Thursday, 16 March 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.
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Summit to address cost of living pressures in Torres Strait Islands and Northern Peninsula Area The Torres Strait Islands and Northern Peninsula Area Cost of Living Summit is fast approaching, with preparations well underway for the event being held on Waiben this coming Monday, 20 March. “The Summit will directly address the priorities, opportunities and community feedback resulting from the Queensland Government Community Cabinet, also held on Thursday Island, back in September 2022,” local MP Cynthia Lui said. Ms Lui was expected to co-chair the Summit with Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey. She said the Summit would explore key cost of living themes, based on issues raised by the community. They included: • Freight services to the region; • Marine and transport infrastructure; • Remote energy; • Food security; and • Housing availability and affordability. She said the issues reflected the unique and complex challenges faced by locals, and invitees to the Summit were drawn from a broad cross-section of community and businesses, with support from relevant government agencies and service providers. “I look forward to meeting with local community members to discuss concerns and potential opportunities with several Queensland Government
CYNTHIA LUI: in the Northern Peninsula Area. Pic supplied. Ministers, including government champion for the Torres Strait, the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Minister for Women and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Hon Shannon Fentiman MP,” she said. “The Torres Cape Indigenous Council Alliance (TCICA) has also been invited to participate, given its advocacy for broader Cape and Gulf interests. “There are still a few spots available for anyone interested in attending. “The cost of living is a concern for all Queenslanders. “Communities across the region can be assured they have been heard, and the Queensland Government is acting.” To register your interest, please contact the office on 4223 1100 or write to cook@parliament.qld.gov.au
Pic thanks to the Dolphins.
Hammer leads the race to prestigious Dally M medal FLYING Torres Strait Islander Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow (pictured) sits in outright top spot on the Dally M leaderboard after
two rounds of the 2023 NRL, with his best on the ground performance in the Dolphins 20-14 win over the Canberra Raiders last weekend.
The Dally M is the most prestigious NRL individual award. Votes are cast by judges after each game to determine at the end of the qualifying rounds the
best and fairest player in the 17 club comp. Story continued on Page 2 + see Page 16 for a full footy update N
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02 NEWS
THURSDAY 16 MARCH 2023 TORRES NEWS
Hammer leads in Dally M M Continued from P1 Dashing fullback Hamiso picked up the maximum six points for his dominating performance, backing up his outstanding effort the previous week when he snared two points in an upset win over the Sydney Roosters. Two other Torres Strait Islander players, Newcastle Knight Dane Gagai and Brisbane Bronco Ezra Mam, also received votes in round two. Dane was awarded five points for a wonderful effort in the Knights 14-12 victory over the West Tigers. Ezra polled three votes in the
victory by the Broncos over the North Queensland Cowboys. Hamiso has eight votes in total, leading five players from four other clubs on seven. Dane is amongst several players sitting on equal fourth and Ezra is with a group on equal fifth, which includes Cowboys forward Reuben Cotter. Another Torres Strait Islander player, David Fifita, didn’t poll in his side’s loss to the St George Dragons. However David starred the previous week in round one and is on six points amongst the equal third placed group.
Treaty forums in a town near you next week
Public forums will be held throughout Queensland regarding the Path to Treaty Bill which was introduced by the government to parliament on 22 February 2023. As part of the process of passing this Bill, a series of public forums will be held next week at various locations including Waiben next Tuesday, 21 March starting at 9am. Organisers would like to hear from community members and stakeholders about
their views of the Path to Treaty Bill. Contact your local state member to register or give a written submission.
Dates for the Public Forums: Cairns – Monday, 20 March 2023 at 9am. Weipa – Monday, 20 March 2023 at 2.30pm. Palm Island – Wednesday, 22 March 2023 at 9.30am. Townsville – Wednesday, 22 March 2023 at 3pm.
Your North Queensland airline Andrea here for NIGHT NY O M Harmony Week R A H connecting the islands of the Torres Strait with Cairns and Bamaga
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PLUS ...LONNIE PEDRO, MARGARET GABEY & To celebrate Concert at the Thursday THE TAGAI CHILDREN'S CHOIR Harmony Week, Island Sports Stadium Fijian-Australian sing- on Friday 24 March,” 6:00-7:30pm songwriter Andrea he said. “Andrea will Kirwin (pictured) be supported by local Gab Titui Cultural Centre will bring her soulful musicians and Tagai voiceSaturday and island vibes25 March Children’s Choir.” to Zenadth Kes over Another community 10 days, visiting a concert will held at a 4069be0888 CALL S TICKET D - LIMITE FREE EVENT number of schools time and location to be TS SHMEN SNACKS AND REFRE includingBYO Ugar, confirmed. Dauan, Badu, Saibai, “The night will Ngurpay, Warraber also showcase a and Waiben. community arts project Head of Campus at where children and Waybeni Buway, Rick the community will Cass said Andrea was be contributing to the tasked with collaborating Harmony Hands Bunting with students to write songs which captured the Project, which will be used to decorate the spirit of the times, their venue,” he said. “The sense of belonging and bunting (small flags) will cultural identity. be made in workshops at A selection of the Thursday Island Primary songs will be will each day between 1pm – performed at a number 3pm, including a sewing of events on Waiben. club to put it all together. “We will have “If anyone can sew, Andrea headline our let us know!” own WBNM Harmony
NEWS 03
TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 16 MARCH 2023
Royston makes top six in Idol BY CHRISTINE HOWES
Australian Idol competitor Royston Baira-Sagigi is excited to be in the top six of the competition and grateful for all the support, including all the social media messages – especially coming from the Cape and Torres Strait – he has received so far. “I’ve been seeing all the support from all the mob,” he said. “It just means everything. “I’m so happy people are getting behind me and really supporting me because I really do need everyone’s votes.” He said he was excited and terrified - of this Sunday night’s competition. “I feel like I need to garner a lot of votes this round, because this is the second to last week,” he said. “It’s the last week before the final, I’m in the top six right now and I need enough votes to get me into the grand final, which is the top three – there are three people that are going home this week.
