Torres News Edition_62_15 December 2022

Thursday, 15 December 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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2022 Torres Strait NAIDOC Awards Night

Our amazing winners: They got up, stood up and showed up for their communities - our NAIDOC 2022 winners. Pic supplied.

With this year’s theme: Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up!, the Torres Strait 2022 formal NAIDOC dinner and awards night hosted by Torres Shire Council was a night of celebration, music, recognition and commemoration.

Guests turned up in style and were entertained by the Komet

Torres Strait Islander Art and Culture Dance Group, who celebrated traditional Torres Strait Islander dance and the influence of other cultures, including Polynesian culture from the Cook Islands.

Night Shift once again brought their talent and joy, as well as their music, well into the evening.

On behalf of Torres Shire Council Cr John Abendego said it was time to keep the fire burning.

“This year marks the 85th Anniversary of the First Island Conference, the signing of the Masig Statement, the 30th anniversary of Mabo, the 30th anniversary of the Torres Strait Flag,” he said.

“We had the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese, visit us not long after he was sworn in.

“We had Minister for Indigenous Australians, Linda Burney, and Senator for Queensland, Nita Green also visited our Shire.

“Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and her

Cabinet spent time with us and conducted a parliamentary session and community cabinet here.

“The Japanese Ambassador to Australia visited us, as did the Archbishop of Canterbury – not long after conducting Queen Elizabeth II funeral service”.

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02 NEWS

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PM’S PNG visit postponed

TS LIB events in planning

A planned trip to Papua New Guinea by Prime Minister Albanese from 12-13 December has been postponed due to COVID. The PM’s office said they were working with the Papua New Guinea Government to reschedule the visit for early 2023.

Mr Albanese said he looked forward to visiting in the New Year, the first visit for an Australia Prime Minister to Papua New Guinea since 2018. a meeting of minds: Warrant Officer 2 David Boye, Velma Gara and Therese Cowley having a yarn about what might be possible.

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Three key events could be on the cards for families and descendants of those who served in the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion (TS LIB).

Committee members, Therese Cowley and Velma Gara, met with Warrant Officer 2 David Boye earlier this week to discuss key events in Townsville at Lavarack Barracks and RAAF Base.

Ms Cowley said the events would include a family day, military display and museum tours.

She said it was also possible the family day could be the launch

for the six weeks of promotions of the TS LIB at schools.

There’s been confirmation by nearly 10 schools for visits by defence personnel, elders and community members to their schools in March to Anzac Day next year, they said.

The last TS LIB meeting for 2022 will be held this Saturday 17 December at St John’s Hall at South Townsville.

Meeting time is 10am to 12 noon.

For more information, contact either Therese Cowley on 0437 088 580 or Velma Gara at velma.gara32@gmail. com

Apology Oops!

Apologies to Thomas (Tom) Savage, who we incorrectly identified as Tom Ahwang in last week’s Torres News.

Sorry about that Thomas.

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NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER 2022

Island ferry services to continue

BY ALF WILSON Hammond Island residents will have a much brighter Christmas and festive period with news that a ferry service to and from Waiben will continue over the school holidays.

Ferry operator Torres Strait Tours had run three return services daily with two for students to attend school on Waiben.

A third ferried residents of Hammond Island to Waiben to do shopping and business, but earlier this month it was announced that they would not continue any of their runs over the school holidays due to costs.

The last service was to be last Friday, 9 December, which was not popular with the 300 Hammond Island residents.

However, Torres Strait Tours has since posted on its home page that the ferry will continue over the holidays.

“Good news for our Hammond service,” they said.

“We will be able to continue the service over the school holidays.

“We will publish the timetable as soon as we can.”

Torres Strait Tours receives state government subsidies during the school terms to take students to Thursday Island but those subsidies do not extend to servicing the general population.

The possible cancellation of the Hammond Island ferry received coverage in the last Torres News, also in the state-wide Courier Mail and on the ABC. The Torres News contacted the office of Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey about the matter and received a reply.

“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to connecting communities in and around the Torres Strait,” Mr

Bailey said in a statement for the Torres News.

“We are working closely with our hardworking local member Cynthia Lui and the council to understand the opportunities and potential solutions for the region, to deliver the biggest benefits to communities.

“I encourage the commercial operator to provide an adequate level of service for the community, and local workers.”

Torres Strait Island Regional Council Mayor Phillemon Mosby told the Torres News last week they been looking at options with Mr Bailey and his office, and working with the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA), State and Commonwealth governments to find solutions.

Several Hammond Island residents contacted the Torres News last week about the probable cancellation.

They said the suspension of services would mean they had no transport to Waiben.

“We have a lot of elderly people here who have chronic diseases and they would use the ferry for the 15 minute trip across to TI – everyone will be affected and it is inhumane,” one said.

Another resident said the ferry carried 18 people, and the cost of five return trips was $110, which there was no complaints about.

The workers’ ferry usually left Hammond Island at 8.15am.

They said there were as many as 10 Hammond Island residents who worked on Waiben and would have to find their own transport without a ferry service.

“We don’t have any major services on Hammond Island, there is no supermarket which there is on all other islands, and no health centre,” another resident said.

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Housing Co-op recognised for 40+ years The Torres Strait Housing Cooperative (TSHC) was recognised for more than 40 years of service to Indigenous community housing at last month’s 2022 Queensland Housing Provider Recognition Awards held in Brisbane.

