Torres News_Edition 80_11 May 2023

Thursday, 11 May 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

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Zagraeb Island Dancers open Mam takes on Qld ‘Yes’ Cairns Regional Parliament campaign

A wide range of events and deputations – and protest – has happened around the Queensland Regional Parliament sitting in Cairns this week.

Pictured is Premier Anastacia Palaszczuk watching the Zagraeb Island Dancers at the Welcome to Country and Opening Ceremony.

Pic thanks to Mark Bailey MP. Full story & pics P5 N

A Brisbane-based Torres Strait Islander has been appointed to lead the Queensland campaign for a ‘Yes’ vote in this year’s Voice referendum.

Stephen Mam will be the Queensland State Campaign Coordinator for the Yes23 campaign led by Australians for Indigenous Constitutional Recognition.

Directors of the group, chaired by Daniel Gilbert AM and Rachel Perkins include Tanya Hosch, Thomas Mayo, Karen Mundine, Noel Pearson and Chloe Wighton.

Mr Mam said Yes23 were engaging with a large number of supporters from community groups, allied organisations and everyday volunteers.

“Australia’s now 122-year-old constitution still doesn’t recognise the first Australians, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” he said.

“It’s time it did.

“From May 2023, statewide, I will be working together with

Stephen Mam on the Sunshine Coast in January this year. Pic

by Christine Howes. the community and our allies for the referendum later this year.

“This is an opportunity for First Nations peoples to come together, nurture relationships and create action.

“This year’s referendum is about recognising the identity of First Nations peoples, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and is a means to empower local communities with a Voice for authentic action.”

More Voice Referendum news on P6 N

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02 NEWS

THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023 TORRES NEWS

Locals get behind search for Denne The Waiben and Ngurpai communities have rallied around the family and friends of Denne Bourke, 38, who went missing from his outrigger canoe last Wednesday afternoon.

On Monday this week the Police search and rescue operation was scaled down, but locals have continued to look for any signs of the popular local identity, who served the community coffee from his small roadside business on most days.

Torres Strait Patrol Group Acting Inspector Andrew

Pool praised the community, businesses and government agencies who banded together to help.

“Since the alarm was raised, the resourcefulness of the people here has shone through,” he said.

“I want to thank everyone who has come forward to assist in the search.

“Every effort possible is being made to find this man and our thoughts remain with his family, friends and fellow islanders.

“Close support is being

provided to the man’s loved ones and I know they are very appreciate of the goodwill shown by those who call this place home.”

Queensland Police Service said they would continue water and aerial searches, however land-based shoreline searches have been suspended.

“Family and friends would like to thank the community for their support and efforts with the search and rescue,” they said.

“They are very grateful

for the local community’s quick and detailed response.

“The kindness and generosity during this difficult time has been greatly appreciated.”

The QPS acknowledged the contribution of other services, volunteers and the community in the search.

Many people in the community and beyond have donated towards the search, and to help support Denne’s wife Georgia. their baby Kiva and family.

Budget works hard to ease cost of living

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

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The centrepiece of the Federal Government’s second Budget is a $14.6 billion costof-living package over four years that will ease pressure on Australians while putting downward pressure on inflation.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the 20232024 Budget prioritised responsible, targeted cost of living relief while also investing in the future, securing the services Australians rely on and strengthening the nation’s finances.

Cost-of-living measures in the 2023-24 Budget include: Record investment in bulk billing • triple the bulk billing incentive for the most common GP consultations for children under 16 and Commonwealth concession card holders Changes to pharmacy maximum dispensing quantities • Reducing the cost of medicines by up to half for at least six million Australians.

Energy Price Relief Plan • Up to $3 billion of electricity bill relief through the Energy Bill Relief Fund to benefit more than five million eligible households and one million eligible small businesses.

Jobseeker • $4.9 billion to increase the base rate of several working age and student income support payments like the JobSeeker Payment and Youth Allowance by $40 per fortnight for eligible recipients.

• This includes extending eligibility for the existing higher rate of the JobSeeker Payment to single Australians aged 55 to 59 years who have been on the payment for nine or more continuous months, to match that applying to those over 60.

Commonwealth Rent Assistance • $2.7 billion to increase the maximum rates of Commonwealth Rent Assistance by 15 per cent.

Single parent payment • $1.9 billion to expand eligibility to single parents who are principal carers whose youngest child is under 14 years of age, the majority of whom are women.

They said the Budget forecasted a small surplus in 2022-23, ahead of most major advanced economies, and lower deficits and debt over each year of the forward estimates compared with the October Budget.

We’ll have a full Budget wrap in our next issue J

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023

DV victims and families remembered in vigil behind due to domestic and family violence – held on Waiben was hosted by the Lena Passi Women Shelter.

On average, one woman a week is murdered by her current or former partner in Australia each year – 13 Australian women have lost their lives so far in 2023.

Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month is an annual event held every May to raise community awareness about the social and personal impacts of domestic and family violence.

The aims of the month are to: • raise community awareness of

domestic and family violence and its impacts; • promote a clear message of no tolerance of domestic and family violence in Queensland communities; • ensure those who are experiencing domestic and family violence know how

to access help and support; • encourage people who use abuse and/ or violence to take responsibility for their abusive behaviour and seek support to change.

Say NO to Domestic and Family Violence and get HELP!

Women’s Voices heard in Canberra The Wiyi Yani U Thangani (Women’s Voices) National Summit was the first ever national gathering of its kind held over three days in Canberra earlier this week, with an additional one-day Youth Forum held on Monday.

The sold-out event brought together more than 900 First Nations women delegates from across Australia, for decision-making, innovation and celebration.

It was an outcome of the Wiyi Yani U Thangani (Women’s Voices) project, led

by Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner June Oscar AO, in partnership with the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA).

The Summit was a oncein-a-generation platform for agreement making where First Nations women came together to raise their collective voice and determine the way ahead.

“It has been my priority to champion the voices and human rights of our women, girls and

Back row L-R Barbara Ibuai (TSRA), May Sam (TSRA), Annai Ghee (Brisbane Delegate) & Jillian Bowie (Meriba Ged Ngalpun Mab).

ABOVE LEFT: Jillian Bowie at Smoking Ceremony.

ABOVE RIGHT: Velma Gara & Trish Akee (NIAA).

Pics supplied by Australian Human Rights Commission.

communities,” Commissioner Oscar said. “The last time our women were consulted as a collective, at a national level, was in 1986 when the Women’s Business Report was published.

“Thirty-four years later the Wiyi Yani U Thangani (Women’s Voices) Report was tabled in Federal Parliament.

“First Nations women and girls’ voices are vital to paving the way for a future that all Australians deserve and have a right to.”

Keynote speakers were Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney and Social Justice Advocate and Expert Member of the UN Permanent Forum for Indigenous Issues, Associate Professor Hannah McGlade, and a video message from New Zealand Minister of Foreign Affairs Nanaia Mahuta.

Torres Strait Islanders at the Summit included Carla McGrath – Facilitator; Shonella Tatipata – Design Committee;

Jude Ketchell – Design Committee; Velma Gara, Semara Jose – Moderator; Dalassa Yorkston – Panellist; Tamina Pitt – Panellist; Rochelle Pitt – Singer/ Songwriter; Kee’ahn – Singer/ Songwriter; Muyngu Koekaper Dance Troupe, Aletia Twist – (Mura Kosker) Panellist and Jillian Bowie.

The event concludes with a gala dinner tonight.

Full report & pics next week J

CALL OUT

Promote your art at the market stall or in the curated exhibition.

CIAF Theme: Weaving Our Future: Claiming Our Sovereignty

DARWIN ABORIGINAL ART FAIR | 11-13 AUGUST

Pics supplied.

ARTWORK

CAIRNS INDIGENOUS ART FAIR | 13-16 JULY

A candlelight vigil was held last Wednesday to mark National Domestic and Family Violence Remembrance Day as part of this year’s Domestic and Family Violence Prevention and Awareness Month.

The event – to remember those who have died and the ones left

Promote your art in the Art Fair.

Artwork: Symbol of Peace, Segar Passi 2018 (detailed)

Artworks to be received at GTCC

CIAF deadline: 9 June 2023 DAAF deadline: 4 July 2023 For more information: 07 4069 0888

info@gabtitui.gov.au

04 NEWS

THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023 TORRES NEWS

Boats to be blessed on Saturday

Sandie, Sonia, Suzannah, Tony, family and Torres Strait Tours staff and crew (Rebel) are excited to announce the arrival of new boat Mystery B to their fleet.

A blessing for the Mystery B and Colossus will be held at Engineers Wharf (small Wharf) on Saturday from 11.30am to 1.30pm – community is invited to join the crew in celebrating with a free BBQ, and drinks, Lucky Dip draws for shirts, ferry tickets and other prizes.

There are also some great prizes on offer in their re-naming competition for both vessels – see the crew for details about how to enter.

Mystery B will be in service as of this Monday on the Hammond Island school run.

See their timetables for updated schedules, as well as the Horn Island runs, at http://www.rebeltours.com.au/ti-ferry-timetable.php

New rescue boat delivery close Sea trials and volunteer training have begun for a new Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) vessel set to arrive in Waiben this coming June.