“So I just really want everyone to be able to get their phones out and vote, vote, vote, because I really do need all the votes, as much as I can get.” He said he wanted to thank everyone for their support so far. “I’m just so grateful for everyone believing in me and taking the time out of their day to spam that number and vote for me because it does mean the world,” he said. “And I’m so happy that I get to represent all my mob, Torres Strait Island people and Aboriginal people, it just means the world.” He said the number of votes was astounding to him. “Someone did a thousand in the whole 24 hours, which is so amazing,” he said. “I hope all the little kids are watching as well, and they’re getting
inspired by my story and what I’m doing. “If they can see my story, where I come from, where I grew up in a small little
community with 60 kids at the school, and now I’m here on Australian Idol – I just want them to see that if you have a dream and you work hard for it, you can get there.” Pic supplied.
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80th celebrations set to launch today Celebrations for the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion’s 80th anniversary will begin this afternoon and tomorrow on Waiben, with another launch to be held at the Army Museum on the Jezzine Barracks Precinct in Townsville tomorrow, marking the start of six week long celebrations to end on ANZAC Day. Waiben events include: • Open Day at Sarpeye Barracks (1-4pm) –
Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion
80th Anniversary News
•
includes army equipment displays, recruitment, photography exhibition and sausage sizzle; March from Seahop to ANZAC Park (8.30am) – veterans, families and agencies are
•
encouraged to join; Commemorative Ceremony at ANZAC Park (9am) – families are welcome to lay a wreath and watch the Sarpeye Dancers and Badu Aeroplane Dancers.
Townsville celebrations over the next six weeks will include visits to local schools, guided tours of the Lavarack Barracks and Army Museum; a church service at St John’s and displays at James Cook University and Central Queensland University. Information on the celebrations is available at the Townsville Community Information Centre and the Townsville Aitkenvale Library, where numerous committee meetings
have been held. In recent weeks there has been recording of Torres Strait Island Dancing Songs, Language Hymns and Chorus’. Volunteers and others including school students will take part in the ANZAC Day march along Townsville Strand and there will also be a family day.
Opening Hours Monday - Friday 10am - 3pm Saturday 9:30am - 1:00pm 07 4069 0888 22 Victoria Parade, Thursday Island
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The Torres News will publish full reports with pictures in next week’s edition.
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04 NEWS
THURSDAY 16 MARCH 2023 TORRES NEWS
Olympians join Indigenous Marathon’s IWD Fun Run The Australian Olympics Committee’s Olympics Unleashed team of two-time Olympian and Dunghutti boxer Brad Hore and Olympic racewalker Beki Smith were on Waiben last week to share their stories with schools and participate in the Indigneous Marathon Foundation’s International Women’s Day fun run/walk. Brad said the Olympics Unleashed program was really important to them. “It is so important as it gives us the opportunity, as Olympians, to give back to the community,” he said. “It is a very tight community on Thursday Island, so being from that small community it takes a lot of guts to leave for the mainland and chase your dreams. “It is important for us just to inspire these kids and let them know it’s going to be tough but your family is always going to be there supporting you. “I want to help the
kids keep those dreams alive, encourage them to dream big and not be scared to give it a go.” He said they could see it in their eyes. “Some of the kids want to do it and they just need to find that pathway,” he said. “So, to be able to share our stories, explain how we did it and let them know that, yes, it’s a lot of hard work and a lot of dedication, that there is going to be ups and downs, but they just need to keep pushing past those barriers, do their best and not give up – because you never know where it will take you.”
Beki said it was an amazing visit. “Our visit to Thursday Island was amazing, whenever we get to go and do visits in remote communities it is a lot of fun and you learn a lot from the local people,” she said. “You are giving and learning a lot at the same time, so it’s a really nice combination. “We were able to go out onto the water and learn the local ways, do some fishing, and it was just a great experience to be involved in. “As an Olympian, and being one of only 60 known indigenous
Olympians, I see it as a responsibility to step up and share the power of sport back into these communities and the life skills you gain through sport, and the journey you go on. “Spreading that message to the kids and helping them to discover self-belief, it’s really important. “Sharing knowledge and storytelling, it’s just a part of who we are as First Nations people, it’s just what we do. “It is amazing to be able to go back to the communities and reconnect with the students, that is
TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL To lead, provide and facilitate a sustainable, safe and culturally vibrant community
2023 WINDS OF ZENADTH CULTURAL FESTIVAL
CALLING OF EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR FESTIVAL STALL
Expressions of Interest for Festival Stalls during the 2023 Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival are now open. All interested in acquiring a stall must complete an Expression of Interest form and lodge to Torres Shire Council. The following stall categories will be available this year: • Food Stalls • Arts & Craft Stalls • Exhibition Stalls • Information Stalls EOI forms can be obtained from the Council Office at 68 Douglas Street, Thursday Island. Expressions of Interest for Festival Stalls close on Friday 31 March 2023. For further information contact our Business Services Manager – David Abednego on 4069 1336 or email admin@torres.qld.gov.au Dalassa Yorkston CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
something Olympics Unleashed provides and the students also get the sense that they matter, they’re important and they can do it as well.” She said the IMF Fun Run was a highlight. “It’s amazing to be able to support people doing amazing things in their community and I always get really inspired and motivated seeing this as well,” she said.
