Torres News Edition_30_5 May 2022

Torres News Thursday, 5 May 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 30  $2 incl. GST

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Serious start to Battle for the Islands

Pics by Rosalie Jensen with thanks to TSYRSA. A well-supported and enthusiastic march against domestic violence kicked off last weekend’s massive 2022 ‘Battle of the Islands’ touch football club championships last Thursday.

Organised by the Torres Strait Youth & Recreational

Sporting Association, the four-day event was also alcohol, drug and smoke free.

Congratulations to winners Vikings for the men’s competition and Storms for the women!

“We want everybody to play safe, have fun and go home, we don’t encourage fights or anything like that,” Vice President William McKeown said.

Also congratulations to the men’s runners up Balas and women’s runners up the Jokers.

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

See our full coverage + pics on PAGES 16, 17 & 20 

02 NEWS

Torres News Notice to Advertisers – Monthly invoicing The Torres News is currently updating its accounting system, hence there will be a delay in our February, March and April, 2022, invoices being processed.

We apologise for this inconvenience, and ask for your patience until the new system is set up.

Thank you, TORRES NEWS

COVID rules change Last Friday there were 4477 new COVID cases recorded in the state.

Of the new cases 132 were Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people, and there were a total of 2381 active COVID-19 cases in Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people.

In Queensland during the pandemic, 13 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have died of COVID-19.

Last Thursday, quarantine requirements for asymptomatic close contacts of confirmed COVID-19 cases changed.

Under the changes, close contacts need to: • wear masks indoors (and outdoors when they cannot socially distance) for seven days • inform their employer or education institution that they are a close contact

THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022 TORRES NEWS

before returning (or work/study from home if they can) • have a negative COVID-19 test result every second day since becoming a close contact, which means tests are required on the day of becoming a close contact as well as on days 2, 4 and 6.

The above will also apply to workers in healthcare settings.

Some restrictions will still apply to visitors in vulnerable settings, meaning that close contacts will not be able to visit for non-essential purposes for seven days.

Most importantly, the above applies to asymptomatic close contacts only.

Symptomatic staff who are close contacts must stay home (even if they test negative with a RAT test) until asymptomatic.

Source: QAIHC update – 29 April 2022

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5G upgrade for Cape communities Seisia, Lockhart River and Cooktown residents will soon be connected to 5G voice, mobile and data services thanks to a major upgrade to telecommunications infrastructure in their respective communities.

The multi-million dollar upgrades in the three Cape York Communities will be delivered through the Government’s Regional Connectivity Program.

Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch said he had been working extremely closely with Telstra to deliver these critical telecommunication upgrades.

He said local families, businesses and visitors would be better connected and would now have access to world-class telecommunication services.

Last week Lockhart River was once again disconnected when one of the 3G repeaters between them and Coen went down.

Mayor Wayne Butcher said his community was “fed up, angry and frightened” after the second week this year of no mobile phones, no data and no communication.

“We can’t run our day-to-day business, we can’t run the shire, we can’t call for an ambulance,” he said at the time.

“This has been going on every year for the past ten years I’ve been the Mayor, we’ve seen promise after promise to fix the problem but no commitment to getting the job done.”

In terms of the new funding, he told the Torres News on Monday, it was not about election cycles, it was about telecommunication in the bush.

“How many years has

Mr Entsch been our local member?” he said.

“This is an application that has been in the [funding] pipeline for some time.”

Mr Entsch said the investment was particularly welcome those communities affected by outages.

“We all know and have heard about the telecommunications dramas in Lockhart River and this upgrade should make them a thing of the past,” he said.

“The $1,095,300 Seisia project will deliver a new Telstra macro cell base station and will provide new coverage in Seisia, New Mapoon and the surrounding area.

“The project will enable improved voice mobile coverage, wireless broadband and Internet of Things (IoT) network capability for local residents and support an increase in economic activity, particularly for local businesses.”

Federal Regional Communications Minister Bridget McKenzie, said the Cooktown, Lockhart River and Seisia projects formed part of the Australian Government’s continuing roll-out of the $257 million Regional Connectivity Program.

“I am pleased that residents and businesses in Cooktown, Lockhart River and Seisia will soon be able to enjoy the benefits and opportunities that this project will bring in terms of digital connectivity,” Ms McKenzie said.

“As the last two years have shown, digital connectivity is an essential part of how we work, learn, stay healthy and remain in contact with loved ones and also to manage, adapt to and recover from an increasing range of natural disasters.”

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ONGOING ISSUES: Lockhart River Mayor Wayne Butcher at the ILF meeting in Cairns.

See page 8 for more ILF pics 

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022

Kudos from top brass for 51 FNQR’s top work FIND AUTHENTIC ARTS AND ACCESSORIES ONLINE / IN-STORE

Chief of Army Lieutenant General Rick Burr, AO, DSC, MVO gives an address next to the Regional Support Craft Kuursi. Pics by SGT Tristan Kennedy.

Chief of Army Lieutenant General Rick Burr AO DSC MVO was in the Torres Strait last week for the naming ceremony for Far North Queensland Regiment’s (51FNQR’s) newest amphibious watercraft.

The $1.9 million, 12.5 meter Regional Support Craft (RSC) was formally named Kuursi, which means hammerhead shark in Kala Lagaw Ya. Lt General Burr said RSC Kuursi would support a spectrum of marine support operations to Regional Force Surveillance Units, including

search and rescue, recovery, casualty evacuation, stores and equipment transfer, community engagement and surveillance.

“Regional Support Craft RSC Kuursi is an exciting new maritime capability for Army and will boost our sovereign border protection activities in Far North Queensland,” he said.

“This new capability expands 51 FNQR’s littoral projection capability from the unit’s previous watercraft, with its improved range, speed and manoeuvrability.

“51 FNQR play a critical

operational role in conducting surveillance patrols in the sparsely populated and remote regions of Far North Queensland.”

They completed 645 days on Operation Resolute during 2020-2022.

Lt General Burr thanked them for their work and dedication.

“This visit to Thursday Island and the Torres Strait Islands is an opportunity for me to personally recognise 51 FNQR,” he said.

“Their efforts over an

extended period of high operational tempo, with deployments over the past two years to Operation Resolute, are just the examples of Army’s values that all units should embody.”

Representatives from Queensland Police Service, Australian Border Force and Australian Federal Police also attended a presentation ceremony last Wednesday at the Green Hill Fort, where Lt General Burr was presented with a framed Dhoeri and bow and arrow by senior members of the Sarpeye Soldiers.

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shop.gabtitui.gov.au STANDING ON CEREMONY: Chief of Army Lieutenant General Rick Burr, AO, DSC, MVO with Australian Army soldiers Private Jerry Dau and Private Lattrel Uta during a ceremony at the Green Hill Fort in Thursday Island.

Corner Victoria Parade and Blackall Street, Thursday Island QLD 4875

gratitude expressed: Australian Army soldier Sergeant Aaron Sebasio presents Chief of Army Lieutenant General Rick Burr, AO, DSC, MVO with a traditional framed Dhoeri during a visit to Waiben.

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04 NEWS

THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022 TORRES NEWS

Labour Day shirt marks Mabo’s achievements

SPORTING THE SHIRT: Union official Les Moffitt with Mabo recognition t-shirt.

A large number of marchers for the Rail, Tram & Bus Union (RTBU) attending huge Labour Day celebrations across Queensland wore shirts recognising the achievements of Eddie Koiki Mabo in this, the 30th year since the High Court’s Native Title decision.