The 11.9 metre rigid-hard collared boat (RHCB) was the first vessel delivered through this Queensland Government Partnership for the benefit of Volunteer Marine Rescue Association Queensland (VMRAQ).

Several VMRAQ members, including some from Waiben, have put the vessel through its paces while testing their own skills across a range of areas including safety management and marine search and rescue.

Member for Cook, Cynthia Lui said she was happy to see the Government investing in the resources and equipment volunteers needed to support their work helping local communities.

“Having the right vessel for our VMR Thursday Island team is so important in the Torres Strait where there are so many island communities,” she said.

Fire and Emergency Services Minister Mark Ryan said dedicated marine rescue volunteers provided a vital service and were the first port of call for

those in need.

“This vessel will support the incredible work the members of VMR Thursday Island undertake to keep people safe in one of the world’s most hazardous stretches of water in the Torres Strait,” he said.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Commissioner Greg Leach said the dedicated members of Volunteer Marine Rescue Thursday Island operated in an area with some of the highest search and rescue statistics in Australia.

“These brave volunteers often place their own safety on the line to rescue community members in dangerous conditions and this

vessel ensures they can continue to provide this life saving service to the region,” he said.

Volunteer Marine Rescue Association Queensland (VMRAQ) General Manager Keith Williams said they were excited.

“We are really excited to see the practical benefits of the government’s extra investment in our marine rescue capabilities across the state,” he said.

“New vessels like this one make a very real difference to the capacity of our marine rescue volunteers to deliver the best level of service to the local community, especially in remote areas like the Torres Strait.”

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Beach clean up on Darnley Island. Pic thanks to Tangaroa Blue.

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Collective action to keep ReefClean The ReefClean program, run by Tangeroa Blue, stops tonnes of debris from reaching the Reef every year, playing a vital role in protecting the Great Barrier Reef from the threat of marine debris.

Last year 296 clean-up events were run covering 1987 hectares of the Great Barrier Reef region, with 23.7 tonnes of debris collected by 4139 volunteers.

A total of 97.5 tonnes of marine debris has been collected since the program began in 2019.

Special Envoy for the Great Barrier Reef, Senator Nita Green said the Government was committed to protecting the Reef.

“We are proud to

support on-the-ground initiatives, like ReefClean,” she said.

“The program is helping combat the threat of marine debris to protect the Reef’s marine life, tourism appeal and status as one of the best managed world-heritage properties.

“These types of programs are vital in helping future proof the Great Barrier Reef and the 64,000 jobs it supports.”

The most common types of marine debris collected were plastic lids and bottle caps, foam insulation and packaging, plastic drink bottles, rubber thongs and lots of small plastic fragments and microplastics.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023

Protesters for action around climate change issues outside the Cairns Convention Centre where the Regional Parliament sat for the week.

Pic thanks to TSIRC.

Cairns hosts Parliament A wide range of events and deputations – and protest – has happened around the Queensland Regional Parliament sitting in Cairns this week.

Protests included Traditional Owner representation, Elders, leaders and youths advocating for climate change issues, and a call from the Torres Strait Island Regional Council to reinstate acknowledgement of The Masig Statement into the Path to Treaty Bill, which was debated yesterday afternoon.

Mayors, Councillors and CEOs from the Northern Peninsula Regional Aboriginal Council and Torres Shire Council were also in Cairns for the week to attend a Torres Strait & Northern Peninsula Area Regional Organisations of Councils (TS & NPA ROC) meeting at the Bolands Centre and a State reception before the Parliament sat.

Local MP Cynthia Lui said official Parliamentary proceedings were opened with “a beautiful Welcome to Country from local Traditional Owners and the Torres Strait Islander Prayer and cultural performance”.

“Thank you to members of the

Gimuy Walubara Yidinji Elders Corporation, the representatives of the Yirriganydji Gurubana Aboriginal Corporation, the representatives of the Djabugay Aboriginal Corporation, the Zagraeb Island Dancers and the Reverend Patrick Van Den Broek Amber,” she said.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the sittings were an important opportunity for locals to hear key issues debated.

“It’s also about engaging and listening to the local community in their own backyard so we can help boost the local economy and provide better infrastructure and services for them,” she said.

Minister for Seniors and Disability Services and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Member for Barron River Craig Crawford said the Path to Treaty Bill was on the agenda.

“The Bill seeks to establish a First Nations Treaty Institute and a formal Truth Telling and Healing Inquiry,” he said.

“I look forward to co-hosting a Path to Treaty breakfast with the Premier later in the week.”

NEWS 05

Unions appreciate ACTU visit

Local Electrical Trades Mr Sebasio said the referendum this year.

Union member Tommy the visit demonstrated “To have Sally come democracy at work.

Sebasio, based in the up and to voice the NPA, said he was intentions of the unions “When you look at looking forward to and support us, it means the union support for attending this year’s a lot. the Voice to Parliament, Labour Day event on that is exactly what our “It’s unifying, we are Waiben next Friday unions do, day-in and doing things together.” afternoon from 5pm day-out, to improve the He said organisers onwards. lives of everybody,” he were planning some Tommy Sebasio in said.

ACTU Secretary changes to the march.

Cairns. Pic submitted.

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TS & NPA ROC meeting at the Bolands Centre in Cairns. Pic NPARC.

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06 VOICE NEWS THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023 TORRES NEWS

Getting the facts ahead of the Voice referendum LAP Traineeships – Mine Operators We are looking for Local Aboriginal Person (LAP) Mine Operator Trainees to operate haul trucks, rear tippers, water carts and other machinery to conduct surface extraction of bauxite at our Northern Operations (Andoom).

Duties include: Operating excavating or ripping machines to remove vegetation, overburden and bauxite Operating front-end loaders and equipment to load trucks for the transport of material to stockpile or processing Operating long-haul trucks to move bauxite to the dump bridge prior to processing in the beatification plant Operating mobile plant machinery (such as bulldozers, graders, front-end loaders, backhoes and tip-trucks) to create haul roads and stockpiles Use radio and information technology to communicate on-the-job Successful applicants must: Have a current manual drivers licence Be committed to the safety of yourself and the team Have a high degree of work ethic and self-motivation Able to tolerate physically demanding work including shift work For further information contact Jo Moloney via email jo.moloney@riotinto.com or call 0473 016 007.

Scan the QR code to apply!

Applications close 15 May 2023

LAP Traineeships – Mine Operators We are looking for Local Aboriginal Person (LAP) Mine Operator Trainees to operate haul trucks, rear tippers, water carts and other machinery to conduct surface extraction of bauxite at our Northern Operations (Andoom).

Duties include: Operating excavating or ripping machines to remove vegetation, overburden and bauxite Operating front-end loaders and equipment to load trucks for the transport of material to stockpile or processing Operating long-haul trucks to move bauxite to the dump bridge prior to processing in the beatification plant Operating mobile plant machinery (such as bulldozers, graders, front-end loaders, backhoes and tip-trucks) to create haul roads and stockpiles Use radio and information technology to communicate on-the-job

The Australian Government is partnering with the Museum of Australian Democracy (MoAD) and the Constitution Education Fund Australia to deliver an information program about this year’s referendum to recognise the First Peoples of Australia in the Constitution by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.

The last referendum in Australia was held in 1999, meaning that no Australians under the age of 42 will have voted in a referendum before.

Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney said it was crucial they had all the facts to make an informed decision.

“Both the MoAD and the Constitution Education Fund Australia are established and trusted organisations with existing

channels that can reach and teach people across the country about the Constitution and referendum processes,” she said.

“Delivering this civics program will ensure all Australians can contribute respectfully and knowledgeably to the national conversation about the referendum before voting day.”

MoAD Director, Stephanie Bull said their events, exhibitions and public programs encouraged thousands of visitors to improve their understanding of democracy.

“This funding will enable MoAD to develop digital content that reaches people across the nation, enabling Australians to actively participate in their democracy,” she said.

CEO of Constitution Education Fund Australia CEO Kerry

Jones said they welcomed the opportunity.

“We welcome the opportunity to provide essential information to Australians about the referendum process, the workings of the Constitution and our system of government,” she said.

“The Constitution Education Fund Australia will present the information in an attractive and comprehensive format to a wide range of electors.”

More information about the referendum is available on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice website (https:// voice.gov.au/) and more about the Museum of Australian Democracy and the Constitution Education Fund Australia is available on their respective websites.

Philanthropy orgs back ‘Yes’ campaign In a unified and committed effort, 31 of Australia’s leading philanthropic foundations unveiled a new pledge to support the Voice, offering a combined $17 million in funding for the ‘Yes’ campaign late last month.

Signatories to the pledge include Australian Communities Foundation, the Besen Family Foundation, CAGES Foundation, MECCA M-POWER, the Nelson Meers Foundation, The Myer Foundation, Oranges & Sardines Foundation, the Paul Ramsay Foundation, Perpetual, the Ross Trust, the Snow Foundation and many more.

Founding members of the Pledge agreed to a significant initial donation, reflecting the scale of funding needed to achieve a positive referendum result, and additional pledge signatories were encouraged to join for any amount.

Paul Ramsay

Foundation CEO Professor Kristy Muir said the referendum was an historic opportunity for all Australians to show they had listened to the voices of First Nations communities who asked for the Voice through the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

“Philanthropic organisations are deeply engaged in working with First Nations-led organisations and programs around the country,” Professor Muir said.