“The IMF Fun Run was unreal, there were so many families and aunties and uncles and young ones having ball, and it was great to connect as a community and feel welcomed. “It is an emotion and a feeling that is hard to explain, the power and magic that comes from connecting with community through sport is quite indescribable. “If there is one thing I’d love the kids to
take from our visit, it’s that they can achieve whatever they want to if they believe in themselves. “It can be challenging, it can be tough, but if you believe in yourself enough and you never give up then you can achieve whatever you put your mind to, whether that is in sport or not.” Pics supplied. More next issue J
TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 16 MARCH 2023
NEWS 05
Elsie stars on Marathon Foundation’s medals “We do what we do, because we’re passionate about it and I think it just goes a long way with people Beautiful warm weather brought acknowledging us for the things that together runners and walkers for a we do. very special International Women’s “The main thing is having people Day Fun run/walk on Waiben last believing in us, and that we can be the Saturday. change agent, and trusting us.” It was also a special occasion for Elsie said she never thought she local Indigenous Marathon Project would be involved with the IMF. Graduate Elsie Seriat, OAM, in “The thing that gets us is New York recognition of her contribution to our City Marathon,” she said. community. “When you’re part of the journey Australian Olympian and now, and you realise the bigger picture, Founder of the Indigenous Marathon the bigger impact that you create, like Foundation Rob de Castella was at the grassroots, and being able to train. event and said it was wonderful to be “We trained for the marathon in there. 2014, being a part of the program was “It’s wonderful to be back here to be a change agent in my community, and really important that we’re able to break stigma around shame, and to recognise and honour the great to overcome the barriers and the contributors and achievers within tall poppy syndrome that we face in community,” Rob said. community. “We’re really privileged to “And also, trying to help close acknowledge Elsie Seriat this year, the gap with chronic disease illness as the face of our Women’s Warrior through running, like Uncle Rob says, Run, which we hold on International we use it as a tool to promote all these Women’s Day.” things.” He said the Indigenous Marathon She said people who participated Foundation hosted events all around in the daily runs or walking/running Australia for IWD over the past week, program often shared with her the with thousands of people receiving changes it had on them and how it had medals with Elsie’s image on it. impacted their life, especially those “She’s a wonderful role model,” with borderline diabetes and how being Rob said. active empowered them. “A great example to women in “I guess, to believe in themselves,” community and a demonstration of she said. the impact and the achievements that “I always look back to Uncle Rob women and everyone in community and the Foundation for making me can make. realise my potential, my calling and “To think it’s been nine years since I my purpose in life is to do exactly what first met Elsie up here on TI, and to be I’m doing now.” part of her journey, first of all, taking Elsie thanked all the participants her to New York and running her first who signed up and participated in the marathon and then continuing to see IWD IMF fun run and walk. her grow and develop, and receive “And also to the volunteers for Australia Day honours.” coming out and helping us on the He said Elsie relocated to Canberra course,” she said. for a couple of years to work for “None of this would be successful the IMF before returning to TI and without them, and also special continuing to organise running and acknowledgement to our sponsors who walking events in the community. have come on board – from the bottom Elsie said she was overwhelmed by of our hearts, we appreciate you all. her experiences. “Many individuals and “I’m still living the moment organisations came together, and pinching myself, just been running that’s what running is about, it’s around everywhere,” she said. about bringing people to together, “I’ve never had a moment to look at sharing and really connecting – doing the medal. butfolder also good for doc E dummy E tearsheet E 2 issues: 9/3 _____something & 16/3/23that’s _____fun Ads E excel us.” such a big honour my ad @ $7.85 Cook“It’s Shire Electorate. 10x7 for colour rate $549.50 incl per ad for 2 issues total $1099 incl. Angelique Scott <Angelique.Scott@parliament.qld.gov.au> – Office of Cynthia Lui MP Member for Cook. E cook@ family to be recognised Pics supplied. BY SYLVIA TABUA
TN0488
parliament.qld.gov.au --- booked by James Giugni-- Cook Electorate Office <Cook@parliament.qld.gov.au>
Torres Strait and NPA Cost of Living Summit Thursday Island • 20 March 2023 Please contact my electorate office to share your views about how the high cost of living in this region is impacting your life. Phone: (07) 4223 1100 Email: cook@parliament.qld.gov.au
06 NEWS
THURSDAY 16 MARCH 2023 TORRES NEWS
Winds of Zenadth ready to blow Input sought for action plan Torres Shire Council is pleased to announce the Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival will be held during this year’s National Reconciliation Week, from Tuesday 30 May to Friday 2 June. They also said they were pleased to announce the theme for the 2023 Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival was to be The Voice from the Deep (Malungu Yangu Wakay - Kala Lagaw Ya, Mirkar - Meriam Mer). Torres Shire Council CEO Dalassa Yorkston said they were looking forward to the event. “Council acknowledges this is a much-anticipated
Festival and we look forward to coming out and engaging with everyone as we plan our biggest celebration, the Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival,” she said. Indigenous Advisory Committee Chair Cr
Festival Themes Since 2009, and the inception of the Indigenous Advisory Committee, a specific theme has been set for every year, telling the story of the festival’s journey over the past decade. • 2010 – Back to Our Giz • 2012 – Sovereignty • 2014 – Solwata People
Proud to be a part of
John Abednego extended an open invitation to everyone to attend the Festival. “To all the island communities of Zenadth Kes, from Boigu in the west to Mer in the east, to all the communities of NPA
• 2016 – Next Generation • 2018 – Culture is our Foundation • 2021 – One Mat Many Patterns In setting this year’s theme The Voice from the Deep the Committee considered the following: • The Masig Statement: The Voice from the Deep (Malungu Yangu Wakay)
and the communities of Cape York, to the Torres Strait Islander families living on the mainland, a warm welcome is extended for all to come to the Festival here on Thursday Island,” he said. Ms Yorkston said the Festival was only 12 weeks away. “We look forward to seeing you all at what will be not only memorable but an amazing event,” she said. “Look out for more information in the next few weeks – this is going to be the biggest and best Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival ever.”