The event was hosted by Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Housing Queensland (ATSIHQ), which the TSHC has been a member of since 2019.

The award was accepted by the TSHC Chair and ATSIHQ Director Charles Martin.

Mr Martin said he wanted to recognise past and current Directors and Members for their commitment and contribution to ensuring the success of the TSHC. He said the Torres Strait Housing Cooperative was formed in 1973 and celebrates it’s 50th year of operation next year.

“Over the past 50 years, the Housing Cooperative has relied only on its rental income to maintain and operate it’s properties, without any government assistance,” he said.

“However, due to skyrocketing insurance premiums, rates and increasing

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Charles Martin (centre) receives the Recognition Award from ATSIHQ President Mary Doctor and Vice President Angelina Akee in Brisbane last month. Pic supplied. maintenance costs plus the natural decline of older properties which require expensive capital repairs, the organisation is now looking to secure capital funding to ensure the sustainability of its social housing in the Torres Strait for future generations.”

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Since joining ATSIHQ TSHC has become part of a process for developing a state wide housing action plan and organisation to support and improve Indigenous community housing outcomes across Queensland.

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04 NEWS

THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER 2022 TORRES NEWS

MOU spells better economic potential for all Better economic to support local communities. development opportunities leading to “The Torres Strait is improved lifestyle and full of beautiful people wellbeing for people in with creative ideas for the Torres Strait was their own future,” Ms behind a Memorandum Moore said. of Understanding “Equipping them to (MOU) signed by the make those decisions for Torres Strait Regional themselves is essential.

Authority (TSRA) and “This MoU means Indigenous Business we’re able to maximise Australia (IBA) last our resources to support week. the TSRA and the Torres Representatives from Strait communities TSRA and IBA met on to achieve greater Waiben to review the economic development agreement and the next and social growth. steps they needed to “TSRA are well take to achieve mutually established in the region beneficial outcomes for and we’re looking the community. forward to working with them closer for IBA CEO Kirsty results that benefit their Moore said it was about communities. setting up a framework for ongoing discussions “The partnership between both parties as between our agencies the first step towards will allow us to share 16x2 Dummy knowledge,  AdsIn  aligning_____ resourcesExcel  expertise,

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in the picture is: TSRA CEO Vonda Malone, IBA CEO Kirsty Moore, TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM, TSRA Deputy Chairperson Horace Baira, TSRA Head of Operations Zachariah Matysek and the Island Star Dancers. ideas, and learnings to work more efficiently and effectively across our shared investment in the improvement of the lifestyle and wellbeing of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in the Torres Strait region.”

IBA Chair Eddie Fry

said their relationship with TSRA aligned with the long term strategic objectives for IBA. “IBA exists to support our First Nations people to buy a home, start or run a business, and invest for their future,” he said.

“The partnership with TSRA builds on those objectives and supports our vision for a nation where our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are economically independent.”

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen

AM welcomed the MOU. “Productive and innovative partnerships are critical towards a thriving economy in the Torres Strait,” Mr Stephen said.

“The TSRA is proud to partner with

organisations who share our priorities to empower local people and help make dreams, such as owning a home or running a business, a reality for individuals and families.”

TSRA CEO Vonda Malone co-signed the MOU and said it signified the start to opening up further opportunities within the region.

“We look forward to working together towards strong economic outcomes across the Torres Strait, including in the Northern Peninsula Area communities of Bamaga and Seisia,” Ms Malone said.

“This agreement between the TSRA and IBA has exciting potential to boost local businesses, create job opportunities and build workforce capacity.”

Learn more about the TSRA at www.tsra.gov. au or IBA at www.iba.

gov.au

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LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED: Island Stars Dancers are part of a business owned by Joey Laifoo, which celebrates Torres Strait Islander culture for tourists, visitors and events.

SIGNED AND SEALED: TSRA CEO Vonda Malone and IBA CEO Kirsty Moore. Pics supplied.

COVID-19 cases are rising again.

Vaccination is still your best protection against the virus.

You can get a vaccination from all health facilities. Call your local clinic to book.

Remember to keep washing your hands and stay home when you are sick.

Consider wearing a mask if you are sick and need to leave home.

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

COVID-19 vaccine

This will also help protect you and your community against other illnesses.

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

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Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service @torresandcapehhs

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TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER 2022

HEALTH & NEWS 05

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Kerosine lamps and wheelbarrows – nurse marks 40 years *UPDATED 2022/23 FY RATES

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A kerosine lamp sat flickering in the corner as the newborn baby’s screams rang out in the tiny medical centre on Murray Island nearly 40 years ago.

Medical supplies on the outer islands were scarce back in the mid-1980s.

Young nurse Sainty Kaigey grabbed a bit of twine, sterilised it with scissors and used it to cut and tie the umbilical cord.

When she was 19, Sainty moved to Thursday Island to train for three years to become an enrolled nurse.

She saw friends move away but she wanted to return to her home island and care for her community.

“I came back [to Murray] in 1985 and we were working with no resources,” she recalled.

“I started with a kerosine lamp.

“When we were doing night callouts, we would assess patients using the lamp for lighting at the Medical Aid Post (MAP).

“Slowly we got a generator and then the whole island had power.

“We had no transport or vehicle.

“Our first transport was a wheelbarrow – we’d just chuck stuff in and go.

“I remember I carried an oxygen cylinder on my shoulder to attend a patient for three kilometres.”

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Gwen Ketchell.

They carried medical supplies to callouts in white pillowcases.

