Torres News_Edition 67_09 February 2023

Thursday, 9 February 2023

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 M: 0419 656 277 l E: christine@torres.news

l

Edition 67

l

$2 incl. GST

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

Half a tonne of marine debris: gone

Seisia and Bamaga community members, and volunteers from around the NPA, hauled a whopping 500kg of marine debris off their community beach last weekend.

The two day, volunteerrun beach clean was run in partnership with the Torres Strait Regional Authority and not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the removal and prevention of marine debris, Tangaroa Blue.

See the full story and more pics on PAGE 3 N

Proudly supporting your community for more than 35 years Sea Swift is proud to support remote communities across the Torres Strait and Cape York through sponsorship opportunities, with our contributions valued at more than $1 million per year.

This support includes: • Arts and cultural events • Environmental conservation

• Community wellbeing • Local enterprise • Community events.

Check our website for the latest news and updates for your community.

Live schedules at www.seaswift.com.au | Connect with us on social media!

General Cargo • Project & Charter • Mothershipping • Defence • Fuel • Engineering • Adventure Cruises seaswift.com.au 1800 424 422

02 NEWS

THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023 TORRES NEWS

Climate biggest Pacific threat The Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat has released the Pacific Security Outlook Report 2022 -2023, highlighting key regional security issues and trends.

As Leaders reaffirmed when they launched the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, and as this report highlights, climate change remains the region’s single greatest security threat.

Gender based violence and natural disasters were other key priority focus areas, together with illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUU), cybercrime and transnational organised crime.

Regional security mechanisms that helped address issues was important, Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum Henry Puna.

“To achieve the Forum’s vision of peace, harmony, security, social inclusion and prosperity, it is important to have regional security mechanisms that help address traditional and non-traditional issues in the Pacific region,” he said.

“We must not allow new issues to distract us from action to address the most pressing threats to the peace and security of Pacific peoples.”

The report also said the COVID-19 pandemic laid bare the Pacific’s health system vulnerabilities, which were long standing, and difficult to overcome, and highlighted the importance of a continued efforts to strengthen border and health security.

Full Report https://www.forumsec. org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/ Pacific-Security-OutlookReport-2022-2023.pdf

Your North Queensland airline connecting the islands of the Torres Strait with Cairns and Bamaga

FLY WITH A QUEENSLANDER

Be aware of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease The Torres Strait, Cape York and Northern Peninsula Areas have already had their first cases of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease in 2023.

Torres & Cape Hospital and Health Service Public Health Medical Officer Dr AllisonHempenstall said a state-wide action plan was in place to tackle acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease throughout Queensland.

“We have already had our first case of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and our first case of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) so far this year within our health service region,” she said.

“Last year, we had 26 cases of ARF and 62 cases of RHD. “While last year’s totals were fewer than the 36 cases of ARF and 77 cases of RHD we recorded in 2021, any cases of ARF and RHD in our region are always a matter of concern.”

Dr Hempenstall said rheumatic heart disease was caused by the Streptococcus A bacteria group (strep).

“The infection can be spread from person to person by large respiratory droplets, for example via sneezing, or direct contact with people infected by the bacteria, and can progress into rheumatic heart disease,” she said.

“If untreated, rheumatic heart disease can lead to heart failure and complications like stroke and can greatly reduce the ability to lead a normal life.

“Parents need to look out for common infections that might otherwise be overlooked, such as a sore throat, sore joints, fever or skin sores because these can result in longterm heart damage.

“Once we find someone with acute rheumatic fever or rheumatic heart disease, we have very effective treatments that stop it going on to cause long-term cardiac damage such as heart failure and strokes.

“That’s why it is important to identify people with ARF so they can be treated and managed before the disease progresses into more severe stages or evolves into rheumatic heart disease.

“Once diagnosed with ARF or RHD, patients require regular scans to ensure appropriate ongoing management and it’s important that they turn up to their scheduled appointments for these scans.

“The scanning service is generally delivered via outreach from Cairns and checks may be every six months to threeyearly, depending on the stage and severity of their condition.’’

For more information about RHD, visit: https://www. health.qld.gov. au/public-health/ groups/atsihealth/ health-priorities/ rheumatic-heartdisease

Apology On the front page of Issue 66 the Torres News reported the late Brian Akee was a posthumous recipient of the Order of Australia Medal.

Families would like to be certain our communities are aware Mr Akee was better known as Leo Brian Akee.

The Torres News would like to apologise for any confusion.

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023

Half a tonne of marine debris Charlie first Waiben-born in 2023 gone from Seisia Beach M Continued from P1 Community organiser and 2023 Young Australian of the Year for Queensland, Talei Elu, has been running beach clean ups for the past three years in Seisia, and said she wanted to host a beach clean that supported Elders to join, so they could teach and pass on cultural knowledge.

“Elders were invited to join the beach clean volunteers for morning tea and lunch, and afterwards had the opportunity to weave and share their stories with TSIMA broadcaster

Jenni Enosa,” Talei said.

“An important part of the day was sorting all the marine debris collected.

“Ebony Bail from Tangaroa Blue taught local volunteers how to appropriately identify and catalogue marine debris into the Australian Marine Debris Initiative database.

“This will help identify marine polluters and help stop pollution at the source.”

She said the day was a success.

“It was a wonderful event and it was so great to see community members, local business

owners, paramedics, teachers, RFS and SES volunteers and TSRA staff to come along and lend a hand,” she said.

“Thank you to all the volunteers who helped make this weekend a reality and a very special thanks to the HACC team for all your efforts and work throughout the weekend to make this a really special beach clean by supporting our Elders to come along.

“Marine pollution is an ongoing issue and will require consistent effort – every visit to the beach is an opportunity to clean up our environment.”

PICS SUPPLIED BY TALEI ELU Charlie Mae Friend might only be a few weeks old, but she’s already in the history books.

The newborn became the first baby born within the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service when she arrived at Thursday Island Hospital on January 5.

Mum Chloe Boykett had been due on December 28 and was planning for a Christmas baby.

But Charlie arrived safely a few days later – an exciting start to 2023 for Chloe and partner Sam Friend.

The couple are from the Sunshine Coast, but have been living on Waiben for more than three years.

Chloe is a teacher at Tagai State College and Sam is a carpenter.

“We’re so lucky Charlie was born up here, it’s just a beautiful place,” Chloe said.

She had been part of the local Midwifery Group Practice and had nothing but praise for staff at TI Hospital, particularly midwife Kylie Shiel who was with her for much of the pregnancy journey.

“I can’t talk highly enough about how great the care was,” she said. “They were just incredible.”

Chloe and Charlie were able

to stay four nights after the birth, which Chloe said was invaluable as a first-time mum to get extra support.

“The midwives overnight were so helpful,” she said. “It was so good to have them there and we could just stay as long as we wanted.

“And the support afterwards – Kylie came over to our house to give further support.”

Charlie weighed 3.5kg (7.71 pounds) and was 52cm at birth.

The TCHHS runs a Midwifery Group Practice through Waiben, Weipa and Cooktown Hospitals.

These enable pregnant women to have a known midwife and midwifery team throughout their pregnancies.

Pics supplied by Talei Elu

PERFECT VALENTINE'S DAY GIFTS AVAILABLE IN STORE ONLY

by Artist Laura Mooka

Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 10am - 3pm Saturday 9:30am - 1:00pm Scant the QR Code for more information

07 4069 0888 22 Victoria Parade, Thursday Island

shop.gabtitui.gov.au

04 NEWS

THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023 TORRES NEWS

Nominate now for the 28th YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament

Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion

Young people from across Queensland who want to make their voices heard and empower their communities are urged to apply to participate in the 2023 YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament, with applications opening last week.

The YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament offers Queenslanders aged 15 to 25 the opportunity to speak up for their communities and learn first-hand about parliamentary processes.

This year sees the 28th YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament.

Every year, the program brings together 93 young people, representing each electorate in Queensland.

Minister for Youth Affairs Meaghan Scanlon said the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament offered a platform for young people across the state to have a say about important issues facing their

80th Anniversary News

BY VELMA GARA There will be a lot of discussions at the first meeting for 2023 for the Working Committee in Townsville for the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion’s 80th Anniversary.

So far, planning is underway for visits to Lavarack Barracks and the RAAF Base in Townsville, as well as to various schools including Cleveland Youth Detention Centre.

The First Nations ADF Military Banner Exhibition recently held at The Tanks in Cairns, will be on display at various locations such as the Bebegu Yumba

Campus at James Cook University.

The Torres News understands a highrank officer will be in attendance for celebrations on Thursday Island which is great news for Torres Strait.

Many events are being organised on TI to commemorate the 80th anniversary of our servicemen who enlisted in 1943 to serve and protect the Torres Strait.