commemorating the 85th Anniversary of the First Torres Strait Councillors Meeting from 1937. • Premier of Queensland’s support for a Voice to Parliament and the Path to Treaty Bill. • The Prime Minister’s support for the Uluru Statement from the Heart and a Voice to Parliament.
on Domestic Violence
The Waiben consultation , held at Buai Mudh. Consultations for a National Domestic Violence Action Plan were held on Waiben and Badhu last week. Their work will be incorporated into the Draft National Domestic Violence Action Plan, expected to be finalised by mid-year.
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representatives. They sought input from local stakeholders about how issues of remoteness, cost of living, access to support services and the need for more place based solutions impacted the rate of Domestic Violence in our communities.
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08 NEWS
THURSDAY 16 MARCH 2023 TORRES NEWS
Energy efficiency grants available Small, and medium businesses across Australia can apply for grants of up to $25,000 to improve energy efficiency, save on energy bills and bring down emissions from now until 19 April 2023. The grants can be used to upgrade or replace existing airconditioners with high efficiency units or gas heating boilers with heat pumps, helping to lower power bills and emissions. Other activities supported
through the program include energy audits of business sites and investment in energy monitoring systems. The grants are part of the Federal Government’s commitment to ease cost of living pressures for Australian businesses by putting downward pressure on energy bills. Minister for Small Business Julie Collins said helping business cope with power prices was front of mind for the Government. “Across the country I
hear from small businesses who tell me energy prices are an increasing cost to their business which is why the Albanese Government is acting,” Minister Collins said. “The grants will provide practical assistance alongside the Government’s wholeof-economy approach to rising energy costs, giving businesses more security and confidence.” She said Round 1 was a $16 million investment from the $62 million program
TN0461 • 09/02/23
to help businesses use less energy and improve competitiveness, while reducing their carbon footprint. Applications for the grants will close on 19 April 2023, or when funding is exhausted. For more information about the Energy Efficiency Grants for Small & Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) program and how to apply, visit https://business.gov.au/ eegsme
Walter loves reading his Torres News
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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.
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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
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DELIGHTED: Walter Nai with the Torres News featuring an article on his Warraber Island relatives.
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.
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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
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STORY AND PIC BY ALF WILSON Quadriplegic Walter Nai was both emotional but delighted when he saw the 2 March 2023 edition of the Torres News which featured some of his relatives on Warraber Island. Included was a photo with the article about Warraber gearing up for a big season or rugby league which included several of his relatives Peter Nai and Cr Kabay Tamu. “Cr Tamu is a cousin and Peter is a nephew and it was great to see them in the paper,” Mr Nai said. Mr Nai said the Torres News was much appreciated by people living in Cairns and Townsville. “There are a lot of Torres Strait islanders in both towns and other family members read the paper when I am finished with it,” he said. In 2012, Mr Nai became a quadriplegic after a car accident on Masig which has confined him to a wheelchair and changed his life dramatically. “I spent six months in hospital afterwards and because of my disability am confined to
a wheelchair and I can’t live on a remote island,” he said. But he said whilst he kept in contact with family and friends on many of the islands, including Waiben, on social media, he was glowing in his praise of the Torres News. “I get to keep track of what is happening up there and have many relatives on Masig, Moa (St Pauls), Poruma, Iama, Warraber, Mer and Erub. I haven’t been up there for a few years but will try and get to TI soon,” he said. TSIRC Cr Kabay Tamu said Walter had been a top quality touch football player around the Torres Strait before his accident. “I played touch on TI, Erub, Mer and a few other places and loved it,” he said, smiling broadly. Mr Nai said he would love to visit the islands where his relatives reside but he said the smaller planes didn’t have wheelchair access. “I can go to Horn Island as the planes from Cairns do have that access,” he said. Mr Nai said he was a happy man despite his disabilities. “God bless you,” he said.
CULTURE 09
TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 16 MARCH 2023
Adelaide enjoys plenty Ailan song for festivals
STORY BY DIAT ALFERINK PICS SUPPLIED Educator, performer and musician Eddie Peters hosted a Zenadth Kes Ilan Night in Bedford Park as part of the Adelaide International Fringe Festival last Sunday night. Eddie, a long time resident of Adelaide for over 30 years, said he was excited. Audiences were invited to enjoy an outdoor atmosphere and live performances by Eddie and his band, with local
Aboriginal performers Vonda Last, Katie Aspel and Michael Collard. Jessie Lloyd and the Ailan Songs Project made a special appearance, featuring our very own Amas Nazareth Adidi and Louise Manas from ya up tap. Benny Mills and wife Yvonne were also in the crowd for the event along with many local Torres Strait Islander families. The Ailan Songs Project also did two performances at last weekend’s WOMADelaide Festival.
