and

QRL League and Club

stars attended camps on

in plans for an outer island

an under-12s picked to

Co-ordinator Terry

Abednego said the camps were a great success.

More on PAGE 15 

Men’s rugby league set for early May kick off

BY ALF WILSON FIVE teams will compete in the much anticipated Zenadth Kes Rugby League men’s competition, which will start on Waiben on 7 May. Reigning premiers Roosters, Mulga Tigers from Badu, Pioneer Knights, Suburbs and an NPA team will battle it out at the Ken Brown Oval.

New team Alau Eagles will field a powerful outfit with many of the best footballers from the NPA lining up.

Alau Eagles have proven their class over many years at the Dan Ropeyarn Memorial NPA carnival at Bamaga.

And can the Roosters, guided by stalwart Terrence Yusia Senior, do a 3-peat and win their third successive premiership?

Or will the consistent Mulga Tigers, under the watchful eye of Michael Zitha, go one better in 2022 after losing the last decider.

No doubt Suburbs, coached by the astute Theo Mosby, Pioneer Knights, which will be mentored by Olsen Sailor, and the new team to join the comp along with NPA powerhouse Alau Eagles, will all have something to say about that as they all bid for the 2022 title.

Roll on 7 May.

2021 premiership winners: The Roosters after their grand final win on Waiben last year.

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