Torres News Edition_38_30 June 2022

Thursday, 30 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.

EDITORIAL l E: editor@torres.news

Cultural Festival fires up

pic BY SHANELLA MAJID

One of the many stars of the NPA cultural festival this year was four-year-old Dane Waisu, one of our youngest performers.

He was on centre stage with Guba Markai, stealing the show as well as our hearts!

For more pics of this year’s NPA Cultural Festival see PAGES 4, 5 & 6 

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

l

Edition 38

l

$2 incl. GST

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

Budget concerns cause a splash The State Government’s $2.6 million commitment to a Splash Park on Waiben was a response to Torres Shire Council concerns about the safety of children and families in relation to the immediate threat posed by increased croc sightings local MP Cynthia Lui says.

She said the issue was first raised three years ago by the Torres Shire Council.

“For me, community safety is always going to be my priority,” she said.

“Although it was discussed over previous years, no funds were committed until now.”

She said it was not the only investment in the Torres Strait from this year’s Budget, and came from a different funding stream to housing and other issues for the region.

“Splash Parks are a great way to encourage families to get outside, providing healthy recreation opportunities for kids and a place for parents to get together,” she said.

She said delivering the park was more than a ‘nice thing’.

“It deters our children and families away from the immediate dangers lurking our waters,” she said.

“It creates an environment for social cohesion and supports community coming out to interact in a family friendly, social environment.

“The nearest park is Cairns for Torres Strait families to enjoy this type of recreational space.

“Families from all over Torres Strait is as deserving as children and families in Cairns.”

Continued Page 2 

02 NEWS

THURSDAY 30 JUNE 2022 TORRES NEWS

Cultural adoption and business centre in Budget  Continued from P1 Local MP Cynthia Lui said overall the 2022-23 Queensland Budget was about ‘good jobs, better services and a great lifestyle for all Queenslanders’.

“In this year’s budget we are making record investments in health, education, jobs, renewables, and community services like police, fire and emergency services,” Ms Lui said.

“For the Torres Strait,

health continues to be a priority.

“I am pleased our government is funding $1 million for the Thursday Island Tourism Information and Business Centre.

“This centre will play a significant role attracting visitors to our region and creating economic opportunities for locals.

“The Palaszczuk Government also remains committed to improving infrastructure which supports the safe navigation of people,

vessels, commercial and recreational users in our waterways.”

Minister for Seniors, Disability Services and Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Craig Crawford said the State Budget continued to support the needs of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders.

“Funding of $3 million over the next two years will be invested to ensure the Office of the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa Commissioner

continues to legally recognise Torres Strait Islander traditional child rearing practice,” he said.

For more information about the State Budget visit budget.qld.gov.au

Specific Budget Measures for the Torres Strait Islands Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning

W4Q 2021-24 Torres Strait Island Regional Council – $1.2 million in 2022-23 out of a $3.1 million total spend to support Torres Strait Island Regional Council to undertake job-creating maintenance and minor infrastructure works.

Part of the 2021-24 Works for Queensland program.

W4Q 2021-24 Torres Shire Council – $580,000 in 2022-23 out of a $1.5 million total spend to support Torres Shire Council to undertake job-creating

maintenance and minor infrastructure works.

Part of the 2021-24 Works for Queensland program.

Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sport Thursday Island Tourism Information and Business Centre – $800,000 in 2022-23 out of a $1.0 million total spend to contribute to the delivery of a Tourism Information and Business Centre for the Torres Strait region.

Part of the Growing Indigenous Tourism in Queensland Fund.

Department of Education Tagai State College – Mer Campus – School Infrastructure Enhancement Program – $300,000 of $500,000 – Refurbish External Building Material.

Tagai State College – Thursday Island Primary Campus – Amenities upgrades – $500,000 of $1,000,000 – Amenities Upgrades.

Tagai State College – Thursday Island Primary Campus – Facilities Renewal – $200,000 of $200,000 – Planning for hall renewal.

Tagai State College – Warraber Island Campus – School Infrastructure Enhancement Program – $70,000 of $120,000 – Admin refurb.

Fly with a Queenslander

Queensland Health and Hospital and Health Services

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

DEP

MONDAY FROM

TO

ARR

QN44

08:30

CAIRNS

BAMAGA

10:30

QN44

11:00

BAMAGA

HORN ISLAND

11:15

QN44

11:45

HORN ISLAND

CAIRNS

13:50

THURSDAY FROM

FLT

DEP

TO

ARR

QN43

08:10

CAIRNS

HORN ISLAND

10:15

QN43

11:15

HORN ISLAND

BAMAGA

11:30

QN43

12:00

BAMAGA

CAIRNS

14:00

FLT

DEP

FRIDAY FROM

TO

ARR

QN43

08:10

CAIRNS

HORN ISLAND

10:15

QN43

11:15

HORN ISLAND

BAMAGA

11:30

QN43

12:00

BAMAGA

CAIRNS

14:00

Effective April 4th 2022

Book online at Skytrans.com.au 1300 759 872

Thursday Island Hospital – $11.0 million in 2022-23 out of a $50.7 million total spend for the redevelopment of the hospital and the separate primary health care centre. Part of the Priority Capital Program, Advancing Queensland Health Infrastructure Program.

Mer (Murray) Island Primary Health Care Centre – $5,034,000 million in 2022-23 out of a $7.0 million total spend for the replacement of the existing primary health care centre to

support the provision of quality and safe services to current and future healthcare needs. Part of the Rural and Regional Infrastructure.

Department of Transport and Main Roads Torres Strait Island navigation aid replacement – $3,700,000.

Horn Island, Airport Road, upgrade pontoon – $1,000,000 out of $4,000,000.

Horn Island Airport, upgrade apron – $484,406.

Douglas Street and Hastings Street, construct roundabout – $459,500.

Thursday Island (Stage 4), design and construct shared path – $362,282 out of $1,449,128.

Blackall Street and Douglas Street, construct roundabout – $361,000.

Hastings Street and Summers Street, improve intersection – $353,000.

Department of Seniors, Disability Services and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Thursday Island Splash Park Construction – $2.6 million in 2022-23 out of a $3.0 million total spend for the construction and completion of a splash park.

Thursday Island Splash Park Maintenance – $350,000 in 2022-23 out of a $1.4 million total spend for the operation and maintenance of a splash park.

Department of Employment, Small Business and Training Annual Maintenance Program at Thursday Island TAFE – $136,000 in 2022-23 for ongoing maintenance investment in training infrastructure at Thursday Island TAFE.

Sorry!

Labron, we do know how to spell your name, we’re sorry it got mixed up a little in our last issue – keep playing and doing what you do, you’re doing great!

Coffee Man – we love your beans and we’re also sorry we called you a ‘she’ in our story about the Trivia night a few issues ago…when we are properly refreshed with your coffee we do better.

NEWS & HEALTH 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 JUNE 2022

Local government goes national in Canberra

Torres Strait Island Councillors and CEOs were in Canberra last week to attend the Australian Local Government Association’s (ALGA’s) annual National General Assembly.

ALGA’s membership consists of more than 500 local governments from around Australia.

Housing, Closing the Gap, a global view for local government and the war in Ukraine were just some of the issues explored by the meeting.

In the picture is Torres Strait Island Regional Council Mayor Philemon Mosby with Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council CEO Leon Yeatman, Healing Foundation CEO Fiona Cornforth, Lockhart River Shire Council Mayor Wayne Butcher and Yarrabah Mayor Ross Andrews.

FIND AUTHENTIC ARTS AND ACCESSORIES ONLINE OR IN STORE

JEV found in Cape York pigs Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) has been detected in some feral pigs in an area north of the Skardon River on western Cape York peninsula Tropical Public Health Services Director Dr Richard Gair says.

