Torres News Edition_36_16 June 2022

Thursday, 16 June 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.

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Historic fight for climate justice story and pic

BY TALEI ELU Another group of Torres Strait Traditional Owners – led by Paul Kabai and Pabai Pabai, from Guda Maluyligal – are taking the Australian government to court for failing to prevent climate change.

“Our people have lived on these islands for more than 65,000 years,” they said.

“But if the government doesn’t change course, our homes could disappear beneath

the rising seas, making us Australia’s first climate change refugees. We have a responsibility to protect Country and our communities – and we hope that by bringing this case we will help all Australians affected by climate change.”

Over the past few weeks information sessions have been held on Boigu, Saibai, Badhu, Waiben, Bamaga and Cairns to share information about the case, known as the Australian Climate Case, and rally community support.

Full story Page 7 

A CHANGING SHOReLINe: Pabai Pabai, left, and Paul Kabai, surveying the effects of rising seas on Boigu Island.

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

TAKING ON THE GOVERNMENT: Pabai Pabai, left, and Paul Kabai, on Boigu Island.

02 NEWS

THURSDAY 16 JUNE 2022 TORRES NEWS

Volunteer vets offer free desexing More than 100 animals have been treated at a free desexing clinic held last week on Waiben, thanks to a collaboration between Vets Beyond Borders, Animal Welfare League Queensland and the Thursday Island Animal Support Group.

Vet staff volunteered their time, TSIAG President Sonia Einersen said.

“Seventy animals were desexed, including a pig,” she said.

“More than 30 dogs tested positive to heart worm, which is a preventable disease.

“Vet staff drove around Waiben and Nguarapai to collect animals to assist residents without vehicles.”

She said it wouldn’t have been possible without space donated

by Rebel Marine.

“Desexing is critical to preventing unwanted litters and, therefore, unwanted and unhealthy dogs and cats,” she said.

in safe hands: Aaron Bon and his dog Lilo with vet Ellen McBryde.

HAPPY FAMILY: Taylor (far right), dog Ellie, little sister Elian with Monash Ali and Jenni Manna.

Fly with a Queenslander

enjoying a waiben view: Vets Ellen McBryde, Monish Ali, Trish Keating, Michelle Hankins, Jenni Manna.

Through fares available from Cairns & Bamaga to the Torres Strait FLT

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Ferries to support NPA Festival goers The 2022 NPA Cultural Festival will Keep the Flame of Culture Burning on 24 and 25 June.

Peddells has joined the party by offering special ferry trips, twice daily, from Thursday Island and Seisia for discounted prices.

The special fares are only available at 6.30am on Waiben, and 4pm from Seisia, on 23, 24, 25 and 27 June (not Sunday 26).

Contact the Peddells Jetty shop for more info on 4069 1551.

COVID update On Friday 10 June, there were 2548 new cases of COVID-19 recorded in Queensland.

Of Friday’s new cases, 18 cases were Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and there were 1,253 active COVID-19 cases in Aboriginal and Torres

Strait Islander people in Queensland.

In Queensland during the pandemic, 42 Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people have died of COVID-19.

The Torres & Cape Health and Hospital Service says influenza cases continue to outpace COVID cases across the region.

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TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 16 JUNE 2022

NEWS 03

Decade-long battle ends with new commercial finfishing opportunities

Bamaga Enterprises Ltd June Update

New dishes at Bamaga Tavern and Regina’s Bistro They’re two of the mostloved eateries in town, and now Bamaga’s busy kitchens are set to introduce diners to some exci�ng winter offerings.

If you’re visi�ng Cape York, don’t miss the delicious food and warm and friendly staff at Bamaga Tavern and Regina’s Bistro on Adidi Street.

They’ll not only feed you the best local produce and seafood you can find in the Cape, but also share the best tourist spots in the Peninsula.

If you’re lucky, they’ll even let you in on the secret local spots.

Regina’s Bistro has added five delicious weekly specials to its regular mouth-watering menu that showcase the best ingredients of the region.

Don’t feel like cooking this week?

Pop in to try a delectable coconut seafood curry with rice, the new so�shell crab dish, Coca Cola chicken wings or s�cky pork.

And wash all this yummy food down with a cold one at Bamaga Tavern’s bar, now open earlier from 10am Monday to Saturday.

Bamaga Tavern also has a bo�le shop and drive-thru.

Check out our full opera�ng hours at bamagatavern.com.au.

Opportunities: The new commercial finfish fishing area.

Torres Straits’ top western communities can commercially catch finfish, including coral trout, trevallies and emperors, after the lifting of an historic ban.

Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Acting Chairperson Horace Baira said the changes were already in effect, following a complex advocacy led by Traditional Owners between communities, fishing stakeholders and government.

“Repositioning the Western Line fishing prohibition area is a milestone towards self-determination and signals a new era of economic opportunity for local people to fish, provide for families and thrive,” Mr Baira said.

“TSRA supported the Protected Zone Joint Authority finfish resource assessment and working groups led by Traditional Owners including Rocky Stephen, Yen Loban and Aron Tom, to not only pursue this long-held community aspiration, but achieve it.

“The change will benefit all Traditional Owners, especially communities near the new fishing area around Boigu, Dauan, Saibai and Mabuyag.”

TSRA Assistant Portfolio Member for Economic Development and Member for Ugar Rocky Stephen said more than 90 people participated in community consultation to show their interest and support for the change.

“Historically, people from the Top Western Islands have been unable to engage in commercial finfishing near their islands despite owning and

controlling 100 per cent of the fisheries within the Western Line fishing prohibition area,” Mr Stephen said.

“After more than 10 years of advocacy, the right for local people to commercially finfish in their own waters is finally recognised.”

TSRA Portfolio Member for Fisheries and Member for Ngurapai and Muralag Yen Loban said local people were able to explore commercial fishing opportunities to drive local business ownership and jobs as a result.

“On top of that, the Protected Zone Joint Authority also took the opportunity to remove limitations on traditional commercial fishing by allowing Traditional Owners to obtain a commercial fishing licence without having to own a boat,” Mr Loban said.

“These are significant changes that free-up opportunities for our people.

“We very much thank the Australian Fisheries Management Authority and the Protected Zone Joint Authority for their foresight and supporting the decision to remove these barriers.”

A series of joint TSRA and Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) information sessions were held to help communities understand the changes and compliance requirements.

For more information about the TSRA visit www.tsra.gov.au To learn about the Torres Strait Protected Zone Joint Authority (PZJA) visit www.pzja.gov.au

Make Bamaga Tavern your oasis this tourist season.