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10 NEWS
Ailan Life
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 25-word description to ads@torres.news
This week we had a record number of entries submitted, so take a moment to check out the great shots.
All entries are now in the draw to win this month’s $150 gift card! Good luck!
PIC 1: This pic of a Qantas plane has Naghir and nearby islands in the background. It was taken from Horn Hill, Horn Island and submitted by Flora Majid.
THURSDAY 16 MARCH 2023 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 of your local CEQ stores!
PIC 2: Tari Shibasaki submitted this pic of her daughter enjoying the sunset on a Saturday afternoon at the Horn Island Wharf. “It was a beautiful day to soak in some Vitamin D,” Tari said. PIC 3: Tamara Saylor submitted her pic of Palilag (Goodes Island) ... “Our camp place, swimming place, day out place and a place we also call home,” she said.
PIC 4: Submitted by Nadja Mack, this pic was taken at the ANZAC Dawn Service on Green Hill. PIC 5: Also submitted by Nadja Mack, this pic was taken at the International Women’s Day celebration at the Gab, showing Aunty Flora’s fantastic feather hair clip. “Having come up here last year from Melbourne after our two-year
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lockdown period ended, it still feels like a huge privilege to be able to experience and take part in Ailan Life,” Nadja said. PICs 6 & 7: Daniel (Danny) Billy submitted his pics of another day in paradise. “Enjoying the Ailan Life on beautiful Warraber, Kulkalgal Nation,” Danny said. He said it was a day that made him feel like Ailan hopping to uninhabited islands.
pic 5
Multiple entries may be submitted, but every entry (or entrant) may not be published. All pics submitted will be considered in the draw for the monthly gift voucher. Winners of the CEQ Ailan Life competition are determined by CEQ. 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.
11
TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 16 MARCH 2023
Townsville celebrations for International Women’s Day One of Townsville’s many International Women’s Day events was celebrated jointly by the North Queensland Legal Women’s Services and Queensland
Human Rights Commission, with guest speaker Torres News correspondent Velma Gara invited to speak about her media and basketball background. “There are different
ways that we can embrace or be embraced for our individuality,” Velma said. “So we can have equality for all women, but all women are different and need
to be supported as individuals.” A separate event, held at Community Gro in Rasmussen, was attended by many, as was a celebration by the Shield of H.E.R.S. (Honour,
Empower, Resect and Survive), a weekly gathering of Indigenous women during school terms to share tools of empowerment and a safe place to yarn, laugh and meet new people.
Community Connect Coordinator Topsy Mola encouraged the women to step out of the box and take on opportunities as they were presented. “We have the right to take on any challenges
and be proud of who you are,” she said. The event encouraged the attendees to practice self-care and activities included making scrubs, putting on facial masks and hand massages.
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IWD fishing comp a success International Women’s Day was celebrated on Hammond Island last weekend with a very successful fishing competition. The fishing comp was run from 11am – 3pm after an early church service at St Joseph’s followed by morning tea, thanks to Sacred Heart School, and registrations for nearly 30 fisherwomen at the Hammond Community Hall, thanks to Torres Strait Island Regional Council. On what was a very hot day, water bottles and fruit sponsored by Meriba Ged Ngalpun Mab (MGNM) were much appreciated, and there were also lucky dips. Overall there were smiles all around as the women brought their reels and good cheer to a good day. TOP: Elder Aunty Anima Pearson won first prize catch of the day with 30 inches. CENTRE: Four prize winners: Anima Dorante, Aunty Anima Pearson, Annie Garnier, Dawn Bindoraho BOTTOM: At the weigh-in at 3pm. Pics supplied.
Register of Pre-qualified Suppliers Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) is inviting tender submissions from businesses and individuals seeking to be placed on Council’s Register of Pre-qualified Suppliers for:
Supply of Trades Services – Contract No. 2023-03-01 and
Plant Machinery Hire (Civil & Building Works) – Contract No. 2023-03-02 Interested companies and individuals may complete a Schedule for one, multiple, or all of the listed categories in the supplier registers and return with the completed Tender Response. A Supplier Information Evening will be held on Wednesday 22 March 2023. Tenders, suitably endorsed, are invited and will be received via email tenders@nparc.qld.gov.au, until closing Noon, Tuesday 11 April 2023 and will not be opened publicly. The lowest or any Tender will not necessary be accepted. Council may change the Specifications during the tender evaluation period and invite Tenderers to change their Tender. Tender Specification documents are available to download via Council’s website www.nparc.qld.gov.au\Council Information\Tenders and Expressions of Interest. Further information can be obtained by contacting Council’s Operations Department via email tenders@nparc.qld.gov.au. Kate Gallaway ACTING CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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ABOVE: Friendship Sisters at the IWD Community Gro event at Rasmussen. RIGHT: Strong Women – Peninah Cloudy, Linda Saltner (Wulgurukaba traditional custodian), Andrea Kyle-Sailor (First Nations Women’s Legal Service), Florence Onus (First Nations Women’s Legal Service), Velma Gara (Townsville Basketball) & Penney Kay (NQ Women’s Legal Service). Pics supplied.