More than 3000 lined the Townsville Strand on Monday to check out participants from 12 trade unions standing loud and proud for their beliefs.

Similar marches were held

standing loud and proud: From left were Murray Lui, Jamahl Lui (both Poruma) and Harry Solomon (St Paul’s).

in Cairns, Brisbane, Mackay, Rockhampton, Ipswich, and the Gold and Sunshine Coasts.

The Townsville march was followed by a family fun day at Strand Park.

Unions have supported Indigenous people for many years in their battles for stolen wages.

RTBU Branch Secretary Peter Allan said Eddie Mabo was a union member and an activist who saw injustice, stood up for what was right and won against the odds.

story and pics

BY ALF WILSON Townsville organiser Les Moffitt said Eddie Mabo was a member of the RTBU and his achievements were well-recognised, with many in attendance wearing shirts made to mark the occasion.

“We have dedicated this year’s Labour Day shirt to Mabo,” he said.

He said Eddie Koiki Mabo achieved a monumental decision that began the process of

marching for their cause: Top: United Workers Union members; and Below: RTBU marchers in the shirts recognising Eddie Mabo.

recognition of First Nations Australians.

“We all get up and stand together, share a voice, showing that we can have a better, sustainable future for ourselves and our family,” he said.

RTBU member and artist Laurie Anno said the shirt depicted their meeting place.

“The front of the shirt is our meeting place where we come together as one,” he said.

“It follows our journey to our resting place and listening to our

elders/leaders. The left arm is a celebration of both cultures and coming together as one.”

Torres News also spoke to Harry Solomon, and 17-year-olds Murray Lui and Jamahl Lui, who marched and stayed on for the Fun day.

“This is great to be part of and we are supporting a relative as well,” Harry said.

JT Mann was with the CFMEU and said unions were vital to workers.

2022 Torres Shire Council Mayoral by-election Election information A by-election is being held on Saturday 28 May 2022 to elect a new Mayor for Torres Shire Council.

Candidate nominations

To be a candidate you must officially nominate by midday on Monday 9 May 2022.

By law, the nomination process involves several steps so potential candidates should start them as soon as possible.

To find out more scan the QR code or visit www.ecq.qld.gov.au.

Ways to vote

Scan to find out more about nominating as a candidate.

Vote in person

Early voting will be from Wednesday 25 May to Friday 27 May 2022.

Election day is Saturday 28 May 2022.

Postal vote You have until 7pm Monday 16 May to apply for a postal vote.

Apply online at www.ecq.qld.gov.au or phone 1300 881 665.

Remember, voting is compulsory

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022

Court in session for change

The first week of evidence has been heard in the Queensland Land Court’s historic Waratah Coal Pty Ltd v Youth Verdict Ltd & Ors (No 5) [2022] QLC 4.

Over the next four weeks the Court will sit in Brisbane, Cairns and the Torres Strait to hear evidence that the Mining Lease and Environmental approval for the proposed Galilee Coal Project mine should be refused on the grounds of human rights violations.

Youth Verdict First Nations lead campaigner Murrawah Johnson said it would be argued coal from the mine would impact the human rights of First Nations Peoples by contributing to dangerous climate change.

She said their coobjectors, the Bimblebox Alliance, who were the landholders for the nature reserve on the proposed mine site, would give evidence about the local impacts of the mine.

“Our portion of the court case is focussed on climate change,” she said.

“Our co-objectors are focussing on the local impacts.”

She said in the opening arguments, heard in Brisbane, the focus was on the human rights and climate change aspects of the legal challenge.

“This is the first time a coal mine is going to be challenged on the ground of human rights violations caused by climate change,” she said.

“Part of the opening arguments were the climate arguments, and how a particular new coal mine, or any new coal mine, is going to further contribute to climate change to a point where it’s going to have human rights impacts.”

She said if they won it

would be a world first.

“If we win it will be the first time, as far as we have found, in the world where the violation of First Nations cultural rights, not just human rights, is a determining factor in whether a new coal mine that’s proposed gets approval or a mining lease,” she said.

“What this means is, if we win, then all of the other coal mines, in the Galilee Basin and elsewhere in Queensland, will have to go through the human rights checks.

“It will be a factual precedent.

“It means First Nation’s cultural rights and climate change have to be considered when weighing up whether to give mining approval or an environmental authority to a new coal mine.

“So those opening arguments were heard in the court last week, and those arguments will continue on over the next two weeks before the Land Court travels up to Galilee and then onto Erub and Poruma to take evidence on country.”

Evidence will be taken by the Court from Jiritju Fourmile, Athe Kapua Gutchen, Aka Florence Gutchen, Lala Gutchen on site in Cairns (Gimuy) and in the Torres Strait (Erub and Poruma) respectively.

When the orders were given for evidence to be heard on Country, the four witnesses told the Court that to comply with cultural protocols: (a) evidence should be given orally at the place which is being discussed given the level of cultural sensitivity and importance of the topic; (b) it was best discussed in the company of other members of the community who were knowledge or Lore keepers for particular topics due to the way

FIRST WEEK OF EVIDENCE: (L–R) SBS journalist Stefan Armbruster interviewing Serena Thompson (First Nations team member); Murrawah Johnson (YV Co-Director, First Nations team lead) and Monique Jeffs (YV Codirector).

that knowledge is held collectively; (c) it was best given in the presence of Elders; and, (d) a proper explanation of particular topics cannot be done without showing or demonstrating a particular place or impact or landscape on Country and this explanation can’t be done any other way.

The Court agreed if evidence was heard on site witnesses would be able to explain that

evidence in the presence of those they are speaking for and Elders, who can ensure the Court receives an accurate account.

Murrawah said the witnesses represented a spread of generations already affected by climate change.

“We have so much belief in the strength of our evidence, because we are able to tell the story of climate change inter generationally,” she said.

More next issue 

NEWS 05

outside the brisbane court: (L–R) Murrawah Johnson (YV CoDirector, First Nations team lead), Serena Thompson (First Nations team member) and Sean Ryan (EDO Managing Lawyer).

06 NEWS

THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022 TORRES NEWS

Domestic and Family Violence – not now, not ever This month is Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Prevention Month and should be a reminder to us all that ending this form of violence is everyone’s responsibility.

Acting Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Meaghan Scanlon said this year’s theme for DFV Prevention Month was All of us, together.

“Each and every one of us has a role to play in ending domestic and family violence,” Minister Scanlon said.

“This year’s theme is about all of us, working together to make sure our workplaces, our schools and our communities are safe and respectful.

“Because we know

changing attitudes around violence and instilling respect for women is crucial in ending domestic and family violence.”

Minister Scanlon said this year’s DFV Prevention Month would once again aim to promote partnerships and collaborations across the community to prevent and respond to DFV. To raise awareness,

several events will be taking place across the state, including candlelight vigils and marches in many communities.

If you, or someone you know, is experiencing domestic and family violence – support is available.

You can contact

DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811 (24 hours, 7

days) or DVConnect Mensline on 1800 600 636 (9am-midnight, 7 days) .

If there is an immediate danger and you fear for your, or someone else’s, safety, call Triple Zero (000) and ask for police.

For more information and support options, visit www.qld.gov.au/ domesticviolence

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Waiben’s own big (super) day out Waiben residents will have an opportunity to learn about how their superannuation works, and how to maximise it, at a free community event next Wednesday.