“As a sector, we’ve learned from experience that the best outcomes emerge when the voices of those affected are heard.

“Voice is a vital mechanism that’s been missing for a long time.

Sarah Hardy, CEO of the Ross Trust said Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

needed to have a say in their future “to make a positive and enduring difference”.

“Listening to the voices of those most impacted by the decisions our country makes, is the strongest and most sustainable way to improve the lives of others,” she said.

“We urge our friends and peers across philanthropy to engage in this critical moment in time and show their support for the Yes campaign.”

Australian philanthropic organisations have previously shown strong support for Voice with more than 70 representatives from across the philanthropic sector signing an open letter supporting the Uluru Statement in 2019.

Philanthropy Australia CEO Jack Heath welcomed the

Pledge and said it was a great example of philanthropy doing what it does best – coming together to advocate for change that will have a profound, long-term impact in the lives of individuals and their communities.

“Philanthropy Australia’s support for the ‘Yes’ case is based on listening to what First Nations peoples say is needed to improve their daily lives, and it is backed by the overwhelming majority of our membership,” he said.

“We believe that a successful referendum will lead to a better future for all Australians and we acknowledge those philanthropists who are leading the way through this pledge.”

The philanthropic pledge is available to view on the Philanthropy Australia website here: https://www. philanthropy.org.au/ news-and-stories/ media-releasephilanthropy-says-yes

Successful applicants must: Have a current manual drivers licence Be committed to the safety of yourself and the team Have a high degree of work ethic and self-motivation Able to tolerate physically demanding work including shift work

HEALTHQ32 10-year vision

For further information contact Jo Moloney via email jo.moloney@riotinto.com or call 0473 016 007.

Continued from P7 N

Scan the QR code to apply!

Applications close 15 May 2023

• Developing sustainable workforce models for surgical services that better meet the needs of regional, rural and remote communities.

Queensland Primary Health

Networks Collaborative Chair Libby Dunstan said they welcomed the opportunity to be involved during the consultation and engagement phase of development of HEALTHQ32.

“To achieve the vision will require all parts of the healthcare system to work together to deliver world-class

healthcare for Queenslanders.

“We look forward to working in partnership as this vision is implemented across the broader health system,” she said.

Further information on HEALTHQ32 is available at www.health.qld.gov.au/ healthq32

HEALTH NEWS 07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023

HEALTHQ32 sets 10-year vision for healthcare

M Continued on P6

Cases of influenza are continuing to rise across Cape York, the Torres Strait, and the Northern Peninsula Area.

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service Executive Director of Medical Services Dr Marlow Coates said 370 laboratory-confirmed cases had been recorded so far this year.

“We’ve had outbreaks on Cape York and are now also seeing rising numbers of cases in the Torres Strait, so we know flu is definitely impacting our communities,’’ he said.

“Being vaccinated every

year is the best way to protect yourself and your family from the flu.

“With the seasonal flu vaccine now readily available, everyone should take the opportunity to be vaccinated.

“It’s a safe vaccine for children and is offered annually to everyone older than six months of age.”

As well as flu, cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) are being widely reported across the health service region, with 52 cases reported to date, compared with

none for the same year to date period last year.

Dr Coates said RSV was a common virus which generally caused minor illness but could be severe in individuals with weakened immune systems or young children.

“A single RSV infection does not result in long-lasting protective immunity, and symptomatic illness tends to occur repetitively in children,’’ he said.

“Symptoms may include a runny nose, cough, fever, sore throat, and headache.

Original artwork by Marcus Lee Design

The State Government has unveiled HEALTHQ32, a 10-year vision for the future of healthcare in Queensland which will deliver new models of care and services, new technologies and treatments, improved data systems, and stronger community partnerships to improve patient experiences and their health outcomes.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D’Ath said she was committed to ensuring every Queenslander has access to free, world-class healthcare.

“We have great challenges ahead in the health space, but as Minister I am absolutely confident Queensland has the people and the know how to keep delivering efficient, compassionate care when Queenslanders need it most,” she said.

“The Palaszczuk Government’s Health and Hospitals Plan contains the largest investment in new hospitals and hospital beds in Queensland’s history, HEALTHQ32 is a clear demonstration of our commitment to our health system.

“HEALTHQ32 provides a comprehensive blueprint for our healthcare system, making it easier for Queenslanders to get the right care, in the right place, at the right time.”

HEALTHQ32 also aims to boost the health workforce across the state through increasing opportunities for staff mobility, developing new workforce models for surgical services, and partnering with universities to increase student intake.

Queensland Health Director-General Shaun Drummond HEALTHQ32, “sets us up to be a dynamic and responsive health system where our workforce is valued and empowered to provide world-class healthcare to all Queenslanders”.

“It outlines the outcomes and priorities across the health system that will enable Queensland Health to deliver accessible, equitable and sustainable healthcare for all Queenslanders to 2032, in collaboration with our health system partners,” he said.

The Palaszczuk Government has already implemented a raft of measures aligned to HEALTHQ32’s vision, including: • Increasing virtual health services to provide more care options closer to home.

• Growing Rapid Access Services across the state to streamline access to specialist care and reduce wait times in emergency departments.

• Increasing access to urgent care through the state’s Satellite Hospitals and working with the Federal Government to establish 11 Urgent Care Clinics.

• Partnering with universities to increase student intake across health professional groups, and to offer accelerated programs into health careers.

• Establishing health pathways from school traineeships to graduate programs, including expanding the Deadly Start traineeship program.

• Creating staff digital passports to support health worker mobility across the state.

Influenza on the rise in the north

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“While there is no vaccine for RSV, we encourage people to prevent the spread by practising good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette – just like for the flu and COVID-19.’’

Dr Coates said everyone also should always ensure they were up to date with all the COVID-19 vaccination doses recommended for their age and health needs.

The health service has recorded 181 cases of COVID-19 so far this year, compared with 5762 cases for the same year to date period last year.

08 NEWS

THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023 TORRES NEWS

Crash victim honoured in Townsville fundraising event STORY AND PICS

BY ALF WILSON Several hundred people gathered in Townsville on Sunday to honour the memory of crash victim Michale Chandler and to raise funds for her to young sons.

The 29-year-old mother was one of three people killed in the tragedy, allegedly caused by a boy in a stolen car on 1 May. A 13 year old has been charged in Brisbane.

The Torres News was at the event held at the Amphitheatre on the Townsville Strand.

The memorial fundraiser was run by Brothas Entertainment and their band Up 2 You, who were Hepa Haretuku, Selwyn Power, Alfred Henaway, Harmon Power and coordinator Ben Henaway.

“Michale passed away in a tragic car accident in Maryborough,” Mr (Ben) Henaway said.

“Michale and her husband Matt were originally from Townsville before relocating.

Proud of of Proudtotobebea part a part

RIGHT: Genus Passi & wife Trudi.

BELOW CENTRE: Up 2 You entertainers, back row from left Hepa Haretuku & Selwyn Power.

Front from left Alfred Henaway, Harmon Power & Ben Henaway.

“We were raising money via a Go Fund Me to support her two sons Isaiah and Judah.

“The page will remain open for a few days and will be accessible via our Brothas Entertainment page.”

Colin Doolah was there with other family and extended family members.

“We are all here to support the family,” Mr Doolah said.

Genus Passi and his wife Trudi, along with Mettassa Zaro (Mer) and Maeue Zaro, 2, and Professor Gracelyn Smallwood and grandchild Arie Eussen, 9, were also there to offer support.

“Today’s memorial was very moving,” Professor Smallwood said.

“To see community come together from different backgrounds in support of this precious young lady whose life was taken so tragically, for the healing of the dreadful trauma for her loved ones and community – RIP our dear sister.”

ABOVE: Mettassa Zarl & baby Maeue Zaro, 2.

BELOW LEFT: Professor Gracelyn Smallwood & grandchild Arie Eussen, 9.

BELOW RIGHT: Memorial & fundraiser sign.

Colin Doolah, left, with members of his family & extended family.

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THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023 TORRES NEWS

YUMI College News

TA G A I S TAT E CO L L E G E

Literacy: Waybeni Buway Ngurpay Mudh Flagship

Positive Culture for Learning

Waybeni Buway Ngurpay Mudh (WBNM) has been identified as the ‘flagship campus’ of the Tagai fleet, in order to develop best practice teaching of literacy and Positive Culture for Learning.

Positive Culture for Learning is priority focus two in 2023 for the college. Across Tagai State College, classroom

The concept behind this is to ensure that when new primary teachers transfer to Tagai, they are inducted at WBNM into the successful teaching and learning systems that we operate.

The most rewarding work of my role, is getting into classrooms to see the students, teachers and teacher aides in action. The improvements in our student’s literacy in term 1 spelling below, is a very good indicator at this early stage of our literacy system design, that our voyage to close the gap at Tagai State College - Waybeni Buway Ngurpay Mudh (WBNM), is well on its way.

These results are the culmination of the high quality of the teaching demonstrated daily by the teachers, teacher aides and the high quality of the professional learning developed by our dedicated support staff.

management consists of all the things that teachers do to create a safe and supportive learning environment where all students can learn to their potential.

Research has consistently demonstrated the relationship between effective classroom management, academic achievement, and teacher and student wellbeing. Students learn best in orderly environments with clear expectations in place, and where all students feel valued.