The only support was a daily two-way radio call to the nurse on Yorke Island, or sometimes Thursday Island.

Once medevac’ing became an option, she recalled one harrowing callout when they had to use the bucket on a digger to carry an elderly patient up the hill to the airstrip.

Sainty, 59, has been based on Murray Island for 37 years and is the Cluster Coordinator.

She has a wealth of knowledge and is a pillar of her community.

She was one of three people to mark 40 years with Torres & Cape Hospital and Health Service at last

week’s Length of Service Awards.

Thursday Island Operational Services Manager Gwen Ketchell was another to reach the milestone.

“I started as a cleaner and worked my way up,” she said.

“It’s a challenge.

“I don’t mind the job.

“The hospital has changed a lot.”

The mum-of-two is now 67 and considering retirement.

She and her husband are both local and want to stay there to be close to family.

Waiben Principal Dentist Officer Marie McGowan reached 35 years’ service which was also recognised at the Awards.

Annual PKA Carols by Candlelight The Port Kennedy Association held their annual end of year Carols by Candlelight at PKA hall earlier this month.

A small gathering of community were entertained by local musician Margaret Gabey and a few other enthusiastic attendees.

Prizes were given away with a mina ‘Eso’ to the PKA Board and staff for their efforts.

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Cook Electorate Office Closures: Our Cairns and Thursday Island offices will be closed from Thursday 22 December and will reopen Monday January 9 2023.

Warmest thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.

May peace, love and prosperity follow you always.

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06 HEALTH

THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER 2022 TORRES NEWS

The serious business of managing diabetes this season

BY ALF WILSON Diabetes is something Torres Strait and NPA residents should be mindful of as we enter the ‘silly’ season, given there are nearly 1700 people in the region with ‘sugar’ and other chronic diseases, Torres & Cape Hospital and Health Service has warned.

More than 320 people on Waiben alone suffer from diabetes.

Thursday Island Quality

Lifestyle and Chronic Disease Program Manager Edna Sambo said Thursday Island had the largest concentration of people with diabetes in the region.

“Thursday Island is home to 368 people with diabetes – 328 of whom are Indigenous people – which is about 22 per cent of the total number of diabetics on our register in our health service,” she said.

“Across the health service as a whole, we currently have about 1676 active diabetes clients on our register.

“In the Torres Strait, we need to find ways to reduce both the overall rate of diabetes in our communities and the poor health people experience because of the complications of diabetes.

“This is something that many people can do for themselves and manage to prevent complications.”

Ms Sambo said proper healthy choices and physical activity can help people avoid getting diabetes in the first place, and and can also help to manage the disease.

“If people with diabetes eat healthy kai kai, have a healthy body weight, and are physically active they can be strong and healthy,” she said.

“If people with diabetes eat unhealthy kai kai and are not physically active, their blood sugars will be high and they will be unhealthy. “They will suffer complications like stroke; blindness, heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, foot problems and risk having amputations.”

Ms Sambo said diabetes was the world’s fastest-

growing chronic disease, and was already the seventh leading cause of death in Australia.

“If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person it is almost four times more likely that you will have diabetes than will your non-Indigenous neighbour,” she said.

“The other thing about diabetes in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families is that it occurs at a younger age in Indigenous families and can be preventable.

“If not managed properly, diabetes can lead on to end-stage kidney failure, which would then require people going on renal dialysis for life, unless they can have a kidney transplant.

“It makes sense, therefore, for us to do everything possible to reduce the rate of diabetes in our communities, as well as to assist those with diabetes to self manage so that they do not develop complications. “That’s why everyone should be aware of diabetes all year round.”

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Torres shire CounCil To lead, provide and facilitate a sustainable, safe and culturally vibrant community

PUBLIC NOTICE COUNCIL MEETING DATES FOR 2023 Pursuant to Section 257 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Council has approved the following dates for the 2023 Council Ordinary Meetings.

2023 Month

Date

Time

January

Tuesday, 24 January

9.00am

February

Tuesday, 21 February

9.00am

March

Tuesday, 21 March

9.00am

April

Tuesday, 18 April

9.00am

May

Tuesday, 16 May (Horn Island)

9.00am

June

Tuesday, 20 June

9.00am

July

Tuesday, 18 July

9.00am

August

Tuesday, 15 August

9.00am

September

Tuesday, 19 September

9.00am

October

Tuesday, 17 October (Tamwoy)

9.00am

November

Tuesday, 21 November

9.00am

December

Tuesday, 5 December

9.00am

•

Residents are welcome to attend and be part of the public gallery and observe the proceedings.

•

Deputations require 14 days notice in advance of a meeting date and all requests, for consideration, are to be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer.

Dalassa Yorkston CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER December 2022

Health authorities are encouraging all residents involved in pig-hunting to take advantage of the free vaccination program for Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service Public Health Medical Officer Dr Allison Hempenstall says.

“As a result of previous outbreaks in the mid-1990s and the potential risk of JEV coming across from Papua New Guinea in infected mosquitoes, vaccination is part of the Queensland immunisation schedule for the Torres Strait and NPA,” she said.

She said JEV was transmitted to humans through the bite of a mosquito that had bitten an infectious animal, usually pigs or water birds.

She said there was

heightened awareness of JEV on Cape York following the detection of the virus in some feral pigs in an area north of the Skardon River in June, and a further detection in pigs in the Mapoon area in September.

No human cases have occurred.