Australian Retirement Trust – a $230 billion dollar superannuation fund formed by the recent merger of QSuper and Sunsuper – will host the day which is supported by a range of organisations including the Indigenous Consumer Assistance Network (ICAN) and Good Shepherd Microfinance.

Justices of the Peace will also be on hand to offer their services, free of charge.

Australian Retirement Trust Chief Strategy Officer Teifi Whatley said everyone was welcome, regardless of which fund they were a member of.

“We have a number of members based on Thursday Island and in the Torres Strait,” she said.

“The session aims to provide a one-stop-shop for accessing services not always readily available on the island, while also

providing a free education service to the entire community.

“So regardless of which superannuation fund they’re a member of, everyone is welcome.

“There will be giveaways on the day, snacks available and a crafts corner to keep kids entertained.”

She said they just needed to bring along a superannuation statement or member number and a form of identification (if available).

“From there our team can help them work out how much super they have and what actions they could take to improve their retirement outcome,” she said.

Australian Retirement Trust has been an active participant and sponsor of the Big Super Day Out (hosted by First Nations Foundation) that supports First Nations Australians with superannuation queries.

The event will be held at Thursday Island Neighbourhood and Community Centre, 156 Douglas St from 9am to 3pm on Wednesday 11 May.

07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022

Mobile voting teams for the federal election A voting team from the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) will be visiting soon so people living in the following communities can vote in the federal election.

Division of Kennedy BURKETOWN

Burketown Town Hall Nijinda Durlga Hall, Sloman St

Monday 16 May

8am–12pm

CAMOOWEAL

Camooweal Community Hall, 32 Barkly St

Saturday 21 May

9am–1pm

DAJARRA

Dajarra Community Hall, Matherson St

Wednesday 11 May

10am–2pm

GREGORY

Gregory Community Hall

Monday 16 May

3pm–5pm

MCKINLAY

Cannington Mine Recreation Hall Cannington Mine

Tuesday 17 May Wednesday 18 May

4.30pm–6.30pm 5am–7am

MOUNT ISA

Arthur Petersen Centre, 39 Camooweal St

Thursday 12 May

7.30am–9am

MOUNT ISA

Phosphate Hill Recreation Hall Phosphate Hill Mine

Tuesday 10 May Wednesday 11 May

5pm–7pm 5am–7.30am

PIONEER

Ngukuthati, Short St

Thursday 12 May

12pm–3pm

URANDANGI

Urandangi Community Hall, Hutton St

Monday 9 May

12.30pm–1.30pm

AURUKUN

Wo’uw Ko’alam Community Centre, 524 Tal Tal St

Wednesday 18 May Thursday 19 May

10am–5pm 9am–4pm

BADU ISLAND

Badu Community Hall, Nona St

Saturday 14 May

9.30am–3.30pm

BOIGU ISLAND

Boigu Community Hall, 37 Chambers St

Monday 16 May

10am–12.30pm

DAUAN ISLAND

Dauan Community Hall, Main Rd

Tuesday 17 May

9.30am–11am

ERUB ISLAND

Erub Council Library, Medigee Village

Tuesday 17 May

9.30am–1.30pm

HAMMOND ISLAND

Hammond Island Community Hall, Francis Rd

Wednesday 18 May

1pm–3.30pm

IAMA ISLAND

Iama Community Hall, Mosby St

Thursday 19 May

10am–1.30pm

INJINOO

Injinoo Community Hall, 57 McDonnell Street

Monday 16 May

2pm–5.30pm

LAURA

Laura Hall, 4 Terminus St

Wednesday 18 May

9.30am–12pm

MABUIAG ISLAND

Mabuiag Community Hall, Map St

Thursday 19 May

10am–12.30pm

MAPOON

Mapoon Council Chambers, Red Beach Rd

Monday 16 May

10am–2pm

MASIG ISLAND

Masig Community Hall, Dans Rd

Monday 16 May

10.30am–1pm

MER ISLAND

Mer Community Hall, Marou Rd

Saturday 14 May

10am–2.30pm

MOA ISLAND

Kubin Community Hall, 70 Ikilgau Yabu

Tuesday 17 May

1pm–3.30pm

MOA ISLAND

St Pauls Community Hall, 207 Saveka St

Wednesday 18 May

10am–1pm

MOSSMAN GORGE

Bamanga Bubu Ngadimunku Inc., Lot 152 Gorge Rd

Tuesday 17 May

10am–12pm

NAPRANUM

Susie Madua Conference Centre, 320 Wa-Tyne St

Tuesday 17 May

9am–5pm

NEW MAPOON

New Mapoon Council Office, Brown St

Tuesday 17 May

3pm–6pm

PORUMA ISLAND

Poruma Community Hall, Olandi St

Wednesday 18 May

12.45pm–3pm

SAIBAI ISLAND

Saibai Community Hall, Main Rd

Saturday 14 May

10am–2pm

SEISIA

Seisia Indigenous Knowledge Centre, Tumema St

Tuesday 17 May

10am–1pm

UGAR ISLAND

Ugar Community Hall, 57 Randall St

Wednesday 18 May

9.30am–11am

UMAGICO

Umagico Community Hall, 14 Peter St

Monday 16 May

9.30am–12.30pm

WARRABER ISLAND

Warraber Community Hall, 24 Ganaia St

Thursday 19 May

10.30am–1pm

Division of Leichhardt

The schedule listed above can change. To confirm details please visit aec.gov.au, contact your local community office, local council or call 13 23 26.

All Australian people aged 18 years and older must vote.

COVID-19 safety measures A range of COVID-19 safety measures will be in place as you cast your vote. At all times you should follow local rules and public health directions, as well as instructions from AEC staff.

To protect the health and safety of the community, you should not attend a remote mobile polling location if you’re showing any COVID-19 type symptoms. Go to aec.gov.au for the latest updates and advice, including what happens if you are not able to vote.

aec.gov.au |

13 23 26 AEC22_RMNSD_NT

Federal election, Saturday 21 May 2022

Authorised by the Australian Electoral Officer for Queensland, 488 Queen St, Brisbane

08 NEWS

THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022 TORRES NEWS

Mayors look to secure housing action Leaders of Queensland’s 17 First Nations councils, including the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area, voted to lead a delegation to Canberra to get action on housing after the major parties snubbed last week’s Indigenous Leaders Forum (ILF) in Cairns.

Mayors, councillors and CEOs from Queensland’s 17 First Nations councils met to discuss issues of critical importance to their communities.

The meeting, hosted by the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ), was opened in prayer by Acting Torres Shire Mayor Gabriel Bani.

ILF co-chair Wayne Butcher said the reluctance of the Federal Government and the Federal Opposition to send a minister or shadow minister to the ILF at the height of the Federal Election campaign spoke volumes about their priorities when it came to improving the lives of Indigenous Queenslanders.

“They have committed to spending $100 million to address overcrowding in the Northern Territory and yet they won’t even give us the courtesy of accepting our invitation to hear first hand how Queensland’s First Nations communities need help too,” Mayor Butcher said.

“If they won’t come to us, then we will go to them because unless this issue is addressed our communities will continue to fall behind.”

Mayor Butcher said he and his fellow First Nations leaders would continue to pressure all political parties because the overcrowding crisis simply could not be allowed to continue.

LGAQ CEO Alison Smith backed the ILF and said they were calling for $100 million a year over the next five years.