A/Executive Principal - Yolanda McLean The majority of classroom-related problem behaviours will be successfully prevented and addressed when teachers use a range of practices that foster building positive relationships between staff, students and families.

The College is dedicated to strengthening partnerships with families and the community to support student learning, wellbeing and behaviour.

When ongoing concerns about student behaviour have been identified, schools work with parents and caregivers to look at underlying reasons for the student’s behaviour, and develop strategies to support the student.

Across the College there are 4 expectations that staff and students must demonstrate to promote a positive culture for learning for our students. The expectations are: At Tagai State College, we are Proud Learners, who are Respectful, Responsible and Safe.The signage across each campus is unique and reflects traditional languages and each campus logo.

It is wonderful to celebrate our student spelling progress shown above. This result has come about because we are basing our teaching instruction on the Science of Reading.

The grey area shows that a number of our students cannot be tested because they are absent from school. I look forward to continuing the see the green grown throughout the year.

Ngurpay Mudth

Guidance Officer Appreciation Week

Last week we celebrated Guidance Officer Appreciation Week. This year marks 75 years of guidance support in Queensland state school communities.

Guidance Officers are here to help, providing counselling and advice on educational, career, mental health and wellbeing issues for students.

We acknowledge the important work of our past and present Guidance Officers who have supported the students of Tagai State College.

Andrew Phillips Erub Erwer Uteb

Waybeni Buway

Kadhego Ngurpay Lag

Karen Stirling & Irna Spigariol

Poruma Ngurpay Lag

These improved results are the culmination of the quality of the teaching demonstrated daily by the Waybeni Buway Ngurpay Mudh teachers and the high quality of our dedicated support staff.

Head of Campus Rick Cass

to see how our food comes from the ground, not only in packets from the shop. From garden to the plate!”

Principal Mr Cass said the children will have sweet potato and cassava chips for lunch tomorrow!

Literacy Waybeni Buway Ngurpay Mudh has literacy interventions underway this Term to support a total of 38 students across the campus.

The interventions run on 3-week cycles with documented goals and progress recorded. The intervention aligns to our improved system for the teaching and learning of reading, our consistent data screening and analysis that occurs from Prep through to Year 6.

The intervention sessions are delivered in a specialist timetable with our students accessing up to four 15-minute sessions per week of additional, targeted instruction.

Our campus has seen very positive results from this Multi-Tiered Systems of support design since beginning the first cycle of support in Term 1.

Our dedicated Intervention teachers for Term 2 are Ms Brooke Finney and Ms Ellie Jackes.

Susri Kindy Garden Harvest Students found the joy in harvesting their fresh produce at Susri Kindy.

Miss Nona said the children enjoyed harvesting the kumara (sweet potato) from their beautiful garden.

“It was special for our kids

New Garden We are undergoing a physical environment transformation, with green grass and a new garden. Here’s Mr Tohoa with our latest garden bed, awaiting some plants to fill the space beautifully.

11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023

Mabuygiw Ngurpay Lag Head of Campus Tanya McGaughey Term 1 Attendance - 47 Students Enrolled Current

80% (38 Students)

Target Goal

90% (43 Students)

Postive Culture Learning Our Positive Culture for Learning focus for this week is I am Responsible - I encourage others to behave correctly and I sit quietly in my class group. We have been reminding our friends to put rubbish in the bin, walk on the concrete, sit quietly when we are in our groups and always try to be our best.

We have been analysing our literacy data, specifically spelling.

Bidu Class

Goeynaw Class

Our Kindy class, Bidu, love singing each morning. Sometimes we sing in English, sometimes we sing in Kalaw Lagaw Ya.

In Goeynaw class we have been discussing the difference between information texts and narratives.

We love books.

The students have been reading the book ‘Walking Through the Jungle’.

We have enjoyed creating and playing with our small jungle world.

We have been reading Rose Meets Mr Wintergarden.

Gugu Class

Puri Class In Puri class we have been learning our sounds and letters so that we can be good readers and writers.

It has been fantastic to see that since the beginning of the year 77.7% of our Year One to Year Six students, have shown significant growth.

Gugu class has been reading Home to Mother.

It’s a story about some young children who were taken by the police because of the colour of their skin.

They show a lot of courage as they make a long journey.

We have also been talking about what life was like for First Nation’s people at that time.

16.6% have remained the same and 5.5% have declined. Our reading results are equally pleasing, with the majority of our students progressing well.

Fantastic learning is going on in all classrooms at Mabuygiw Ngurpay Lag.

Ngurpay Lag

needs to be explicitly retaught to our students. It changes each fortnight.

Head of Campus Michael Richards

This week, our Focus of the Week is ‘I am Safe: I Play Safely at Lunch time’.

Kadhego

Term 1 Attendance - 81 Students Enrolled Current

79% (64 students)

Target Goal

90% (73 Students)

Literacy Our campus is continuing to implement our college Literacy System. Students have been engaged in reading rotations and spelling rotations daily.

Our Teacher Aides have also begun to attend regular Professional Development with our Tagai State College Literacy Team every Thursday afternoon. This Professional Development supports our Teacher Aides in delivering further Literacy support to students.

When we teach our students the expected behaviour we also break this down to help our students understand what this looks like.

Positive Culture for Learning The Kadhego Ngurpay Lag Positive Culture for Learning team meets each fortnight to analyse student data on our campus.

The team then decides on what student behaviour

On Wednesday 19 April, our Year 6 Students then attended the Climate Change workshop at Community Hall.

Students learnt about the science of Climate Change from experts and yarned with visitors about the importance of looking after our environment.

This week we are teaching students that we can play safely by keeping our hands and feet to ourselves, walking on the paths and staying in our play area.

Climate Change Community Meeting Tuesday 18 April, Saibai Island welcomed the Former President to Kiribati who met with local community members.

Student Council At Kadhego Ngurpay Lag, our Student Council meets every Wednesday.

On Wednesday 3 May 2023, the students discussed the importance of attendance.

Our Student Support Team, the Kayn Malguy Wamanil Team, have been busy getting all the resources ready that will be used each day.

Families may see some of these activities included in student homework for some classes each week. Students love participating in Tagai State College’s Literacy lessons and families are more than welcome to join us at school to see Literacy in action!

Community Elders and Leaders for inviting our students to participate in this welcoming event.

Our School Captain says ‘our School Council allows us to hear what students want to do in our school and talk about what we can do to make school fun!’.

The Student Council has decided to start selling ‘Icy Cups’ every Friday as an end of week celebration at second break.

Our Student Leaders were blessed with the opportunity to speak to community on the importance of the environment.

The students spoke confidently and did a wonderful job representing our campus!

Koeyma Eso to Mr Kabai and Mr Pabai and our

The Student Leaders are also fundraising to purchase Disco equipment so they can host Student Discos during the year.

Student Council Member Jehu Wosomo says that ‘Our School Council helps us have a voice in our school – it’s amazing”.

12 FEATURE

THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023 TORRES NEWS

‘Life changing’ – what 50 years of community-controlled housing at Yumba-Meta tells us about home and health

How does having a safe, reliable place to call “home” affect the health of people and communities across generations? We spoke to staff and families at Yumba-Meta Ltd in Townsville, Queensland to find out...

Yumba-Meta is a communitycontrolled organisation that has delivered comprehensive support programs for 50 years to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

This includes short-term accommodation, such as for people experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, or people at risk of incarceration due to intoxication.

Medium to long-term housing options include community home ownership, seniors’ housing, and transitional housing to facilitate employment, education or to break the cycle of addiction.

Our collaborative research project with Yumba-Meta, which will be released mid-year for Yumba-Meta’s 50th anniversary, explores the power of home and how services can support intergenerational wellbeing.

What we did We interviewed Yumba-Meta staff and used yarning and photoyarning with Yumba-Meta residents and Elders to hear about the history and evolution of YumbaMeta.

Photoyarning draws on Indigenous storying and

JESSA ROGERS, First Nations Senior Research Fellow, Queensland University of Technology; JANYA MCCALMAN, Professorial Research Fellow, Jawun Research Centre, CQUniversity Australia; VICKI SAUNDERS, Postdoctoral research fellow, CQUniversity Australia conversation. Photographs are used as both prompts and a way for participants to share their thoughts and ideas.

Yumba-Meta has grown from managing eight houses, to now managing over 203 tenancies.

This includes homes under the employment and education program, supported accommodation, women’s shelters and diversionary places.

Yumba-Meta has also developed a housing estate, Hillside Gardens, with 41 privately-owned lots.

Safe at home Our research found a sense of pride is instilled when families and individuals have a home – somewhere grandchildren can visit, a place where young people can learn from Elders, and a safe place to go.

We found health improves over time with safe and affordable housing, especially for older generations who have struggled in the past with housing issues such as chronic overcrowding, and racism that prevents Indigenous people renting and purchasing homes in Townsville. Those we spoke with talked of a “new normal” being conveyed to children.

Young people saw that having

their own bed and homes with less people allowed better sleep and space for learning and study.

Reliable sanitation practices and facilities (including bathrooms and toilets) along with healthy and sufficient nutrition had direct health benefits.

Overcrowded housing has been linked to chronic eye and ear infections, skin problems, gastroenteritis, respiratory infections, exacerbation of family violence and mental health issues.