“It’s important to understand that JEV is transmitted to humans through mosquito bites only,” he said.

“It cannot be transmitted from human-to-human or direct from pigs, or by consuming pork or pig products.

“The vast majority of human infections of JEV cause no symptoms or mild symptoms such as headache or fever.

“A person with severe disease may present with inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), characterised by sudden onset of vomiting, high fever and chills, severe headache, sensitivity to light, neck stiffness and nausea/vomiting.”

He said the best defence against mosquito bites was to avoid being bitten in the first place.

“We therefore encourage Cape York residents to take necessary steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites,” he said.

Measures to prevent mosquito bites include regularly applying insect repellent containing Diethyl Toluamide (DEET), Picaridin; wearing loose, light-coloured

clothing to cover up arms, legs and feet; and using other insecticide-based mosquito control devices where possible when outside.

“Mosquito bites can be experienced at any time of day, but some species are most active at dusk and dawn.

“It’s also important to ensure flyscreens are in good order so mosquitoes can’t enter your home easily.

“JEV is a nationally notifiable disease in both humans and animals.”

For more information about Japanese Encephalitis, visit: http://

Earrings by Frances Visini

Carved Dugongs

by William Namok

conditions.health.qld.gov.au/ HealthCondition/condition/14/217/83/ japaneseencephalitis

State COVID restrictions lifted ... but ...

On Monday this week 3,260 new cases of COVID-19 were recorded in Queensland.

There were 28,937 active cases in Queensland.

As at 25 June, 94.15 per cent of people aged 16 years and over have had their first vaccine dose and 92.60 per cent are fully vaccinated (two doses).

Last week there were 26 active COVID-19 cases in the Torres & Cape Hospital and Health Services

(TCHHS) region.

Chief Executive Beverley Hamerton said confirmed influenza cases were continuing to rise.

“Even though active case numbers appear to be dropping, COVID remains prevalent, so please ensure you are fully vaccinated and have your boosters up to date,” she said.

MEANWHILE COVID vaccination requirements across a range of categories have been eased in Queensland since last week.

“As we move to the next stage of the pandemic, we will be adjusting our approach in relation to mandatory vaccinations,” Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said.

“From 30 June, mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations will no longer be required for visitors to: • Residential aged care • Disability accommodation • Corrective service facilities “In addition, we will be revoking our high-

risk workers COVID-19 vaccine mandate, with decisions around mandatory vaccinations to instead be made by employers.

“This will result in the following workers no longer being required to be vaccinated for COVID under the public health directions: • Schools, early childhood education, outside school care, kindergartens, family day care • Prisons, community corrections, work camps

• Police watch houses • Youth detention centres • Airports “The public health directive mandating the COVID-19 vaccine for workers in healthcare, hospitals, aged care and disability care remains unchanged.

“We will also be removing the public health direction that requires post-arrival testing for those who have travelled to Queensland from international locations.”

OPENING TIMES Monday - Friday: 9am to 4:30pm Saturday: 9:30am to 1pm

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

04 NPA CULTURAL FESTIVAL

THURSDAY 30 JUNE 2022 TORRES NEWS

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

NPA CULTURAL FESTIVAL 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 JUNE 2022

NPA Cultural Festival lights up

story and pics BY Shanella Majid

This year’s NPA Cultural Festival kept ‘the flame of culture burning’ and was a huge success for Cape York’s northern-most communities last week and over the weekend.

JUTE Theatre Company’s creative touring program ‘Dare to Dream’ program was in Bamaga leading up to the festival which worked its way around the five communities of NPA, starting with Umagico on Tuesday 21 June, where they had a movie night, food stalls and activities for the kids.

The next day the festival went to Seisia where they had a kup murri cooking demonstration, march, feast and entertainment.

On Thursday a movie night, food stalls and kids’ activities were hosted

by New Mapoon.

The big event was held on Friday and Saturday with an influx of tourists and visitors enjoying a feast of dancing, singing and food.

Lighting of the Torch took place at Injinoo on Friday where Cr Gina Nona, Traditional Owners and community representatives shared the history, culture and why it was important to

celebrate our Indigenous cultures.

They then took the torch up to Bamaga where they did the hand over of the torch, followed by formal speeches from Cr Kitty Gebadi and community elders.

Five communities and visitors, came together in unity to do the community parade and presentation of the torch to Seisia, New Mapoon and Umagico.

Speeches from the Mayor Patricia Yusia, Traditional Owners, CEO and sponsors followed, ending the evening with cultural performances and a live band.

The Yusia Ginau Oval gates opened at 10am on Saturday giving time for everyone to check out some of the arts and crafts, historical photos from the State Library of Queensland, career stalls, food stalls and activities for the kids.

Gospel Crusade had set up two big jumping castles, gave out free fairy floss, slushes for the kids while Tessa Devine performed.

The evening finished the festival with more cultural performances, live band, and fireworks.

More coverage Page 6 

Enrol Now for 2023 and 2024

M

CAPTIONS for NPA Cultural Festival pics by Shanella Majid

Page 4 Top Left: Group photo of Seisia dancers. Back row: Vincent Babia, Narotha Babia, Lelai Babia, Louisa Babia. Front row: Isaiah Babia, John Babia.

Middle Left: One nation people of Injinoo Nicky Wymara, George Mamoos, Ceicelia Ropeyarn holding the torch, Sandra Sebasio and Gina Pablo.

Third Left: Micheal Solomon holding the torch, Irie Mudu, Urinah Bamaga. Front row: Bamaga elder Barticoy Bamaga.

Bottom Left: Michael Solomon and Irie Mudu helping Bamaga elder Barticoy Bamaga holding the torch to pass to Bev Jacob.

Top Right: Barty Wasiu wearing the traditional mask with Kyeiran Wasiu after performing Middle Right: Timothy Townson happy to see everyone + Irie Mudu performing Bottom Right: Sammy Laifoo at her stall with her art work + Elsie Seriat with grandson Timothy Townson enjoying the cultural festival

Page 5 Top: Mona Townson local MC sharing the cultural festival program Top Left: Bev Jacob was the representative carrying the torch to pass on to New Mapoon Top Right: NPARC Tourism Officer Steph Toy Above top: Guba Markai Above: he cultural flame representing the five NPA communities Page 6 Top: Lelai Babia, Matilda Elu and Narotha Babia ready to perform Middle: kids lining up to go on to the jumping castles that was provided by the gospel crusade Bottom: Guba Markai dancers and community bringing the torch into the oval grounds

odern, state of the art classrooms, day schooling and boarding facilities for boys and girls. Our curriculum provides academic or vocational pathways and the best possible employment opportunities.

Your child will enjoy small class sizes, individual student attention for maximum outcomes, and sporting and cultural opportunities.

Our college is founded on the basis that no child will be denied a Catholic education based on financial hardship.

Generous fee concessions apply to holders of means-tested concession cards and those with a genuine inability to pay.

2023 and 2024 Enrolment interviews will be held in Term 3.

Scholarships available.

TO ENROL

Visit: www.msb.qld.edu.au/apply-online-now or phone Enrolment enquiries on (07) 4096 1586 Email: msb.enrolments@cns.catholic.edu.au For a Tour or more information – Phone (07) 4096 1444 or email msb.enrolments@cns.catholic.edu.au

www.msb.qld.edu.au MountStBernardHerberton

30/6/22 only - triple ad.

Youpla be sabe ah?

06 NPA CULTURAL FESTIVAL THURSDAY 30 JUNE 2022 TORRES NEWS Continued from Pages 4 & 5

You can gede one fourth COVID-19 vaccine dose now!

E only for...