“This ask is backed by the findings of the Federal Government’s own review into the now concluded National Partnership Agreement on Remote Indigenous Housing, which found that while the program had made significant advances in addressing overcrowding the job was far from over,” she said.

“I urge the major parties to show they care about the future of Queensland’s First Nations communities and commit to providing this funding.”

The meeting also supported a call for changes to the state’s health care system in the wake of a Four Corners program, which uncovered negligent practices that may have caused deaths in Doomadgee.

mayors, councillors & ceos: at the LGAQ’s Indigenous Leaders’ Forum meeting in Cairns. Pic by Jon Guarna with thanks to LGAQ. PICS BY christine howeS

comparing notes: Mayors, Councillors and CEOs from Torres and Mornington Island Shire Councils, and Napranum, Mapoon, Cherbourg and Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Councils.

Leaders from the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council.

working hard: Northern Peninsular Area Regional Council Deputy Mayor Kitty Gebadi and Cr Mabelene Whap, Torres Shire CEO Dalassa Yorkston with NPARC Mayor Patricia Yusia.

Torres Shire Council leaders.

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09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022

Black teatfish trial opening Start date: 9 May 2022 Total Allowable Catch: 20 tonnes

Checklist for Fishers Black teatfish minimum size = 25cm

BEFORE 9 May 2022 CHECK

BEFORE 9 May 2022

• Your new and existing licence conditions • That you have a Beche-de-mer (BD) entry on your licence

RENEW

Your TIB fishing licence if it has expired or is due to expire soon

UPDATE

Your contact details with AFMA: • mobile phone number • email

PLAN

Ahead with your licenced fish receiver – know who you are going to land to daily

If required, an authorised agent to sign the fisher details NOMINATE section of the Catch Disposal Record (CDR). The same person cannot sign the fisher details section and the fish receiver section of the CDR.

DURING black teatfish season LAND CATCHES DAILY

CHECK

Checklist for Fish receivers

Land your black teatfish catch to a licenced fish receiver on the same day the catch is taken. This means daily.

Make sure you have mobile phone reception and internet connection to stay up to date with daily catch updates from AFMA via SMS and www.pzja.gov.au

CHECK

Your new and existing licence conditions

RENEW

Your fish receiver licence if it has expired or is due to expire soon

UPDATE

Your contact details with AFMA: • mobile phone number • email • premises where you will be receiving product, including if camping on an uninhabited island

PLAN

Ahead and make sure you have: • enough pages left on a Catch Disposal Record (CDR) book • the ability to email, sms or fax an image/photo of your completed CDR to AFMA from your fish receiver premises • mobile phone reception and internet connection

If required, an authorised agent to sign the fish receiver details NOMINATE section of the CDR. The same person cannot sign the fisher details section and the fish receiver section of the CDR.

DURING black teatfish season REPORT DAILY

You must send an image/photo of your completed CDR electronically to AFMA on the same day you receive the catch. This means daily to: SMS: 0437 825 291 Email: blackteatfish@afma.gov.au Fax: (07) 4069 1277

CHECK

Your mobile phone, email and www.pzja.gov.au for AFMA messages on: 1. Daily catch update 2. When to stop receiving (the day after the TAC Date#)

Your mobile phone, email and www.pzja.gov.au for AFMA messages on: 1. Daily catch update 2. When to stop fishing (the day after the TAC Date#)

Fishers MUST



Hold a current TIB fishing licence with a Beche-de-mer (BD) entry.



Make sure that all crew are traditional inhabitants*.



Land black teatfish catches to a licenced fish receiver on the same day the catch is taken. This means daily.

Fishers MUST NOT



Fish for or stockpile black teatfish before 9 May 2022.



Use hookah gear.



Take black teatfish that are smaller than 25 centimeters (see ruler for lengh).



Fish from a boat greater than 7m in length.



Fish for black teatfish after the TAC Date.

Fish receivers MUST

  

Hold a current fish receiver licence.



Only receive catch at premises nominated on your fish receiver licence.



Send an image/photo of your completed CDRs electronically to AFMA on the same day you receive the catch. This means daily.

Ensure the receiver premises on the licence are up-to-date.

Only receive catches from licenced fishers.

Fish receivers MUST NOT

 

Receive black teatfish before 9 May 2022.

Receive black teatfish after the TAC Date.

* FAQs for Traditional Inhabitant identification verification can be found on www.pzja.gov.au #

The TAC Date is the day that the PZJA or its delegate determines based on its reasonable belief that the TAC will be reached. You cannot fish for or receive black teatfish the day after the TAC Date.

AFTER TAC DATE DO NOT FISH FOR OR RECEIVE BLACK TEATFISH For more information, contact AFMA

Thursday Island Office Phone: (07) 4069 1990 Fax: (07) 4069 1277 Email: tistaff@afma.gov.au

AFMA Licensing Phone: 1300 723 621 Phone: (02) 6225 5555 Email: licensing@afma.gov.au

Report illegal fishing to CRIMFISH on 1800 274 634 Securing Australia’s fishing future

pzja.gov.au

10 NEWS

THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022 TORRES NEWS

Solar illumination for Torres Strait community a boost for education, sport and culture

When the sun goes down on Waiben there can be limited options for study and extracurricular activities for Tagai high school students.

Reliance on polluting, unreliable and expensive fuels, like diesel, for power generation means after dark there are very few spaces where young people in the community can safely come together for arts, sporting and cultural events.

Yet those activities are proven to have a powerful and positive impact on individual and community wellbeing.

Last week Australian charity SolarBuddy partnered with philanthropic founding partner the Origin Energy Foundation and Australian solar lighting specialist Leadsun, to install SMART solarpowered LED lights at the Tagai’s multi-purpose centre as part of their Illuminating Communities Initiative.

Tagai State Secondary College Principal Suberia Bowie said the new lighting was all about opportunities for their students.

“This new solar flood lighting for our multi-purpose centre means everything for our kids,” she said.

“It means creating the opportunity for them to participate in after-school and cultural activities, activities outside of school and on the weekend, performing arts and other events.

“It really means a lot.”

SolarBuddy’s Illuminating Communities initiative was designed to do just that – create opportunities for young people while supporting the community

SHINING BRIGHT: Tagai class with the SolarBuddy lights they built themselves. Pics supplied.

INSET PIC: Performance at the illumination celebrations at the school’s multi-purpose centre. with solar powered installations in areas impacted by energy poverty.

It was a reason to celebrate and so they were joined by power forward TJ Morseu-Diop from the Gold Coast Basketball QBL Rollers Men’s side.

“Having played in tournaments and helping run basketball clinics with community and family in both mainland communities and the Torres Strait, I know the impact that sport has on kids in their formative years,” he said.

“From a social, educational and health perspective the benefits of sport and community

are far reaching and can’t be underestimated.

“The ability for these kids and their families to have access to sporting facilities after dark – and with no financial or environmental cost to the community – will not only serve them well but it will also but a tremendous positive for the whole community.”

The program was aligned with SolarBuddy’s goal to gift six million solar lights to children living in energy poverty by 2030, to help them to study after dark and improve their education outcomes.

The Origin Energy Foundation

celebrating: Gold Coast Basketball QBL Rollers Men Power Forward TJ MorseuDiop with students from Tagai State College.

has been working in partnership with SolarBuddy since 2018, running sessions at schools around Australia.