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Skills Based Director Cairns Based Apunipima Cape York Health Council Limited (Apunipima) is seeking Expressions of Interest for a Skills Based Director for a term of up to two (2) years from appointment. Apunipima is a membership-based, community controlled Aboriginal Health Organisation responsible for delivering high quality, culturally appropriate, comprehensive primary health to 11 Cape York communities. Incorporated under the Corporations Act 2001, Apunipima is led by a Board of Directors, comprised of up to eight (8) Directors from Cape York communities and up to three (3) skills-based Directors. This is a rewarding role which requires: • attendance at quarterly face-to-face board meetings (2 days per meeting), • memership of at least one of the Board Sub-Committees and attendance at Sub-Committee meetings (held the day before the face-to-face board meetings), and • quarterly teleconferences (2 hours per teleconference), and • attendance at other meetings, as required and agreed. Experience with working with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people and previous Board experience would be viewed favourably. Information about the position can be obtained by contacting Debra Malthouse Chief Executive Officer by email at debra.malthouse@apunipima.org.au Completed Expressions of Interest should also be sent to Debra Malthouse Chief Executive Officer by email at debra.malthouse@apunipima.org.au by Wednesday, 22 March 2023.
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TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 16 MARCH 2023
Training clinics a hit with NPA juniors
NPA KITTYHAWK BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION PICS BY STANLEY ELU
The junior Intensive Training Clinics have been going very strongly lately, with many kids coming along to improve their basketball skills.
We have had recent success with Betty Sagigi and Kyra Bowie making the U18 Peninsula Side and heading for the State championships in Brisbane in May.
SPORT 13
ICBL wins and losses tally big scoring games
With so many kids coming along, we have changed our start and finish times. They are: • 8am – 9am Year 3 – 5 kids • 8.30am – 10am Year 6 and up. Go ITC!
STORY BY VELMA GARA There were some big scores in recent games for the Indigenous Community Basketball League held at the Sports Complex on Thursday Island. In the first boys’ game Zey continued their winning streak, defeating Sager 52 to 38. In the other boys’ game, Naygay narrowly defeated Kuki – 34 to 31. In the girls’ competition – Naygay recorded their first win in the ICBL as they played against Kuku, defeating them – 70 to 10. It was another high scoring team effort in the other girls’ game earlier on the Sunday afternoon,
as Sager defeated Zey, 72 to 29. Torres Strait Coordinator, Mick Loban said there were no games scheduled for this Sunday 19 March 2023. “All teams should be rested and ready to play in the semi-finals to be held on 26 March 2023,” he said. There will be an update of the teams’ placing on the ICBL ladder in next week’s edition of Torres News.
Format for finals 1st vs 4th and 2nd vs 3rd, with the winners of each advancing to the girls and boys grand finals.
NBL final series goes to best of five
WILLIAM MCDOWELL-WHITE: in Cairns vs the Taipans late last year. Pic Christine Howes. A do-or-die Game 5 last night decided the 2023 Hungry Jack’s NBL Champions, after the New Zealand Breakers defeated the Sydney Kings, 80-70, in a fiery Game 4 last weekend. Unfortunately, at the time of printing, the game was yet to be played. On Sunday, in front of the biggest crowd for a game in New Zealand, the Breakers led from start to finish for the 9728 adoring fans in attendance. Indigenous player for the Breakers, William McDowell-White, was reportedly everywhere, with 19 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists.
14 SPORT
THURSDAY 16 MARCH 2023 TORRES NEWS
QRL holds TI workshops Ezra’s star just keeps on rising A rugby league administration and education forum held on Waiben last weekend attracted participants coming from Torres Strait Islands, the NPA, Cape York, and from as far away as Cairns and Townsville. QRL North region
manager Renae Kunst said the landmark event was to help to help kickstart competitions. “Rugby league is the sport of choice so we need to make sure we’re aiding and supporting local administrators and volunteers as much as we possibly can in order to feed their passion,” she said.
“We’ve also coupled the administration conference with NRL game development to make it a wholistic education weekend – including coaching and sports trainer courses – so visitors get total bang for their buck for their efforts to attend.” Full story next week. J
‘Jono’ signs with Devils
Pic submitted.
BY ALF WILSON Flying outside back Jonathon “Jono” Reuben (pictured above on left), who has starred in Erub United’s amazing successes, is signed up with the Norths Devils in the Hostplus Queensland Super Cup competition. Jono played when Erub United won the Arthur Beetson Foundation Murri Carnival at Redcliffe last October, and also lined up for them when they lost the Murri versus Koori Interstate Challenge to NSW Koori Knockout winner Newcastle Allblacks in January this year. The 29-year-old has played numerous seasons in the Queensland Cup, one NRL game for the St George Dragons in Townsville last season and at several Allblacks carnivals. “I may be 29 but I feel like I am just 21,” he told the Torres News. “I have had a good pre-season and am looking forward to being with Norths for the Queensland Cup.” Quietly spoken off the field, he is a proud Torres Strait Islander who reckons Allblacks carnivals are amongst the toughest competitions to compete in. “Erub United played seven games at the Queensland Murri Knockout and I was so sore afterwards and it took me two weeks to recover,” he said. Erub United organiser Elia Ware praised Jono and said he first heard of him when he played with the Canberra Raiders under-20 team. “I’ve been following him ever since,” he said. “When we first established Erub United in 2016, I asked Jono to join us then, but he couldn’t due to other commitments – the door was always
open for him to join us but when the time was right he would play. “I’m a huge fan. His highlight reel speaks for itself. “One of the best finishers in rugby league that should’ve played NRL a long time ago, but God has his reasons, and I’m sure Jono is enjoying dominating Queensland Cup. “Now that Jono has played for Erub United and met family members, I know he’ll be keen for the next carnival. “All the best Bala Jono for 2023 and can’t wait to catch up when you’re in town (Cairns).” In late 2019 he captained for Jumma Balas, named in named in honour of his much loved and late brother, Sam Reuben. “I was just 19 when I played for Bowen and remember it well,” he said. “It was very emotional playing for Sam’s team at the Bindal carnival in Townsville.” Last year Jono made NRL history when he made his NRL debut on a wing for St George Dragons in Townsville. When he took the field he was 29 years and 92 days of age, making him the oldest debutant in the NRL era. “This was definitely a dream come true, as little kid I just wanted to play NRL,” he said. “My family is here, one of my goals was to play in Townsville and it’s come true. “It was really fast out there and I enjoyed every minute of it.” He said as soon as the Queensland Cup draw came out he checked to see if Norths Devils would be playing in Townsville, Cairns, TI or Bamaga. “I wanted to come back and see my family but we don’t have games up there,” he said.