• All Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people 50 years + • Adults 65 years + • All people who the e stap lor aged/disability care, and • All people who the 16 years +, who the ga weak immune system.

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service e gad them Pfizer Vaccine there ready for your fourth dose.

All spik you can gede the fourth dose four months...

• after you third dose, or • after you bin gad Covid 19.

Brought to you by First Nations Media Australia and TSIMA

Community receives strong support from Cairns Hardware

BY Shanella Majid Cairns Hardware is one of the Northern Peninsula Area and Torres Strait’s biggest supporters when it comes to events such as competitions, award nights and cultural festivals across the region.

They were one of the biggest sponsors for this year’s NPA Cultural Festival and have been supporting NPA to keep the flame burning since 2019.

Cairns Hardware representative Mick Volp said he has been coming to the region for the past 15 years.

“We believe in becoming partners with the community and supporting them in every way we can,” Mick said.

“We try to have myself or someone on the ground, in person, to support the event.”

Coming of the Light, the upcoming Badu Fishing Comp

Cairns Hardware rep: Mick Volp at the NPA Cultural Festival.

Pic supplied. and our NPA and Torres Strait Apprentice and Building awards were just a few of the events they have sponsored over the years.

ART 07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 JUNE 2022

10 satellite exhibitions extend CIAF’s reach Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) will extend the visual art-scape of the event throughout the city’s key cultural hubs and galleries with 10 satellite exhibitions.

While the Art Fair and Art Market will play out at the newly refurbished Cairns Convention Centre between 6-10 July, 2022, a host of exciting new exhibitions will also be on show from the Cairns Art Gallery to the Tanks Arts Centre, and several places in between.

They will include: NorthSite Contemporary Arts at Bulmba-ja Arts Centre, 96 Abbott Street, Cairns: Official Opening 6-9pm, Tuesday 5 July, 2022.

NorthSite Contemporary Arts celebrates the return of CIAF with five new exhibitions and installations, including an exhibition of recent vinyl-cut prints on paper and an epic new, sevenmetre-long work created for the 23rd Biennale of Sydney, 2022 by Injinoo artist, Teho Ropeyarn (24 June – 13 August).

Bulmba-ja Arts Centre Studio A: Confluence: Design, Technology and Culture Led by Aboriginal creative and digital FACELESS: Alick TIPOTI (Kala Lagaw Ya) - Umay (dog masks), 2021, fibreglass, resin; Courtesy of the artist and Australian Art Network, Sydney.

design Leigh Harris of local Indigenous Creative Agency, igneous studios, this exhibition showcases the work of IndigeDesignLabs participants over the past two and a half years including Janice Ghee, Seroma Gesa and Kayden Bosun.

The exhibition includes a place installation that explores the confluence of design, technology and culture through modern Indigenous digital design as created

by IndigeDesignLabs participants (4-15 July).

Bulmba-ja Arts Centre Studio B: Suggoo Pennise, 2021 Dr Ken Thaiday Snr and Grace Lillian Lee collaborated to develop kinship, material culture and oral stories into a new large-scale artwork, Suggoo Pennise (2021) for APT10 – the 10th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art, (5-10 July).

Cairns Art Gallery, Cnr Shields & Abbott Streets, Cairns: Official Opening 5.30-7pm Thursday 7 July 2022: FACELESS, Transforming Identity, Blak/Black artists from North Australia, Africa and the African Diaspora

Traversing Three Realms: Teho Ropeyarn (Adthinhuunamu) 2022, vinyl-cut print on paper, 350x720cm, series of 6 panels. Credit Jacquie Manning.

FACELESS examines the idea of blak/black identity presented in portraits by 26 renowned contemporary artists including Alick Tipoti (25 June - 2 October).

Court House Gallery, 38 Abbott Street, Cairns: Official Opening 10am Thursday 7 July 2022: CIAF Fashion Story Regional Indigenous Fashion and Textile Showcase (RIFTS) was the catalyst for the creation of fashion and wearable art from Tropical North Queensland.

Between 2013-2017 Grace Lillian Lee was engaged as CIAF’s inaugural Fashion curator.

Since then, Grace has committed to furthering the career and showcasing opportunities

for Indigenous fashion designers across Queensland and Australia through the establishment of the First Nations Fashion Design (FNFD) platform.

CIAF 2022 will be held from Wednesday 6 July - Sunday 10 July 2022 at Cairns Convention Centre and key arts and cultural hubs throughout the city.

The multi-arts program comprises mostly free and some ticketed events.

In 2022 artists have responded to the theme, Masters of Country – a world view which observes Queensland’s First Peoples’ as experts in their cultural knowledge and enduring connection to Indigenous plants and trees.

For more, visit: www.

ciaf.com.au

COMMUNITY NOTICE Warraber Community Meeting Hosted by TSRA Board Member for Warraber, Mrs Iris Billy

WHERE Community Hall, Warraber

WHEN Tuesday, 5 July 2022 3.00pm – 5.00pm Afternoon tea will be provided For further information: Please contact Mrs Iris Billy – Email ibilly.warraber@tsra.gov.au or phone 0419 496 056.

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

When sori time come, wherever you are Waibeni Indigenous Funeral Services Are here for you 24/7

Every yawor blo ume em difrnt For help with funeral arrangements for your loved one, contact your local funeral company on Thursday Island.

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

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

TN0266

4 issues:

30/6 ____, 7/7 ____, 14/7 ____ & 21/7/22 ____.

AdsiN  excel  Dummy 

08 30 YEARS OF MABO 8x2 colour ad @ $7.50 rate $120incl [$109.09ex].

Tamika Garay <tamika.garay@blackm.com>

COMMONWEALTH CENTRE Office Accommodation Prime office space of 40sqm, with kitchenette, in the Commonwealth Centre, Thursday Island is now available for lease.

The Commonwealth Centre is tenanted by Government agencies. It offers quality accommodation and facilities such as a shower and disabled toilet. The office overlooks the sea.

For Further information interested parties are invited to contact Tamika at Black & More on 07 4031 9944.

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.

EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF – DIAT ALFERINK E editor@torres.news NEWS & CHIEF SUB EDITOR – CHRISTINE HOWES M 0419 656 277 • E christine@torres.news TSIMA CORRESPONDENTS – Jen Enosa, Sylvia Tabua and Anthony Geagea.

NEWS & PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS – Kantesha Takai, Jillian Bowie, Talei Elu, Shanella Majid, Bel Lui, Alf Wilson, Velma Gara and Perina Drummond.

NEWS & PHOTOS DEADLINE All news, sports and photo contributions NOON MONDAYS

ADVERTISING ADVERTISING & PRODUCTION MANAGER – SHARON GALLERY M 0419 828 639 • E ads@torres.news

ADVERTISING DEADLINES Ad bookings Ad copy (ad to be set) Supplied Ad material Classifieds

THURSDAY 30 JUNE 2022 TORRES NEWS

Who knew the real Eddie Mabo?

High energy freelance journalist, broadcaster and audio content creator Rhianna Patrick was keen to tap into Torres Strait Islander voices when she was asked by the State Library of Queensland to produce a podcast series acknowledging 30 years since the Mabo decision.

Aimed at 15-17 year olds, and tailored to fit into the national curriculum, the six part series – Hi, I’m Eddie – is light, entertaining and informative – and a genuine attempt to introduce a man she had never met herself, but who had a profound influence on her life.

“For me, it was really important to include the voices of Torres Strait Islanders in the guests that we included in each of those episodes and the people that we spoke to,” she said.

“So I had a conversation with Aunty Gail Mabo and she gave me some ideas for people that I could approach.