They have already donated more than 8000 solar lights.

It was about empowering and inspiring SolarBuddy General Manager Billie Murphy said.

“Our vision at SolarBuddy is to illuminate the futures of all children and a key way we can achieve this is through education,” she said.

“Today we are focused on the illumination of the sporting ground at Tagai State Secondary College.

“Yesterday we had hundreds of students building SolarBuddy lights for themselves and other children living in energy poverty.

“Tomorrow we will educate hundreds more about the impact of STEM and the power of Indigenous Knowledge and Science in finding solutions to global issues.”

The students at Tagai State Secondary College also participated in SolarBuddy’s Make 2, Keep 1, Gift 1 program last year, to gift one of what they made to another student living in energy poverty in PNG. “We want to run our Make 2, Keep 1, Gift 1 program at every school in the Torres Strait and install solar flood lighting where it makes sense, and in consultation with the community,” Ms Murphy said.

“There are challenges, particularly given the remoteness of some communities, but with the support of our founding partner, the Origin Energy Foundation, the program is now successfully up and running.

Origin Energy Foundation’s Ruth Lee said through the partnership with SolarBuddy, they had been able to give many students in regional and remote Australia the opportunity to learn about STEM, renewable energy and global citizenship through a hands-on, engaging session.

Schools interested in running a SolarBuddy session for their students should contact the Origin Energy Foundation info@ originfoundation.com.au or SolarBuddy enquiries@solarbuddy. org

lit: Tagai State College students build their own SolarBuddy solar lights.

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).

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

COVID-19 vaccine

You are able to receive your flu vaccination at the same time as your COVID-19 vaccination so speak to sta� at your local health facility to book.

Full vax schedule at health.

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

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

 qld.gov.au/torres-cape

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service @torresandcapehhs

Find out more

NEWS 11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022

Heartfelt referendum ad launch today There is no more important issue going into this election than getting a commitment from the next federal government to go to a referendum on a Voice to Parliament protected by the Constitution Kenny Bedford says.

Mr Bedford was the Co-Convenor for the Waiben Referendum Council Dialogue and is the Indigenous Engagement Lead on the From the Heart Advisory Committee.

Today From the Heart – the campaign for the constitutional recognition of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people through a Voice to Parliament – will launch an ad calling on the major political parties to deliver on their commitments to Indigenous constitutional recognition by holding a referendum in 2023.

The ad is a simple call to finally give the Australian people a say on amending the Constitution to recognise Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people as the First Peoples of our nation.

It also says, simply,

AT THE WAIBEN REFERENDUM COUNCIL DIALOGUE: Referendum Council member and lawyer Michael Rose AM, TSC CEO Dalassa Yorkston, Uluru Dialogue Co-Chair Pat Anderson, From the Heart Indigenous Engagement Lead Kenny Bedford, Uluru Dialogue Co-Chair Megan Davis and Dr Josephine Bourne. that the recognition is only made meaningful through a Voice to Parliament that is included in the Constitution.

Australians can expect to see it on their screens in the coming weeks, running across TV and digital channels for the remainder of the Federal Election campaign It presses the case for

Australian political leaders deliver upon their promises to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to hold a referendum in the first term of the next Parliament.

Mr Bedford said Torres Strait Islanders were lucky to still have the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA), which only existed by legislation.

“We are blessed in our region to have had the TSRA survive the abolishment of ATSIC and still be in place 30 years on,” he said.

“This has not been the case on the Mainland where legislated representative bodies have been demolished at the whim of Government.

“The TSRA is not even

a guaranteed Voice.

“A protected Voice in the Constitution would guarantee a representative path to Parliament that will inform the policies and decisions that affect our Peoples, including Torres Strait Islanders on the Mainland.

“This cannot happen without putting a Referendum to the Australian people.”

He said he and the campaign, which was born from the Uluru Statement of the Heart, believed it was time.

“All of the associated reports, surveys, consultations and polling indicates that the Australian public is ready for Referendum on a Voice,” he said.

“It’s time.”

Warren ENTSCH MP Federal Member for Leichhardt

Leadership and Stabi l ity

200 Mulgrave Road, Westcourt QLD 4870 07 4051 2220

warren.entsch.mp@aph.gov.au

warrenentsch.com.au

WarrenEntschMP

Authorised by W. Entsch, Liberal National Party of Queensland, 200 Mulgrave Road, Westcourt QLD 4870.

The From the Heart ad script: There comes a time for everything and everyone.

For our constitution and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, that time is now.

Only 55 years after they were first counted in the census, but tens of thousands of years since they first worked on this land.

The time has come for the Australian people to decide if we do or do not wish to formally recognise Indigenous Australians as Australia’s first people.

And acknowledge that any recognition is only made meaningful with a voice.

We could ask the government to legislate it, but we would rather the Australian people vote for it.

Just think how much more powerful it would be if the recognition hoped for by Indigenous Australians was achieved with the support of all Australians.

The time for a referendum has come.

The ad can be viewed at: www. fromtheheart.com.au/2023

12 NEWS

THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022 TORRES NEWS

Taking the stage at Sydney Fashion Week STORY AND PICS BY christine howeS

TN0209

1wk: 5/5/22

TSIMA HOUSE AD.

MENTORS: Grace Lillian Lee & Elverina Johnson

Fashion label Taking Shape held a national launch for a range of clothing featuring prints designed by Yarrabah artist Elverina Johnson last week.

Founder of First Nations Fashion + Design Grace Lillian Lee said she was excited for Elverina, because her work was to be included in a showcase of Indigenous fashion as the closing show for Sydney Fashion Week.

“Taking Shape will be debuting the collection on the runway amongst seven other Indigenous designers from across the nation,” she said.

“Elverina’s like a mentor to me, she’s an incredible woman and she has been in this space of printing and creating textiles and

(AD 1) AdsIn  Dummy  Exce; 

fashion for a long time.”

Elverina said she wanted to pinch herself every time she shopped now.

“I walk in [to Myers] all the time, and now I walk in here and I see my name in Taking Shape,” she said.

“That’s huge, I get emotional thinking about it, it’s humbling, it’s a real blessing.

“And if I’m doing it for the team, well, I’m happy to do it for the team.

“And happy for everyone else to claim it, and celebrate it with me as well, and just having the support around me, of my family and friends, and fellow artists to help get the story out there.

“It’s work, but it’s work that I love.”

Grace said Elverina’s work with Taking Shape was a perfect

example of what First Nations Fashion + Design was trying to achieve.

“We are a very small, notfor-profit team, and we’re not government funded yet,” she said.

“We do get project funding, but this is something we’re very passionate about because we’re also creatives ourselves and we just feel that there needs to be more support and the industry.

“We really need to get behind creatives who are really interested in wanting to tell their story through fashion and this is a perfect example of Elverina working with Taking Shape.

“We are super excited to get shopping.”

For more information see

https://takingshape.com/AU/ elverina-johnson.html

at the myerS launch: Elverina Johnson, her mum Dorita Wilson, Josephine Creek & Lucy Rodgers at the launch.

from teatowels to tights: Elverina Johnson and her Taking Shape range of products.

THURSDAY ISLAND PROGRAM COMING IN NEXT WEEK’S EDITION

celebrating: Rachel De Stefani, Elverina Johnson, Mum Dorita Wilson, Josephine Creek, Lucy Rodgers & Grace Lillian Lee.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022

NEWS 13 Torres News

Wasie’s memoir on paper

By Jillian Bowie Wasie Ama Tardent, nee Kiwat, 79, is excited and emotional to finally see her autobiography Wasie: Erwer Le, Lam (Wasie: From a Teacher) on the shelves 28 years after she started writing it in 1994.