“But it is clear that JEV has been transmitted at some time this year on Cape York Peninsula,’’ she said.

“As such, it is possible that further cases of JEV may occur in feral pigs across the region.

“It’s for this reason we are expanding the free JEV vaccination program that already exists in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) to include Cape York.

“Vaccination is an effective

way of preventing the disease and is recommended for all residents of the Torres Strait and NPA who are 12 months of age or older.

“In addition, we are now recommending that all Cape York residents involved in pig-hunting also take advantage of the free JEV vaccination program.

“JEV vaccinations can be accessed through your local primary healthcare centre.’’

She said JEV does not spread directly between people and there is no risk of JEV from consuming pork or pork products.

For more information on JEV see http://conditions.health.

qld.gov.au/HealthCondition/ condition/14/217/83/ japanese-encephalitis

07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER 2022

TORRES STRAIT Marine Safety Program MetEye marine weather service for the Torres Strait

Five vital weather safety checks The Bureau of Meteorology’s MetEye maps have swell and wave map forecasts to assist skippers plan their voyage. Three map-based weather features provide comprehensive planning tools to all mariners across the far north.

The best way to access MetEye is through the Bureau’s marine webpage portal: www.bom.gov.au/marine All experienced boat operators in the Torres Strait know how dangerous a sudden squall or rough seas can make passage between the islands. The tools show the direction of different swell conditions as well as windwaves (or ‘sea waves) and total wave height.

Torres Strait mariners have localised knowledge of how swell direction can interact with tide, wind, chop and current to produce danger zones. Used in conjunction with the marine text forecasts and warnings, these swell and wave maps add another safety dimension when planning your voyage, forming part of the ‘Five Vital Weather Safety Checks’ to complete before setting off.

1

Warnings current for your boating area: Highest priority forecasts for the next 24 hours. Winds of 26 knots or more indicate rough conditions for small boats.

2

Weather conditions affecting safe navigation and comfort: Coastal water forecasts provide information on factors such as reduced visibility, thunderstorms, lightning and squall conditions.

3

Wind conditions: Plan your trip for the best conditions.

Look for forecast trends in wind speeds and shifts in wind direction over the day.

4

Wave conditions: The combination of sea and swell heights indicates the wave conditions you may experience. Take note of both swell and sea wave predictions when planning your voyage and make sure your vessel is suitable for the expected conditions.

5

Tide times: Knowing when high and low tide will occur is important for mariners, especially in the Torres Strait, where reefs, rocks and shallow areas make navigation dangerous.

Visit www.bom.gov.au/marine/about/vital-checks.shtml for more information.

View the MetEye map: www.bom.gov.au/australia/meteye/

Torres Strait Marine Safety Program Australian Maritime Safety Authority 80 Douglas Street, Thursday Island QLD 4875 PO Box 471, Thursday Island QLD 4875 P: (07) 4090 3079 F: (07) 4069 2573

Maritime Safety Queensland 4 Hastings Street, Thursday Island QLD 4875 PO Box 109, Thursday Island QLD 4875 P: (07) 4069 1351 F: (07) 4069 2190

08 CLIMATE CHANGE

THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER 2022 TORRES NEWS

National Native Title Council reps at COP27 Legislative change and fair agreement-making that creates real economic opportunities for First Nations rights holders will ensure Australia is globally counted in reaching net zero emissions, the National Native Title Council (NNTC) says.

The way Australia addresses the climate crisis must be done in partnership with First Nations landowners, who own or manage much of those resources, they said.

The Climate Change Act 2022 legislated the Federal Government’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 43 per cent by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050.

The International Energy Agency has predicted that about 25 per cent of Australia’s land mass would need

at cop27 in egypt: Minister for International Development and the Pacific Pat Conway introducing an Indigenous Peoples Organisation panel, including NNTC CEO Jamie Lowe (third from left) last month. Pic supplied. to be blanketed in solar panels and wind turbines to deliver global demand for green hydrogen by 2050 – most of which

would be on lands held under Native Title and land rights, that legally covers around 40 per cent of Australia.

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Gundjitmara Djabwurrung man and NNTC CEO, Jamie Lowe said the shift marked an opportunity to change the way things were done.

“As the world’s economy responds to climate change and the move towards net zero emissions, First Nations communities are calling for a ‘just transition’ in which they will play a lead role,” he said.

“This economic transition offers an opportunity to learn from the mistakes of the resource extraction industry and re-conceptualise the role for First Nations in development, one that is premised on the right to self-determination and ownership of projects on their lands and waters.”

He said ensuring First Nations communities shared in the benefits of

the clean energy boom was critical and there was great potential.

In the lead up to COP27, the NNTC focused on amplifying the needs and aspirations of First Nations rights.

He said they had called on the Australian Government to ensure the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) played a role in

clarifying the framework around benefit sharing with Traditional Owners.

As it stood, he said, Australian law did not provide a level playing field for First Nations people in negotiating agreements.

“The Australian law entrenches power imbalances and undermines the capacity of Traditional Owner groups to protect what is theirs and to make decisions about matters that affect their lives and communities,” Mr Lowe said.

“The destruction of the Juukan Gorge rock shelters in the WA Pilbara region by Rio Tinto in May 2020 is a prime example of this.”

He said it was unclear under the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) where renewable energy developments sat.

“The law needs reform,” he said.

“We urge the government to take prompt action on the application of UNDRIP and to amend the Native Title Act and related legislation to include Free, Prior and Informed Consent.”