“There were people I had in the back of my mind, but for me, it was really important about bringing the Islander voice back to that story and tapping in on some of the stories that I’d heard growing up and talking to those people who could flesh it out even more.”

Hi I’m Eddie PODCAST: Host Rhianna Patrick said she was keen to introduce Eddie Koiki Mabo to a new audience.

She said it was very much about finding those stories and hearing them from people who were actually there, to bring life and clarity to what happened.

“So being able to have Uncle Noel Zaro on the episode where we talk about the Black Community School in Townsville, as someone who went there, it was really nice to be able to listen to his memories of going to school and what he learned from Uncle Koiki during that time,” she said.

“So it was filling in the blanks that I’d only heard about growing up, that I didn’t know any other context around that until I really spoke to Aunty Gail and Uncle Noel.

“I was 15 when the Mabo decision happened and so I am thinking about that younger

generation that might not have been around or, like me, had grown up hearing different parts of this story while they were a teenager.”

She said it was also about trying to reach non-Torres Strait Islanders.

“It was a big responsibility and I really felt that, that it had to be right,” she said.

“I wanted to to show the human side of who he was.

“I remember, I think it was in the late 1990s when the family really started to push back on the fact that the name had just become a name, that there was no respect about the fact that it was a family name, when people would refer to things.

“And we forgot that there was a family involved in this,

there were people involved in this.

“And that was important to acknowledging the other plaintiffs and naming them, which we name in every episode as well, because I think people forget there was a group of them that did this work.”

She said it was exciting to have the opportunity to introduce ‘Eddie’ - as a person to a new audience.

“It had a profound effect on me being able to see someone from my community doing something on such a national and international level,” she said.

“And not just doing it for himself and his community, recognising that this was also for Aboriginal people, it was also for a better understanding of non-Indigenous people, understanding who we are as Indigenous people.

“I think for me, it was really that, that I was seeing my own community represented, but I realised that it was for a much bigger vision.

“And I think it’s really important to recognise that legacy, but also that this family too, all these families have been in the public eye for 30 years.” https://www.slq.qld.gov.au/ discover/podcasts/hi-im-eddie

Mabo Day celebrations on Poruma

12 NOON TUESDAYS 12 NOON TUESDAYS 2PM TUESDAYS 3PM TUESDAYS

PUBLISHERS TORRES NEWS PTY LTD. Diat Alferink – Chief Executive Officer 69 Douglas Street, Thursday Island Q 4875 E editor@torres.news

ACCOUNTS SHARON GALLERY M 0419 828 639 E shaztorresnews@gmail.com PO Box 385, Thursday Island Q 4875 ABN 16 657 427 908

flower power: Nazareth Ganaia Fauid.

FUN: Mri Billy, Susie Billy, Jade Sailor & Isabel Pearson.

Pics thanks to Poruma Ngurpay Lag, Coconut Island.

singing along: Poruma singers.

relaxed on a bright day: Eldridge Mosby, Francis Pearson & Kebisu Larry

happy: Susie Asai, Nazareth Fauid & Tiara Fauid.

keen: Sandra David, Susan Asai, Isabel Pearson, Bethel Pearson & Aaron Noack.

CIRCULATION COVERAGE AREA – Covering news and events of the Torres Strait and the Northern Peninsula Area including: Badu, Bamaga, Boigu, Dauan, Erub, Horn Island (Ngurupai), Iama, Injinoo, Kerriri, Mabuyag, Masig, Mer, Moa - Kubin (Arkai) and St Pauls (Wug), Muralag, New Mapoon, Poruma, Saibai, Seisia, Thursday Island (Waiben) - TRAWQ and Port Kennedy, Ugar, Umagico, Warraber and everywhere in between.

PUBLISHED – every Thursday.

CIRCULATION NUMBERS – 1075.

READERSHIP AV. – Print readership 4300 + 8024 followers on our @TSIMAtorresnews Facebook page

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We ackowledge the Traditional Owners of the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula regions. We pay our sincere respects to the Elders and the Peoples of the Torres Strait and the Northern Peninsula Area, across whose traditional lands and seas we report.

This newspaper is dedicated to recognising, preserving and promoting the traditional cultures and customs of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples of these regions.

Our offices are sometimes unattended. Please call and leave a message or email editorial, advertising or accounts.

NEWS 09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 JUNE 2022

Cairns commemorates Yam Island Church Day story and pics

BY BEL LUI Yam Island’s St John the Devine Church Day was commemorated at a service held at St Luke’s Anglican Church in Cairns earlier this month.

The service was conducted by resident priest Fr Victor Joseph, and Danny Lui gave a brief history of the Yam Island church, to everyone’s delight.

Many Torres Strait Islanders and the wider congregation enjoyed the harmonious language hymn singing, accompanied by Danny with his guitar.

It was a very spiritual event for everyone, with a special lunch provided after the service.

Jeffery Aniba Waia.

Saibai Islanders.

(L–R) Thamey Unicomb, Bethelia Lui and Criscilla Lui.

Garbutt keen for cray story and pics ALF WILSON

Danny Lui.

smiling: Aaron Noack, Year 2.

singing: Tiara Pearson Fauid, Prep.

Fr. Victor Joseph.

Connoisseurs of Torres Strait Island seafood in Townsville have been benefitting from a regular supply of fresh live crayfish sent overnight from the Torres Strait.

The popular delicacies come from the idyllic waters around Masig (York Island), where they are caught, and just one day later end up as ingredients of traditional and delicious dishes more than 1200 kilometres south.

They have proved to be a great business link between the island community and Townsville after restauranteur Evelyn Tamwoy-Billy opened Bina’s Kitchen earlier this year.

She said she was looking to provide Torres Strait Islander cuisine at her Garbutt Central shop, just a few kilometres from Townsville Airport.

After customers came looking for fresh Torres Strait crayfish from her, it wasn’t long before Evelyn found a supplier and business has been booming.

“Several boxes of Masig crays arrived here yesterday, they had been caught up there the day before and sent by flights, first to Horn Island then down here,” she said.

“The Coconut Curry Cray and Garlic Butter Cray have been so popular, they have been a success.”

She said her sons Jamal Kris, Leroy Kris and Malachi Billy from Masig were responsible for the catches.

She said her business had also been able to employ local Torres Strait Islander casuals, with that expected to increase as word of their success spread.

“When we get a big booking or order, I can put on more staff and the fisherman from Masig get more business,” she said.

concentrating: Henry Billy, Year 6.

dancing: Sandra David, Year 4.

making good business: Evelyn Tamwoy-Billy and husband Gibson Billy. INSET: The Crayfish caught in Masig water and the foods they are used in.

10 NAIDOC WEEK

THURSDAY 30 JUNE 2022 TORRES NEWS

NAIDOC Week events around North Qld Friday 8 July, 11.30am – 4pm: Deadly Day Out Riverway Parklands

For more details on Townsville NAIDOC events – www.townsvillenaidoc.com.au

CAIRNS Monday 4 July, 7am – 9.30am: Breakfast cairnsnaidocbreakfast@gmail.com Wednesday 6 July, 1pm – 5pm: Community Day Wuchopperen Health Service Ltd Thursday 7 July, 9.30am – 11.30am & 1pm – 3pm: Advocacy Training Uluru Statement from the Heart Advocacy Training hosted by Deadly Inspiring Youth Doing Good: www. diydg.org.au/events Thursday 7 July, 5pm – 8pm: Banner Making 3 Jensen Street, Manoora Friday 8 July, 9.30 to 10am: March Muster at 9am – Munro Martin Parklands to Fogarty Park

Stronger, Ryhia Dank (Nardurna) I created this piece after reading this year's NAIDOC theme. I knew straight away I wanted to do a graphic piece centred around our flags with text highlighting what we have been through and are still fighting for. I feel that this piece being black and white allows us to focus on the detail and messages in the artwork.