Before and after One interviewee said sustainable housing was transformative for families.

“Seeing … people coming from the park and getting into house, like, the pride they have in there … it’s life changing for them … and they say, ‘Oh, my grandkids are coming over on the week’, their faces are lit up like this [smiling]” For residents who had experienced homelessness and addiction, having a safe and affordable home was spoken of as a major achievement.

Descriptions of life living rough with little ability to eat healthy food were juxtaposed with their new life in a stable home: having food in the

fridge and cupboard, and making good personal choices.

These yarns showed the impact organisations like Yumba-Meta can have, by providing supports on multiple fronts while people heal and make positive changes in their lives.

“A bit of money I made … to buy more, more stuff for my little place … to do it up, and I take pride in my place … Furniture you know, and things that are needed. A bed and washing machine, and fridge and all that sort of stuff and few other things to brighten my place up, you know … and I got ornaments, you know … and make it comfortable for me. That I call ‘home’.”

What ‘home’ means So, “home” was about physical resources: access to washing, showers, toilets, health care providers, medicines and opportunities to remain sober and access healthy food.

But it was also spiritual: feeling connected, strong in spirit, good about one’s self.

It fulfilled emotional needs with space to grieve loss, talk about feelings, heal from relationship breakdown and domestic violence, pass on culture and stories and a

place to hold photos of family and ancestors.

Home was described as somewhere family can be raised with continuity and stability, where children do not need to move schools all the time and where neighbours become friends.

These things might be taken for granted in other communities, but previously for Yumba-Meta residents, this stability was often out of reach.

Yumba-Meta continues to have a lasting positive impact on the Townsville community, through provision of safe, secure and affordable housing and “wraparound” services.

Support for communitycontrolled housing like Yumba-Meta will help more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families remain strong and connected, through improved intergenerational wellbeing.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license.

Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/ life-changing-what-50-years-ofcommunity-controlled-housing-atyumba-meta-tells-us-about-homeand-health-203907

CLASS ACTION ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE IN THE TORRES STRAIT ISLANDS

This is an important notice ordered by the Federal Court of Australia

What is this notice about?

Two Torres Strait Islander leaders have brought a legal case against the Australian Government on behalf of all Torres Strait Islanders. The case is about climate change and its effects on Torres Strait Islanders.

If you are a Torres Strait Islander, and believe you have suffered loss or damage as a result of the Australian Government not doing things to protect Torres Strait Islanders from the effects of climate change you are automatically part of the case. You can: 1. Stay in the case by doing nothing; or 2. Leave the case by sending a form called an opt-out form, or by emailing Phi Finney McDonald and telling them you want to opt out, by 4:00pm AEST on 26 May 2023.

You do not need to pay money to stay in the case.

Information about the case Uncle Pabai Pabai and Uncle Paul Kabai from Boigu and Saibai Islands in the Torres Strait have brought a legal case in the Federal Court against the Australian Government.

The case is about climate change and its effects on Torres Strait Islanders. The Australian Government is defending the case.

Uncle Pabai and Uncle Paul's lawyers are a firm called Phi Finney McDonald. They are helping Uncle Pabai and Uncle Paul to bring the case.

What do you need to do to be part of the case?

The case is called a “class action” because Uncle Pabai and Uncle Paul have brought the case on behalf of everyone who is Torres Strait Islander (by descent or by customary adoption) (Torres Strait Islander) and who believes they have suffered loss or damage as a result of the Australian Government not doing things to protect Torres Strait Islanders from the effects of climate change. In legal terms, everyone who meets this description is a “Group Member”.

If you meet the description, you are automatically a Group Member and you don’t need to do anything to be a part of the case.

What do you need to do if you don’t want to be part of the case?

If you don’t want to be part of the case, you need to tell the Federal Court. This is called ‘opting out’ of the case. There are two ways you can opt out: 1. Download the opt out form from www.climatecase.com.au, fill it out and post or email it to the Victorian Registry of the Federal Court at 305 William Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 or vicreg@fedcourt.gov.au.

2. Email Phi Finney McDonald on climateclassaction@phifinneymcdonald.com and say you want to opt out.

If you want to opt-out, you must send the form or email by 4:00pm on 26 May 2023.

Where can you get more information or ask questions?

If you have questions about the case or this notice, please do not ask the Court. You can contact Phi Finney McDonald on the details below. If you do not want to talk to Phi Finney McDonald, you should talk to your own lawyer.

1. Email: climateclassaction@phifinneymcdonald.com 2. Visit: www.climatecase.com.au 3. Call: +61 (0)3 9134 7100

A copy of this notice is available for inspection at Phi Finney McDonald’s offices, Level 3, 325 Flinders Lane Melbourne 3000, and at the Cairns Registry of the Federal Circuit and Family Court at Level 3, 94-104 Grafton St, Cairns City QLD 4870.

NEWS 13

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023

New approach hopes to save lives Queensland Police have new powers to deal with people found with small quantities of drugs under a proposal to expand legislation around the existing drug diversion program.

Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said the changes were about helping people, who were often young, deal with a health issue.

“If we can get drug users into diversion programs and keep them out of the criminal justice system, that benefits the entire community,” she said.

“The Government recognises mental health is often a factor in drug use.

“By drawing on the best evidence-based practices we can start treating drug use as a health problem instead of a criminal issue.

“This means we can get people into intervention programs that include therapeutic and psychosocial support, and interrupt a pattern of offending.”

Queensland’s Police Drug Diversion program will be expanded to include the minor possession of all types of drugs by implementing a new tiered approach: • First minor drugpossession offence – a police officer issues a warning, accompanied by a drug warning notice and a police referral to a support service.

• Second and third minor drug-possession offence – a police officer offers the opportunity for the person to participate in a mandatory Drug Diversion Assessment Program.

• Fourth minor drugpossession offence – a police officer issues the offender with a notice to appear in court.

It also included a tougher approach to drug traffickers with the penalty for drug trafficking to increase from 25 years to life imprisonment.

Police already have the power to divert people found with small quantities of cannabis to a drug diversion assessment program.

The new legislation would extend that power to other drugs.

Police Minister Mark Ryan said the courts were “needlessly clogged”.

“The courts get needlessly clogged with minor cases that are really a health issue,” he said.

“The individual doesn’t get the help they need.

“And police spend thousands of hours that could be better focussed on

“Our response to illegal drug use should have as many options as possible - this doesn’t mean they get off but that they have chances to make better choices.”

FORMER POLICE COMMISSIONER BOB ATKINSON targeting the drug traffickers.

“The police support this approach.

“Every one of the Queensland based Police Commissioners since the Fitzgerald era supports this.

“Health experts support this approach.

“It’s a common-sense approach.”

Attorney General Shannon Fentiman said it would bring Queensland in line with all other jurisdictions across the nation.

“This was a recommendation of the Women’s Safety and Justice Taskforce, which said that the Government should consider adopting a health system response to certain drugrelated offences,” she said.

“I am proud that the Government is continuing to act on the Taskforce’s recommendation, including through expanding drug diversion options.”

Police said diversion programs resulted in the majority of those individuals never having contact with police again.

Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll (pictured top right) said the proposed new diversion reforms were welcomed.

“The QPS welcomes the proposed new drug diversion reforms,” she said.

“We have seen great success with the current program, diverting 158,000 people into a health intervention.

“We know this program works – as most people who complete their drug diversion

appointment do not come to the attention of police again.

“The new reforms also align with all other jurisdictions, enabling our frontline officers to have more time focused on targeting drug manufacturers and traffickers domestically and internationally.

“The QPS will continue to take tough enforcement action to remove dangerous drugs off the streets of Queensland.”

She said in Queensland every year police came across approximately 20,000 people in possession of a small quantity of drugs for their own personal use and spent around nine working hours processing a minor drug offence case through to its conclusion in court.

Former Police Commissioner Jim O’Sullivan offered his support.

“I strongly support any measure that might successfully divert young people from the court system and potentially give them a chance in life,” he said.

Former Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson said it was a sensible and beneficial option.

“There have been many young people who have obtained a criminal history only because of the possession of a small quantity of illegal drugs for personal use who would never otherwise have been in the criminal justice system,” he said.

“This initiative provides a sensible and beneficial option in that regard.

“Our response to illegal drug use should have as many options as possible – this doesn’t mean they get off but that they have chances to make better choices.”

Former Police Commissioner Ian Stewart said it was a step in the right direction.

“For years, Queenslanders have accepted successful drug diversion programs aimed at alcohol and more recently cannabis,” he said.

“This expansion of the drug diversion program announced by the Government today is a step in the right direction to treat rather than criminalise minor drug use.

“By expanding the already successful drug diversion programs in our State, the Government has today provided further opportunities for those suffering drug addiction to access health treatments and offer alternative outcomes for minor drug users other than a criminal history.

“Expanding drug diversion in Queensland will free up police to concentrate on recidivist criminal offenders, and those who profit from the tragedy of drug addiction particularly among our youth.

“Expanding drug diversion is not about going soft on crime.

“Just the opposite.

“It is a way of offering real hope to those caught up in drug use and providing a proven pathway to better personal wellbeing away from the criminal justice spiral.

“Increasing penalties for

drug trafficking in the State while broadening the ability of police when dealing with minor personal drug use, shows a commitment to going hard on the real criminals involved in the drug trade.