Young people focus for 350.org

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When sori time come, wherever you are Waibeni Indigenous Funeral Services Are here for you 24/7 IN EGYPT: Yessie (left) & Genia (right) meeting with COP27 advocates last month. Pic supplied.

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

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Young Torres Strait Islanders are rising up to protect Zenadh Kes, 350 Australia Organiser & Torres Strait 8 claimant Yessie Mosby says.

“Whilst our landmark UN case has wrapped up, we will continue advocating for climate justice, especially through our young people,” he said.

“We’re starting with a Torres Strait Islander Youth Climate Justice camp in Cairns to build large-scale support for our campaign.

“Early next year, Our Islands Our Home will bring together

young Torres Strait Islanders like Genia through our Ailan Pawa Youth Ambassador program.

“They will range in age from 12 years old to 30 years old.

“We’ll fly in young people from low-lying islands on the frontlines of the climate crisis.

“Together we will advocate for the urgent climate action needed to protect our island homes, including seawalls and adaptation, renewables for Zenadh Kes, and no new fossil fuel projects.”

He said their focus would be

on teaching their Ambassadors to: • Practise telling their stories from the frontlines of climate change • Build skills in community organising, advocacy and climate justice.

• Make plans for building the power of Torres Strait Islanders in the fight for climate justice He said they were looking for support via a fund raising campaign at: https://act.350.

org/donate/ailan-pawaambassadors

NEWS 09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER 2022

McKyus wins statewide achievement award

Celebrated book author McKyus “This launch was a day filled with Levi has even more reason to proud hearts, love and laughter. celebrate the official launch of his “Keep reaching for the stars book last month on Waiben – he’s McKyus, for you are the brightest also the winner of this year’s star in our Tagai constellation.

Autism Queensland’s Individual “Reading opens doors!”

Achievement Award.

Tagai College Disability Specialist Each year Autism Queensland teacher Deb Calder said she was very recognises the outstanding proud of McKyus. achievements of individuals on the “To see McKyus blossom at the autism spectrum, parents/carers, launch was one of the highlights of professionals, schools, businesses, my teaching career,” she said. community organisations, volunteers “Although initially anxious about and others through their Recognition Awards. the launch, McKyus rose to the occasion and took it all in his stride, He wasn’t able to make it down particularly the book signing. to Government House in Brisbane to accept the award but has been told “I felt immensely proud that we about it. were able to launch The Monsters of What a year it has been for McKyus’ in community, surrounded McKyus! by [his] Torres Strait family.”

His book has gone into a second Catfish Creative’s Cath Leach said print run and has been selected to be she adored McKyus. included in the Indigenous Literacy “It was the most rewarding project Foundation’s Book Supply 2023, in my career,” she said. where books are supplied to other “What a pleasure it was to meet remote Indigenous Communities. him in person at last.

The Monsters of McKyus was “From the tinkling of the ukulele launched at the Gab Titui Cultural as we walked in, to the rousing Centre last month with a celebratory applause at the end, it was all smiles monster cake for about 35 friends – and a few tears, especially when and family, including Elders, the above – McKyus signing books in exchange McKyus’ mum, Ursula, shared a few local pastor and Indigenous Literary for a joke. words.

Foundation board member Leitha Assan.

“Big thanks to the Indigenous TOP LEFT – Teacher Deb Calder (left) with Literacy Foundation for the unique “Brilliant authorship by the McKyus and art mentor Cath Leach (right). amazing McKyus,” Ms Assan said. and extremely way Issues they AD # TN0316.

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10 NAIDOC

THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER 2022 TORRES NEWS

2022 Torres Strait NAIDOC Awards Night Continued from P1 The Torres Strait 2022 formal NAIDOC dinner and awards night hosted by Torres Shire Council was a night of celebration, music, recognition and commemoration.

CEO Dalassa Yorkston said it was a wonderful event.

“And as Cr. Abednego reminded us, we must Get Up, Stand Up and Show Up – especially in 2023 – a very big year with the referendum for the Voice to Parliament, and the regional Summit not only showcasing our region but importantly, our rich, surviving culture,” she said.

Recipients of the awards included Youth of the Year Coen Nicholls, Elder of the Year Dolphina Bin Tahal and Camilla Sabatino, Sportsperson of the Year Theophelia Mosby-Nona, Trainee of the Year Jimmy Abednego and Artist of the Year Thomas Pedro.

Community Event of the Year went to the 85th Anniversary of the First Torres Strait Island Councillors Conference on 23 August on Masig Island.

The award was accepted by Vida Bon and Mrs and Mrs George Pedro. Mrs Bon was the granddaughter of the first Chairperson of Masig Island Council, and it was what an honour to have her attend and speak at the Awards celebration. She said it also meant a great deal to her.

Other Special Recognition Awards were given to the Torres Strait 8.

Marine Biologist Madeina David was also recognised for her work combining modern science with traditional land and sea management.

Ella Kris and Ofa Havilli were recognised for their work in the very successful celebrations of the 30th Anniversary of Mabo day Celebrations held on Waiben.

Bakoi Namok and her family received a Special Recognition award for their community event commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Torres Strait Flag on 29 May. Receiveing the award on her behalf was Godchild of the Late Bernard Namok, Walter Cook.

The 2022 NAIDOC Business of the Year Award was awarded to Lagaw Titui and Island Stars Dance Team business owner Joey Laifoo.