All welcome to the first meeting for 2023 which will be at the Aitkenvale Library between 1-3pm on Saturday 11 February.

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

TSLIB 80th Anniversary Celebrations 16 & 17 March 2023 • Thursday Island

communities, connect with their peers and learn about our democracy.

“Youth Parliament has a strong history of empowering young people to express their views and take up challenges to become leaders of the future,” Minister Scanlon said.

“In the past, ideas that have been formulated through Queensland Youth Parliament have become government policy.

“I encourage young people to nominate for this program as it provides an opportunity to build their leadership skills and learn about influencing change.”

Program participants will meet in Brisbane in April 2023 to form legislative portfolios and discuss ideas, and again in September for a residential program and the opportunity to debate their bills at Parliament House.

Between April and September, members of each portfolio will collaborate to write their bills, as well as design and implement community action plans.

Participants in Year 11 and Year 12 are also eligible to receive one point towards their Queensland Certificate of Education upon the completion of their term

as a Youth Member, as the program is accredited by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority.

Minister Scanlon praised YMCA Brisbane for continuing to successfully steer the landmark youth program.

“It is a testament to YMCA Brisbane’s commitment that the program continues to challenge young people and provide an opportunity for them to share their ideas of change with the government,” she said.

The Queensland Government provides annual funding to YMCA Brisbane to run the program.

Nominations opened Monday 30 January 2023, and will close at 11.59pm on Sunday 19 February 2023.

For more information about the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament, email qypcoordinator@ ymcabrisbane.org or go to www.ymcaqyp.org.au.

Small businesses invited to have their say in state government survey

Queensland’s small owners and operators businesses are being an opportunity to share their views on what they encouraged to share needed to help their their challenges, business thrive. priorities, and goals Pre-Order your TSLIB to help inform the “Backing small State Government’s business is vital for the 80th anniversary new Small Business state’s economic growth commemorative shirt now! Strategy. so the Queensland Government wants Limited number of shirts available, first in first served!

Minister for to ensure the right Employment and Small To place an order please contact conditions, programs and Business and Minister Aunty Rosie Ware on 0427 692 801 support are in place for for Training and Skills or email rosieware@bigpond.com AD # TN0316.

25 Fortnightly Issues 25/8/22 through to 27/7/23 small businesses to reach Development Di Farmer 25/8, 8/9, 22/9, 6/10, 20/10, 3/11, 17/11, 1/12, 15/12, 29/12/22. 12/1/23, 26/1, 9/2, 23/2, 9/3, Payment accepted via EFTPOS credit card/Pay ID their goals,” Minister said the Small Business 23/3, 6/4, 20/4, 4/5, 18/5, Adults sizes – M, 1/6, L, XL,15/6, 2XL 29/6, 13/7 and 27/7/23*.

Survey opened this week Farmer said. or Green Auth. RebeccaBlue Wright, HRavailable Dynamics. Rebecca Wright <rebecca@hrdynamics.com.au> “If you own or to give small business

9x4 MONO ad @ disc. 25 FN ads rate $150incl [$136.369ex] / ad.

operate a small business in Queensland, then we want to hear from you.

“Strengthening small businesses is a core pillar of the Government’s economic plan and our Big Plans for Small Business Strategy 20212023 – our current small business strategy – has based every action on the feedback we’ve received from Queensland small businesses.”

Minister Farmer said the Government’s new small business strategy

would set a future path for the more than 459,000 small businesses in Queensland, providing them with the opportunities to grow, and thrive.

“We know businesses have faced many challenges in recent years, and if we want to support small business and make it easier to do business in Queensland then we need to hear directly from the sector,” Minister Farmer said.

Small business

Subscribe to the

Your on call HR Department Do you need assistance with: Rates of Pay

Policies

Recruitment

Employment Contracts

Let us help you effectively manage your employees.

Torres News

Now available online via

hello@hrdynamics.com.au 0438 735 926 0740 517 307 HRDynamics.com.au

48 issues for $48.96

You will have access to new issues on a weekly basis.

Head online and get your copy issuu.com/store/publishers/ tsimatorresnews/subscribe

owners and operators can complete the survey online at www. business.qld.gov.au/ smallbizsurvey The survey will be open until 5pm, 24 February 2023.

To access information and support for small businesses now, visit www.business.qld.gov. au, follow Business Queensland on Facebook or call the

Small Business Hotline 1300 654 687.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023

Fishers urged to follow the rules or cop the penalties

Determined efforts to enforce Queensland fisheries laws have helped to protect fish stocks and the thousands of good jobs that rely on them.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said new figures for 2022 show the Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol issued almost 500 Penalty Infringement Notices incurring fines of more than $270,000 in total.

There were 17 court prosecutions finalised resulting in a further $68,700 in financial penalties.

QBFP officers also issued 754 official cautions over the course of 2022 as part of an education process to help fishers comply with the laws.

In far north Queensland there were 69 infringements and 103 cautions issued in North Queensland and 47 infringements and 93

cautions.

“Queensland’s fisheries regulations are in place to ensure fish stocks are sustainable, because we want our children and grandchildren to enjoy fishing as much as we do,” Mr Furner said.

“And there are thousands of good jobs supported by recreational fishing, from bait and tackle shops to boating and tourism businesses such as charter services and accommodation.

“The vast majority of fishers make it their business to know the rules and to follow them, and my heartfelt thanks go out to those who do the right thing.

“With a compliance rate of almost 90 per cent, it is only a small percentage of fishers who are breaking the rules and threatening the livelihoods of those businesses that benefit from recreational fishing.”

Mr Furner also thanked the officers of the Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol.

“The work our officers do can be dangerous and often takes place in tough conditions,” Mr Furner said.

“I met a new group of graduating officers just before Christmas and their passion and commitment to protecting fishing for Queenslanders was great to see.

“Remember, when you see our QBFP officers on the water they are protecting fish stocks so you and your families can continue to enjoy fishing.”

Report any suspected illegal fishing activity to the Fishwatch hotline on 1800 017 116.

For more information on Queensland fishing rules, visit www. fisheries.qld.gov.au, call 13 25 23 or download the free Qld Fishing 2.0 app from Apple and Google app stores.

Follow Fisheries Queensland on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@ FisheriesQld).

Funding to help stamp out costly illegal dumping

The State Government has announced funding to help tackle illegal dumping in the Torres Strait and Cape York in the latest round of Illegal Dumping Grants.

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui (pictured top right) said five councils, including NPARC and TSIRC, would receive up to $200,000 each to fund new illegal dumping officer resources, also creating nine new jobs.

“Illegal dumping isn’t just an eyesore, it’s harmful to our environment and costs council – and in turn ratepayers – a fair chunk of money

to clean up,” Ms Lui said.

“Locals have made it clear this kind of activity is unacceptable, which is why I’m proud that our government is providing this critical funding.

“Importantly, we want to encourage Queenslanders to recycle, which is why we’re also investing $1.1 billion to drive resource recovery and sustainability across the state.

“That funding will help councils ramp up their recycling capabilities as well as support the industry investment and behaviour change across Queensland.”

NEWS 05 Learning opportunities available for free from TAFE – for all of 2023 School leavers and people in Regional Queensland wanting to retrain, upskill and re-enter the workforce are being encouraged to enrol in one of the over 37,000 Fee-Free TAFE and VET places on offer in Queensland in 2023.

From 1 January – 31 December 2023, eligible Queenslanders will be able to undertake Fee Free TAFE. Along with tackling skills shortages, these places will benefit the people of Regional Queensland by providing opportunities for school leavers and people wanting to retrain or upskill – to get back into the workforce.

Senator for Queensland, Nita Green said it was an investment in the people of Regional Queensland.

“If you’re thinking about going to TAFE now is the best time to do it,” she said.

For more information, for online offered courses, and to enrol, visit www.

Subjects available for fee-free study across the Far North Queensland TAFE campuses include:

• Diploma of Information • Diploma of Early Childhood Technology Education and Care • Diploma of Nursing (*only • Certificate III in Early available for First Nations Childhood Education and Australians, people with a Care disability, and people from a • Certificate IV in Aboriginal linguistically and/or culturally and/or Torres Strait Islander diverse background.)