“Enabling our police to have greater choices when dealing with minor drug users is a win/win for society and all involved.

“Diversion for some is a better outcome than the potential harsh realities of the criminal justice system.”

Former Queensland Corrective Services Commissioner, Professor Peter Martin said the expansion was an effective policy approach to deal with complex illicit drug issues.

“It has been shown to be effective in addressing illicit drug use, by intervening to address the low level possession and use of such drugs while at the same time allowing law enforcement to focus their efforts on those that profit from the illicit drug trade, such as producers, suppliers and traffickers,” he said.

“The reasons people use illicit drugs is complex.

“For those that possess small amounts of illicit drugs for personal use the consequences of a conviction can be life changing.

“It can stigmatise the individual, stifle their prospects for work, damage relationships and prevent them from travel overseas.

“These factors make it more difficult for an individual to break the cycle of drug use.

“Expanding drug

diversion, in the manner proposed, is a sensible and humane approach, to this very vexed and challenging whole of society issue.”

Former Australian Federal Police Commissioner Mick Palmer said he welcomed the government’s decision to implement a diversionary approach to the use and possession of drugs.

“For far too many years otherwise law-abiding and decent young men and women have suffered convictions for the simple use and possession of drugs where no other offence of any type has been involved,” he said.

“The convictions have not infrequently impacted very negatively on their career options and prospects and have quite frankly served no useful purpose, as the current levels of drug use continue to show.

“If we hope to be successful in dealing with drug related conduct and offences, we need to start focusing far more strongly on the causes rather than just the symptoms, and the more options that are available to governments and police, the better the prospects of success or improvement are likely to be.”

Alcohol and Drug Foundation CEO Dr Erin Lalor said a health-based approach to personal drug use was an important step forward in reducing stigma and other serious harms.

“It has many benefits for the whole of community and will see more people reach out for help and support,” she said.

“We look forward to continuing to work with the government to strengthen the health response for all people who use drugs.”

14 NEWS THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023 TORRES NEWS ‘Jack of all trades’ works hard at recycling plant STORY AND PICS

BY ALF WILSON Whilst working as a Refund Station Attendant for recycling company Mams Redeem Team in Townsville, Torres Strait Islander Roy Mooka has to be a ‘Jack of all trades’.

The 23 year old gets to do a variety of tasks when people bring in empty cans and bottles, for which they earn 10 cents each.

The Torres News caught Roy hard at work at Redeem’s Fairfield Water depot earlier this month when it was

very busy with cars and 4WD vehicles with cans and bottles queued up waiting to be served.

“When people bring in the cans and bottles I have to count them and you have to be good at maths,” he said. “We grab them four at a time and when the number gets to 25 we start again.

“When four lots of 25 are counted, I know that is 100 and record that on paper. At the end I add up the total number and enter it into a computer here and pay the customer.”

His job also entails driving a forklift and other duties which he loves.

“I get to meet so many people who bring in different numbers of cans and bottles,” he said.

“One man brought in 16,000 for which he received $1600.

“But many bring in small numbers,” he said.

Born and bred in Innisfail, Roy had worked at the company’s depots there and at nearby Tully before being offered a fulltime job when Townsville started operating last September.

“It is great that these cans and bottles get recycled,” he said.

A proud Torres

Strait islander, with connections to Mabuiag, Mer and Badu, Roy was part of a big family with members living around the Torres Strait Islands, NPA, Cairns and Townsville.

Roy has also kept in touch with relatives who live on Waiben and Prince of Wales Island.

“I went up there about a year ago for a family event and it was great to catch up with them all,” he said.

A keen rugby league player, Roy has lined up in carnivals on Waiben, at Bamaga and on Badu Island.

“During 2019, I played for Mulga Tigers

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 multiple entries for the competition.

at the Zenadth Kes on Thursday Island, for Boigu team Paga Panthers at the Island of Origin and Alau Eagles at the Dan Ropeyarn Cup at Bamaga,” he said.

“We lost that grand final to Injinoo Crocs.”

Roy had played a lot of rugby league at Innisfail for the Leprechauns before coming to Townsville, but an injury has prevented him taking the field in North Queensland’s biggest city.

“I had an injury and needed a knee reconstruction so will not be playing football for a year,” he said.

Roy Mooka hard at work at the Townsville depot.

He hopes to get back to the Torres Strait soon.

The Torres Strait’s first and only container

collection point, Crystal Ailan, was offically opened on Badu Island last month.

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 1 & 2: Cameron Holmes submitted two photos taken on Labour Day Monday morning at Sadies Beach.

“I couldn’t choose between pictures, so I’ve uploaded both the view and my wife on the rocks having a fish. The wind was blowing strong but the fish were biting and the views are always 10/10,” Cameron said.

PIC 3: Di Gretton submitted her pic of fisherman heading home late afternoon on Poruma Island. “No fish,

pic 1

pic 2

pic 3

pic 4

but enjoying a magnificent display of colour from mother nature as the sun sets over the reef,” Di said.

PIC 4: Nadja Mack also submitted her photo taken from Thursday Island. “Double proof that there is treasure to be found on Hammond Island,” Nadja said.

Cameron, Di and Nadja are in the draw to win this month’s $150 gift card! Good luck!

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.

FEATURE 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023

Geoff’s Waiben links go back to the late 1800s

BY ALF WILSON PICS GEOFF WILSON Emotions ran high for Geoff Wilson when he saw the names of his father and uncle on a World War II Torres Strait veterans memorial monument on Waiben.

The 59-year-old Geoff is a Townsville health worker and spent a week on Waiben to visit the graves of his forebears at the local cemetery, check out places his father George Andrew Sinclair had told him about and

do a spot of fishing earlier this month.

His father and uncle were born on Waiben, where they grew up before, like many others before them, moving south to Cairns and Townsville after the war for employment opportunities.

“I went down to the park and saw my dad and uncle’s names on the monument, they served with a regiment here,” Geoff said.

Whilst on Waiben, Geoff met many friendly locals including the

on the local jetty here but didn’t have much luck.”

His grandmother Ada Sinclair was born on Waiben in 1893 and died in 1933.

She is buried at the local cemetery along with many other relatives.

Geoff’s grandfather was Alfred Flinton Wilson, who was born in Hughenden in 1894, moved to Waiben where he died in 1923 after being washed overboard

legendary Robert “Bongo” Sagigi.

“I saw him at the Torres Hotel and it was great to meet him – the people overall were so friendly,” he said.

Geoff also enjoyed the bus trip from the Horn Island airport to the jetty.

“Dad used to tell me so much about Horn and pig hunting on Prince of Wales Island, which I looked at from the TI beach,” he said.

“I also went fishing

in rough weather.

A record of the drowning indicated he was travelling on a launch from Wenonah to Forbes Island.

He became seasick then fell overboard, his body was never found.

He and Ada had three children, including Geoff’s dad, uncle and an Aunty Topsy, who married an American serviceman and moved to New Jersey in the USA. Having seen the

TN0461 • 09/02/23

family tree, Geoff traces his history back to Andrew Oscar Charles Sinclair, who was born in Sweden in 1846, and arrived on Waiben in 1878.

Andrew was a marine diver and married Anna Burs on Waiben in 1878 after she arrived from Prussia three years earlier.

“This has been a happy but emotional time up here,” he said.

Geoff said he was happy to read in the

Torres News about the looming State Government freight subsidies to ease the cost of living.

“Fuel up here is 60 cents per litre more expensive than in Townsville, and a packet of smokes was $70, about $15 more than at home,” he said.

He said he’d had a wonderful time on Waiben.

“I even got to see the address where dad used to live as a boy,” he said.

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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.

Welcome to Waiben.

Geoff points to the names of his father and uncle on the memorial monument on Waiben.

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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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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.

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16 SPORT & CLASSIFIEDS

Tribal 9s comp set for Palm Island

TN0535 10x3pos vac CADET 20/04/23_____ & 27/04/23_____

J Torres News Cadetship (2 years) We are looking for a Media Cadet to develop their skills and experience here with us at the Torres News.

The successful applicant must be an 18-year-old Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, and be willing to live and work from Thursday Island, have enthusiasm and drive to help tell our community stories.

For further information please contact: Diat Alferink – Editor in Chief, Torres News Email: editor@torres.news Phone: 0497 618 738

families living around the NPA who had Palm connections.

Prizes for first, second and third placed teams and awards for best jersey design, best tribal dance, as well as spring and relay foot races were on offer.

As an added incentive, visiting teams have been offered $1000 to assist with costs associated with travel to the island.

“Players from teams just need to bring their gear such as swags and sleeping bags,” Mr Bounghi said.

He said any Torres Strait or NPA teams wishing to nominate should contact him on 0400 112 666 or email norman.bounghi@ palmcouncil.qld.gov.au

Classies CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING TN0002 18x1 filler J M: 0419 828 639 J E: ads@torres.news 21x1 06-04-23 TRADES & SERVICES TN0367 Cairns Monumental - Trades and Services section: weekly 10x2 ad, @ $105 gst inclusive per ad, EDITORIAL

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

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For further information relating to this position please contact: Samantha Fernando, on 0402 494 581 or email Apsrecruitment@sixdegreesexecutive.com.au Please note: TSRA accommodation may be available for this position.