Meet Patricia Bartlett and the friendly staff at Regina’s Bistro.

182 Adidi Street, Bamaga • Ph 4069 3256 • www.bament.com.au

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY GAB TITUI CULTURAL CENTRE Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) is seeking Expressions of Interest from Indigenous businesses or individuals, living in the Torres Strait region, who are looking for a unique business opportunity to operate a food and beverage service with flair, creativity and imagination that meets the demand for high quality and healthy regional cuisine.

An opportunity exists for an Indigenous operator/business to lease the café located within the Gab Titui Cultural Centre (GTCC). The café complements and enhances the visitor experience offered at the GTCC. For more information on the Expression of Interest and Selection Criteria, interested Indigenous businesses or individuals should contact Anna Drummond on 4069 0700 or by email at anna.drummond@tsra.gov.au

CLOSING DATE: Expressions of Interest close COB Thursday 30 June 2022

Catch of a lifetime: Boigu Traditional Owner and commercial fisherman Aron Tom is exploring new fishing opportunities.

04 NEWS

THURSDAY 16 JUNE 2022 TORRES NEWS

Firefighters wanted for Waiben emergency services Queensland Fire & Emergency Services need Auxiliary Firefighters for the Waiben (Thursday Island) fire station.

Auxiliary Firefighters are casual, station-based firefighters who respond to emergency situations when the demand arises – and they are paid to do it!

Captain Richard Muhamad has been serving his community for over 23 years and said he would love more people to think about joining the Auxiliaries as a way to get give back to the community, learning new skills and a potential career path to becoming a permanent firefighter down south.

“I don’t think many people realise that you can progress through the Auxiliary promotion process here on the island,” he said.

“While you learn specific firefighting skills, you are also learning leadership skills as well.

“Over the years we’ve had quite a few Auxiliaries pursue careers as permanent firies, and the experience they gained on TI definitely made them competitive.

“Because we are a small station, there is always something to do.

“So once our officers have attended the minimum hours of two hours a week, they could work up to 38 hours to assist run the station.”

Coen Nicholls and Ben Bartsch joined in November, 2019, and said they enjoyed the comradery and variety of the work.

“We attend jobs that include grass fires and road crash, emergency

rescues and so much more,” Ben said.

“We also get the opportunity to engage in community activities like Under 8’s day, so no two days are ever the same.

“Coen and I also run the Emergency Service Cadets every Monday night at 5pm held at the station.

“This is also a great way to pass on the skills we have learnt and build up leaders and hopefully the next generation of emergency service workers on Thursday Island.”

Station Officer John Tompsett said no prior knowledge was required and Auxillaries came from a variety of backgrounds including public servants, health workers, school teachers and tradies.

“It is great having a team with such diverse skills and experiences, but the best thing is the laughs we have together” John said.

He said an Auxiliary Firefighter was expected to attend 50 per cent of emergency incidents, and participate in training programs 75 per cent of the time, including first aid/emergency care, requiring at least two hours per week.

Training was every Wednesday night at 6pm and everyone was welcome to come along to better understand what is involved in being an Auxiliary Firefighter.

For more information contact station officer John Tompsett on 0427 634 171.

If you don’t live on TI but are in the Torres Strait or NPA region, you can join your local Rural Fire Service or SES unit.

More information at

CAMRADERY: All sorts of work in all sorts of circumstances.

good practice: Jaws of life operational practice.

EXERCISES: Two hours a week is all it takes to join.

long serving: Station Officer John Tompsett (20 years service) and Captain Richard Muhamad.

Girls and science meet at SEQ camp Tagai student Udiwad Tapim was one of 60 young women selected to attend the Queensland State Government’s 2022 STEM Girl Power camp in Brisbane late last month.

At the camp students heard from leading experts and role models in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) careers at several locations including Griffith University, Queensland University of Technology, University of Queensland, iFly Brisbane Indoor Skydiving and Cross River Rail.

Teacher Taylah Savins-Harrison went with Udiwad.

Local MP Cynthia Lui congratulated the pair.

“Students hear from leading experts and role models about STEM careers,” she said.

“During the camp, students also develop their leadership skills as ambassadors for STEM.” Pic: supplied.

www.qfes.qld.gov.au

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HEALTH 05 Redeveloped Sibuwani Ngurpai Meta blessed and open TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 16 JUNE 2022

The completion of the Sibuwani Ngurpai Meta (Thursday Island Primary Healthcare Centre) redevelopment is a significant milestone for the Torres Strait region, Torres & Cape Hospital and Health Service Director of Primary Health Care North, Charlotte Nona says.

A formal blessing and public open day was held last week to mark the completion of work this month on the $10 million redevelopment on Douglas Street, Waiben.

“While the Thursday Island Hospital provides excellent care for people who are ill, the purpose of Sibuwani Ngurpai Meta is to keep Thursday Island and Torres Strait people healthy and out of hospital in the first place,’’ Ms Nona said.

“Sibuwani Ngurpai Meta means House of Learning and Healing in our local language and that is what we try to do – teach Thursday Island and Torres Strait people how to care for

Sidewalk ceremony: Blessings

by Pastor Nathan Seden. themselves and their families and stay healthy and well.’’

Ms Nona said Sibuwani Ngurpai Meta would be a one-stopshop for the delivery to the community at one location of five core services, comprising primary clinical care, disease screening and prevention, health education, health promotion and community development.

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said the new facility started delivering primary health services

welcome to all: Rashid Tamwoy (left) & George Binjuda.

Pics by Sylvia Tabua.

from Monday this week, after services were returned from their temporary locations elsewhere on Thursday Island.

She said the open day was an opportunity for residents to have a look at the new centre, which offered 22 consultation, treatment, and interview rooms, along with five dental surgeries.

“The redevelopment of the primary healthcare centre and the Thursday Island Hospital upgrade also currently under way will improve primary and secondary healthcare

throughout the Torres Strait region,’’ Ms Lui said.

“The projects also will provide space for future service expansion and enable better integration of health service delivery into the communities across the Torres Strait.’’

She said work was also progressing on the $36 million redevelopment of Thursday Island hospital, with the first stage expected to be completed during the third quarter of this year, and overall completion

of all four stages by August 2023.

When completed, the redeveloped Thursday Island Hospital will have: • 31 inpatient beds, • seven emergency department spaces, • an operating theatre with four recovery spaces, • a birthing suite with a birthing bath and additional procedural space that can also be used for emergency birthing.