Primary Health Care Practice • Diploma of Visual Arts • Certificate IV in Accounting • Certificate III in Conservation and Bookkeeping and Ecosystem Management • Certificate IV in Child, Youth • III in Aboriginal Certificate and Family Intervention and/or Torres Strait Islander • Certificate III in Business Primary Health Care • Certificate IV in Community • Certificate III in Health Services Services Assistance • Diploma of Music • Certificate IV in Justice • Certificate III in Horticulture Studies • Certificate III in Visual Arts • Certificate IV in Cyber • Certificate III in Landscape Security Construction • Certificate III in Pathology • BAS Agent Registration Skill Collection Set • Diploma of Business • Certificate III in Community • Certificate III in Health Services Administration • Certificate III in Information • Certificate IV in Health Technology Administration • Certificate III in Hospitality • Diploma of Leadership and • Diploma of Community Management Services • Certificate III in School Based • Certificate II in Kitchen Education Support Services • Certificate IV in School Based • Certificate III in Individual Education Support Support (Ageing) tafeqld.edu.au/courses/ • Certificate II in Maritime 19x4 colour ad (*FY July 2022 5% increase) 12 ad booking $295.26incl + 15% RHP posn. Loading $339.25inc apply-and-enrol/ • Certificate III rate: in Individual Operations (Coxswain Grade [$308.41ex] per ad - dropped to flat rate $335incl [$304.55ex] x12 $4020incl.

1 Near Coastal) Support (Disability) subsidised-training/fee2nd Thursday of month.

PROOF EMAILED E _______/22 -- DEADLINE ____________/22 free-tafe Christina Koullas <christina@ckpr.com.au> OR ‘Chris Foord’ <gmanager@bament.com.au> + Amy Gardner <amy@ckpr.com.au>

TN0306 [RHP___] 09/02/23 AdsIN E

Bamaga Enterprises Ltd February Update

BEL backs youth fitness in NPA by sponsoring futsal program The inclusive indoor sport of futsal con�nues to bring together children in the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA).

Through Bamaga Enterprises Ltd’s (BEL) sponsorship, Torres and Cape Indigenous Futsal Associa�on (TCIFA) was able to set up five community sessions over December and January for more than 50 children from the NPA.

NPA kids engaged in inclusive indoor sport, futsal.

the ac�vity leader, says it has been a great opportunity for the children in NPA to par�cipate in the group sport a�er last year’s COVID outbreak put a damper on ac�vi�es.

Cairns-based TCIFA co-founder Eugene Orwell was provided with $1,647 to cover his accommoda�on and travel expenses to facilitate the sessions “Kids in the NPA don’t across Bamaga, Umagico have sports clubs they and Seisia. can go to on a regular Mr Orwell, who is also basis. Our aim is not

only to establish the ac�vity in NPA, but also find local adults who can support it on a weekly basis,” Mr Orwell says.

Through its Socio Support Policy, BEL has invested over $3.5 million back into the community.

seeking assistance with costs in the areas of sports/recrea�on ac�vi�es, aged support, medical assistance, educa�on or training, arts and culture, religion, community infrastructure, and other general requests.

Various sponsorships are available for those

Visit our website for more details.

Bamaga Enterprises Ltd, Rural Transaction Centre, Adidi Street, Bamaga QLD 4876 • Ph 4069 3533 • www.bament.com.au

06 NEWS

THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023 TORRES NEWS

Voice sovereignty issues raised at Press Club Late last week the Referendum Engagement Group met with the Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Attorney General, the Special Envoy for Reconciliation and the Implementation of the Uluru Statement from the Heart, and the Assistant Minister for Indigenous Australians for the third time.

In opening the meeting, Minister Burney noted momentum was building and significant progress had been made towards a referendum on a constitutionally enshrined Voice to Parliament, to be held later this year.

The Group agreed to meet again in March to continue to discuss ways to engage the community, including First Nations communities, on the referendum for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament.

MEANWHILE Prime Minister Anthony Albanese fielded questions about sovereignty and the Voice at the National Press Club.

There’s been a lot of debate about the order of doing things and whether there should be a Treaty first, or other actions on sovereignty, before we act on a Voice, host David Epstein said to the PM. “Where does the Voice leave sovereignty,” he said.

Mr Albanese gave the following response: “I make two points on that,” he said.

“One, and it is backed up by Justice French in the position that he puts eloquently [last] weekend, but also something that was very much confirmed by the Constitutional group that we have advising the Referendum Working Group.

“That includes people such as Justice Hayne, a former High Court Justice, it include Anne Twomey, it includes a range of constitutional experts. “ …The vote and referendum will have no impact on the issue of sovereignty.

“No impact.

“It is very, very clear.

“And hence, I think there are a range of issues that have been raised and answered, that

Reading the Uluru Statement in Yarrabah in June 2019 was UNSW Pro Vice Chancellor (Indigenous) Professor Megan Davis and Elder Alf Neal (OAM). Pic Christine Howes.

I think is answered really clearly and eloquently …

“The other thing is about processes.

“The Uluru Statement from the Heart made it very clear, it speaks about Voice, Truth, Treaty.

“It made it very clear that their request from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people was not unanimous.

“So why should we think that any group

Sausage sizzle an d cold drink s provided

Tuesday, 14th February 2023 10:00am - 1:00pm Anzac Park, Thursday Island

would have exactly the same views?

“There are a few hundred people in this room, I’m sure that there are different views about a whole range of things.

“And it seems to me, though, that what occurred at Uluru was literally thousands of conversations that since then have continued.

“And, overwhelmingly, the people who issued the statement at Uluru made it very clear that that a Voice enshrined in the Constitution was the first process that they wanted and it’s important to respect that.

“That is what the government is doing.

“And that’s why we think this is such an important step.

“Recognition in the Constitution has been spoken about since 1967, but particularly since early 1990s and we’ve never quite got there.

“And that’s why

for those who say, ‘it is a risk having a referendum, because referendums in Australia, for our UK friends, are pretty hard.

“And they have not been successful, there hasn’t been a successful referendum in this country for half a century.

“But the risk of not proceeding with a vote is clear; it’s a 100 per cent guarantee of not having success, of failure.

“And I’ve said before, it’s like saying you’re worried about losing a grand final so we’ll just not run on the field and forfeit.

“For those people who have campaigned – if you trace this back: 2012 the process kicked off for constitutional recognition, five years consultation to 2017 Uluru Statement from the Heart, the parliamentary inquiry co-chaired by Pat Dodson and Julian Leeser, the Calma-

Langton report went to the former Cabinet twice – we’re in 2023.

“I always say: if not now, when?

“How long is it before we say that we’re going to put it to the Australian people, which is why we are determined to do just that.”

Mr Albanese also said the concept of the Voice had been developed over many years, and not by him or his government.

“This is something that has come from the bottom up, from the people,” he said.

“And we’re going to give the people the vote.

“And I am heartened by churches and faith groups I’ve met with across the spectrum, FECCA, the ethnic communities, sporting organisations, Cricket Australia, Tennis Australia, the NRL, the AFL, basketball, netball, all out there saying yes, and that they want to campaign for for a yes vote.

“Business organisations: the BCA, Australian Industry Group, Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Minerals Council of Australia, individual corporations – I met with some of the resources companies in Perth last Wednesday – all out there campaigning.

“The trade union movement, both the peak, but individual unions and workplaces talking about this as well.

“Individual businesses are there talking to their workforce about why this will be a moment of respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, for nonIndigenous Australians a chance for us to all be a part of a moment that embraces the fullness and richness of our history, and for the world to look at Australia as a more mature nation, committed to reconciliation. “…We’re part of the process as part of our democracy, but at the end of the day it’s going to be a decision for Australians.

“And I’m heartened by the local campaigning that’s not driven by any political party or any particular ideology, it’s driven by people out there who who want this to happen, knocking on doors and making phone calls and getting out there in a really positive way.

“And that’s why I say it can be the moment of national unity, this vote going forward.”

For more information about the Voice see:

https://voice.niaa. gov.au/ or https:// ulurustatement.org/

Thinking of starting an apprenticeship?

Want to grow your business with apprentices and trainees?

Is your mouth watering for a tasty BBQ? Yes? Well, get a head-start in 2023 and come along to meet our BUSY At Work team at the launch of our Australian Apprenticeship Support Network Program, now being delivered on Thursday Island.

Our team are eager to meet you and share how BUSY’s apprenticeship program can benefit your business.

• Information on apprenticeships and traineeships • Unpack the incentive system • Excellent source of information gathering • Great networking opportunities

FOR MORE INFORMATION contact Jo Lilley on jo.lilley@busyatwork.com.au or 0408 543 238

Scan the QR Code to register

Yarrabah community and friends marking the second anniversary of the Uluru Statement of the Heart in Yarrabah in June 2019. Pic supplied.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023

Nominate a Queensland Great before it’s too late There are only a few weeks left to recognise a Queenslander or Queensland-based organisation for their significant contribution to the Sunshine State and to nominate them for a Queensland Greats Award.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the awards were an opportunity to honour Queensland’s homegrown heroes.

“This is an amazing opportunity to celebrate the people and organisations that make Queensland great through their commitment, courage and drive,” the Premier said.

“I encourage everyone to look around their communities and their workplace because Queenslanders are doing amazing things every day and deserve to be nominated for a Queensland Greats award.

TN0312 23-01-19 TN Ailan View ad with Sponsor 15x4 NEWS 07

We want see your pic showing your.. .