“It has been a long time since I started writing with the support of Lesley Hogan from Queensland Education in 1994,” Wasie said.

“Until she told me there was no more funding to continue.

“A very close friend of mine, Caroline Modee, started her book at the same time but she passed away and I don’t know if she finished her book or not – I thought about her when I finally held my book in my hands and felt sorry for her. I also wonder where Lesley Hogan is now, and hope she gets to see that I finally finished my book.”

Wasie continued writing with the support of a few editors along the way, including regional writing services Louise Moylan from Tasmania and Diat Alferink on Waiben. A TSRA Culture, Arts, and Heritage grant finally made publication possible.

“I want to thank everyone who helped me write and publish my book,” she said. “Without them, this would not be possible.

Published by Kaine Maikuk Arts

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Vet Visit Thursday Island

My Pet Hub Redlynch – Dr Max Fargher Monday 16 May – Thursday 19 May 2022

finally in HAND: Wasie herself, holding her memoir for the first time at her home on Waiben. Pic by Diat Alferink.

Management and printed by Bok Printing Tasmania, Wasie: Erwer Le, Lam is a must read, packed with a lifetime of stories to take you on the journey of this Island woman, through encounters with friends and lovers, her career, and her family

heritage – with more than a few laughs along the way.

The book launch of Wasie: Erwer Le, Lam will be held at Gab Titui on Thursday 2 June as part of this year’s Reconciliation Week program of events.

sErVICEs desexing Dogs C5 $126 Lepto Australis $46 Tetanus $46 Proheart SR12 $144 – $350 depending on weight of dog (heartworm prevention injection – protects your dog for 12 months from heartworm) Cats – F4 $126 Microchipping Consultation $75 with another procedure/vaccination $92 Heartworm treatment will require an overnight heartworm Treatment (for Heartworm Positive dogs – this MUST stay and will be 2 injections, one on the first day, and another on the second day. be booked at least 2 weeks prior to The procedure will be discussed with the vet appointment) prior.

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COMMUNITY NOTICE TRAWQ Community Meeting The TSRA Board Member for TRAWQ, Sereako Stephen, will be hosting a Community Meeting

WHERE

Ailan View

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

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gorgeous pic of Thulu Sarka. He says it’s a fresh water creek, just out of Wug Village.

“Everyone knows it by Bubu gel side where all the ladies and Aka’s used to go and do their washing and then carry back in a big bundle,” he said.

Send us your favourite pic soon!

TRAWQ Community Hall, Thursday Island

WHEN Saturday, 14 May 2022 10am – 2.30pm Lunch will be provided For further information: Please contact Mr Stephen by email sstephen.trawq@tsra.gov.au or phone 0427 104 370.

You can also contact the TSRA Governance and Leadership Programme on 4069 0700.

Have you got news? If you have an event or news you’d like to share... make sure you share!

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TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022

SPORT 15

Blackhawks win by 1 in Redcliffe

BY ALF WILSON

ALL SMILES: David ‘Thalia’ Tabuai scoring at the Gallipoli Cup in Sydney on ANZAC Day. Pic with thanks to the ADF.

Tabuai shines for Army in Gallipoli Cup

BY ALF WILSON Bombadier David ‘Thalia’ Tabuai shone for the Australian Army Thunder side who beat Turkey for the Gallipoli Cup at a curtainraiser to the NRL match between St George Dragons and Sydney Roosters on ANZAC Day. Stepping onto one of the most famous fields in Australian sport – the Sydney Cricket Ground – wearing the green and gold didn’t daunt the Saibai Islander, who said he was proud of his achievement, and proud of their 26-6 win.

Tabuai scored one try, had a hand in another and overall played a key role in this important annual clash, which is a premier fixture on the ADF Rugby League calendar.

It was the first time Tabuai started for ADF at fullback, and he has all but made the jersey his own.

“It’s unreal,” he said. “The whole occasion – there’s so much more to it than the footy.

“There’s such a rich history shared by the countries.

“It’s special, then to be able to share that with footy is a bonus.

“To get the win was even better.

“But I’m always grateful for the opportunity to play for the ADF.” His close relative Torres Strait Island Regional Council’s Division 3 Councillor Conwell Tabuai said Thalia was his cousin.

“And is one of many from here who have achieved in various sports,” Cr Tabuai told the Torres News.

“Like Thalia many youngsters from here have joined the Defence Forces.”

Tabuai, who counts Cowboys and Maroons sensation Hamiso TabuaiFidow among his nephews, moved to Cairns from his island home at a young age with his mum, who was the sole provider for the family.

“If things didn’t work out the way they did for me, there’s every chance I’d be in the paper for the wrong reasons,” Tabuai said.

As a teenager he managed a few

games for Cairns Brothers, but didn’t play a full season until he turned 18.

“We came to Cairns for school, so we could get an education, and employment opportunities were a bit easier for mum,” he said.

“That was the best plan of attack.

“It was difficult in the start but we found our feet over time.

“I had a few starts here and there, but we could never commit to a whole season, it was too much to fork out.

“Am I disappointed about that?

No. “I was 18 when I got to play a full season, and that’s when I had a bit of coin to allow myself to play.

“We had family at that club so I stuck with them.”

Tabuai joined the Australian Army in 2016, which has opened the door to many opportunities he wouldn’t have had if not for that upbringing and the love of his family.

Now based at Darwin, Tabuai is immensely proud of what he’s been able to accomplish in the Army as well as on the footy field.

He played for Nightcliff Dragons and earned selection for the NT Titans and Combined Affiliate States, and has represented Army Thunder and the ADF on numerous occasions.

ADF coach Shane Bullock said Tabuai was given the opportunity to start at the back with the team’s previous fullbacks not available, but the artilleryman could very well hold on to the jersey moving forward.

“I’ve been coach for the past two years and was assistant coach for a few years before then, so I’ve had a bit to with him,” Bullock said.

“He’s been involved, but we had him on the wing as we had some settled fullbacks.

“He’s been one of my standouts and the team player you want as part of an outstanding group of players”.

“We had the chance to give him an opportunity at fullback and I’ve told him that’s his position now.”

ADF will potentially feature in matches in the Pacific later in 2022.

The Townsville Blackhawks scored a nail-biting 29-28 win over the Dolphins at Redcliffe in Saturday’s round six of the Statewide men’s Hostplus Cup. Both teams scored five tries and booted four goals, however it was a Michael Bell field goal which separated the two teams.

Before a parochial crowd, the majority of whom were Dolphins’ supporters, the Blackhawks fought hard to come back from a 22-12 halftime deficit.

After the split round, the Blackhawks were sixth on the ladder of the 14 team competition.

Cairns-based Northern Pride, which has a game in hand was in ninth place.

The other NQ side, the Mackay Cutters, bounced back from a loss the previous week to register a 24-12 win against the previously undefeated Brisbane Tigers.

Next Saturday, to complete round six, the Pride will take on the Capras at Browne Park in Rockhampton, whilst the 12th placed PNG Hunters travel to Toowoomba to meet the Devils.

Blackhawks and seventh placed Mackay Cutters have a bye.