Additionally, the hospital will have five outpatient rooms and an enhanced medical imaging department with space for the future installation of a CT scanner.

The number of negative pressure isolation rooms, included among the inpatient beds, would be doubled from one to two, thereby improving safety and boosting the hospital’s capacity to manage tuberculosis and other infectious diseases.

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Bob Kaigey - Torn Identity Painting Daniel Laifoo Untitled (Frangipani) Gift Card

Diet and health checks a good way to avoid stroke STORY BY TSIMA CORRESPONDENT Sylvia Tabua Pic by Georgina Tabua Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Australians are three times more at risk of strokes than non-Indigenous people in this country National Stroke Foundation State Manager (WA & SA) Luke Hays says.

“Strokes are one of the biggest killers in Australia, globally one in four people are expected to have a stroke in their lifetime,” Mr Hays said.

“Stroke in Australia kills more men than prostate cancer, and more women then ovarian cancer unfortunately.”

Local Clinical Renal Nurse Sammy Mills (pictured) said diet must always come first.

“Diet must also come first, that way your body doesn’t have to get rid of the bad stuff,” he said.

“This starts with parents who have a big role to play

making sure that healthy food is normalised or becomes a part of everyday.

“I would like to also see more adults also take part in the Adult Health Check program yearly, because you might think you are well and not feeling sick, but this it to prevent sickness.”

The Stroke Foundation recently welcomed a study by South Australian researchers and San Diego State University which found that any physical activity can have a huge impact on our health.

“We really commend the researchers in South Australia and in Santiago, I mean, I think we’re already familiar by now with the health messages around

being active and having a great impact on our health where this study is a bit different, it drills down into some of the impacts of exercise on our stroke risk” Mr Hays said.

The National Stroke Foundation has also developed a co-designed resource for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“It’s really a great way of people understanding the risk and managing that risk as well,” he said.

“It’s called Our Stroke Journey, if people are interested they can contact the Stroke Foundation or check our website, to request a copy.”

For more see https://

strokefoundation.org.au/

Due to recent COVID-19 risks, the Gab Titui Cultural Centre will be closed until further notice.

shop.gabtitui.gov.au Corner of Blackall St & Victoria Parade Thursday Island QLD 4875

06 NEWS

THURSDAY 16 JUNE 2022 TORRES NEWS

Trivia fun supports junior canoe fundraiser It was a full house at the TI Bowls Club the night trivia fever took over in support of the local Torres Strait Outrigger Canoe Club.

The fundraiser event drew more than 180 competitors, for a Saturday night full of prizes, great food and live music by DJ Rasta PoPo. Club President Denne Bourke was thrilled with the community support for the fundraiser.

“A big thank you to the community for getting involved to help the club out,” she said.

“A special mention of thanks to CEQ, Peddells Ferry, Thomas Pedro, The Coffee Department, Tony Mack and TI Bowls Club.

“The funds raised from this event will go towards purchasing a new canoe for the club so we can get our junior program up and running.”

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.

The COVID-19 vaccination however, does not protect you against the flu.

The flu vaccination is also available, and is now free for everyone aged 6 months and older.

It is available at Hospitals, Primary Health Care Centres and all of our COVID-19 vaccination clinics.

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

COVID-19 vaccine

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 07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 16 JUNE 2022

Historic fight for climate justice story and pic

BY TALEI ELU  From Page 1 Paul Kabai and Pabai Pabai, from the low-lying top western islands of Saibai and Boigu, have been travelling around island communities to share information about the Australian Climate Case.

Paul and Pabai are taking the Australian government to court because of the continuing and damaging effect of climate change in the Torres Strait.

Torres Strait Islanders have a proud history of fighting for rights, with historic wins like the Mabo High Court ruling and the Torres Strait Treaty.

This case is underpinned by the Torres Strait Treaty which says the Australian government has a responsibility to protect the traditional way of life and livelihoods of people in the Torres Strait.

Uncle Pabai and Uncle Paul will argue that by failing to prevent climate change the Australian government has unlawfully breached this

GAINING COMMUNITY SUPPORT: Paul Kabai and Pabai Pabai with Fiona McLeod, Maluwap Nona, Rodney Dillon, Chad Wong and community members on Badhu. duty of care to Torres Strait Islanders because climate change is causing severe and lasting harm in Torres Strait Islander communities.

They are seeking an order from the court requiring the government to prevent this harm to their communities by cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

At the time of printing the government had filed a defence to Uncle Pabai and Pauls legal claim.

While the Federal Government accepts that climate change is real, and low-lying islands in the Torres Strait are at greater risk from the impacts of climate change, they have also denied they have a duty of care to protect the Torres Strait from climate change because Australia only makes a small contribution to global emissions.

Despite this, Uncle Paul

and Pabai remain steadfast in their fight for climate justice because they understand what is at stake.

While it is a fight to save the islands from rising seas and the impacts of climate change, Uncle Paul and Pabai say this case is foremost about retaining culture, language and identity.

“Becoming climate change refugees means everything: our homes, our culture, our

stories and our identity,” Uncle Paul said.

“If you take away our homelands, we don’t know who we are.”

Uncle Paibai said he had specific responsibility to protect sacred cultural sites.

“But the rising sea is making it impossible and could mean they disappear forever,” he said.

“Loss of these places would be devastating for Guda Maluyligal communities now and for generations to come.

“That’s why I’m bringing this case – I have a cultural responsibility to protect my community, our culture and spirituality from climate change.”

This case is the first time anyone in Australia has argued the whole of the Federal government – not just one Minister or agency – has a duty to protect people from climate harm.

This is how it differs from the Our Islands Our Home campaign where eight Torres Strait Islander claimants – known as the Torres Strait 8 – have issued a human rights complaint against the Australian Federal

Government to the Human Rights Committee of the United Nations over the Government’s inaction on climate change.

Supporting both Torres Strait climate cases is important as climate change and its ongoing impact in the region becomes more prevalent as an issue.

Paul and Pabai, along with their campaign and legal team visited Boigu, Saibai, Badu, Waiben, Bamaga, and Cairns over the past few weeks, to hold information sessions for community members about their case.

These sessions were an opportunity to inform people about the case and its process, and to rally community support for the claimants Uncle Paul and Uncle Pabai.

If successful, Pabai and Paul won’t just be protecting their communities – they’ll be making us all safer from damaging climate change.

You can support them by following their journey and to stay informed, follow their social media: @AustralianClimateCase

on Instagram and visit their website: https://

australianclimatecase.org.au

Applications are now open.