Ailan Life

“Since the awards’ inception 21 years ago, we have honoured 115 individuals, 18 institutions and 8 posthumous recipients as Queensland Greats across the fields of business, science, health, education, Indigenous affairs, sport, arts, conservation, community and philanthropy.

Send us your favourite pic and WIN!

Nominations are open across three categories − Individual, Institution and Posthumous – and close at 5pm, Friday 17 February 2023.

Awards recipients will be announced in June 2023 and honoured with commemorative plaques displayed at Roma Street Parkland, Brisbane.

For more information about the Queensland Greats Awards and to submit a nomination for the 2023 Awards, visit qld.gov.au/qldgreats

Proud Peo takes a break

Each week we will publish a pic showing the Ailan way of life in the Torres Strait and the NPA – the kids swimming, a BBQ at the beach, fishing, scenic shot, etc – from local photographers and readers across our region.

Just email us your pic of Ailan Life along with your name, phone number and a 25word description to ads@torres.news Torres News

Each month our proud sponsor CEQ will pick their favourite Ailan Life entry and the winner will receive a $150 GIFT CARD to use at any CEQ store!

Entries to the Ailan Life photo competition may be used by the CEQ marketing/promotions team as background images for store promotions such as posters, digital noticeboard specials, counter-facing displays (POS) screens, and/or on their website and social media. Entries may also be used in-store to promote the ‘Ailan Life’ competition.

INTRODUCING THE

YOU SABE BUSINESS WORKSHOPS Explore l Get tips l Research Come along to create and/or refine a Business Plan Pictured: Yuriko Nakachi (You Sabe Business Workshop participant) with Flora Warrior (Mentor).

Cash Flow

Workshop Dates Workshops Workshop A

HARD WORKER: Proud Torres Strait Islander Peo Uiduldam at the Mingela rest area.

Workshop B

WAIBEN-born Peo Uiduldam is passionate about recycling.

Peo lives at Saunders Beach just north of Townsville and drives a truck for local company Reef Recycling.

He is photographed here at a rest area just near Mingela on the Flinders Highway – 87kms from Townsville and 43km from Charters Towers.

“I have worked for this company for the past few years and enjoy the work,” he said.

“I do the out of town runs from Townsville west to Charters Towers,

Workshop C

STORY AND PICS

BY ALF WILSON south to Ayr and north to Ingham picking up recycling bins.”

Peo said he gets back up to the Torres Strait when he can and his last visit was two years ago.

Fishing is a major recreation for this happy truckie and he gets to do lots of that near his Saunders Beach home.

“I catch Barramundi, Mangrove Jack and John Dory using prawn bait,” he said.

His favourite tucker outside seafood is steak

and salad.

“I carry food with me on my trips,” he said.

Peo said he keeps in close contact with relatives including his mother Dora and sisters Catherine and Gina, who live in the Torres Strait.

His favourite rugby league football team had to be Queensland’s champion Allblacks carnival side Erub United.

“The organiser is my relative Elia Ware,” he said.

Uiduldam said he was proud of his Torres Strait heritage and his job.

“

Learn about

Location

Date

Thursday Island

21-22 March

Thursday Island

23-24 March

Thursday Island

18-19 April

Thursday Island

20-21 April

Thursday Island

23-24 May

Thursday Island

25-26 May

“With the support of the TSRA Economic Development Programme, I am now running my own business.”

Alonza Ahwang Ahwang Ware Torres Strait Scaffolding

•

What going into business really means

•

The market

•

The competition

•

Economic Development products and services and how to apply

Hear stories first-hand From local Indigenous business owners √ Their journey √ Their challenges √ Their success

Come along and connect with other like-minded entrepreneurs!

** Workshop locations and date are subject to change on COVID - 19 health advice **

Application Forms must be submitted by 5pm Friday, 17 February 2023 For application forms please contact the TSRA Economic Development Programme on

(07) 40 690 700 or economic@tsra.gov.au

08 NEWS

THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023 TORRES NEWS

Nor let your louse loose SOURCE: THE PHARMACY GUILD

TN0461 • 09/02/23

At this time of the year, parents of school-age children are settling into the new school year – and all the challenges that this brings.

While some of these challenges are easy to deal with, one of the biggest facing parents is the ever-present threat of head lice which seem to be part-and-parcel of

the school experience for many children.

Going back to school, or just starting school, means children are returning to the environment where head lice proliferate, and parents are often at their wit’s end trying to find ways to get rid of them.

Catching head lice does not mean your child has done anything wrong or is not hygienic.

Statistics vary but indicate generally that

d/D d > ^h : d dK , E' t/d,Khd EKd/ h dK Y Ed ^ ^ , h>/E'͕

TIMETABLE SUBJECT^KD & ZZ/ ^ D z EKd KW Z d TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE DUE TO QANTAS SCHEDULING, SOME FERRIES MAY NOT OPERATE

Ph: (07) 4069 1586 Thursday Island/Horn Island Ferry Timetable from 06/02/2023 dŚƵƌƐĚĂLJ /ƐůĂŶĚͬ,ŽƌŶ /ƐůĂŶĚ &ĞƌƌLJ dŝŵĞƚĂďůĞ ĨƌŽŵ ϬϲͬϬϮͬϮϬϮϯ All TI Transfers Include Complimentary Bus Service on Thursday Island.

J All TI transfers include complimentary bus service on Thursday Island J

IMPORTANT NOTE: - We will ALWAYS meet any QANTAS and Skytrans flight from Cairns - should extra services be scheduled (eg School Holidays) we will add services that may be outside this schedule. For late flights - you MUST have a booking

IMPORTANT NOTE: We will ALWAYS meet any QANTAS and Skytrans flight from Cairns – should extra services be scheduled QF = QANTAS WATER TAXIS AND CHARTERS AVAILABLE QN =MUST SKYTRANS (eg school holidays) we will add services that may be outside this schedule.

For late flights – you have a booking.

FROM

MON

TUE

WED

THURS

FRI

SAT

TI

6:15

6:15

6:15

6:15

6:15

06:15 *

HIW

6:25

6:25

6:25

6:25

6:25

06:25 *

TI

7:00

7:00

7:00

7:00

7:00

HIW

7:15

7:15

7:15

7:15

7:15

TI

8:00

8:00

8:00

8:00

8:00

8:00

8:00

HIW

8:15

8:15

8:15

8:15

8:15

8:15

8:15

09:00 QF2489

09:00 QF2489

09:00 QF2489

09:00 QF2489

09:00 QF2489

09:00 QF2489

09:00 QF2489

9:15

9:15

9:15

9:15

9:15

9:15

9:15

10:30

10:30

10:30

10:30

10:30

10:30

10:30

10:45 QF2488

10:45 QF2488

10:45 QF2488

10:45 QF2488

10:45 QF2488

10:45 QF2488

10:45 QF2488

TI

11:45

11:45

11:45

11:45

11:45

HIW

12:00

12:00

12:00

12:00

12:00

13:45 QF2497

13:45 QF2497

13:45 QF2497

13:45 QF2497

13:45 QF2497

13:45 QF2497

14:00

14:00

14:00

14:00

14:00

14:00

15:15 QF2491 15:30 QF2496

15:15 QF2491 15:30 QF2496

15:15

15:15 QF2491

15:30 QF2496

15:30

TI HIW TI HIW

TI HIW

SUN

15:15 QF2491 15:30 QF2496 /

15:30 QF2496 /

15:15 QF2491 15:30 QF2496

TI

16:15

16:15

16:15

16:15

16:15

16:15

HIW

16:30

16:30

16:30

16:30

16:30

16:30

TI

17:15

17:15

17:15

17:15

17:15

17:15*

HIW

17:30 QF2490

17:30

17:30 QF2490

17:30 QF2490

17:30 QF2490

17:30* QF2490

TI

18:00 *

18:00 *

18:00 *

18:00 *

18:00 *

HIW

18:10 *

18:10 *

18:10 *

18:10 *

18:10 *

TI HIW

15:15

P J 07 4069 1586 • F J 07 4069 1408 • E J info@rebeltours.com.au • W J www.rebeltours.com.au & Ϭϳ ϰϬϲϵ ϭϰϬϴ ŝŶĨŽΛƌĞďĞůƚŽƵƌƐ͘ĐŽŵ͘ĂƵ Important: please request pickups at least 1 hour prior to Ferry departure �me ǁǁǁ͘ƌĞďĞůƚŽƵƌƐ͘ĐŽŵ͘ĂƵ Please note: Please be aware that we will have ferries to meet EVERY QANTAS and SKYTRANS flight from /ŵƉŽƌƚĂŶƚ͗ ƉůĞĂƐĞ ƌĞƋƵĞƐƚ ƉŝĐŬƵƉƐ Ăƚ ůĞĂƐƚ ϭ ŚŽƵƌ ƉƌŝŽƌ ƚŽ &ĞƌƌLJ ĚĞƉĂƌƚƵƌĞ ƚŝŵĞ Cairns. If you can not see a ferry that suits your flight please CALL the office on 4069 1586.