Women’s Statewide Comp North Queensland Gold Stars went down 16-8 to the CQ Capras at Mackay on Saturday in round five of the ladies Statewide BMD Premiership.

The Gold Stars led 8-4 at halftime but the classy Capras outfit proved too strong in the second half.

The Capras are yet to lose a game this season, while the Stars were on a three-game winning streak coming into the match.

After five rounds the Capras lead the ladder with the Gold Stars sitting third and Wynnum Manly fifth in the eight team competition.

Blackhawk: Jamal Shibasaki (left) with big brother Gehamat Shibasaki, who plays for the NRL club Newcastle Knights.

The day started with Wynnum Manly Seagulls, which also includes Torres Strait players, posting two quick-fire tries in the final five minutes of the match to steal a 20-16 win against Tweed Seagulls.

Next Saturday in Brisbane the Gold Stars meet the sixth placed Panthers.

Mal Meninga U20 Cup Grand Final Jamal Shibasaki scored two tries for the Under-20s Townsville Blackhawks, which went down 38-26 to the Magpies in Saturday’s Auswide Bank Mal Meninga Cup grand final on the Sunshine Coast last weekend.

Tekelu Mene also scored a try for the Blackhawks.

Cotter leads Cowboys to NT win

BY ALF WILSON Torres Strait Islander Reuben Cotter is rated a genuine chance to be picked for the Queensland State of Origin side after a quality performance for the Cowboys in their handsome 35-4 win over the Parramatta Eels on Saturday night.

Cotter was in the starting side playing the full 80 minutes and shone, running 125 metres and making an amazing 55 tackles.

More than 11,000 spectators watched the round seven NRL match, played in Darwin.

In another highlight, back Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow returned after injury, coming on in the second half to score a great try.

That victory against a top side propelled the Cowboys to third position on the NRL table after they finished 15th of 16 teams in season 2021.

Their charge up the table has been on the back of strong and much-improved defence.

So far in 2022 the Cowboys have conceded in average of just 13 points per game, to have the best defensive record in the NRL. That compares with letting in an average of 32 points per

game last season.

“I think Reuben Cotter is a chance to play for the Queensland Maroons in the coming State of Origin Series,” one of the commentators offered during the match.

There were lots of Cowboys fans at the Darwin clash and the Cowboys players endeared themselves by signing many autographs on the sideline after the win.

At halftime the Cowboys led 15-nil.

The Cowboys return to Townsville to host the Knights on Saturday night.

Townsville side wins Foley Shield

BY ALF WILSON A Townsville side cocoached by Roy Baira and former Cowboys champion Matt Bowen defeated Mackay 30-8 in Sunday’s grand final of the prestigious Foley Shield rugby league competition.

Townsville will now advance to the XXXX League Championship semi-final against Rockhampton, with both teams fighting it out for a place in the state final against the Gold Coast.

The Foley Shield started in 1948.

Torres/Cape fielded

FOLEY SHIELD winners: the Townsville side who beat Mackay. a side in 2009, 2010 and 2011 but withdrew due to the high costs of competing.

Women’s Shield Mackay was the 2022 women’s champion

team, even though the team played a 12-all draw with Townsville in Sunday’s grand final.

It came down to for and against points over the two days of competition.

It helped that Mackay had scored an impressive 36-8 victory over Cairns in a qualifying game on Saturday, compared to Townsville, who had beaten Cairns 20-10

16 2022 BATTLE OF THE ISLANDS

THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022 TORRES NEWS

Winners – Vikings.

CV Cutters.

Runners Up – Balas.

Chiefs.

Pics by Rosalie Jensen with thanks to TSYRSA.

Poenipan.

Pirates.

Storms.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022

2022 BATTLE OF THE ISLANDS 17

Winners – Storms.

Runners up – Jokers.

Aces.

One Speed.

Seisia Sharks.

Strait Sistas.

Pics by Rosalie Jensen with thanks to TSYRSA.

18 SPORT Running to the tip for mental health

cape york runners: Above Jamie Candler, and below Ash Currie. Pics supplied.

A MENTAL health crisis across Australia has inspired youth worker Jamie Candler and policeman Ash Currie to run 1000km in just 24 days from Port Douglas to Pajinka.

The pair expect to arrive in Bamaga on Sunday 10 July.

The idea to run the Cape first struck Candler while studying at Bond University.

Now the 32-year-old has linked to Movember to raise awareness and money for remote communities in North Queensland.

“I have always wanted to run the Cape,” he said.

“At work, mental health is a big topic for us.

“We focus a lot on our young people’s social and mental wellbeing, and we can see there is a mental health crisis in Australia that has been amplified

by COVID-times.

“It’s a great opportunity to bring a spotlight to a really important issue and obviously also embrace a big personal challenge.

“We will do a minimum of an Olympic-distance marathon each day and other days we’ll go a bit further and break the 50km mark.”

Candler works in AFL Cape York House.

He said his strong

connection with the community was a driving force behind the endurance run.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to work with young Indigenous people for a long time,” he said.

“We have some community engagement events organised during the run, because we are running through some beautiful communities up the Cape.

“We’ll be running workshops and focusing on the younger demographic and trying to engage with kids, and focusing on the positive message of good life choices.

“We are just two average blokes trying to do something that I suppose isn’t average.

“We are trying to create something that is a bit more sustainable than just one day in the community, linking heavily with PCYC and schools.

“We do have a footprint in some of the places we are visiting with our work in the community.”

Candler will run with childhood mate and local police officer Ash Currie, with two safety vehicles that will double as their camp cooks and attendants.

For more information:

https://porttopajinka. wixsite.com/ porttopajinka To donate: https:// movember.com/t/port2-pajinka

THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022 TORRES NEWS

AFL: Captain Tiarna Ahwang best Last Friday night, in the lead up to the AFL’s Port Adelaide vs St Kilda round at Cairns’ Cazaly Stadium the next night, a women’s Indigenous South-Pacific (ISP) All Stars side defeated the Cairns All Stars side 6.10.46 to 2.1.13.

Best On Ground winner for the ISP side was team captain Tiarna Ahwang, who said the weather conditions had proved to be tough.

“It was really wet out there,” she said after the game.

“We were a bit nervous and then we got out there and just put our pressure on and just played for our family.

“I was pretty nervous, as captain, trying to see what our girls have, and once we started training in real life I was like, ‘Yes. Nah, we got this’, and we just got out there and played well.

“I’m very, very honoured to be captain and very proud to represent my culture, and just super excited, and hoping the next few years it continues.”

She said Jasmine Ware was a standout for the team, coached by Marcus McGregorCassidy and including India Anu, Mesapa Frank, Jean Wosomo, Soyraya Cook and Iadakul Bowie.

another ahwang: Best on Ground for her team, Tiarna Ahwang with Coach Marcus.

In the Men’s competition, played as a warm up game to Saturday night’s main game, the Cairns All-Stars enjoyed a three goal win over the

Indigenous South Pacific side.

Best on ground for ISP was Alex Rogers and the team also fielded Torres Strait Islanders Damien Dewis, and Duncan

and Joel Seden.

Andrew Savage was shadow and assistant coach to the men’s and women’s ISP sides, respectively.

Keanu wins NBL most improved STORY AND PICS BY christine howeS The NBL’s has announced Keanu Pinder as the winner of the 2022 NBL Most Improved Player.

Keanu said he and the coaches had established the win as a goal for him at the start of the season.