For more information, you can visit vic.gov.au/stolen-generations-reparations or contact 1800 566 071

08 NEWS

THURSDAY 16 JUNE 2022 TORRES NEWS

Lugger bort social history recognised

ABOVE – SHARING YARNS: L – R: Sandi Robb, Collections Manager Cairns Museum, Nerelle Nicol Project Manager/Researcher, Ross Walters, George Mosby, James (Pedlar) Morrison, Roy Gray, Warren Martens on behalf of Jennifer Martens.

First Nations artists and organisations have shared funding in the latest round of the Queensland Government’s First Nations Commissioning

Fund, which will include the development of an archive of ‘Lugger Bort’ social history.

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said the

Commissioning Fund developed connections for future generations, created employment opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

artists and arts workers, and enabled Queenslanders to experience and engage in diverse works by First Nations artists.

“Lugger Bort is

MEETING NOTICE AUTHORISATION OF THE PROPOSED TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL SEAS CLAIM (TSRSC) PART C, AUTHORISATION OF APPLICANTS FOR THE TSRSC PART B (QUD27/2019) AND TSRSC PART C Members of the TSRSC Group – the Meriam, Erubam Le, Ugaram Le, Masigalgal, Porumalgal, Warraberalgal, Iamalgal, Mualgal, and Badulgal island communities – are invited to attend an Authorisation Meeting to consider: 1. Authorisation of the proposed TSRSC Part C native title application 2. Authorisation of the Applicant for the TSRSC Part C 3. Replacement of the Applicant for the TSRSC Part B. Details of the Authorisation Meeting are as follows:

Date: SATURDAY, 18 JUNE 2022 Time: Registration from 9:00am for 10:00am start Venue: TRAWQ HALL, OLANDI STREET, TAMWOY TOWN, WAIBEN (THURSDAY ISLAND) Map of the existing TSRSC Part B and proposed TSRSC Part C areas

an archival collection about the lugger vessels, crewed by Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and South Sea Islander peoples since the mid-1860s, and will create a community-led exhibition in venues around Cairns as part of the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair in 2023,” Minster Enoch said.

Lugger Bort developer Nerelle Nicol said the social history project was underway.

“Lugger Bort is a social history research project supported by an Arts Queensland,” she said.

“The project will involve travelling to a number of communities across the far north, including the inner islands of the Torres Strait, to work with individuals, organisations and communities to document and record stories, songs, dances, photographs and significant objects, associated with luggers and lugger life in Far North Queensland.

“I will supplement this community documentation with archival research in local, state and national collections to provide a broader context for this history, and to produce a Concept Development Plan to create a large scale, interactive community led Exhibition across a number of venues in Cairns in 2023.”

She said it was important work.

“Luggers and the Aboriginal, Torres Strait

Islander and South Sea Islander crews who worked them, dominated the seas along the North Queensland coast and I think it would be a travesty if the significant contribution they made to the social, cultural, and economic development of the far north and the State was not showcased, honoured and celebrated,” she said.

“As a descendant of a seafaring family from the Torres Strait, I grew up with stories, songs, dances and reminisces of lugger life which was interwoven into the lifestyles, relationships and identities of many families and communities along the Far North Queensland coast.

“In the early 1930’s my mum and her family migrated from the Torres Strait to Cairns, via a number of Aboriginal communities, on two of my grandfathers luggers.

“When my mum passed just over a year ago, I realised there were few Elders of her generation left with memory and/or first hand knowledge and experience to share this rich history, so I thought it vitally important to tell this story before it is lost forever.”

If individuals and organisations in the Torres Strait region would like to contribute and share stories, photographs or objects about this rich history please contact Nerelle Nicol on mobile: 0467 056 369 or via email nerellenicol@gmail.com

The TSRSC Part C is proposed to cover all areas below the high-water mark bounded in yellow, as well as the terrestrial areas of Mukanab, Nelgi, East Strait Island, Awai, Tiwalag, Big Boiag, McLennan Cay, Moulter Cay and Raine Island.

A newsletter providing further information about the proposed TSRSC Part C and the Northern Cape and Torres Strait United Working Group is available on the TSRA website.

The members of the island communities comprising the TSRSC Group was determined by Finn J in Orders 4(1)(a) to (i) and Schedule 5, clauses 2(a) to (i) of the TSRSC Part A determination (QUD6040/2001).

To receive more information or register your interest to attend the Authorisation Meeting, please contact your island community RNTBC chairperson (PBC chair).

REMEMBERING HOW IT WAS: George Mosby & Roy Gray in Cairns.

NEWS 09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 16 JUNE 2022

SONGS OF THE SEA ON THE BEACH: OH TI group sings.

TABA NABA GALS: on Waiben in 2022.

Jessie brings new sounds to old songs

By TSIMA Correspondent Anthony Geagea Composer and performer Jessie Lloyd is the daughter of Joe Geia – famous singer of Yil Lull – and has connections to Palm Island and Kubin Village on Mua Island.

Her first album Mission Song’s Project explored old songs from the Aboriginal Mission Settlements and Reserves.

On her latest album – Four Winds: Ailan Songs Project – she produced modernised versions of Black Swana and Baba Waiar, and several other popular and familiar songs to the people of our region.

The album focuses on the songs we grew up with in the Torres Strait in the first half of the 20th century.

“I wanted to dig deeper so that people can learn these songs in a different format,” Jessie said.

“I also spent a lot of time working on making sure that the pronunciations were right and the translations.

“And that we learned in the right dialects and the right bundles.”

Jessie recently performed in Brisbane and Melbourne as part of Reconciliation Week 2022.

“It was great,” she said.

“It was freezing but singing kept us warm.

“In Brisbane was good too.

“There was sort of a heat, the family came and community so that was good to sing those songs in Queensland.”

The new album took two years

to create with COVID playing a role in stalling the project.

“I’ve been doing close consultation’s with a lot of the Auntie’s up there coming up whenever I could, going up to Kubin working with family and elders out there,” she said.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the whole process.

“I’m really happy with this work, just in love with our songs.

“I’ve collaborated with a lot of amazing artists.

“I’ve got Rochelle Pitt featuring, and a song including Doreen Pensio who’s based in Perth.”

Jessie said she grew up around music.

Her grandfather was the conductor of a brass band, an Elder who particularly inspired her to keep those song traditions going.