W Ϭϳ ϰϬϲϵ ϭϱϴϲ

WůĞĂƐĞ ŶŽƚĞ͗ WůĞĂƐĞ ďĞ ĂǁĂƌĞ ƚŚĂƚ ǁĞ ǁŝůů ŚĂǀĞ ĨĞƌƌŝĞƐ ƚŽ ŵĞĞƚ s Zz Y Ed ^ ĂŶĚ ^<zdZ E^ ĨůŝŐŚƚ ĨƌŽŵ Bookings are essen�al for 18:00/18:10 ferry Mon-Fri, and Saturday 06:15/06:20 & 13:45/14:00 Sunday ferry 17:15/17:30 ONLY operates when Qantas operates a late flight. ĂŝƌŶƐ͘ /Ĩ LJŽƵ ĐĂŶ ŶŽƚ ƐĞĞ Ă ĨĞƌƌLJ ƚŚĂƚ ƐƵŝƚƐ LJŽƵƌ ĨůŝŐŚƚ ƉůĞĂƐĞ >> ƚŚĞ ŽĨĨŝĐĞ ŽŶ ϰϬϲϵ ϭϱϴϲ͘

Office hours are Monday to Friday - 08:00 - 17:00 - Please consider these hours to make bookings - our office is not manned outside of these ŽŽŬŝŶŐƐ ĂƌĞ ĞƐƐĞŶƚŝĂů ĨŽƌ ϭϴ͗ϬϬͬϭϴ͗ϭϬ ĨĞƌƌLJ DŽŶͲ&ƌŝ͕ ĂŶĚ ^ĂƚƵƌĚĂLJ Ϭϲ͗ϭϱͬϬϲ͗ϮϬ Θ ϭϯ͗ϰϱͬϭϰ͗ϬϬ hours and we can not look up bookings or emails. We answer the phone whilst the ferry is running, but please try to book during office hours.

^ƵŶĚĂLJ ĨĞƌƌLJ ϭϳ͗ϭϱͬϭϳ͗ϯϬ KE>z ŽƉĞƌĂƚĞƐ ǁŚĞŶ YĂŶƚĂƐ ŽƉĞƌĂƚĞƐ Ă ůĂƚĞ ĨůŝŐŚƚ

KĨĨŝĐĞ ŚŽƵƌƐ ĂƌĞ DŽŶĚĂLJ ƚŽ &ƌŝĚĂLJ Ͳ Ϭϴ͗ϬϬ Ͳ ϭϳ͗ϬϬ Ͳ WůĞĂƐĞ ĐŽŶƐŝĚĞƌ ƚŚĞƐĞ ŚŽƵƌƐ ƚŽ ŵĂŬĞ ďŽŽŬŝŶŐƐ Ͳ ŽƵƌ ŽĨĨŝĐĞ ŝƐ ŶŽƚ ŵĂŶŶĞĚ ŽƵƚƐŝĚĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞƐĞ ŚŽƵƌƐ ĂŶĚ ǁĞ ĐĂŶ ŶŽƚ ůŽŽŬ ƵƉ ŬŝŶŐƐ Žƌ ĞŵĂŝůƐ͘ tĞ ĂŶƐǁĞƌ ƚŚĞ ƉŚŽŶĞ ǁŚŝůƐƚ ƚŚĞ ĨĞƌƌLJ ŝƐ ƌƵŶŶŝŶŐ͕ ďƵƚ ƉůĞĂƐĞ ƚƌLJ ƚŽ Ŭ ĚƵƌŝŶŐ ŽĨĨŝĐĞ ŚŽƵƌƐ

between 20-30 per cent of primary school students are likely to get head lice at some stage.

A single infested head can successfully infest a whole classroom and when the children return home, they often unwittingly pass the infestation on to the rest of the family.

Head lice are wingless creatures which cannot fly or even jump but move from host to host by crawling or climbing.

Close contact between children therefore gives them great opportunities to spread but it is important to understand that head lice are not confined to children.

In fact, anyone can get head lice but they are more common in children because of their close contact.

Head lice do not carry disease, but we need to get rid of them.

If your child has head lice, you might notice your child itching and scratching, especially around the back of the neck and behind their ears.

A bad case of head lice can lead to itchy dermatitis on the scalp, crusted sores and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.

But this isn’t common, and your child can avoid it if your treat their head lice as soon as possible.

When you look closely at your child’s hair, you might see small, oval-shaped, white or brown-black louse eggs attached to the root of the hair, near the scalp.

You might also see live head lice.

Live head lice move fast so to spot them you might have to part your child’s hair very quickly.

Having found head lice, the next step is to try to get rid of them and fast.

Your community pharmacy stocks special combs as well as shampoos, conditioners, creams and other products to treat head lice infestation.

There are chemicalbased treatments available as well as a number of treatments which are based on essential oils such as anise, rosemary, lavender, and tea tree oil.

There also are a range

of herbal products.

The wide variety of active ingredients available is due to the fact that head lice are very adaptable and can develop resistance to some chemicals.

For this reason it is important to talk to your community pharmacist about what is the right product for you or your child.

Your pharmacist has the experience and training to make sure you get the best treatment.

After selecting a treatment, it is important that following its use, you test to see if the lice are dead.

This is because you need to be sure that what you are using is working on the lice.

While resistance is an issue, many treatment failures are due to inadequate time in contact with hair and scalp, inappropriate application methods, or the use of ineffective products.

Ask your pharmacist to recommend an evidence-based product – that is: one that is proven to be effective – and also to show you how to apply it effectively.

Whatever head lice treatment is chosen, a fine toothcomb is essential to get the louse eggs out.

If live lice are found in the combings after treatment, it’s possible that the head lice are resistant to the particular product, and retreatment should begin as soon as possible with a product from a different activeingredient group.

If the lice are dead, treat again in seven days using the same product.

If the treatment has worked, the lice will be dead within 20 minutes.

It is possible a head lice product could cause a reaction and should be used with care by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, children less than 12 months old and people with allergies, asthma or who have open wounds on the scalp.

Your pharmacist can advise you on how best to treat head lice and which products may work best for you or your children.

NEWS 09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023

Cultural/arts policy ‘revived’ with new launch The Federal Government’s new National Cultural Policy – Revive – was released last month, setting the course for Australia’s arts, entertainment and cultural sector over the next five years.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the launch marked a new chapter in Australia’s art and culture sector.

“Our new cultural policy Revive will provide the support Australian artists need to thrive and grow,” he said.

“I am excited by the potential it will unleash, and to see our extraordinary and diverse Australian stories continue to be told with originality, wit, creativity and flair.”

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander media peak body First Nations Media Australia has welcomed Revive.

First Nations Media Australia CEO Professor Shane Hearn has welcomed the range of measures to strengthen and protect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and languages, particularly through the use of First Nations media.

“First Nations media, starting with printed newsletters in the early 70s right through

to the many media organisations we have today, has shared the stories of our culture, artists and achievements and I welcome the Federal Government’s acknowledgement of this with the latest cultural policy,” Professor Hearn says.

“Our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander media organisations and story tellers must be supported as we are best placed to tell our stories.

“Acknowledgement our media organisations also played a significant role delivering messages vital to communities about the recent natural disasters and COVID-19 pandemic is also welcome.

Professor Hearn also welcomed the Federal Government’s promise of “$3.8 million to digitise at-risk First Nations cultural material”.

“First Nations Media Australia, working alongside AIATSIS, is at the forefront of digitising and archiving.

“This will protect, preserve and enhance our stories, songs, sport, recorded over the last few decades on audio and video cassettes, for future generations to enjoy.

“This protects our ongoing history”.

First Nations

Media Australia also welcomed the Cultural Policy outlining several measures to preserve and strengthen First Nations languages and the Federal Government’s recognition of the need for a First Nations Creative Workforce Development Strategy.

“This has been addressed in First Nations Media Australia’s “Calls for Action” for several years,” Professor Hearn says.

“Of our nine Calls For Action first released in 2018, our second Call For Action has asked for an ‘Increase in Operational and Employment Funding’, while our fifth Call For Action calls for ‘Expanding Training and Career Pathway Programs’.”

Minister for the Arts Tony Burke said there was a place for every story under the new plan.

“It is a comprehensive roadmap for Australia’s arts and culture that touches all areas of government, from cultural diplomacy in foreign affairs to health and education,” he said.

“Our artists are creators and workers.

“This sector is essential for our culture and for our economy.”

What is Revive?

A new body, Creative Australia includes four smaller bodies, including a new First Nations-led body that will give First Nations people autonomy over decisions and investments.