The NAIDOC Community Tribute Awards was awarded to Fr. Charles Loban, and Nicholas and Tunan Sabatino.

The NAIDOC 2022 Person of the Year Award was awarded to Deputy Mayor Gabriel Bani.

Cr Gabriel Bani, a direct descendent of Ephraim Bani and the Kuyku garka (Head man) of the Major Tribe of Wagadagam, has been a councillor for many years.

He was involved in the crafting of the ‘The Masig Statement – Malungu Yangu Wakay (Voice from the Deep)’ launched this year.

A worthy winner of this year’s 2022 NAIDOC Person of the Year Award, Gabriel received his award to a standing ovation.

“This year’s NAIDOC Awards Night truly celebrated the 2022 theme: Get Up! Stand Up! Show up!’ and we look forward to the 2023 NAIDOC Award Night being equally successful,” Ms Yorkston said.

“Torres Shire Council would like to express our appreciation to all the wonderful sponsors of the 2022 Torres Strait NAIDOC Awards: Coral Sea Concrete, SeaSwift, Austek, Ports North, Dreadsound, TI Concrete, Reel Planning, Preston Law, OSE Group, Emver Partners and the Department of Seniors, Disability Services, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Partnerships.”

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For more information about how to get your story on board, email:  Diat: editor@torres. news  Christine: christine@torres.news

NAIDOC Award winners. Pics supplied.

NAIDOC 11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER 2022

2022 Torres Strait NAIDOC Awards Night

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TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER 2022

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SPORT & CLASSIFIEDS 13

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER 2022

Lui signs with his former junior club: Centrals story and pics

BY ALF WILSON Star halfback Robert Lui has signed up with his former-junior club, Townsville Centrals, to finish off a steller NRL, Queensland Cup and English Superleague career.

A gifted halfback, Lui played 43 NRL games for the West Tigers (2009 to 2011), 46 for the North Queensland Cowboys (2012 to 2015) and then moved overseas to play in the English Superleague.

Talented Lui played 102 matches there for Salford Red Devils (2016 to 2019) and 25 for Leeds Rhinos after that.

He also played a total of 11 games for Leeds in the 2021 Super League season including the club’s 36-8 loss against St Helens in the semifinal, which was his last game at the top level.

The 32year-old Lui returned to Townsville in late 2021 and lined up for the Townsville Blackhawks last season in the Queensland Hostplus Cup. On his return to Townsville in late

SIGNED UP: Robert Lui in Eastern Warriors colours at the Bindal Allblacks carnival.

Pics supplied.

2021 Lui was given a gala party at the Centrals Clubhouse in Townsville.

Proud of his Torres Strait heritage, Lui told the Torres News he was looking forward to the season.

“I played from Under-7 to Under-10 with the Upper Ross club and then switched to Centrals in Under-11 to Under-16,” he said.

“That is where I learnt about serious football and it will be

good to finish my career here.”

Whilst Lui enjoyed the 2022 season with the Townsville Blackhawks he said many of the games were away from home.

“With Centrals the games will all be around here and I will have lots of support from my family and friends,” he said.

Two of his biggest fans are his father Phillip Lui and Wasee Lui. Lui hopes to talk another former Cowboy,

Ray Thompson, into joining him at Centrals.

“We played together there as juniors,” he said.

Other former champion players to line up with Centrals include former internationals Matty Bowen and Rod Reddy.

Coming from a big family as he does, Lui also has lined up at numerous Allblacks carnivals over some years for Eastern Warriors.

“We did okay at the last Bindal Sharks carnival in Townsville and I hope to get some of the Torres Strait boys to join Centrals,” he said.

Lui also shone for the Coastal Balaz side from Townsville which won October’s Mackay Indigenous Allblacks carnival defeating local family team GH United 18-nil in the grand final.

GH United had the services of former NRL player Ben Barba, of Boigu descent, who is the marquee signing for Cairns and District competition side Mossman Port Douglas Sharks.

The majority of Sharks players are of TS heritage.

Goldfield Ashes ready for six story and pics

BY ALF WILSON Hundreds of players will converge on Charters Towers from 20 to 22 January for Australia’s biggest cricket carnival – the Goldfield Ashes.

Last year 201 teams competed in four men’s and one women’s division even as COVID-19 concerns kept others away.

This year the number of teams is expected to swell to more than 240 in Men’s A Grade, B-1, B-2 and Social Divisions, as well as the stand-alone ladies section.

Garbutt Magpies said they would field two teams.

“Garbutt Magpies will be taking two teams to the Goldfield Ashes in 2023 – the B-2 mens team and ladies team will be competing,” Garbutt Magpies official Jermaine Ross told the Torres News.

Mr Ross is an organiser of the men’s side whilst Nicole Ross is in control of the ladies XI. The carnival started in 1948 with just six teams and has grown over the years to one of Australia’s biggest carnivals in any sport.

It attracts players from as far away as Bamaga, Waiben, Cape York, Brisbane, Mount Isa, Townsville, Cairns and Mackay.

PROUD: Robert Lui’s parents Phillip and Wasee Lui.

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ready to bat: Garbutt Magpies players Jermaine Ross and Nicole Ross.

It is estimated that up to 500 Indigenous cricketers will line up for various teams.

Those with a high percentage of Indigenous players include West Indigies, Black Bream men and ladies, Weekend Wariyas, Brothers, Tropix and others.