3-10 JULY 2022

facebook.com/NAIDOC

#NAIDOC2022 #GetUpStandUpShowUp

@naidocweek

Aboriginal Flag designed by Mr Harold Thomas. Torres Strait Islander Flag reproduced by kind permission of the Torres Strait Island Regional Council, designed by the late Mr Bernard Namok.

@naidocweek

In this artwork I have little bits of me and my family, I have included a crocodile for my late granny. She was one of the strongest women I know and was never afraid to speak her mind and stand up for family and Country. I have also included my family's dancing stick, this is present as a reminder that we will always have our Country, Kin and Culture.

There are also symbols to represent us as a community. People gathered around a camp, a spear and woomera to represent our strength, water, trees, animal tracks and non-human entities to show our connection to Country.

NAIDOC Week 2022 proudly acknowledges and celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy (1972) and 30th Anniversary of the 1992 Mabo decision [Mabo v Queensland (No.2) (1992)].

naidoc.org.au

compiled by Velma Gara

TOWNSVILLE Sunday 3 July, 8am – 11am: Flag Raising Ceremony Jezzine Barracks. Free and open to the public.

Wednesday 6 July, 7am to 9am: Corporate Breakfast The Ville-Resort Casino.

Friday 8 July, 5pm: Gala Dinner Dee’s Deportment, Grooming and Self Care Shangri-La, The Marina Cairns. Contact: Donna Corrie on 0400 480 740 or donnacorrie@ deesconsultancy.com Saturday 9 July 9am – 3am: Kup Murri Master Class Presented by Kunjur Mens Collective, Idinji Community.

MACKAY Friday 1 July, 7pm – 10pm: Karaoke under the Stars Hosted by Radio My 105.9FM at Hotel Mackay.

Monday 4 July, 11am: Cultural Weaving Workshop With Aunty Anita Wano-Sumner under the Fig Tree in between MECC and the Jubilee Community Centre, Mackay Regional Council Grounds, Gordon St

Wednesday 6 July, 11am – 2pm: TAIHS NAIDOC Friday 8 July, 10am: March Assemble at 9.30am at the roundabout at Hinchinbrook Drive and Thuringowa Drive (near Kirwan High School

Monday 4 July, 12pm – 4pm: Cultural Activities Hosted by PCYC Mackay. All Welcome.

Tuesday 5 July, 10.30am to 11.30am: Subeh Dance (5-11yrs) & Bird Clan Rehearsals Friday 8 July, 11am onwards: Family Fun Day Queens Park. Bird Clan Performance.

Saturday 9 July, 9am: Damper Cooking Competition Hosted by ATSICHS Family Day at Yuwi Yumba.

For more details on Mackay NAIDOC events – management@mackaynaidoc.onmicrosoft.com

Saturday/Sunday 9 and 10 July: Cairns Cricket Carnival – Endeavour Park Sunday 10 July, 7am: Deadly Runners and Walkers Fun Run Fun Run commences at 8am. Contact: Nadine Hunt on 0439 774 548 or cairnsdeadlyraw@hotmail.com

We want YOUR news!

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

You can email our editorial team via Diat or Christine with your words and pics – and tell us what’s new in your world!

Please contribute your words and fully captioned pics in clearly identified folders via Dropbox or WeTransfer (www.

WeTransfer.com). One folder per story and pics, or item.

You must include: your full name and contact details (not necessarily to publish, but to verify), a word or text document explaining who, what, when and where your story or event occurred, and a list of captions for any photographs you include. If you’d like more information about how to get your story on board, matha ring come!  Diat: editor@torres.news  Christine: christine@torres.news

11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 JUNE 2022

Juice Stand Arts and Cra�s Informa�on

NAIDOC March

Meet at Mr Turtles, Esplanade 9am Start

Meet at Mr Turtles, Esplanade 11.30am Start

12 NEWS / CLASSIFIEDS

ABOVE LEFT – reunited: Paul with two of his ex-students Jillian Bowie (nee Boyd) and Julius Tabua in front of the Catholic Church where he taught them at Sacred Heart School, TI. ABOVE right – friends: Paul with ex-student David Ahboo at David’s place of business, Torres Strait Motors, TI. RIGHT – coffee, AILAN-style: Paul Kennedy and Julius Tabua reminiscing over a cuppa in front of Bobby’s Snack Bar, TI. Pics supplied by Jillian Bowie & Paul Kennedy

THURSDAY 30 JUNE 2022 TORRES NEWS

Much loved teacher re-visits Waiben

By Jillian Bowie A schoolteacher who spent a year on Waiben in 1982 teaching year 7 students at Sacred Heart School, returned last weekend after 40

years to catch up with some of his ex-students.

I am one of the students ‘Mr Kennedy’ Paul Kennedy – taught.

It was an unexpectedly emotional reunion, with much to catch up on in a

short space of time.

Reminiscing over a cuppa at Bobby’s Snack Bar, our yarns were full and we made sure we captured this memorable moment with photos.

Paul said he

CLASSIFIEDS TO ADVERTISE

• M: 0419 828 639 • E: ads@torres.news

The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) is a Commonwealth statutory body located on Thursday Island. The TSRA is engaged in a wide range of service delivery functions to Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people living in the Torres Strait region.

The TSRA Culture, Art and Heritage Programme is seeking a suitably qualified, experienced, enthusiastic and motivated person to fill the following Affirmative Measures, Ongoing opportunity.

Project Support Officer APS 3 (P/N T01751) *SALARY RANGE $60,242.79 - $65,021.90 P/A TSRA accommodation is not available for this position. Applicants should familiarise themselves with the Thursday Island housing market prior to applying for this position.

The Project Support Officer would support the delivery of projects and initiatives of the Culture, Art and Heritage (CAH) Programme, benefiting the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area communities, in various areas including projects and initiatives, grant administration, policy and research and undertake a range of activities under the supervision of the Senior Project Officer and the Project Manager. *Generous allowances are paid on top of the salary listed above. Allowances include district allowance, leave fare allowance (payable after 12 months of service) and housing subsidy. Superannuation is paid at 15.4%.

The filling of these vacancies is intended to constitute an affirmative measure under section 8(1) of the Racial Discrimination Act 1975. This vacancy is only available to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.

A merit list may be created.

How to apply: • Visit our website at www.tsra.gov.au and click on the Opportunities to apply through the online application system or, • If you do not have access to the internet please contact the HR Team on (07) 4069 0700. ***APPLICANTS ARE REQUESTED TO APPLY ONLINE*** Closing date for applications is 11:30pm, Monday 11 July 2022.

For further information relating to this position please contact Melanie Nash on Tel: 07 4069 0700.

Note: • All positions with the TSRA are subject to satisfactory character checks, criminal history checks, health clearance, Australian citizenship requirements, and, if applicable, formal qualifications and a working with children check.

TSRA is committed to ‘Closing the Gap’ and in support of Government policy encourages applications from Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal Australians. TSRA embraces Workplace Diversity. Enjoy the benefits of a career in the Australian Public Service.

remembered us vividly, and asked after each one of us by name.

“I have always kept you all in my prayers,” Paul said.

He was able to catch five of his ex-students and said he loved hearing about all the good things we have done in our lives.

His own children, Luke and Clare, were with him, so he showed them where he used to teach and they met current Principal Majella, who was welcoming and kind.

Paul said he had fond memories of Waiben, which included the old picture theatre under the big tree and the VMI Hall on Douglas Street.

He was sad to see them gone.

“I was so emotional at the end of the year when I had to say goodbye to you all,” Paul said.