BY ALF WILSON Torres Strait Islander Ezra Mam showed he is a genuine rising NRL superstar when he scored two tries in the Brisbane Broncos 28-16 win over the North Queensland Cowboys in last Friday night’s Queensland derby at Suncorp Stadium. More than 43,000 spectators packed into the Brisbane Stadium to watch the Broncos and Mam shone. Five eighth Mam has improved in every game as he partnered with champion number seven Andy Reynolds in the Broncos halves. The youngster turned 20 on January 31 and has produced sensational match statistics. Mam ran for 119 metres during his 11 runs, made one tackle bust and always had the Cowboys defence guessing whenever he touched the ball. The Cowboys led early and ran to a 6-nil lead and at the 12th minute Mam looked to have scored a try which was disallowed. A try just before halftime saw the scores at the break level at 10-all, and it was anybody’s game. With less than a minute remaining before the break Mam pounced on a grubber kick to score his first four pointer. At the 50th minute, fullback Broncos attacked, and Mam raced away to score a try which propelled the Broncos to a 20-10 lead. Cowboys back-rower Jeremiah Nanai then scored to give the Cowboys some hope of a victory but Broncos fullback Walsh scored soon after to give the Broncos victory. Mam has now scored seven
EZRA MAM. Pic courtesy of the Broncos.
REUBEN COTTER. Pic courtesy of the Cowboys. tries in eight games at Suncorp Stadium after making his A grade debut last season, and has also showed great grit in defence. He was tackled heavily on several occasions but displayed true class to be one of the best players on the field. Cowboys forward Reuben Cotter had a good game. He was solid in attack and defence, and took some heavy knocks. During his time on the bench the Cowboys looked less efficient.
Mam has been in the Broncos’ pathways program since he was 13, and has earned his spot in last year’s 30-man squad, making his debut in round 11 on May 19 against the Newcastle Knights. MEANWHILE Ezra has a big following on Hammond Island where proud mum Tomisina Ahwang lives. Tomasina said she watched the Broncos/Cowboys head to head on television and was “nervously excited’’. “Most of the residents here on Hammond Island watched the game and Ezra also has a big following on Waiben and other islands,” she said. Tomisina said she spoke to Ezra on the phone not long after the game and then again the following morning. “It is our ritual that we speak after his games and I had been concerned that he has a broken nose after a heavy tackle,” she said. “But he is okay.” Tomisina said Ezra had a bout of flu in the week leading up to the match which made his performance all the better. “I did get very excited watching the game here on Hammond Island and whilst I was nervous, the Broncos are comeback kings and I thought they would win,” she said. This very happy mother said Ezra has sacrificed a lot to get where he was in rugby league. “He has been committed and is a very good son,” she said. She said Ezra told her the coming Broncos match against the Dolphins was sold out. “I will also be keeping an eye on Dolphins players Brenko and Edrick Lee, who are related to us,” she said.
Torres Strait skill cuts it for Cutters BY ALF WILSON Torres Strait Islanders Hagiga Mosby, Tahlulah Tillett, Sareka Mooka, Essay Banu and Samara Luta shone for the Mackay Cutters in their 30-8 win over the Wynnum Manly Seagulls in round one of the Statewide BMD Premiership on the weekend. Hagiga lined up in the centres, Tahlulah at halfback, Sareka was a front row forward whilst Essay and Samara came from the interchange bench with great effect. Sareka and Samara scored tries for the Cutters along with Alicia Martin, Zoe Cook, Shannon Mato and Katie Green. The Cutters side consists of players from
Team Pic by Jorja Brinums/QRL. Cairns, Townsville and Mackay and others with Torres Strait heritage in the squad who should play matches in coming weeks. Mackay Cutters coach Marco Peters said he was particularly happy with his side. Essay played for Wynnum Manly last season and was based in Townsville with family while living in Tully. “Moving away from this team to go up north to my family, it is a
really good privilege and honour to wear this jersey for the first time in the BMD comp,” Banu told the QRL website. Mackay Cutters and Norths Devils were the two new teams in the 2023 competition. The Mackay side replaces last year’s premiers North Queensland Gold Stars who have moved on to be part of a national women’s comp. The Cutters have
taken on the Gold Stars model and were one of the favourites to take out the premiership. Essay, Sareka and Tahlulah represented for the NRL Indigenous Allstars ladies team, who went down 16-12 to a Maori Allstars Ferns at Rotarua in New Zealand recently. Sareka and Essay are two of the premier forwards in the BMD Premiership, whilst Tahlulah was a highly rated playmaker. The 20-year-old Hagiga played for the Brisbane Broncos and Gold Coast Titans in the National ladies comp. The Cutters will face Tweed Seagulls in Round 2. The draw for the expanded 10-team NRLW 2023 comp was yet to be released.