Milton Thaiday, left, and Obe Geia jnr are Palm Islanders with Torres Strait family connections. Pic supplied.

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wishing to nominate must have players with family connections to Palm.

On Palm Island there was estimated to be about 200 people with Torres Strait descent between about 10 families.

Mayor Mislam Sam was from a big family who had Darnley Island heritage on one side of their family tree.

Cr Sam’s sporting family include some of his nephews, who were top class rugby league footballers.

Other top Palm players included Fred Bulsey (Moa/Badu), Obe Geia jnr (Moa) and Milton Thaiday (Darnley).

There were also many

TORRES NEWS CLASSIFIEDS ADVERTISE HERE

Nominations for the inaugural Tribal Nines rugby league tournament on Palm Island have been extended to tomorrow, Friday 12 May. Teams from the Torres Strait and NPA with family connections to Palm Island were invited to the event, to be hosted by the Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council and held at the community football field Barracudas Oval from 7 to 9 July, coinciding with the community’s NAIDOC Celebrations.

The theme was For Our Elders and co-ordinator Norman Bounghi said families with Palm Island tribal

connections would be welcomed with open arms.

“The event is in honour of our past elders who were forcibly removed from the island never to return to their homelands,” Mr Bounghi said.

He said there were no nomination fees, and players and supporters from visiting teams would be accommodated on the island.

“We will have a big tent city here,” he said.

“I have already received interest from Woorabinda, Cherbourg, Yarrabah, Hope Vale and Wujal Wujal.”

It was expected many visitors would be billeted by relatives.

Torres Strait teams

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

BY ALF WILSON

THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023 TORRES NEWS

SPORT 17

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023

AFLQ cup team ‘did their communities proud’ The first team of 16 girls from the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) and Torres Strait to play Junior Girls Division for the AFLQ Schools Cup did their communities proud in Cairns last week.

For most of the Under 15 players, it was their first ever competitive game of Australian Rules Football.

Coach and AFL Cape York Development Coordinator Kieran Sciberras said the code was creating positive opportunities for young people in remote communities.

“AFL Cape York works hard to bring footy to remote communities across Cape York and the Torres Strait,” Mr Sciberras said.

“Thanks to sponsors and grant funding, AFL Cape York has been able to cover all player expenses including flights to Cairns, accommodation and registration so there was no cost to families.”

Mr Sciberras said the trip was about more than just football.

“These young footballers have been selected by their schools based on positive

behaviour, school attendance and sporting ability,” he said.

He said there was growing interest and player participation in the code.

“Some families up north have never had the chance to play or watch a game of Aussie Rules, but that’s changing,” he said.

“The natural sporting talent across the region is unreal, many young people excel across codes, including when they pick up a Sherrin.

“The day a player from the NPA or Torres Strait region is drafted to the AFL or AFLW will be will be an absolute game changer.”

In 2022, AFL Cape York ran football clinics in more than 40 communities from Cooktown to Saibai.

The NPA and Thursday Island team played six games in the one-day competition with solid improvements each match.

The team finished third overall with three wins and a narrow one-point loss in a tight contest against Smithfield State High School.

ONE TEAM, ONE DREAM: NPA & TI team debut at AFLQ Schools Cup.

HISTORY MAKING: First-ever junior girls AFLQ Schools Cup team from north of Cairns.

TEAM PLAYERS:Asmira-Leigh Wasiu, Zeidra Wasiu & Hayley Bullen.

TOUR & DINNER: Players visit AFL Cape York House for Girls.

PROUD TO PLAY: Rychedan Hirakawa, Nastasjia Larry & Zeidra Wasiu.

MEMORIES MADE: Thursday Island players depart.

Pics supplied.

Results Tagai/NPA 0.1.1 – St Andrew’s Catholic College 4.2.26 Tagai/NPA 2.1.13 – St Monica’s College 0.0.0 Tagai/NPA 3.5.23 – Cairns State High School 0.0.0 Tagai/NPA 0.1.1 – Redlynch State College 2.1.13 Tagai/NPA 1.5.11 – Smithfield State High School 2.0.12 Tagai/NPA 1.2.8 – Newman Catholic College 1.0.6

ALL SMILES: Rina Manuel & Emma Satrick.

SUPPORTERS: Families & friends with players Nikita Mosby & Rina Manuel.

18 SPORT

Torres Strait players tipped for first State of Origin game

BY ALF WILSON Four Torres Strait islanders are excellent chances at being selected for Queensland in the first men’s State of Origin game of the series on Wednesday 31 May in Adelaide.

Newcastle Knights Dane Gagai is a proven centre and should get the selectors nod again.

After stellar form for the Dolphins, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow is being tipped to gain one of two wings spots.

Normally a fullback, it appears either Brisbane Broncos Reece Walsh or Knights Kalyn Ponga will be the Maroons number one.

Cowboys Reuben Cotter and Titans David Fifita could either be named in the run-on side or at least on the four man interchange bench.

LADIES STATE OF ORIGIN Meanwhile some of the Mackay Cutters women must be a great chance of being selected for the Queensland Women’s State of

Origin team to play NSW on Thursday 22 June at Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville.

It will be the first time two women’s State of Origin matches will be played as part of a series.

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo described it this was an historic year for the women’s game.

“We saw how north Queensland responded to the men’s State of Origin match in 2021,” he said.

“I have no doubt that supporters in the region will respond again for the best female interstate players.

“Women’s Origin has grown significantly ever since the first match in 2018 and the first ever game in Townsville will provide another opportunity to showcase the best female players in a new region.

“A month later, the Cowboys will play their first ever NRLW match, enhancing the development and growth opportunities in north Queensland.”

THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023 TORRES NEWS

Queensland teams win NRL round 10 ‘MAGIC JOHNSTON’ AND HAMMER

BY ALF WILSON Four Queensland sides had wins in the NRL Magic Round 10 last weekend.

The Brisbane Broncos lived up to being hot favourites, but the Cowboys, Dolphins and Titans were all outsiders and scored impressive victories.

RAMPAGING REUBEN An early try by Reuben Cotter helped propel the Cowboys to a 20-6 upset win over the Sydney Roosters in Sunday’s game at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium.

Reuben scored his four pointer at the 19th minute and the conversion

by Valentine Holmes saw Cowboys lead 6-nil at halftime.

In the second half Reuben was superb in attack and defence and in the final analysis the Cowboys scored three tries to one.

FIFITA FIRES David Fifita was overcome with joy after leading the way up front when his Gold Coast Titans beat the Parramatta Eels 25-24 on Sunday.

David made many metres in general play and was a thorn in the side of the Eels defence.

He fired the last pass when Kieran Foran who scored the first of his two tries for the Titans.

Saibai Islanders Alex Johnston, who played his 200th NRL game, and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow were stars during Magic Round 10 on the weekend.

Hammer had a blinder in the Dolphins 36-16 upset win over hot favourites the Cronulla Sharks at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on Saturday.

Johnston, who was referred to as “Magic Johnston” by commentators, scored two tries in the South Sydney Rabbitohs 28-12 win over the Melbourne Storm.

They were his 170th and 171st tries for the Rabbits and Johnston came close to scoring two others.

Fullback Hammer scored one of the Dolphins six tries and was damaging in attack and rock solid in defence.

He continues to shine in the Dolphins fairy tale start to the season in their debut year.

In one classic defensive play, Hammer tackled flying Sharks winger Sione Katoa who had broken the line and looked set to score.

The other Dolphins Torres Strait players, Brenko Lee and Edrick Lee, missed the game due to injury.

The Dolphins match had

special significance as it was the 900th premiership game as a coach by Dolphins mentor Wayne Bennett.

A crowd of 50,183 watched day two of Magic Round.

SEB SENSATIONAL Fullback Sebastian Kris had a solid game in the Canberra Raiders 34-30 winners over the Canterbury Bulldogs.

Seb, as he is known, has been in great form for the Raiders and has been a stand in fullback for the injured Xavier Savage.

Savage returned to the side against the Bulldogs and coach Ricky Stuart played him on a wing, keeping former centre Seb at number one.

EZRA RETURNS Talented five eighth Ezra Mam made a welcome return for the Brisbane Broncos in their 32-6 win over Manly.

He was electric in attack and fired out some precision passes which resulted in tries.

On Thursday night the Broncos face another premiership aspirant the Melbourne Storm, which should be a ripper.

Dane Gagai was not in action in magic Round because his Newcastle Knights had the bye.

Erub United and Malu Kiwai set to take on Bindal comp

BY ALF WILSON Quality Torres Strait Islander teams Erub United and Malu Kiwai will compete this year for the first time at north Queensland’s biggest Allblacks Rugby League carnival organised by Bindal Sharks.

It will be the 37th year of the successful carnival to be held at the Townsville Sports Reserve from 13 to 15 October.

Already a full contingent of 24 men’s teams and eight women’s sides have signed up.

These include sides from the large Aboriginal communities of Palm Island, Cherbourg, Woorabinda and Yarrabah.

Erub United won last year’s Arthur Beetson Foundation Murri Knockout at Redcliffe, the 2022 Gordonvale Indigenous carnival and also the last Zenadth Kes carnival held on Waiben in 2021.

The star studded Erub United narrowly lost the Koori versus Murri Interstate Challenge to NSW Knockout victors Newcastle Allblacks in February.