“I’m really glad that I got to win that award because I worked so hard,” he said.

“And I set that as a goal the start of the year.

“I sat down with the coaches and we talked about what goals I would like to set for the year and that’s really satisfying to me.”

He said he always enjoyed playing with teammate Nathan Jawai.

“It’s always good to have Nate as my teammate because he talks to me and hypes me up and gets me going, motivates me, so I love playing with him,” he said.

Assistant Coach Kerry Williams, now coaching the Cairns Marlins, said Keanu’s win was great.

“He’s an unreal athlete and he’s worked extremely hard,” he said.

Kings win, JackJumpers joy Meanwhile the Tasmanian JackJumpers defeated Melbourne United in game three of their semi-finals on Monday night, making them the first expansion team to make it to the grand final

in their inaugural season since Geelong in 1982.

The JackJumpers will play the Sydney Kings, who beat the Illawarra Hawks in game two of their semi-finals last Sunday, in the best-of-five grand final series which tips off tomorrow.

The schedule for grand final series is: Game 1: Friday 6 May – Sydney Kings v Tasmania JackJumpers @ Qudos Bank Arena, 7:30pm AEST Game 2: Sunday 8 May – Tasmania JackJumpers v Sydney Kings @ MyState Bank Arena, 2:30pm AEST Game 3: Wednesday 11 May – Sydney Kings v Tasmania JackJumpers @ Qudos Bank Arena, 7:30pm AEST Game 4 (if required): Friday 13 May – Tasmania JackJumpers v Sydney Kings @ MyState Bank Arena, 7:30pm AEST Game 5 (if required): Wednesday 18 May – Sydney Kings v Tasmania JackJumpers @ Qudos Bank Arena, 7:30pm AEST.

TEAMMATES: Nate Jawai (left) and Keanu Pinder v Melbourne United, 10 April 2022.

SPORT 19

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022

Badhu basketball buzz

***need June copy for 26-05-22 issue

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA story JILLIAN BOWIE + PICS SUPPLIED BY JILLIAN BOWIE

THURSDAY

TN0015 • 10/3/22 Monday Depart T.I.

Depart H.I.

FERRY SCHEDULE

MAY 2022 Monday / Wednesday & Friday

Social basketball has taken Badhu community by storm since its first round of DEPART THURSDAY ISLAND: games last week.

6.30AM & 2.30PM Men, women, DEPART SEISA: children and youth were all drawn to the buzz that 8AM & 4PM has been absent since * RESERVATIONS ESSENTIAL 2018, when COVID -19 stopped the whistles and Boarding strictly 15 mins prior to departure balls in the halls.

Teams representing “Linking the Cape with the Torres Strait” agencies, businesses, families and friends, including a Moa United team from the neighbouring communities of Kubin and Senpol, were all part of the play.

It was dubbed as an PHONE 07 4069 1551 “awesome” community RESERVATIONS ESSENTIAL – TICKET ONLINE program, driven by www.peddellsferry.com.au volunteers David ‘Doidy’ Nona, wife Melanie, • Passengers please pre-ticket – online, agents, or by phone and a support team of Concession fares available, conditions apply like-minded ballers.

Social basketball OFFICE HOURS • Monday to Friday 9.30am – 12 noon and 12.30 – 2.30pm on Badhu looks like it will help to provide FREIGHT • Accepted only between ISLAND / HORN ISLAND FERRY TIMETABLE 1.45pm and 2pm on the day of transport some powerful family bonding, keep youth the LUGGAGE • Accepted only for 2.30pm streets and, most of all, TI-Seisia departure between 1 – 2pm.

Phone: 1300 664 875THE JETTY SHOP & OFFICE, ENGINEERS maintain the physical Fax: (07) and 4090 3628 and mental health JETTY, THURSDAY ISLAND wellbeing our people. email:ofinfo@tiferry.com.au

McDONALD CHARTER BOATS new size 10x7 & new �metable

WEBSITE: www.tiferry.com.au Tuesday Depart T.I.

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THURSDAY IS. – HORN IS.

FERRY TIMETABLE TELEPHONE: 1300 664 875 Mobile: 0428 180 361 Email: info@tiferry.com.au

www.tiferry.com.au Office Hours: 8.30am-4.30pm Monday to Friday (Closed Public Holidays)

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10.50 am 10.50 am 10.50 am 10.50 am 10.50 am 10.50 am 10.25 am # 10.25 am 10.25 am 10.25 am 10.25 am 10.50 am 10.25 am QF2488 QF2488 QF2488 QF2488 QF2488 QF2488

1.45 pm 1.45 pm 1.45 pm 1.45 pm 1.45 pm 2.10 pm 1.45 pm # 1.55 pm # 2.10 pm 2.10 pm 2.10 pm 2.10 pm # QF2497 QF2497 QF2497 QF2497 QF2497 3.10 pm 3.40 pm 3.40 pm 3.40 pm 3.10 pm 3.40 pm 3.40 pm 2.45 pm # 2.55 pm # 3.10 pm 3.10 pm 3.10 pm # QF2491 QF2496 QF2496 QF2496 QF2491 QF2496 QF2496 4.15 pm

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5.40 pm 5.40 pm All QF Connections departing from Horn Island 5.15 pm 5.40 pm 5.15 pm 5.40 pm 5.15 pm 5.40 pm 5.15 pm QF2490 QF2490 may be delayed up to 20 minutes pending actual Qantaslink aircraft arrival time.

6.00 pm # 6.20 pm # 6.00 pm # 6.20 pm # 6.00 pm # 6.20 pm # 6.00 pm # 6.20 pm # 6.00 pm # 6.20 pm # 5.15 pm

FAST , SAFE & FRIENDLY SERVICE.

TIMETABLE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE.

# These departures will only operate for passengers pre-booked by 4pm the day prior.

BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL !

Effective 7th March 2022

Sport Torres News

20

THURSDAY 5 MAY 2022

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

EDITORIAL  E: editor@torres.news

Pics by Rosalie Jensen with thanks to TSYRSA.

The Referees.

STORMING HOME: Storms star Hagiga Mosby keeping the ball out of the reach of her opponent.

Island battle doesn’t disappoint Last week’s massive 2022 ‘Battle of the Islands’ was an exciting four days of friendly but hard-fought games for crowds of up to 800 at the Ken Brown Oval on Waiben.

Seven men’s and six women’s teams came from as far as Weipa and beyond for the competition.

In the men’s semis, top placed Vikings took CV Cutters out of

the race for the grand final, while third placed Balas stepped up to take second placed Pirates out, in what organiser William McKeown described as the ‘game of the carnival’.

Storms went through the women’s round robin undefeated, beating One Speed in their semi final, while Jokers knocked out Strait Sistas. Their grand final

was, William said, a highly entertaining match.

Round Robin results: Men: 1 Vikings 2 Pirates 3 Balas 4 Storms 5 CV Cutters 6 Poenipan 7 Chiefs. Women: 1 Storms 2 Jokers 3 Strait Sistas 4 One Speed 5 Aces 6 Seisia Sharks.

More pics see Pages 16 & 17  Plus extra coverage next week!

Women’s Rookie of the Carnival - Iada Seden.

Men’s Rookie of the Carnival - Terence Mosby.

Women’s Player of the Carnival - Taesha Ahwang.

Men’s Player of the Carnival - Conor Wilson.

Fastest Woman Sonrae Lui.

Fastest Man - Joseph Pearson.

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