“I find a lot of these old songs so insightful digging into our past and who we are, where we come from, especially for us, you know, mainlanders, maintaining that connection to the island,” she said.

Her father, Joe, provided the beautiful artwork for the album (pictured below).

“When I do this kind of work, I’m not really representing myself, I’m representing our family,” she said.

“So they’re there to keep an eye on things and sort any little hiccups or challenges that I that I come across. “[Dad], he’s always good to give me some experience advice and you know, and how to keep moving forward.

“I couldn’t have done this project without all the elders involved.

“With a lot of inspiration from Aunty Leonora Adidi, Aunty Nazi Adidi, Nay Ama Gabey, who really gave me direction and mentoring.

“I couldn’t have done it without them, it’s just impossible.

“Somebody my age just doesn’t have the knowledge, experience or the connections to to pull something like this, so it’s very much a collaboration, for sure.

“Music is a very powerful tool.

“You know, it’s a really soft, gentle way to connect and share and to teach.

“Whether we’re educating non-indigenous or we’re teaching our young generation, this is an entertaining way as well.

“I just want to say big esso to the ama’s who have helped make this possible, and also to TSIMA for you always supporting me, it’s definitely been a team effort.”

Jessie’s new music video is Black Swana was featured on YouTube. The album can be purchased from: www. ailansongsproject.com

18 Ishmael Rd, Earlville, Cairns Q 4870 • P  (07) 4211 2700 Email  office@gorimarbleandgranite.com.au F  (07) 4028 3420 • W  www.gorimarbleandgranite.com.au A successfully owned and operated Local Family Business.

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Koeyma Esso! Au Esau!

I would like to say a big thank you to the people and communities who helped make our recent Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020 Community Information Sessions a success.

Thank you to the communities of Dauan, Boigu, Saibai, Poruma, St Pauls, Kubin, Ugar, Erub, Mer, Masig, Warraber, Mabuiag, and Badu for your wonderful hospitality, and to all the Torres Strait Island Regional Council councillors and staff in these communities for their support.

I would also like to thank Mrs Ivy Trevallion, Chair, Kupai Omasker Working Party, Ms Rebecca Mullins, Legal Aid Queensland, Meriba Ged Ngalpun Mab, and staff from the Department of Seniors, Disability Services and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships’ Thursday Island Regional Office, Mr Peter Yorkston, all the community justice Groups that helped organise catering, and to Mrs Jillian Bowie and women of Badu Island community.

To anyone involved in helping with the community information sessions and not mentioned above, please know your help and kindness was also much appreciated.

From myself and on behalf of my team, I want to express our gratitude to all the community members that attended the information sessions, and for welcoming us to your community.

If anyone missed the sessions or has any follow up queries or questions regarding the legislation and making Cultural Recognition Orders, please contact the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa office on 1800 571 102 (free call). Alternately, you can visit us in person at the Torres Haus Office at 46 Victoria Parade on Thursday Island, or at the Cairns Office in the City Central Building at 46-48 Sheridan Street.

TI BABA WAYAR: making a film clip for the album.

C’Zarke Maza Commissioner Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa

10 30 YEARS OF MABO

THURSDAY 16 JUNE 2022 TORRES NEWS

Mabo Day well-celebrated in Townsville events story and pics BY VELMA GARA With a five day program organised by ABIS Community Co-operative Society Ltd saw a range of events celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Mabo high court decision in Townsville earlier this month.

Events kicked off with a presentation by Commissioner of Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa, C’zarke Maza, and included a presentation by Dr Bryan Keon-Cohen and the big day event, marching to the Mabo Memorial Monument at Central Park.

It was also an opportunity for ABIS to host a corporate dinner with an acknowledgement to country by the Bindal dance group.

The Komet dance troupe performed upon their return from a Reconciliation event in Canberra.

Last weekend’s program also included a community cultural day and combined fellowship service.

The ABIS events were made possible thanks to funding from local, state and federal governments.

Lyndall Popple, Elder Gauwada Marshall and Elder Alma Pilot.

Tomas Dorrick (PLO) Acting Superintendent Paul Hart, Elder Francis Tapim and Trevor Prior (PLO).

Komet Dance Troupe.

Josephine Smallwood, June Keon-Cohen and Florence Onus.

Native title focus: St Patrick’s College students with Dr Bryan Keon-Cohen: Back row (L–R) Almiah Dai, Lorianna Eseli, Alison Wosomo, Tikisha Mari, Jusaray Nona, Dr Bryan Keon-Cohen AM QC, Ruthie Misi, Charlize Barrett, Jmelliah Barrett. Front row (L–R) Alithrar Dai, Leela Foster, Isabella Nona, Gemma Stevens (Deputy Head of Boarding).

TN0204 FNM & TSIMA 19x3

19/5/22 to 30/6/22

Bindal Dance Group.

Alf Lacey, Mislam Sam (Mayor Palm Island Aboriginal Council).

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Native Title onus of proof must change story and pics

BY VELMA GARA Retired barrister, Bryan Keon-Cohen AM QC, believes the federal government needs to look at amendments to the Native Title Act if they are to keep moving forward after the 30th anniversary celebrations of the Mabo High Court Decision.

Speaking to an audience at the AMR Hall in Aitkenvale, Townsville on Thursday 2 June, 2022, he said he believed the onus of proving the enjoyment of Native Title should be reversed.

He said the Decision, delivered on 3 June, 1992, opened up whole new prospects for government to respect the Court’s deliberations and introduce legislation to enable proper management and use by Australia’s Indigenous Peoples.

The government of the day drew up the Native Title Act 1993, which came into effect on 1 January, 1994.

Dr Keon-Cohen said it was unfortunate some potentials were not realised.

“Potentials were not realised after much hard negotiations, the Native Title Act 1994 went some way but raised difficulties,” he said.

He confirmed it changed again against

a worthy read: David Saylor (Saylor Legal) with a copy of the Mabo Memoirs: Islan Kustom of Native Title by Dr Bryan Keon-Cohen.

Indigenous interests after Wik Peoples vs Queensland decision.

Dr Keon-Cohen said he felt the Act had many benefits but many more problems, disadvantages and unfair aspects to it which continue today.

He spoke of the positives of native title determinations, including about 1400 Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUAs) with mining companies, governments and pastoralists, which enabled them to use their traditional country on terms and conditions with royalty and benefits.

Yet, he said there was a negative side – a lot of eastern Australians were cut out from day one because the problem of proving native title was so difficult.