Erub United organizer Elia Ware told the Torres News the side nominated a men’s and a women’s teams this year.

“We did plan on returning to the Murri carnival but when we saw that the prize money was based on teams nominated, we couldn’t risk putting all our resources and travelling all that way to play for a small prize money as it wouldn’t be worth it,” he said.

“Being the first time, we’ve entered a women’s side, we wanted the men’s to travel with them as well so we thought we’d enter the Bindal carnival.”

Malu Kiwai Descendants consists of players with Boigu Island connections, many of whom live in Cairns.

The team won the Dan Ropeyarn carnival at Bamaga late last year, defeating a gallant Napranum Bulldogs 44-10 in the grand final in front of a big crowd.

Trophies won by Erub United and Malu Kiwai were taken to Darnley and Boigu after the victories and put on public display, much to the delight of residents.

Bindal boss and carnival convenor Jenny Pryor said this year looked like being the most successful carnival

to date, with interest at an all time high.

“I want to also acknowledge the Townsville Walkabouts side entering for their 35th year, which is a wonderful effort, and we welcome Erub United and Malu Kiwai for the first time,” she said.

“This will be a memorable carnival with teams from all these communities competing.”

Walkabouts is organised

by Ashley Saltner and family, and has a policy of sticking to local players only, without any NRL or Queensland Cup “ring-ins”.

Home games work for Pirates & Flames

BY VELMA GARA South West Metro Pirates teams both won at home as they played the last games of Round 6 in the NBL1 North competition.

The women’s team welcomed Maddy Rocci to the team with a win over Ipswich Force 97 to 77.

Rocci was the point guard for WNBL team, Southside Flyers.

Pirates men handed the Ipswich Force their first defeat this season – 98 to 91.

The wins ensured both teams moved up the ladder – Women (3rd) and Men (7th).

The loss for Ipswich men had them move from top spot to second.

Townsville Flames bounced back into the winning circle with an eight point win against Southern Districts Spartans – 85 to 77.

Indiah Bowyer had a quiet game, shooting two three pointers.

Steph Reid, dear friend to Dauan Island residents, Bethany Fell-Mau and Annette Fell, had a high scoring games – 43 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists and five steals.

Townsville teams wore special jerseys of the Crocodiles and Fire which was in aid of fundraising for ovarian cancer.

The Heat lost to the Spartans men.

In the women’s point guard for Spartans, Jessica McDowell-White scored 16 point, 5

rebounds, 9 assists and 5 steals.

The Spartans teams then travelled further north to Cairns and won both their games, defeating Dolphins 9075 and Marlins 98-70.

Guard Shaniece Swain, played 40 minutes, with 19 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 4 steals, alongside LJ Williams off the bench, who played well shooting at 75 per cent in 20.08mins of court time with 17 points, 4 rebounds.

Darwin Salties

also had wins against Brisbane Capitals.

The ladies edged out Brisbane by eight points, 92-84, but it was a bigger margin in the men’s game, with Darwin defeating Brisbane by 26 points, 117-91.

Guard Deba George came off the bench to shoot 66.67 per cent in three pointers, with 8 from 12 and ending up with 24 points.

Pic right: Alana Fraser, supplied by South West Metro Pirates.

Erub United has a bevy of stars including the Cowboys Julian Christian and Jayden Hodges, along with skillful Q Cup footballers Dantoray Lui, Bernard Lewis, Gideon Gela-Mosby and Jon Reuben.

Malu Kiwai will include many footballers who line up with top Cairns and District side the Mossman Port Douglas Sharks.

Another team with a majority of Torres Strait players will be Eastern Warriors, which is organised by former quality NRL back Robert Lui and his family.

SPORT 19

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023

NPA basketball results are in

NPA KITTYHAWK BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION PICS BY WENDY PHINEASA

Scores from last week are: Men’s Game – Ebuaubau 53 def Auto Pilots 40.

Space Jam def Hawks (forfeit).

Women’s game – Undawu Mari 34 def Invaders 28.

TN0230 8x2 local sports Looking for more local sport?

Boomers set to bounce for FIBA cup The Australian Boomers have announced an extended 18-man squad for the 2023 FIBA World Cup which includes Indigenous stars Patty Mills along with Keanu Pinder and William McDowell-White.

For the first time, the Boomers will have 10 current NBA players in their squad, who will gather in Cairns for a training camp in August.

We’re happy to run it if we have it!

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

The final 12 will be selected ahead of the team’s opening game in Japan on 25 August, where they will take on the host nation, as well as Finland and Germany in the group stage.

Stay tuned for further updates and information as the team prepares for the upcoming 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Send us your pic of the week, fixtures or finals results by noon on Monday!  EMAIL: editor@torres.news

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

FERRY SCHEDULE

RIGHT: The full squad (graphic supplied).

Hoops 4 Health takes lead on coaching

BY VELMA GARA

Nathan Jawai speaking.

Timmy Duggan OAM, Brian Goorjian (Head Coach Australian Boomers) & Nathan Jawai.

Timmy Duggan OAM, Peter Lonegan (Basketball Australia), Jan Stirling (Basketball Australia) & Nathan Jawai.

Hoops 4 Health were guest presenters at the National Basketball Australia Coaches Conference in Canberra last week.

Founder, Timmy Duggan OAM – the first Indigenous player drafted into the NBA – along with Nathan Jawai presented How do Hoops Heal? Leading and Mentoring though First Nations Lens to more than 180 coaches from each state and territory at the conference.

They spoke about the concept of Deep Listening and Understanding the Three R’s of the Brain – Reason, Regulate and Relate.

Hoops 4 Health has been busy conducting clinics in remote communities in Northern Territory and in the Torres Strait with Timmy, Nathan and Darwin Salties guard, Deba George.

The trio conducted clinics at Badu Island, Warraber and Waiben in February this year.

“Being not only trauma aware, but culturally aware, can improve outcomes and more successful athletes,” Timmy said.

“We used components of Dr Bruce Perry’s Neuro-Sequential Model and our own First Nations knowledge and experience to engage and impart valuable information to our participants, most notably our most remote and most vulnerable.”

Photos supplied by Timmy Duggan.

MAY 2023 Monday / Wednesday & Friday THURSDAY ISLAND to SEISIA: 6.30AM & 2.30PM SEISIA to THURSDAY ISLAND: 8AM & 4PM 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: booking fee applicable) 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) 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.

20

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

THURSDAY 11 MAY 2023

Cutters out but Mooka signed up The Capras are a feeder club for NRL’s Dolphins, for which Edrick has played one game this season in their win over the Cowboys at Townsville.

Lanky winger Edrick has been injured for much of the season but looks set to return to the Dolphins team soon.

On Sunday the Townsville Blackhawks lost 36-18 to Brisbane Tigers at Totally Workwear Stadium.

Despite suffering their first loss of the season, the Capras still sit top of the table with the Pride in eighth, the Hunters ninth and the Blackhawks struggling at 13th in the 15 club comp.

The Blackhawks and Hunters will meet on Friday night at Townsville’s Jack Manski Oval with kick off at 6:30pm.

Pride travel away to take on Toowoomba-based Western Clydesdales at Clive Berghofer Stadium.

BY ALF WILSON Mackay Cutters have done north Queensland proud, but they have been eliminated from the BMD Women’s Statewide premiership after losing Saturday’s semi final 22-18 to Burleigh Bears.

The match was played on Sunday at Brisbane’s Davies Park in front of a large crowd.

Jasmine Peters, Tahlulah Tillett, Sareka Mooka, Lyrech Mara and Essay Banu have starred for the Cutters this season.

Essay missed the semi final due to injury but the other four all performed well.

Sareka has signed a two-year deal with the Cowboys for the NRL Women’s comp which starts in July, following in Jasmine and Tahlulah’s footsteps.

The courageous Cutters had to fight back from a 22-4 deficit at halftime but showed great determination in their second half fightback.

Cutters scored 14 points to nil in the second half and in the final analysis it was conversions which made the difference.

In the other semi final Wynnum Manly Seagulls beat Souths Logan Magpies 30-28.

Wynnum Manly and Burleigh Bears will now

HASTINGS DEERING COLTS PREMIERSHIP

Sareka Mooka, who has signed with Cowboys for two years, with NRLW Head Coach Ben Jeffries. Pic NQ Cowboys. meet in Sunday’s grand final.

MEN’S HOSTPLUS CUP

Cutters, by 16-12 in round eight of the Queensland Hostplus Cup at Barlow Park on Saturday.

Julian Christian, Dantoray Lui and Bernard

TN0529 10x7 Northern Pride also scored win over the Mackay

Location.

Location.

Location.

Lewis all lined up for the Pride team.

The PNG Hunters, who enjoy a big following around North Queensland and the Torres Strait,

defeated Ipswich Jets 40-28 at Santos Football Stadium.

Edrick Lee scored two tries for the CQ Capras, who lost 16-12 to the Burleigh Bears.

In round three of the Hastings Deering Colts premiership the Mackay Cutters beat the Northern Pride 32-28 in an NQ Derby at Barlow Park.

Amongst the try-scorers for the Pride were Caiban Thaiday and Thauki Satrick.

The Brisbane Tigers defeated the Townsville Blackhawks 28-24 in another tight game.

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