“I remember you all gave me a wongai fruit and told me if I ate it, I would surely return.”

Paul said he had often spoken about TI to his family and promised one day to bring them here.

We were 12 years old when Mr Kennedy, a young 24-year-old teacher walked through our classroom door not knowing what to expect.

He was a much-loved teacher who touched our hearts and left a mark on all of us in some way.

He certainly was my favourite teacher of all time - the best of them.

We wrote to each other for 10 years after he left to teach in Papua New Guinea before he returned to his hometown in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, where he was to settle and raise his own family.

The myth of the wongai is not just a sweet story, it has proven itself time and time again, even with visitors of time passed, its seeds plant life-long friendships.

CLASSIFIEDS 13

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 JUNE 2022 ADVERTISING  M: 0419 828 639  E: ads@torres.news AVAILABLE TO ALL TORRES STRAIT COMMUNITIES

5x2 ad @ $2.50inc rate $25inc. [$22.73ex].

Proof and deadline: 12 noon Tue. 7/6/22 Email: Tomisina Ahwang ---Secretary Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Thursday Island <secretary.ti@cns.catholic.edu.au>

SAVE THE DATE

Wongai Ball

TN0246 8 wks PEDDELLS

Saturday 3 September 2022

AdsIN  Excel  Dummy  5x2 ad @ multi ad disc. rate $40incl. flat rate [$36.36ex].

Proof deadline: 2pm Tue. 7/6/22 Christine Connor <christine@peddellsferry.com.au>

FOR SALE KEEPING OUR FAMILIES SAFE & STRONG Mura Kosker Sorority Incorporated can help you, your family and your community with social, emotional, educational, economic, health, cultural, spiritual and welfare support.

TN0258

30/6/22. _____

PH: 07 4069 1663 AdsIN  Excel  Dummy 

10x3 ad @ $2.50inc rate $75inc. [$68.18ex].

PAYING CC (inv. # _____) or DD - processed ___/___/22 Proof and payment deadline: 12 noon Tue. xxxxxx/22 Email: SAILOR, Cheryl (csail2) <csail2@eq.edu.au> Photo: Young child with Mura Kosker Sorority Staff Member Norah Mosby at Child Protection Week 2020 Celebrations, Kiriri Community (2020).

DATE CLAIMER DATE CLAIMER

School Bus & Govt. Contract Thursday Island

TRADES & SERVICES ADVERTISING

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

HERE

For more information: Call 0419 828 639 or Email ads@torres.news

TOMBSTONES

Enquiries: info@peddellsferry.com.au

Need papers for mulching your garden or packing?

The Torres News has old papers you can pick up for free!

Drop into the TSIMA office @ 69 Douglas Street, Thursday Island.

The Tombstone Unveiling

The Tombstone Unveiling Richard James Nawie (Pongkie) (Snr) Richard James Nawie (Pongkie) (Snr) Richard James Nawie (Jnr) Richard James Nawie (Jnr)

At the Innisfail Cemetery 10am Saturday 30th July 2022 At the Innisfail Cemetery For more information • Cheryl Sailor 0409 763 543 • Dalassa Sailor 0475 604 201

10.00 am Saturday 30th July 2022

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 24 Hour Service for DV CONNECT For more information - Cheryl Sailor 0409763543 Ph: 1800 811 811 Dalassa Sailor 0475604201 Lena Passi Women's Shelter ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

NPA WOMENS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HELP 24 hr Crisis Shelter – Ph: 4212 2200

Date claimer ads

TOMBSTONE UNVEILINGS The Torres News can publish your Tombstone Unveiling ads in our Classifieds section on Thursdays.

We offer 4 standard sized ads at the following special rates: Ad 1: 5cm deep x 2 columns (7.2cm) wide $25 per ad Ad 2: 7cm deep x 3 columns (11cm) wide $50 per ad Ad 3: 10cm deep x 3 columns (11cm) wide $75 per ad Ad 4: 10cm deep x 4 columns (14.8cm) wide $100 per ad

Booking and copy deadline: 12 noon on Tuesdays.

Just email through your wording and any images to be included and your ad size preference, and we can do the rest. * Other ad sizes and costings upon request.

Call 0419 828 639 Email ads@torres.news

Torres News

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

Trinity Monuments - Trades and Services section: weekly 10x2 ad, @ $61.60 gst inclusive per ad, category: Tombstones. Starting 3/9/20 - 24/6/20.

Anna@Trinity <anna@trinitymonuments.com.au>

HERE For more information Call 0419 828 639 Email ads@torres.news

Torres News PUBLISHED EVERY THURSDAY Available at various outlets in the

Torres Strait & NPA and also at these newsagencies and stores CAIRNS • Tobacco Stop Woree (formerly Bayview Gardens Newsagency) – Southside Shopping Village, Woree • Earlville Newsagency – Stockland Cairns Shopping Centre, Earlville • Enmore News – 5 Reservoir Rd, Manoora • Marketplace Newsagency – 2/96 McLaughlan Rd, Bentley Park • NewsXpress Cairns Central – Cairns Central Shopping Centre, 126 McLeod Street • Railway Newsagency – 48 McLeod St, Cairns • Raintrees Newsagency – Raintrees Shopping Centre Alfred St, Manunda

MOSSMAN • News Extra Mossman – 35 Front Street

YOUR AD HERE

Get your Business Noticed

MAREEBA • Nextra Mareeba News – 125 Byrnes Street, Mareeba INGHAM • Ingham Newsagency – 42 Lannercost Street PALM ISLAND • ABIS Palm Is. – Bwgcolman Supermarket, 67 Beach Rd TOWNSVILLE • Mooney Street News – 72-86 Mooney St, Gulliver • NewsXpress Garbutt Central – 1/221 Ingham Rd, Garbutt • NewsXpress Sun City – 307 Flinders Mall MACKAY • Moores Newspower – 332 Shakespeare Street

ADVERTISE HERE

in the Torres News TRADES & SERVICES DIRECTORY Standard 5x2 Ad only $36 per week* *50MM DEEP X 72MM WIDE – MINIMUM 6 WEEK BOOKING

Call 0419 828 639 Email ads@torres.news

14 SPORT NQ into women’s league comp

BY ALF WILSON A North Queensland Cowboys team will enter an expanded 10-club NRL Women’s competition next year.

“We have a blueprint for investing in the women’s game at all levels,” ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys said in a statement.

The Sydney Roosters beat Brisbane Broncos in this season’s final of the six club NRLW comp in which the other teams were Gold Coast Titans, Newcastle Knights, Parramatta Eels and St George Illawarra Dragons.

On June 15, the NRL announced that North Queensland, Canberra, Cronulla and Wests Tigers will enter the NRL Telstra Women’s Premiership in 2023 season.

North Queensland has a strong base from which to build a highly competitive NRLW team.

Their Gold Stars won the recent grand final of the Statewide BMD ladies Premiership which defeated the Capras 14-12 in a cliffhanger.

The 2022 season Gold Stars line up included fullback Jasmine Peters, centre Hagiga Mosby, halfback Tahlulah Tillett, second row forward Sareka Mooka and interchange players Theophelia MosbyNona and Samara Luta.

Tillett had played for Newcastle Knights in the NRLW whilst Stephanie Mooka, who had also played for the Gold Stars during the season, lined up for the St George Dragons team two years ago.

The Gold Stars have a host of NRLW-contracted players including Romy Teitzel, Hagiga Mosby, Emma Manzelmann, Shaniah Power and Destiny Brill.

Northern-Community Rugby League and Competitions Region Manager Renae Kunst described it as “an absolute coup” for North Queenslanders.

“For a young female to see a genuine pathway that now reaches right to the

elite in our own region is exciting and we predict will only have more girls take up our great game as time progresses,” Renae said.