“Section 223 raised huge burdens which

cut out the whole of the eastern seaboard and causes a lot of disputes within communities and trying to meet the requirements of the system such as who is proper owner of what country and where does the detailed boundary lines run?” he said.

“Through customs and traditions detailed boundary lines were not required, whereas pastoralists had wire fences to mark theirs.”

Dr Keon-Cohen shared his experiences as a junior barrister in the Mabo case between 1982 and 1992.

He suggested the onus of proof be reversed.

“An example is as in New Zealand, when you go to claim native title the court assumes you have native title, you don’t have to prove your title; it’s up to government to prove

otherwise,” he said.

A report by the Australian Law Reform Commission called Connection to Country was tabled in federal parliament in 2015, making a number of suggestions for important reforms to the burden of proof, custom and tradition.

“It can be much more modern and adjusted and changed because of historical forces, social forces,” he said.

“Plaintiffs and claimants should not have to continually show custom and tradition right back to the date of colonisation.”

He suggested the new labor government looked at amendments to the Native Title Act because Traditional Owners and their land were an obvious stepping stone to claiming the basis for treaties, or was entitled to negotiate treaties concerning their traditional lands.

Dr Keon-Cohen brought copies of his book – Mabo Memoirs: Islan Kustom to Native Title – recollection and experiences of the 10 years of litigation, and submitted as a thesis for his PHD, to the event.

The book was written for non-lawyers with photos, maps and quotes of evidence of plaintiffs, cross-examination and arguments for the high court.

30 YEARS OF MABO 11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 16 JUNE 2022

Mayor pays tribute to Mabo’s inspiring battle Torres Strait Island Regional Council Mayor Philemon Mosby said he was privileged to speak on Mer at the 30th Anniversary of the Mabo High Court Decision.

“I am privileged to have this opportunity to speak with you all today, not just as a Mayor, but like most of you, as a direct beneficiary of the Mabo Decision,” he said.

“At local government, we can properly appreciate and respect what Eddie Mabo has done for Native Title Law. “Here at TSIRC, of course, as many of you would know, every month, my fellow Councillors and I sit as both Councillors and as Trustee for most of our communities.

“The Decision of Mabo, therefore, affects almost all aspects of our Regional Council.

“The Decision of Mabo affects most, if not all Local Governments in Australia.

“The Decision of Mabo will forever hold a special place in our Australian Constitutional Law.

paying their respects: Torres Strait Island Regional Council Mayor Philemon Mosby and Cr Hilda Mosby (Masig).

“Today we celebrate and respect a fight that changed Australian Law forever – and a case that is still very significant today. Our High Court, as some of you may already know, continues to follow the principles of the Mabo decision.

“For example, The High Court recently, referred directly to The Mabo Decision when it stopped a proposal to classify First Nation Australians as ‘aliens,’ preventing our previous government, from

detaining First Nation Australians indefinitely under Immigration Law and/or from trying to deport First Nation Australians.

“The Decision 30 years ago, in my view, is the most significant Australian High Court Case in Australia.

“Significant for us as it was fought and won by a man born right here on Mer on 29 June 1936.”

He said the High Court decision was as sweet today as it was

30 years ago, and that Eddie Mabo had been an inspiration to him.

“I am often told, in relation to some of our Regional Aspirations, that the law says this, that the law prevents you from that, that government would not agree to this or that,” he said.

“A recurring commentary said to me is that Regional Governance Aspirations are not part of core local government business.

“Imagine if Eddie and the five plaintiffs in the Mabo case said – the law says we are plants and rocks so that is what we are.

“Of course, Eddie did not say that.

“We are celebrating today because Eddie saw the bigger picture.

“He knew what everybody already knew.

“The difference with Eddie is that he had the courage of a winner.

“The courage to call out the rotten lie of Terra Nullius.

“The courage to go out and win.”

Mayor Mosby said their region still faced many challenges.

“Some of you may ask why I am bringing these things up on a day of celebration,” he said.

“I am drawing attention to them because when people speak to me about impossibilities and difficult challenges, I am reminded that we can turn to our champions and our winners for guidance.

“Eddie was many great things but two things he certainly was - a winner and a champion.

Mabo Day celebrations on Mer show their respect PICS By Jen Enosa

“Eddie’s win 30 years ago did not come easily.

“He filed his court case in 1982.

“He never got to hear the successful result, as less than six months before the result, he unfortunately left us on 21 January 1992.

“He left us with hope, and he left us with a priceless gift that each of us should not take for granted.

“Let us all strongly celebrate Eddie’s victory today.

“Let us celebrate the win but let us not ignore the struggle.

“Let us remember that this win came from 10 years of sacrifice.

“A war won through many challenges and many battles.”

He said they all appreciated what Eddie had done for them.

“Your win has brought all Australians closer together and closer to truth,” he said.

“Esso and my God bless you.”

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

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TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 16 JUNE 2022

Strait talkin’ with Tari from Strait Fitness

Kapu Boethynga! The month of June is a month that many people around the world take part in the Push Up Challenge – a challenge based around promoting Mental Health.

By the time you read this on day 16, the Strait Fitness crew will have done 1967 push ups!

This particular challenge challenges our bodies and our minds to stop and think about all those affected by mental health issues.

Some of the numbers we’ve done are: • Day 13 – 127 Push ups – targeted at rural people across Australia, who aren’t getting the help that they need and seeing 127 deaths from suicide out of every 1 million people.

• Day 11 – 100 Push Ups – 10.0 per cent of our first responders have probable post-traumatic stress disorder.

• Day 10 – 120 Push ups – 120

Calls are made EVERY HOUR to Lifeline.

• Day 9 – 220 Push ups – 22 per cent of respondents after 2017 Northern NSW floods reported still distressed six months after the flood event.

It’s not always sad statistics though – Day 8 – 117 Push ups – Around 11.7 million Australians participate in team sports.

There is a huge benefit to our mental health if we take part in exercising, in particular team sports.

It helps mental wellbeing through social connection, confidence, increased resilience and self-esteem.

I myself have had depression, and to come out stronger on the other side is such an achievement.

A few things I did to get better: • ACCEPT that I wasn’t in a good place; • ACKNOWLEDGE that I needed to change my mindset

to get better!

• PRAY – nothing beats the power of prayer; • EXERCISE – this RIGHT here healed me without me even knowing it, if you can – get outdoors and move, even if it’s for 30 minutes a day; • LET GO – of all things that had no place in my life; and, • WELCOMED change – A better, stronger version of me.

And if this meant I had to lose a couple of people on the way – then that’s what was meant to happen to become the strong mother and wife that I am today!