The Revive policy is based on five interconnected pillars: 1. First Nations First; 2. A Place for Every Story; 3. Centrality of the Artist; 4. Strong Cultural Infrastructure; 5. Engaging the Audience.

The Government’s cultural policy in relations to First Nations communities also included: • Introducing legislation to protect First Nations knowledge and cultural expressions, including the harm caused by fake art; • Developing a First Nations creative workforce strategy; • Funding the establishment of a National Aboriginal Art Gallery in Alice Springs and an Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Perth; • Providing $11 million to establish a First Nations Languages Policy Partnership between First Nations representatives and Australian governments.

Languages The Cultural Policy outlines several measures to preserve and strengthen First Nations languages.

They include: • Provide $11.0 million to establish a First Nations Languages Policy Partnership between First Nations representatives and Australian governments to improve outcomes for First Nations peoples; • Develop a National Action Plan that identifies priority areas that will preserve and safeguard First Nations languages, as part of the UNESCO International Decade of Indigenous Languages 2022–2032; • Continue support for First Nations peoples to express, preserve and maintain their culture through languages and the arts, under the Indigenous Languages and Arts program.

Revive has also committed the Government to regulating Australian content on streaming platforms; improving lending rights and incomes for Australian writers; increased funding for regional art; and dozens of other measures.

To read the National Cultural Policy in full, visit: www.arts.gov.au/culturalpolicy

Arts support for Torres Strait & NPA Regions Need help finding out about funding your arts projects?

Want to be part of the Torres Strait Performing Arts Collective?

Want to use TSIMA Studio and create music?

Got an idea for an arts project?

As part of Arts QLD Regional Arts Services Network (RASN), Torres Strait Islanders Association partnership with Regional Arts Services Network Tropical North has a regional arts officer based on Thursday Island to support your creative and artistic needs.

For more information, contact Diat Alferink, CEO TSIMA 0497 618 738

07 4069 1524

ceo@tsima4mw.org.au

Regional Development Australia Tropical North in collaboration with Cook Shire council is the RASN Provider for Far North QLD Region.

10 NEWS

THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023 TORRES NEWS

Climate change campaign ‘magnified’ with collaboration

AT THE OPENING: Yessie Mosby (centre) with friends at the opening of Maluw Adhil Urngu Padanu Mamuy Moesik (Legends from the deep sitting peacefully on the waters) at the Institute of Modern Art, Brisbane. Pics by Meg Keene.

CAMPAIGNING FOR CHANGE: Yessie Mosby with his work Maluw Adhil Urngu Padanu Mamuy Moesik (Legends from the deep sitting, peacefully upon the waters), 2022 at the Institute of Modern Art, Brisbane

Guests at the opening of Maluw Adhil Urngu Padanu Mamuy Moesik.

The Institute of Modern Art has collaborated with the Biennale of Sydney to commission a new work from the Torres Strait 8.

Led by Yessie Mosby, a Kulkalgal Traditional Owner and member of the group, Torres Strait 8 present a hybrid art-as-protest piece featuring campaign materials created as part of the Our Islands Our Home campaign.

Yessie Mosby and the Torres Strait 8’s participation in the Biennale and IMA project will continue to help magnify the campaign fighting for justice for the communities of Zenadth Kes in holding the Australian Government accountable on climate change policy.

This commission was part of a broader theme within the 23rd Biennale of Sydney:

rīvus that speak to enduring connections and responsibilities to the natural world.

The exhibited work, Maluw Adhil Urngu Padanu Mamuy Moesik (Legends from the deep sitting peacefully on the waters) explored how these potential relationships might decentre the human, prioritise care for Country, and pursue justice in an epoch of rising temperatures and seas.

Maluw Adhil Urngu Padanu Mamuy Moesik (Legends from the deep sitting peacefully on the waters) will be on show at the Institute of Modern Art in Brisbane until 29 April 2023.

For more information see https://www. ima.org.au/exhibitions/maluw-adhil-urngupadanu-mamuy-moesik-legends-from-thedeep-sitting-peacefully-on-the-waters/

Yessie Mosby and Danny Billy (centre) with friends.

Danny Billy storytelling at the opening of Maluw Adhil Urngu Padanu Mamuy Moesik.

We want YOUR news!

Members of artist collective Casino Wake Up Time.

Artist Waniki Maluwapi speaking at the opening of Maluw Adhil Urngu Padanu Mamuy Moesik.

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

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023

Erub well-supported at interstate game

NEWS 11 PICS BY CHRISTINE HOWES

Kenny Bedford with Anina, Harry & Cyril Ghee.

Joey Lewin & Essa Mam.

SATURDAY 28 JANUARY: BEENLEIGH: Mason Willie (6) & EJ Willie (3) with their Pop David Doyle.

Raymond Harrison & Teiya-Lee Saylor.

Seated: David Doyle & Tania Ware. Standing: Daley Doyle, Kathy Ware & Ned Ware.

Grace Langlands, Kimmy Hunt & Duane Gutchen with Samat (3) and Jesse-Jerry (5) Gutchen.

Commentators for the Murri v Koori Interstate Challenge Women’s game (Queensland Murri v NSW Koori) Tallisha Harden-Bowie & Alex Dorante.

Gabiel & Loiko Banu.

After the game: Shaenee Pearson, Abbie Pearson, Stanley Nona, Myron Tapim Ahwang, Thomas Bana.

Standing George & Debra Fennemore with Flora Benjamin and George Fennemore Jnr (6).

Queensland Murri Under 18s coach Bernard Sabadi with captain Tanu Nona.

See also story on Murri versus Koori Interstate Challenge P12N

12 NEWS & CLASSIFIEDS

THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023 TORRES NEWS

A case for changing times

BY ALF WILSON

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Lot 48 Yangie Street, New Mapoon Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) is seeking Expressions of Interest from any interested businesses, organisations or individuals who would be in interested in leasing the following block of land and building.

Lot Details: Lot 48 on SP273365 Address: 48 Yangie Street, New Mapoon QLD 4876 For more information on the Expressions of Interest including how to obtain a copy of the relevant forms or arrange an inspection, interested parties should contact Peri Sunai on 0439 198 633 or peri.sunai@nparc.qld.gov.au Expressions of Interest close 28th February , 2023.

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Lot 49 Yangie Street, New Mapoon

There is a strong case to have the Murri versus Koori Interstate Challenge played within a month of the completion of the Queensland and NSW Knockouts.

NSW Koori Knockout winners Newcastle Allblacks beat Queensland QMC victors Erub United 18-8 in the exciting game at Bill Norris Oval in Beenleigh on 28 January.

However both the Murri carnival at Redcliffe and the Koori Knockout were held late last year.

That is a three-month period since the sides held their trophy aloft for winning the carnivals to decide the best Allblacks carnival teams in Queensland and NSW. Under the Interstate Challenge rules, both sides could only use players from the 25-man squads they had at their respective carnivals.

If the match had been held within a fortnight or a month of those carnivals, both teams would probably have been at full strength.

But having it in late January does create problems in that players contracted to NRL or

Queensland Cup clubs are mostly not allowed to play.

NRL and Queensland Cup clubs are mostly reluctant to allow contracted players to line up with the seasons almost ready to start because of potential injuries.

My point is that Erub United were missing stars Julian Christian (NQ Cowboys), Eddie Daniel and Bernard Lewis (Northern Pride) and Dontoray Lui (Parramatta Eels).

Lewis and 19-year-old Lui were so passionate about Erub United that they ran the water to the players.

Lewis had previously played with NRL club the Sydney Roosters and Lui is a rising star who played Jersey Flegg for St George Dragons and has been signed by Parramatta Eels.

The Eels believe Lui will develop into the heir apparent for champion Mitchell Moses’ number seven jumper in coming years.

The former Queensland under-19 halfback is expected to move into the Eels NRL squad in 2023.

These were key players who certainly would have had a big bearing on the result of the big game.

However champion Queensland Cup speedsters Jon Reuben and Gideon Gela-Mosby were in the Erub United line up.

Gela-Mosby had been under an injury cloud in the lead up to the game.

To be fair, and to balance my view, Newcastle Allblacks were missing two players including Will Smith.

I sent Erub United co-ordinator Elia Ware an email which read, “I am doing a story saying that the Interstate Challenge should be played within a month of Murri and Koori knockouts so all players are available, what are your thoughts?”

And his answer was “That is exactly what I wrote in my feedback survey,” he said.

The Koori versus Murri Interstate Challenge has been held since 2012 and two TS sides Argun Warriors and Kulpiyam from Badhu have won it.

In 2013, Argun Warriors defeated Newcastle Yowies 28-24, and two years later in 2015 Kulpiyam beat Walgett Aboriginal Connection 30-22.

In 2019 Dhadhin Geai Warriors lost 38-26 to Newcastle Yowies.

Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) is seeking Expressions of Interest from any interested businesses, organisations or individuals who would be in interested in leasing the following block of land and building.

Lot Details: Lot 49 on SP273360 Address: 29 Yangie Street, New Mapoon QLD 4876 For more information on the Expressions of Interest including how to obtain a copy of the relevant forms or arrange an inspection, interested parties should contact Peri Sunai on 0439 198 633 or peri.sunai@nparc.qld.gov.au Expressions of Interest close 28th February, 2023.

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

TIMING IS EVERYTHING: Elia and Kristin Ware after the game last month. Pic by Christines Howes.

TN0473 9/2/23. _____

CLASSIFIEDS 13

AdsIN E Excel E Dummy E

OLSH Church. NEWS 5x2 ad @ $2.75inc rate $27.50inc. [$25ex].

TORRES Proof and payment deadline: 12 noon Tue. xxxxxx/23 THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023 J M: 0419 828 639 J E: ads@torres.news Email: Tari Sagigi <tsagigi4@gmail.com>

World Day of Prayer 2023 Gathering – Taiwan Where – Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church Thursday Island

In Loving Memory of

Brendan Thomas Foster

29th June 1984 – 31st January 2011

“Only the Holy Spirit gives eternal life” (John 6:63)

When – 3rd March 2023 Contact – Juanita Mills 0447 050 448

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 24 Hour Service for DV CONNECT Ph: 1800 811 811 Lena Passi Women's Shelter ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ NPA WOMENS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HELP 24 hr Crisis Shelter Ph: 4212 2200

TN0463



Save the Date!





AdsIN E Excel E Dummy E

Torres News

5 WKS: 26/1 2/2 9/2 16/2 23/2/22 TSIMA - 11x2 FOC AD. AUTH. DIAT ALFERINK Emailed proof 24/1/23: Diat.

@TSIMAtorresnews

You gave no one a last farewell, nor ever said good-bye.

You were gone before we knew it, and only God knows why.

Forever we will miss you, forever we will cry.

If love alone could have saved you, you never would have died.

In life we loved you dearly, in death we love you still.

In our hearts you hold a place, no one else can fill.

It broke our hearts to lose you, but you didn’t go alone, for part of us went with you, the day God took you home.

Lovingly remembered by: Mum, Charles, Kevin, Lucinda, Vivien (Sisi), La-Tesha, Christopher, Jalynn, Aliyah, Brendan (jnr), Karlee & Isayah



TRNKA–TAKAI, Alphonse William Gunter 23/12/2022 – 01/02/2023

In Loving Memory

TOMBSTONE UNVEILING OF THE Mr. Victor Charles Joseph LATE

SAVE the DATE

Notice is given to financial members of the Torres Strait Islanders Media Association Inc. that the Annual General Meeting will be held on Saturday, 25 February, 2023, at the TSIMA OFFICE (UPSTAIRS), Thursday Island.

The meeting will commence at 1pm.

All members of the Torres Strait Islanders Media Association are invited to attend.

AGENDA (a) The receiving of the Annual Report 2021/2022 (b) The receiving of the Auditor’s report 2021/2022 (c) The appointment of Auditor (d) Appointment of Board of Directors (e) Special Resolutions For more information please contact: Diat Alferink (CEO) on 4069 1524, 0497 618 738 or email: ceo@tsima4mw.org.au

TRADES & SERVICES

TN0006. Cairns Monumental - Trades and Services section: weekly 10x2 ad, @ $100 gst inclusive per ad, category: Tombstones. Starting 23/9/21 - 30/9/22.

TOMBSTONES Andy Brench <andybrench@cairnsmonumental.com.au>

Guys!

The Tombstone

Pty Ltd

A local family owned business, specialising in all aspects of creating granite monuments, bronze plaques & everything required for a successful unveiling. Big Eso

Heavenly Angel Precious Son of William and Tiana and baby Brother to Athena and Amalia.

Family and friends of the Takai and Trnka families are invited to attend a service in remembrance of baby Alphonse to be held 10am Wednesday, 15th February 2023 at the Burkin Svendsens Chapel, 411 Mulgrave Rd Westcourt, Cairns.

Family request no Children under two years.

CLASSIFIED

T. 0 7 4 0 3 2 5 5 0 3

www.cairnsmonumental.com.au

ADVERTISING

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

THURSDAY ISLAND R.S.V.P

Victor Joseph Henry Joseph Michael Nona

AVAILABLE TO ALL TORRES STRAIT COMMUNITIES

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.

PH: 07 4069 1663 Photo: Young child with Mura Kosker Sorority Staff Member Norah Mosby at Child Protection Week 2020 Celebrations, Kiriri Community (2020).

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

SATURDAY JULY 6TH, 2024 0400 149 185 0437 710 462 0497 782 462

14 SPORT

THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023 TORRES NEWS

QRL’s key administration day set for 11 March

BY ALF WILSON

FLASH BACK: Badhu Island’s welcome sign to the Island of Origin in 2011. Pic by Alf Wilson.

New funding op for sports infrastructure closes on 2 March The State Government has launched a new sport infrastructure program, with grants from $50,000 to $415,000 for smaller club projects such as lighting, ramps and pathways, cycle trails, skate parks, fixed exercise equipment, court upgrades and change rooms, on offer.

Grants under the inaugural round of the State Government’s $14.6 million Minor Infrastructure Program are open to community-based sport and active recreation clubs, state and national level sporting organisations and local councils.

Shovel ready projects valued up to $1 million will be considered for the new Minor Infrastructure Program with successful applicants contributing up to 20 per cent of total project costs.

Applications for funding close on 2 March with successful projects to be completed within 18 months.

The third round of the Government’s Active Clubs program opens on Wednesday 1 February with grants of up to $2,500 for 2,000 community sporting clubs.

The $5 million program is designed to help clubs with the cost of new on and off-field equipment, accreditation courses for coaches, club officials and volunteers, and initiatives like comeand-try events to attract new members.

The first round of FairPlay for 2023 has also been launched with up to 46,000 vouchers worth almost

$7 million to help low-income Queensland families with the cost of sport and active recreation sign on fees up to $150.

Applications for FairPlay vouchers are open to parents, carers and guardians with a current Services Australia Health Care Card or a Pensioner Concession Card for students aged five to 17 years.

Queensland Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe launched the new funding programs for community not-for-profit sporting clubs earlier this week with Member for Cooper Jonty Bush.

“We don’t want to see financial circumstances be a barrier to young Queenslanders getting on a team, connecting with friends, and staying active and healthy,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“Whether it’s getting involved in scouts, surf lifesaving, tennis, martial arts, AFL or rugby league, there are hundreds of sporting options and clubs accepting FairPlay vouchers in 2023.”

More information on round one of the Minor Infrastructure Program is at:

www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/ funding/minor-infrastructure-program For more information on Active Clubs go to: www.qld.gov.au/ recreation/sports/funding/activeclubs

Clubs and recreation providers participating in FairPlay and more information about family eligibility can be found at: www.qld.gov.au/ fairplayvouchers

Torres News @TSIMAtorresnews

Queensland Rugby League will hold a Regional Administration Day on Waiben on Saturday 11 March.

The event will feature speakers who will advise on QRL governance, clubhouse, concussion management protocols, Positive Environment Program, grants, RISE program volunteer courses, Support Squad, Player Development and cultural Capability Framework, and Indigenous pathways.

Most of our regional competition and carnival organisers, local senior RL club officials and others were expected to be there.

Carnival and competition organisers/committees expected

to attend included Dhadhin Geai, Apudthama, JRL development camp hosts, Zenadth Kes RL, Zenadth Kes JRL and NPARRL. A Sports Trainer course was to be held on the same weekend.

Rugby League can expect a boom season in 2023 across the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area.

After a year’s absence the popular Island of Origin Series on Badhu will be back on and already a lot of interest has been received from teams.

Also the Zenadth Kes carnival on Waiben will be held in October with men and women’s teams.

The Dan Ropeyarn NPA carnival at Bamaga, last in the year, will be another highlight.

Marama joins Norths Devils

BY ALF WILSON A trip to his home Island of Boigu has champion rugby league forward Joel Marama primed for his coming season with last year’s Townsville and District wooden spooners Norths Devils.

The 30 year old captained Boigu Island team Malu Kiwai to victory in the Dan Ropeyarn NPA carnival at Bamaga last October.

Malu Kiwai defeated Napranum Bulldogs 44-10 in the carnival grand final and later the trophy was taken to Boigu for a celebration which was enjoyed all.

After that family, players and supporters from Cairns met at an Edmonton Park for another celebration.

“I came to Townsville for work and was asked by former Norths Devils official Karl Adams about joining Norths and was happy to,” he said.

“I have been signed in a leadership role and we will be trying to improve from last year.

“We aim to be competitive.”