The process to have a NRLW side started back in September, 2019, with the formation of the Cowboys Women’s Academy. Cowboys CEO Jeff Reibel declared at the time the club would be ready to field an NRLW side in 2023, and that dream has become a reality.

The North Queensland Gold Stars were established the next year to play in the BMD Premiership – Queensland’s top women’s competition.

The 2020 competition was cancelled after just one game due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the side returned for their first full season in 2021 and embarked on a deep finals run, falling just one game short of the decider.

“This is a truly fantastic day for our club and rugby league in North Queensland, Reibel said.

“I’d like to firstly thank our board for their vision and providing the opportunity and support to enter a submission.

“This is a reward for the hard work of the people inside our club who put so much time and care into growing our women’s program from the grassroots, culminating in our successful submission.

“It’s also a reward for every young girl in North Queensland who wants to play the game of rugby league.

“If we look back to 1995 and why this club was born, which was to allow North Queenslanders to be able to play rugby league at the top level without having to leave home and now we can do that with a women’s team as well.

“Rugby league is now quite rightly an elite sport internationally for both men and women and it was crucial for our club to have a full time women’s team to provide a legitimate pathway for North Queenslanders to the elite sporting arena.”

Ella-Faye to coach Outback side

Out and about: Mens and Ladies NQ United Team doing an activity session with a class in Tully Primary School.

BY ALF WILSON Waiben-based Ella-Faye Hosea-Peters will coach the Northern United representative side to meet Queensland Outback at next month’s curtain raiser to the Northern United versus Outback men’s game in Roma on 24 July.

Ella-Faye said she was delighted to be named coach and was looking forward to the challenge.

“We have 14 girls from the

whole list who are of Torres Strait descent,” she said.

“Before now I had only coached schoolgirls rugby teams at regionals for Tagai State College and the 2021 Under 17 NQ United Girl’s team.

“And I’ve been doing it since 2017, this year will be a first for me to coach an Open’s team.”

United Women’s team was picked from rugby league clinics that were recently held throughout all the remote

THURSDAY 30 JUNE 2022 TORRES NEWS

Alau over Suburbs, Knights over Badhu NPA side Alau Eagles scored a 22-16 win over Suburbs in round eight of the Zenadth Kes RL Island Roosters comp at Ken Brown Oval on Saturday.

It was a hard fought four try to three victory and Alau Eagles showed some quality football in what many considered an upset.

But not the Eagles supporters.

Alau Eagles try scorers were David Mooka, Nesta Phineasa, Rodney Toby and Mikeala Young who also booted three goals.

For Suburbs the try scorers were Pryce Baragud, John Mosby and George Gabey whilst Frederick Matthew slotted the goal.

In the main game Pioneer Knights defeated Badu side Mulga Tigers 26-22 in another cliffhanger.

Pioneer Knights try scorers were Ricardo Gela (two), Dabus Mauga, Benjamin Neliman and Daniel Yorkston.

Dabus Mauga kicked three goals from five attempts.

Mulga Tigers scored four tries and kicked three goals

however the names of those were scored were not available on the official QRL sheet.

Roosters had the bye.

The first two rounds of the comp were cancelled due to a referees shortage and round six was also not held because of sports trainer courses at Bamaga.

In round nine on 2 July, Island Rooster Cup Roosters will meet Pioneer Knights and Alau Eagles is drawn to play Mulga Tigers.

Suburb has the bye.

Erub confirmed for Gordonvale

BY ALF WILSON Erub United, who won the 2021 Zenadth Kes Rugby League carnival on Waiben, has fired in an early nomination for the Gordonvale Indigenous Allblacks carnival to be held on 23 and 24 October this year.

Whilst Erub United will field a quality team, it will face opposition from other powerful outfits including reigning Gordonvale champions The Merv Ah Kee Memorial team.

In last year’s grand final Merv Ah Kee Memorial defeated Waiben side Suburbs 28-6 at Gordonvale’s Alley Park under a backdrop of the mighty Pyramid Mountain.

Suburbs is one of the leading three teams in the Zenadth Kes men’s rugby league comp on Waiben and last year celebrated its 40th birthday.

Long time Erub United organiser Elia Ware told the Torres News on Sunday his side was a certain starter.

“Yes, we have nominated for the Gordonvale carnival 2022 and look forward to it,” Elia said.

North Queensland Cowboys star Gideon Gela-Mosby and Northern Pride Queensland Intrust Super Cup hooker Jayden Hodges shone for Erub United, who won last

areas by QRL staffs.

“The team and the staff were recruited and put together by them as well,” Ella-Faye said.

“I look forward to working with these ladies from the different areas and can’t wait to see what everyone will bring to the team.”

She said the girls came from Normanton, Weipa, St Pauls, Badhu, Waiben and NPA. Ella-Faye has a proven track record of success in

October’s grand final of the Zenadth Kes Rugby League carnival on Waiben, defeating Magun Warrriors 20-8.

Speedster Jon Reuben, who made his NRL debut in Townsville two weeks ago against the Cowboys, has also indicated he will play for Erub United at Gordonvale.

Gordonvale Carnival organiser Jason Joinbee said it

rugby league both as a player, coach, and administrator.

She was a founding member in 2010 of the powerful ladies’ side Deddeyal Gammaz, which has since won seven Zenadth Kes rugby league grand final carnivals on Waiben, and two Island of Origin ladies’ division grand finals.

She said she was grateful to be given the opportunity and thanked Terry Abednego and the QRL.

was good to have Erub United in the comp.

Twelve teams are expected to battle it out at Gordonvale, with some from as far away as Boigu Island, Mount Isa, Normanton and Hope Vale.

The Gordonvale carnival kicked off in 2013, the only year it had to be cancelled was in 2018 due to COVID-19.

team work: Taken before our game in Tully: Deddeyal Gammaz players Moira Hosea, Ella-Faye Hosea-Peters, and Latoya Billy with Coach Thomas Loban.

8x2 local sports

SPORT 15 Looking for more

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 JUNE 2022

PNG an NRL chance after Fiji win

local sport?

We’re happy to run it if we have it!

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

Send us your pic of the week, fixtures or finals results by noon on Monday!  EMAIL: editor@torres.news ***need Oct. copy for 29-09-22 issue

LEFT: David Mead scores. RIGHT: Lachlan Lam celebrates a try. Pics thanks to PNG Kumuls Rugby League.

BY ALF WILSON THE upset 24-14 win by the Kumuls over Fiji in Saturday night’s International Rugby League clash in Sydney has boosted Papua New Guinea’s chances of joining the NRL. Rugby league is the national sport in PNG and Melbourne Storm centre Justin Olam one of their most famous and respected people because of his NRL performances.

Olam shone and young Sydney Roosters back Lachlan

Lam scored two of the Kumuls four tries.

In his last Test for Papua New Guinea, David Mead grabbed the try that sealed victory.

Flying outside back Alex Johnston also starred for the Kumuls.

PNG Hunters contests the Queensland Cup which is a second tier of the NRL. In May, PNG officially launched a campaign to enter a NRL team in 2030, at an event in Port Moresby.

Torres Strait Island players would be on the radar of any PNG side aimed at joining the NRL, according to respected rugby league identity David Westley from Cairns.

David was the Kumuls Assistant Coach for the PNG LNG Kumuls on Saturday for the Pacific Test against Fiji.

Now aged 47, Westley was a key member of the Torres/Cape team which reached the grand final of the prestigious Foley Shield grand final in Townsville in 2009.

Torres/Cape had been a big underdog in its three qualifying matches but defeated Cairns, Townsville and Mount Isa/ Midwest to qualify for the final.