More than 60 fields in Charters Towers and surrounding areas will be used including at schools, parks, the gun and golf club grounds, on private properties, an aged care facility, and the aerodrome reserve.

One of the private fields which creates plenty of interest is called “Drinkastubbie Downs” which is 13km from Charters Towers and

the home field of the Hutchings family whose team is called Chad’s Champs.

The only time the carnival was cancelled was in in 2021 due to logistic challenges presented by COVID-19 restrictions.

Players and supporters book out all accommodation and the carnival provides a major boost to the local economy.

Many carnival teams have some wacky rules.

In the lower grades which by far have the most teams, anybody who drops a catch or scores a duck, has to change into a woman’s dress for the remainder of the day’s play.

• Solid understanding of issues impacting upon Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and a demonstrated commitment to the rights, needs and aspirations • Demonstrated experience and ability to work and liaise with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and organisations; and facilitate their involvement in consultations, research, and project activities • Highly developed interpersonal, communication, negotiation, and leadership skills with a demonstrated ability to engage effectively with staff, local communities, stakeholders and at all levels of government • Demonstrated experience working with computers and software programs such as Microsoft Office including Word, Excel and Outlook • Demonstrated experience of managing various programs in remote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities • Developed strategic and analytical skills with the ability to develop practical and forward-thinking operational plans and solutions • Strong time management and organisational skills with the ability to prioritise, multi-task and work under pressure • Excellent attention to detail and an unquestionable commitment to confidentiality • Well-presented, positive attitude, strong work ethic and a strong willingness to learn • Ability to travel on small aircrafts in the Torres Strait as required • Driver’s Licence or ability to get one, and complete a National Criminal History Check • Relevant qualifications in Business Management and/or Project Management • Proven experience working in employment/training and community services fields (Min 2 years’ experience in a similar role) This is an identified role. To perform this role, it is essential that the person is an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person. It is therefore a genuine occupational requirement under section 25 of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991.

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14 SPORT

THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER 2022 TORRES NEWS

AFL Cape York House celebrates high achievers AFL Cape York House recently celebrated the highest number of students finishing secondary school, with 12 students graduating at the Awards Night earlier this month.

Nine female students in the Girls House, Lency Asse, Margaret Dau, Lythia Marou, Natahlia Mosby, Tanayah Mosby, Tamara Piva, Layleen Scholes, Kathy Wymarra and Bianca Yam graduated from Year 12 in 2022.

While there were three, Romin Dean, Johoiakim Kawangka

and Jimmy Lifu in the Boys House.

Head of AFL Queensland Trisha Squires, who attended in person, said it was a fantastic night.

“We are so proud of the 12 students who graduated from secondary school in 2022, as it is a huge milestone to reach” she said.

“Overall, at AFL Cape York House we have a 90 per cent success rate for our students who exit AFL Cape York House to then enter a career pathway plan which includes

employment, tertiary or vocational education.

“This statistic is very much related to the fantastic relationships with our partner schools in Cairns and the Cairns broader community, which have encouraged our students to be independent, while developing networking skills and furthering their education.

“We can’t wait to see what they do next “I would also like to acknowledge Rick Hanlon and his team at AFL Cape York, for their fantastic work and commitment.”

2022 Award Winners included...

Contribution to Life at the House • Girls House: Jesse-Ella Mosby, Year 7 from Yorke Island

Careers & Pathways Award • Girls House: Natahlia Mosby, Year 12 from Yorke Island • Boys House: Walter Satrick, Year 10 from Bamaga

Cultural Award • Girls House: Yehusha Lifu, Year 11 from New Mapoon & Lency Asse, Year 12 from Badu Island

Sports Person of the Year • Girls House: Margaret Dau, Year 12 from Horn Island • Boys House: Masie Mosby, Year 10 from Darnley Island

Academic Consistency • Girls House: Rosabella Wasaga, Year 7 from Horn Island • Boys House: Jerome Holland, Year 7 from Mabuiag Island

Lythall Family Award • Girls House: Natahlia Mosby, Year 12 from Yorke Island • Boys House: Rusia Bann, Year 11 from Thursday Island

ALL PICS: Award winners and performers at the AFL Cape York House graduation. Pics supplied.

8x2 local sports

SPORT 15 Looking for more

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER 2022

Taipans impress with another overtime win The CQUniversity Cairns Taipans fought back from a 16-point deficit to end up overcoming the Illawarra Hawks in double overtime 102-101 at Cairns Convention Centre last Saturday.

The Hawks put up a terrific start to the game to lead by 11 at quarter-time on 4/7 threepoint shooting and still being up five at the half.

Cairns responded with a strong third quarter but still couldn’t shake the Hawks and eventually it was a Tyler Harvey three-pointer with 12 seconds to play that sent the game to the first overtime.

It was the first time in franchise history that the club has won two consecutive overtime home games.

Tahjere McCall led the way contributing 23 points, seven rebounds, three assists and two steals. It was DJ Hogg who turned it up late in the fourth and the two overtime periods, though, to end up with 23 points

local sport?

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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

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

FERRY SCHEDULE

CAIRNS TAIPANS: Ready for the 2022-23 Indigenous Round. Pic supplied. with 5/11 from long range.

Keanu Pinder added another double-double of 18 points, 14 rebounds and six assists, while Shannon Scott had a double-double of his own with 12 points, 13 boards, six assists

and three blocks.

William ‘Davo’ Hickey, for the Illawarra Hawks, played only seven minutes but scored 2 points and 1 rebound.