Several other star Torres Strait Islander players such as Nathan Kepa will also be in Norths colours.

Joel feels refreshed and enthusiastic for what is ahead after spending time back at Boigu recently.

“I just came back from Boigu and have lots of relatives there and love being connected to the land,” he said.

“I went fishing and enjoyed seeing everyone.”

Members of the Marama family are renowned as top footballers who have speed to burn.

Coach of a rival Townsville Comp club said he expected Norths Devils would field a very good side and has lots of respect for Joel and other signings.

Joel has proven that teams he has been with have enjoyed success so Norths Devils will benefit greatly from their

GAME CHANGER: Joel Marama in Malu Kiwai jumper after the Dan Ropeyarn carnival win at Bamaga. Pic supplied. marquee signing.

He was a member of Kangaroos club which won the Cairns and District Rugby League premiership in 2011.

He also played for the Central Queensland Capras in 2014 and was a key player for the top side Yeppoon Seagulls in the Rockhampton and District comp.

In 2017 he joined Cairns and District Club Mossman Port Douglas Sharks and in 2018 and 2019 seasons they won back-toback premierships.

The Sharks reached the major semi final which they lost in 2021 and Joel coached them last season when they were runners up beaten 26-24

by Cairns Brothers in the grand final.

His record in Allblacks

carnivals is as impressive as it is imposing.

In 2011 Joel was a member of the Malu Kiwai side which won the Zenadth Kes carnival on Waiben (previously known as the Torres Cup).

He played for Pioneer Knights (2015) and Kuruwai Warriors (2013), both of whom won the Zenadth Kes carnival.

In 2015 he played for Badu side Saguci Tigers which made the semi finals of the Arthur Beetson Foundation Queensland Murri carnival at Redcliffe.

He also played the Island of Origin carnival in 2013 in a combined side from the outer islands.

Malu Kiwai sides he has lined up with have won several Gordonvale Indigenous carnivals.

SPORT 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023

IMF supporting fun ways to health and fitness

TN0230 8x2 local sports Looking for more 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

INDIGENOUS MARATHON PROJECT: Tryouts were also held while the IMF was on Waiben. Pics supplied.

BY JEN ENOSA & CHRISTINE HOWES The Indigenous Marathon Foundation (IMF) is wellknown to most in the Torres Strait with graduates Elsie Seriat and Alex Blanco proof of its success, but this year for the first time the IMF has taken their ‘fun and educational health and fitness program’ as far as Murray Island.

I-CAN – the Indigenous Communities for Activity and Nutrition program – is an eight-week program for Years 2-6 will roll out across 14 campuses in the Torres Strait

over the coming months.

Program Officer Jesamine Wheeler said the program had been running, mostly in the Northern Territory, since 2013.

“We go out and we do some fitness and health screenings on the children in the first in the last week of the program,” she said.

“And then in between that they do a bunch of weekly activity sessions to improve their health and fitness over that time.

“And hopefully, when we come back out to do the rescreening, we can see some improvements in their physical activity and their overall

health.”

She said they had been well-received.

“I think the schools really enjoy having having IMF coming out to the to the schools and also the children love it, it’s great for them to get out and do some activity,” she said.

“And we try and make it fun and a bit of education along the way as well to teach them about what we’re doing and, and the importance of their overall health and being active.”

IMF Regional Manager Kylie Young said she had been coming to Torres Strait Island communities for several years.

“Coming back, seeing the

change and seeing the kids that I’ve worked with grown up and going in the direction of working and having families is really lovely,” she said.

“We’ll head across to Horn Island for a day over at the primary school there, and then next time we’ll be going over to Bamaga and Injinoo to roll the program out and up there as well.”

Waybeni Buway Ngurpay Mudh Head of Campus Rick Cass said the program also aimed to help with student attendance, with a colour run hosted by IMF planned as the schools culminating activity for Term 1.

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

FERRY SCHEDULE

JANUARY – MARCH 2023 Monday / Wednesday & Friday THURSDAY ISLAND to SEISIA: 6.30AM & 2.30PM SEISIA to THURSDAY ISLAND: 8AM & 4PM * RESERVATIONS ESSENTIAL Boarding strictly 15 mins prior to departure

“Linking the Cape with the Torres Strait”

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 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 (1 piece under 20 kg, excess charges otherwise apply)

AT SCHOOL: Jesamine and Kylie from IMF (Indigenous Marathon Foundation) with Andrea Finlayson, WBNM PE teacher, work with WBNM students as part of their I-CAN program which aims to improve student health and fitness.

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 delivered directly to the vessel and pre paid.

THE JETTY SHOP & OFFICE, ENGINEERS JETTY, THURSDAY IS.

SPORTS CONTRIBUTIONS Please email your sports stories and photos before 5PM on Mondays.

16

EDITORIAL l E: christine@torres.news l M: 0419 656 277

THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY 2023

Plenty of Ailan talent in All Stars clash

BY ALF WILSON

STARS: From left are Essay Banu, Sareka Mooka, Cultural Advisor Elsie Seriat, Tahlulah Tillett and Jasmine Peters. Pic supplied.

FOUR Torres Strait Islanders will play a vital role in the NRL Harvey Norman Indigenous All Stars women’s team for the first ever clash against Maori Allstars sides to be played in New Zealand this weekend.

They are Essay Banu, Sareka Mooka, Jasmine Peters and Tahlulah Tillett.

The side will be coached by Ben Jeffries.

Waiben-based Elsie Seriat will travel with the side as a Cultural Advisor.

Tallisha HardenBowie was named but has since withdrawn.

The game will be played at Rotorua

International Stadium and will be broadcast live on the Nine Network, Fox League, Kayo and Sky Sport NZ. The Indigenous All Stars men’s side included Brisbane Broncos rising star Ezra Mam, but he has also withdrawn.

The cream of NRL stars will be on show and the much anticipated matches will be popular around Australia and over the ditch.

The women’s and men’s matches will follow a curtain-raiser between the Māori and Indigenous All Stars Touch Football teams.

The full squads are: Indigenous All Stars (Women): Essay Banu, Shaylee Bent, Jaime

Chapman, Bree Chester, Kirra Dibb, Quincy Dodd, Taliah Fuimaono, Ahlivia Ingram, Keilee Joseph, Bobbi Law, Mia Middleton, Sareka Mooka, Jasmine Peters, Kaitlyn Phillips, Shaniah Power, Jada Taylor, Tahlulah Tillett, Shakiah Tungai, Coach: Ben Jeffries.

Indigenous All Stars (Men): Bailey Butler, Selwyn Cobbo, Tyrell Fuimaono, J’maine Hopgood, Nicho Hynes, Ryan James, Albert Kelly, Josh Kerr, Daine Laurie, Latrell Mitchell, Shaquai Mitchell, Kierran Moseley, Brent Naden, Tyrone Peachey, Tyrell Sloan, Isaiah Tass, Jamayne Taunoa-Brown, Braydon Trindall, Cody Walker, Jack Wighton, Coach: Ronald Griffiths.

Taipans finals campaign starts tonight!

BY VELMA GARA Cairns Taipans will need to continue the hot form they showed in the Perth Wildcats game if they are to advance past the play-in game with Jack Jumpers tonight.

If Taipans win, the team heads to New Zealand to play in a best of three game series that will start on Sunday 12 February.

However, if they lose, the far north Queensland team will play the winner of the other single game between SE Phoenix and Perth Wildcats, an option that makes

them play an extra game before the playoff of best of three game series which will be against Sydney Kings.

Although Taipans won their last game of the regular season, NZ Breakers also won against Brisbane Bullets – 80 to 75.

Will McDowellWhite earned the player of the game with 15 points, 9 assists and 8 rebounds.

The win for the Breakers assured them the second spot on the ladder and the Taipans finished the regular season in third spot.

Interestingly, both teams were at the other

end of the ladder in NBL season 2022 – Taipans were 9th and the Breakers were last.

In the last game of the season, Taipans had a depleted team with Tahjere McCall, Mirko Djeric and Keanu Pinder not suiting yet they won convincingly – 84 to 71, snapping the 10-game losing streak against the Wildcats.

A statement from the Club’s website reads: “Depending on the team’s success throughout the NBL Finals, the club is hopeful he (Pinder) will be able to return after the FIBA break”.

HEAD TO HEAD: Keanu Pinder and Will McDowell-White in Cairns last November.

Pic by Christine Howes.

Taipans scoop the pool at NBL awards night Keanu Pinder is the first NBL player to ever win the NBL’s Most Improved Player award twice, and he’s done it in consecutive years.

He was also named with DJ Hogg as a member of the All-NBL Second Team.

In a near clean sweep on the night last Tuesday, Taipans also picked up Coach of the Year in Adam Forde, Rookie of the Year and Next Generation Player in Mark Waardenburg, and NBL Executive of the Year in CEO Mark Beecroft.