In saying all of that – please if you’re struggling, or know of anyone struggling – SPEAK UP. Get that help.

It’s not weak to speak!

And it’s not weak to want better for yourself and your family.

Stay well – Tari.

top right – Never give up reaching for those goals!

CENTRE RIGHT – Get amongst playing sports to help with your mindset!

Both pics courtesy of Raw Fitness from BOTI2022.

BELOW – PRE-PUSH UP PLANKING: just another Strait Fitness day! Pic Strait Fitness.

First Yaza round to Mulga

BY ALF WILSON

THE YAZA CHALLENGE SHIELD: (L–R) Suburbs captain George Gabey, Tom ‘Yaza’ Stephen and Mulga Captain Zengrey Nona. Pic submitted.

THE first round of the prestigious Tom “Yaza” Stephen Challenge was won by Mulga over Suburbs, 38-26, in round five of the Zenadth Kes Rugby League competition earlier this month.

The Challenge is played every year over a three game series which will continue in round 10 on 9 July and round 15 on 13 August.

Tom Stephen was an inaugural player and foundation member of the Suburbs Club, playing from 1982 to 1996.

He is considered to be a former Suburbs great and still supports the club.

He was well known for his hard hits and always played with his heart on his sleeve.

He told the Torres News he

recalled how the community club first started, driven and sponsored by community members in the TRAWQ area.

He said back in the days most of the clubs/teams were named after pubs so the movement to start the community-based team gained traction and won a lot of community support with community members making the club their own.

He said he has noticed a lot of change with the footy style today, compared to when he played, and complimented the standard.

He said the local league’s strong emphasis on compliance, player safety and cleaning up the game was to be commended.

He said back in the day the footy was tough – there was no insurance cover and it seemed the odd scuffle was allowed on the field.

One thing he said he noticed about today was the passion and support continued, not only for Suburbs, but for all the clubs which was most evident in the teams’ fundraising efforts on the field every Saturday afternoon.

“I’m real humbled and it is a real privilege to be honoured in such a way,” he said.

He said he was “very surprised when first approached about the concept, all I wanted to do is just play footy but to be recognised now is special”.

The player of the tri series trophy will be donated by Mulga Tigers and named after one of their former greats, yet to be announced.

The winner of the series gets to take home a glass award and have their name engraved on the Tom “Yaza” Stephen Challenge perpetual shield.

14 SPORT Thanks Coach, thanks Ref!

BY ALF WILSON Fifteen male and female volunteers completed their rugby league Sports Trainer courses in Bamaga on Saturday.

So important was having these volunteers at matches, the scheduled round six of Zenadth Kes Rugby League fixtures on TI had to be postponed because of their essential absences.

Five did their Level 1 Sports Trainer re-accreditation, with two each from Waiben and Bamaga, and one from Alau.

THURSDAY 16 JUNE 2022 TORRES NEWS

The 10 who did their Level 1 Sports Trainer course consisted of four from Bamaga, three from Injinoo, two from Waiben, and one from New Mapoon.

The completion of these courses represents a big boost to the number of volunteers.

Every Senior RL event (whether training or matches) sanctioned by the QRL needs to have at least an accredited Level 1 Sports Trainer in each team.

Every Junior under 15 match and younger rugb y league Event (whether training or matches) sanctioned by the QRL needs to have at least an accredited League First Aid.

WELL DONE: The 15 volunteers were put through their Sports Trainer Courses at Bamaga. Pic submitted.

Mam / Lee score for Broncos

BY ALF WILSON Youngster Ezra Mam lined up at five eighth with experienced cousin Brenko Lee in the centre for the Brisbane Broncos, who scored one of the finest wins in the club’s NRL history when they beat the Canberra Raiders 24-18 on Saturday night.

To give the blockbuster clash a genuine Torres Strait Islander influence, Lee’s opponent was the Raiders Sebastian Kris.

Mam lined up at number six beside Broncos superstar halfback Adam Reynolds and had a great match.

At the seventh minute Mam scored a try from close range.

Just 17 minutes later, Lee fired out the final pass for winger Jordan Pereira who crossed for a four pointer.

Lee was playing his first game for the Broncos after missing last season due to injury, and was strong in defence.

In 2020 Lee played with Melbourne Storm as a member of their premiership winning team, and was a Queensland State of Origin representative.

ABOVE – well supported: Jon Reuben at the grounds with supporters Noel Gertz, left, and his son Adrian.

JUBILATION: Ezra enjoys a Broncos moment. Pic courtesy Broncos/QRL. Kris did produce some magic moments for the Raiders but in the overall analysis was outpointed by Lee. The Raiders led 18-16 at halftime and the Broncos regained the lead at the 43rd minute when Mam set up another try with a precision pass.

But for the last 20 minutes the Broncos had just one player on the bench after three – Reynolds, Herbie Farnworth and forward Payne Haas had been injured.

Haas left the field in the 28th minute with a shoulder injury and Reynolds (ribs) and

Farnworth (bicep) joined him on the sideline midway through the second half in a night of carnage for Brisbane. .

But the gutsy Broncos defended grimly for the last 15 minutes to gain the win and sit in fourth place on the ladder after 14 rounds.

The win was Brisbane’s seventh in row and they now have the chance to join the Storm in second place by winning in Melbourne next Friday night.

Both Lee and Kris are proud Torres Strait Islanders and both have lined up for sides at Allblacks carnivals on Waiben.

RIGHT – IN THE ROOM: Jon with his mum Jenny Reuben who was invited in to the jersey handover ceremony. Exclusive pics supplied.

Dream comes true for Reuben

BY ALF WILSON Torres Strait speedster Jon Reuben was the oldest player in history to make his NRL debut when he lined up on the wing for the St George Dragons last Friday night.

The Dragons lost the game 31-12 to the North Queensland Cowboys.

On the plus side, Reuben got to make his debut at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville, where he was born.

When Reuben took the field he was 29 years and 92 days of age.

“This is definitely a dream come true, as little kid I just wanted to play NRL,” he said.

“My family is here and one

of my goals was to play in Townsville and it’s come true.

“It was really fast out there and I enjoyed every minute of it.”

Reuben showed glimpses of brilliance in a well-beaten side, with one long run down the sideline before he tracked in field, and he also delivered a chip and chase on another occasion.

When St George Illawarra coach Anthony Griffin finalised his 17-man squad for the round 14 clash, Reuben became St George player number 260.