NEXT GAMES: Saturday 17

FRI. 2 – FRI. 23 DECEMBER 2022 MONDAY / WEDNESDAY / FRIDAY DEPART • THURSDAY IS: 6.30AM & 2.30PM • SEISIA: 8AM & 4PM MONDAY 26 DECEMBER NO FERRY SERVICES (public holiday) WED. 28 & FRI. 30 DECEMBER DAILY FERRY SERVICES DEPART • THURSDAY IS: 6.30AM & 2.30PM • SEISIA: 8AM & 4PM

December, 4:30pm AEST - Jackjumpers v Taipans (away) Tuesday 20 December, 6:30pm AEST - Taipans v Wildcats (home)

Elijah’s Heroes win Palm Is comp

2023 SCHEDULE

BY ALF WILSON Awareness about autism was the focus of the Elijah’s Heroes teams who won the women’s competition and were runners up in the men’s at Palm Island’s Guntharra Christmas Cup rugby league carnival last weekend.

The Elijah Mosby Autism Awareness teams were named after young Elijah Mosby, who has autism and is the son of Patrick Mosby and Christine Hero.

For many years Patrick and Christine focused on Autism Awareness and they have entered Elijah’s teams into many carnivals in several sports.

MONDAY 2 JANUARY NO FERRY SERVICES (public holiday) WEDNESDAY 4 JANUARY to FRIDAY 31 MARCH 2023 OFF PEAK SEASON DAILY FERRY MONDAY / WEDNESDAY / FRIDAY DEPART • THURSDAY IS: 6.30AM & 2.30PM • SEISIA: 8AM & 4PM Boarding strictly 15 mins prior to departure

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2022 Guntharra christmas cup women’s winners: Christine Hero on the far right with the Elijah’s Heroes team on Palm Island. Pic supplied.

Elijah’s Heroes have competed at the ladies section of the Goldfield Ashes cricket carnival in Charters Towers, and at numerous Bindal Allblacks rugby league carnivals in Townsville.

The two Elijah Mosby

Autism Awareness teams performed magnificently on Palm Island with the men going down in the final to local side Barracudas Black which included a lot of Torres Strait players.

“Patrick and I are

passionate about Autism Indigenous families to OFFICE HOURS • MON–FRI, 9am–12noon & 12.30–2.30pm awareness as we think seek help.”

LUGGAGE • Passengers are required to take their luggage directly to the ferry with them at boarding time it’s very important Patrick and Elijah piece under 20 kg, excess charges otherwise apply) THURSDAY have ISLAND FERRY(1TIMETABLE to share our story,” taken/ HORN part in ISLAND an FREIGHT • Items under 20 kg carried, conditions apply.

Christine told the Torres “Autism Awareness” Please note freight may be delivered 1.30pm to 2pm to travel McDONALD CHARTER BOATS News. walk in Townsville on the 2.30pm TI-Seisia Service or at other times “A lot of people do 1300 664 875 along Phone: the Strand where delivered directly to the vessel and pre paid.

(07) 4090 3628 not understand Autism. thousandsFax: of people THE JETTY SHOP & OFFICE, ENGINEERS JETTY, THURSDAY IS. email: “It’s difficult for some walk and joginfo@tiferry.com.au every day.

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SPORTS CONTRIBUTIONS Please email your stories and photos to our Editor before 5PM on Mondays.

16

THURSDAY 15 DECEMBER 2022

EDITORIAL l E: editor@torres.news

For the love of the game 2022 was a big year for TI Junior Tennis but coach Greg Gould is hoping 2023 will be even bigger.

“This was the first year of TI Junior Tennis, and I’m excited to bring it back again in 2023,” he said.

“We’re definitely keen to get more local kids involved.

“Every Saturday morning we do three sessions, two Red Ball sessions, which is kids aged six to eight, then an Orange Ball session, which is kids from nine to 12.”

He said this year’s Coaches Awards went to Meira Loban, Summer Manalaysay, Tibua Baudu, Taj-Harper Shutt and Heidi Seymour.

“These are the kids who just turned up every week, and happy and smiling and enjoying their tennis,” he said.

“The kids who were really giving it all their best, not so much about ability, but they turned up and they’re really keen to learn tennis and how to play.”

Volunteers including Jermaine Reuben back row right, at the Kuki Sports Carnival. Pics supplied.

Kuki Sports Carnival ready for 2023 re-start

BY ALF WILSON Touch, basketball and darts competitions will be hotly contested on Badhu Island from 13 to 15 January at the popular Kuki Sports Carnival.

In its 10th year, it has been organised by Kulpiyam and committee member Jermaine Reuben was expecting a lot of interest.

“We are expecting 12-15 men’s teams and up to six women’s for

touch,” he told the Torres News last weekend.

“Basketball is also popular and darts will also have many teams.”

As the first major sporting event in the Torres Strait in 2023, teams and players from Boigu, Badhu, Saibai, Waiben, Mabuyag, Iama, Poruma, Warraber, St Pauls and Kubin, and the NPA were expected to travel to Badhu by mainly outboard motor powered dinghies and a lesser number by light plane.

Referees.

Winners of men’s comp – Badu Boyzal.

tennis wins: Group pic. Pics supplied.

in action: LEFT: Isobel Foley. MIDDLE: Tibau Baudu. RIGHT: Summer Manalaysay.

coaches award winner: Meira Loban in action.

Family support: Greg, Arthur & Lesley