Westley said PNG would have to also recruit players from other NRL clubs to complement their footballers who compete for the PNG Hunters in the Statewide comp.

“You have to field a strong team in the NRL and I think there would be some Torres Strait players who would be good for them,” he said.

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

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

MONDAY 6 JUNE to SATURDAY 1 OCTOBER

Daily services operating: Mon to Sat. *Please check on week of travel as some Sunday services will operate during this time.

Boarding strictly 15 mins prior to departure

“Linking the Cape with the Torres Strait”

Valemei working hard.

Prayer Circle.

PHONE 07 4069 1551

RESERVATIONS ESSENTIAL – TICKET ONLINE www.peddellsferry.com.au • Passengers please pre-ticket – online, agents, or by phone Concession fares available, conditions apply

THURSDAY

TN0015 • 02/06/22

S Namo.

Fans.

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.

Please note freight may be delivered 1.30pm to 2pm to travel on the 2.30pm TI-Seisia Service or at other times Phone: 1300 664 875 delivered directly to the vessel and pre paid.

Fax: (07) 4090 3628 THE JETTY SHOP & OFFICE, ENGINEERS JETTY, THURSDAY IS. email: info@tiferry.com.au

McDONALD CHARTER BOATS

new size 10x7 & new �metable

WEBSITE: www.tiferry.com.au

Tuesday

Wednesday

Depart T.I.

Depart H.I.

Depart T.I.

Depart H.I.

Depart T.I.

Depart H.I.

6.10 am #

6.30 am #

6.10 am #

6.30 am #

6.10 am #

7.00 am

7.30 am

7.00 am

7.30 am

7.00 am

7.30 am

8.00 am

8.30 am

8.00 am

8.30 am

8.00 am

8.30 am

9.00 am QF2489

9.30 am

9.00 am QF2489

9.30 am

9.00 am QF2489

10.00 am

10.40 am QF2488

10.00 am

10.40 am QF2488

11.05 am

11.30 am

11.05 am

1.20 pm QF2497

1.55 pm

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

3.00 pm QF2491

www.tiferry.com.au

Thursday Depart T.I.

Friday

Saturday

Depart T.I.

Depart H.I.

Depart T.I.

6.30 am #

6.10 am #

6.30 am #

6.10 am #

7.00 am

7.30 am

7.00 am

7.30 am

8.00 am

8.30 am

8.00 am

8.30 am

8.00 am

8.30 am

8.00 am #

8.30 am #

9.30 am

9.00 am QF2489

9.30 am

9.00 am QF2489

9.30 am

9.00 am QF2489

9.30 am

9.00 am QF2489

9.30 am

10.00 am

10.40 am QF2488

10.00 am

10.40 am QF2488

10.00 am

10.40 am QF2488

10.00 am

10.40 am QF2488

10.00 am

10.40 am QF2488

11.30 am

11.05 am

11.30 am

11.05 am

11.30 am

11.05 am

11.30 am

11.05 am

11.30 am

11.05 am

11.30 am

1.20 pm QF2497

1.55 pm

1.20 pm QF2497

1.55 pm

1.20 pm QF2497

1.55 pm

1.20 pm QF2497

1.55 pm

1.20 pm QF2497

1.55 pm

1.20 pm QF2497

1.55 pm

3.40 pm QF2496

3.00 pm

3.40 pm QF2496

3.00 pm QF2491

3.40 pm QF2496

3.00 pm QF2491

3.40 pm QF2496

3.00 pm QF2491

3.40 pm QF2496

3.40 pm QF2496

3.00 pm QF2491

3.40 pm QF2496

4.15 pm

4.40 pm

4.15 pm

4.40 pm

4.15 pm

4.40 pm

4.15 pm

4.40 pm

4.15 pm

4.40 pm

4.15 pm

5.40 pm QF2490

5.15 pm

5.40 pm QF2490

5.15 pm

5.40 pm

5.15 pm

5.40 pm QF2490

5.15 pm

5.40 pm QF2490

5.15 pm

5.40 pm QF2490

6.00 pm #

6.20 pm #

6.00 pm #

6.20 pm #

6.00 pm #

6.20 pm #

6.00 pm #

6.20 pm #

6.30 am # 6.10 am #

Depart H.I.

Sunday

Depart H.I.

Depart T.I.

Depart H.I.

7.30 am

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

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

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

BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL !

Effective 3rd June 2022

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

16

EDITORIAL l E: editor@torres.news

THURSDAY 30 JUNE 2022

Jacob shines at Origin

BY ALF WILSON PROUD Torres Strait Islander couple Walter and Bethel Mene had to travel through three Australian States to watch their son Jacob Mene line up for Queensland in the under 19s State of Origin match against New South Wales in Sydney on Thursday night.

Walter and Bethel are based at Port Hedland in WA and have never seen Thursday Island-born Jacob play.

They planned a “surprised visit” to Townsville last week to watch Jacob play an under 21s match for Mendi Blackhawks in the Hastings Deering Colts, Statewide comp.

“We flew from WA to Cairns, picked up a car that we bought for Jacob a week earlier drove it down to Townsville and picked up our grandson Walter jnr (aged 12) at Abergowrie College near Ingham,” Walter Snr told the Torres News.

“Before we got to Townsville Jacob had been picked for Queensland in the under 19s Origin Team and we only saw him briefly.

“Then we had to change our plans to go to Sydney to watch him play.”

Things were looking pretty good for Queensland when Jacob scored the first try of the match for Queensland in the sixth minute.

However it wasn’t long before the Blues went on a rampage which included four tries in 10 minutes to blow the game wide open, ultimately winning it, 32-4.

Jacob had a great game overall and his future in rugby league looks bright.

“We were on the sideline holding the Torres Strait flag and the crowd was very big,” Walter snr said.

The family has four other children, Celeste Mairu (lives in Badu), Ibegan Mene (Cairns), Egin Mene and Charles Mene (Port Hedland) as well as 18-year old Jacob who resides at Townsville.

“We were so excited to get to see Jacob score that try and just to see him, and he felt the same way,” he said.

“We got to spend a short time with him.”

Former Weipa based QRL administrator Karl Adams works in Townsville these days, and Jacob stays with him.

Jacob attended St Teresa’s College Abergowrie and earned high praise from Principal Angus Gulletly.

“Jacob has been an exceptional sportsperson,” he said.

“He could switch between all football codes and shone on our College and Interschool athletics days.

“He has continued to focus on his football career in both Rugby Union and now League but always finds time to spend time with his nephews at St Teresa’s College, Abergowrie.

“He regularly comes to the Gowrie Warriors games at Townsville Junior Rugby League Grounds and has offered to run water and support the Gowrie brothers at their weekly games.”

Jacob went to Anglican Grammer school (Churchie) in Brisbane on a Rugby Union Scholarship for the last two years of school and in Year 12 Jacob signed a two year contract with the North Queensland Cowboys Young Guns.

He turns 19 in December.

The quietly spoken youngster gained a lot of experience in his Origin appearance and looks set for a successful future in rugby league.

IN ACTION: Jacob at the U19 QLD Rugby League team training camp. Pic courtesy Vanessa Hafner/QRL. INSETS: Top – Bethel, Jacob & Walter. Bottom – Jacob with his nephew Walter, described as another up and coming Mene footy star who plays for the U13 Gowrie Warriors team.

Do you have a business idea?

"I'm excited to help people in the Torres Strait to start, stay and thrive in their business. I'm ready when you are."

Call 0408 782 768 or visit manyrivers.org.au to find out if Many Rivers is right for you.

Many Rivers is supported by Australian Government Torres Strait Regional Authority ABN: 58 128 486 788

Rita Gutchen