He told the Torres News he was only told he was on the side two hours before the match.

“It was if it was meant to be as I always wanted to play my first NRL match in Townsville,” he said.

“My family and mob, including my Mum Jenny, were there.”

He said also got to spend some quality time with his family the morning after the game before heading back to Sydney with his teammates.

It had been a long wait for Reuben, who has been one of the genuine superstars of the Queensland Statewide Cup comp, the second tier to the NRL. Reuben scored 108 tries in Queensland Cup matches.

He was a member of the Norths Devils team, who won the 2021 Queensland Intrust Super Cup grand final, beating Wynnum Manly 16-10 in the decider last October 10 at Moreton Daily Stadium Redcliffe.

8x2 local sports

SPORT 15 Looking for more

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 16 JUNE 2022

local sport?

Badhu basketball season finale wins

We’re happy to run it if we have it!

story and pics BY JILLIAN BOWIE It was an awesome night of Basketball Grand Finals last weekend, with Bruisers taking out the men’s premiership defeating J&J 25-13, and Sweet Potatoes for the women’s defeating Sistars 22-14.

In the Juniors: U8s - Naigai 10 def Zei 6 and U12s - Kuki 8 def Sager 4.

Congratulations to all the finalists and thank

Darts, ballgames, water sports, athletics ... whatever your game is, we’re keen!

you to all the teams and supporters for a

TOP – JUNIOR

Send us your pic of the week, fixtures or finals results by noon on Monday!

UNDER 12S

 EMAIL: editor@torres.news ***need Oct. copy

wonderful season! pics:

for 29-09-22 issue

WINNERS: Kuki CENTRE – MEN’S WINNERS: Bruisers BOTTOM – WOMEN’S WINNERS:

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

Sweet Potatoes.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Island of Origin missed last week

Peddells Ferry departures (Daily ferry schedule): THURSDAY ISLAND to SEISIA: 6.30AM & 2.30PM SEISIA to THURSDAY ISLAND: 8AM & 4PM

BY ALF WILSON FOR many rugby league followers in the Torres Strait and NPA, last weekend just didn’t seem the same without the Island of Origin competition – held on the Queen’s Birthday long weekend since the mid-1980s.

The Island of Origin always followed the Queensland versus NSW State of Origin series, and was mostly held on Badu.

Several readers have contacted the Torres News looking for info on when the 2022 Island of Origin carnival will be held.

The answer was, it was cancelled some time back due to concerns about COVID-19.

At the time organisers felt they had no other option, as fears of an outbreak in the region were a major concern.

But a lot of memories flowed last weekend amongst former players and officials who look forward to Island of Origin each year.

I can vividy recall the Silver Jubilee anniversary 25th carnival on Badu in 2010 won by Mua Razorbacks (men) and Bau Au Stingers (ladies).

The ground announcer then remarked that it seemed like more planes were landing at Badu Airport than at Melbourne’s Tullamarine.

Two years later in 2011 special guests at the carnival were former Test greats Arthur Beetson and Sam Backo.

Whilst we can still look forward to the Zenadth Kes in October, we will all have to wait until 2023 for the next Island of Origin.

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MONDAY 6 JUNE to SATURDAY 1 OCTOBER

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THURSDAY

TN0015 • 02/06/22 Monday

OFFICE HOURS • MON–FRI, 9am–12noon & 12.30–2.30pm LUGGAGE • Passengers are required to take their luggage directly to the ferry with them at boarding time ISLAND / HORN ISLAND FERRY(1TIMETABLE piece under 20 kg, excess charges otherwise apply) FREIGHT • Items under 20 kg carried, conditions apply.

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

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THURSDAY IS. – HORN IS.

FERRY TIMETABLE

Office Hours: 8.30am-4.30pm Monday to Friday (Closed Public Holidays)

FAST , SAFE & FRIENDLY SERVICE.

6.20 pm # 6.00 pm #

TIMETABLE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE.

3.00 pm

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

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Effective 3rd June 2022

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

16

THURSDAY 16 JUNE 2022

EDITORIAL l E: editor@torres.news

First Origin clash sees rookies play lead role

BY ALF WILSON Dane Gagai scored a try and Reuben Cotter made a game high 49 tackles, both playing lead roles in Queensland’s 16-10 win over NSW in State of Origin game one in Sydney last week.

Residents of remote Boigu Island were glued to their television sets with their focus firmly set on Cotter.

Sydney, Perth and Brisbane are a long way from Boigu Island where the 270 locals were on hand to watch the debut, compared to more than 80,000 at the ground plus millions more on television and online.

The Maroons led 6-4 at halftime and scored three tries to two through Gagai, halfback Daly Cherry-Evans, and Cowboys star Valentine Holmes who also booted two goals.

Cotter outstanding defence was impressive.

The second highest Maroons tackler was Tino Fa’asuamaleaui with 34.

Gagai scored his twelfth try for the Maroons overall at the 34th minute, when he pounced on a kick from rookie back Selwyn Cobbo, to take the 6-4 lead.

Melbourne Storm back Cameron Munster was named man of the match and his Maroons only need to win one of the two remaining Origin clashes to take out the series.

It was one of the most exciting Origin matches in years.

Barring injury Cotter should be an automatic selection for the Maroons in the last two clashes.

Game two is in Perth on June 26 and the last one will be at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on July 13.

Torres Strait Island Regional Council Division 1 and Boigu Island Cr Dimas Toby said everyone these days would have access to coverage of the three Origin matches on the box.

“That was not always the case,” he said.

“Reuben is a Boigu boy of the Dheboey Totem through his great grandmother’s side, he has great support here.”

Cr Toby is the uncle of another rising NRL star, young Brisbane Broncos halfback Ezra Mam. “Ezra is my nephew and is such a good player,” he said.

“We would like to try and bring him back here for a visit before the end of the year.”

Cr Toby himself was a former quality rugby league player playing in the forwards as a hooker for Boigu side Malu Kiai at various Allblacks carnivals around the Torres Strait and north Queensland.

Boigu Island has a small population but continues to produce champion sportsmen and women especially ones with speed.

A perception by many living on the mainland is they train by running on sand.

But Cr Toby disagrees: “No it is in the blood,” he said.

Top effort by Badhu juniors

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Mulga Juniors Results below for 10 June – Round 4 U6 – Orange Team 6 def Black Team 5 U8 – White Team 2 def Orange Team 0 U10 – Black Team 7 def Grey Team 6 U12 – Black Team def 16 Orange Team 9

Rita Gutchen