SPORT 15
TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 16 MARCH 2023
Juniors look forward to huge rugby league year M From P16
Zenadth Kes Junior Rugby League Zenadth Kes Junior Rugby League has a big season planned for 2023. A few weeks of questionable weather delayed the start of the
season, with week one kicking off on Friday 10 March. The committee decided 2023 will consist of the following age groups, due to the numbers of registrations and new rules:• Under 7 – League Tag • Under 8 – Tackle • Under 9 – Tackle • Under 10 – Tackle • Under 12 – Tackle The exciting news that the Winds of Zenadth Kes Cultural
Festival will be held at the end of May has led the junior league committee to decide on having two seasons in 2023. • Season A: 10 – 31 March – final game on 21 April • Season B: Term 3 – 10 July – 1 September The seasons success is dependent upon the volunteers and this year we have really focussed on making sure we have sufficient qualified coaches, league
safe, sports trainers and referees. We are grateful that QRL Development officer Terry Abednego arranged for QRL, NRL and sports medicine officials to come to TI last weekend allow our volunteers to complete their qualifications. We are so thankful to everyone who has raised their hand and registered to help us out. We are fortunate to have great sponsors over the years and The Coffee
Department has come onboard for a third year, allowing us to award two Players of the Week for each age group. Come on down on Friday nights and cheer these young superstars. There are sausage sizzles on sale with proceeds going towards our 2023 Under-11 Zenadth Kes Stingers team, who will attend the Laurie Spina Shield in Townsville during the June/July School holidays.
Players of the Week – Season A – 10 March 2023 Under 7 – Braxton Bates & Dameron Thaiday Under 8 – Owen Peacocke & Shakoiya Aniba Under 9 – Taye Sagigi & Awasi Bon Under 10 – Frances Mosby & Zayda Pearson – Garnier
TN0230 Under 12 – Kyeisha Aniba & Serai See Kee 8x2 local sports Looking for more local sport? We’re happy to run it if we have it!
George Nona – Long time volunteer and super referee for ZKJRL. U12 Player of the Week Serai See Kee with Coach Arthur Livock.
U12 Player of the Week Kyeisha Aniba with Coach Arthur Livock.
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 Andy Abraham – Sports trainer & coach.
AJ Parsgaard scores in U8s.
U7s in action – Kohana Zitha with ball, Xavier Sabatino, Ronald Pearson & Taraji Pearson-Garnier in defence.
JANUARY – MARCH 2023 Monday / Wednesday & Friday
LEFT: Asher Moss, Tayte Wylie & Lawrence Day-Bon. CENTRE: Under 9s ZKJRL players.
FERRY SCHEDULE
U8s Coaches Tim Couchman & Anthony Moynihan (president of ZKJRL).
BOTTOM: U12s in action.
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”
Moynihan family – Anthony (President), Cara (Treasurer), Gus & Tilly.
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)
U12 Coach Arthur Livock & U7 Coach Marita Sagigi.
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
THURSDAY 16 MARCH 2023
EDITORIAL l E: christine@torres.news l M: 0419 656 277
Juniors look forward to huge rugby league year
EXCITED: Zenadth Kes Junior Rugby Leaguers Laila Vola Vola, Ryan Jade Pedro, Tilly Moynihan, Seth & Amaraia Taumafai are looking forward to a huge year of rugby league for our juniors. Pic supplied. See full story and more pics on page 15 N
Dolphins may lose ‘underdog’ tag BY ALF WILSON The pride of Saibai Island, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, scored two tries for the Dolphins when they came from behind to beat the Canberra Raiders 20-14 at the their Redcliffe home ground on Saturday. It was the second win for the Dolphins in the first two rounds of the NRL – in both matches they were underdogs. The game was played in heavy rain and the water-logged field made conditions difficult for all players. Tabuai-Fidow scored just before halftime to claw the Raiders lead back to a 12-6 advantage and then crossed for the match-winning four pointer late to give the Dolphins victory. The previous week Tabuai-Fidow who is known as the “Hammer” scored the first try for NRL’s new club when they defeated premiership aspirants, the Sydney Roosters, 28-18. Tabuai-Fidow has proven to be one of the most astute player signings for the 2023 season and is one of the form fullbacks in the 17 club comp. One of the fastest players in the NRL, he
SOLID PLAYER : Brenko Lee. Pic thanks to Dolphins.
SEBASTIAN KRIS at training. Pic thanks to Canberra Raiders.
was signed by super coach Wayne Bennett after 50 A grade matches with the North Queensland Cowboys. The Hammer left with the promise to be the Dolphins starting fullback after the
Cowboys preferred Scott Drinkwater as their number one. Tabuai-Fidow had been on the Cowboys bench in games late in the season. Under Bennett, Tabuai-Fidow has
blossomed and his positional play against the Raiders was first class. He was safe under the high bomb in the last line of defence and was in the right place when the Raiders playmakers kicked in general play. His Dolphins teammate Brenko Lee lined up in the centres and was solid in both defence and attack. The game was played at the Dolphins home ground where Brenko lined up for Badhu team Kulpiyam at the 2015 Arthur Beetson Queensland Murri Carnival. The Dolphins have captured the imagination of football followers around the Torres Strait, NPA, Cape York and beyond. Supporters of other NRL clubs have a keen interest in the Dolphins, even though many in southern media tipped them to finish as wooden spooners. A Badu Island rugby league identity said Brenko had a big following. “Most of the people on Badhu watched the Dolphins match,” he said. In other good news for the Dolphins, Brenko’s cousin Edrick Lee is set to return from injury in coming weeks. Fullback Sebastian Kris had a good game for the Raiders.
