Torres News_Edition 88_6 July 2023

Thursday, 6 July 2023

Stories and events of the Kaurareg homeland of Kaiwalagal, the Torres Strait homeland and Cape York homelands of the Anggamuthi, Atambaya, Wuthathi, Yadhaykenu and Gudang Peoples.

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Proud Lala our NAIDOC winner

Proud Meuram woman from Erub, Lala Gutchen (pictured), has won the prestigious national NAIDOC Caring for Country and Culture Award for her contribution to language preservation and her work as a key cultural witness in an historic Land Court case won against a proprosed Central Queensland coal mine.

Lala was one of three Torres Strait Islander finalists in the national awards, including Torres News correspondent Talei Elu, who was also a finalist in the same category.

The other was Aaron Fa’aoso, who was a finalist in the Creative Talent Award.

National NAIDOC Committee co-chairs Dr Lynette Riley and Steven Satour said the winners were chosen from almost 200 nominations.

“This year’s finalists and winners all embody the essence of the 2023 NAIDOC Week theme – For Our Elders,” they said.

“Many of this year’s winners are Elders themselves or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people coming from the strong grounding, teachings, and advocacy of their own Elders.”

The 2023 National NAIDOC Awards winners were: • Lifetime Achievement Award – Aunty Dr Naomi Mayers OAM • Person of the Year Award – Professor Kelvin Kong • Female Elder Award – Aunty Dr Matilda HouseWilliams • Male Elder Award – William Tilmouth • Sportsperson Award – Donnell Wallam • Youth Award – Courtney Burns • Creative Talent Award – Rachel Perkins • Caring for Country and Culture Award – Lala Gutchen • Education Award – Bubup Wilam Aboriginal Child and Family Centre • Innovation Award – Daniel Motlop See the NAIDOC website (naidoc.org.au) to learn more about this year’s winners and to find out how you can get a copy of the 2023 National NAIDOC Week Poster.

More NAIDOC coverage, including Talei Elu’s interview with Lala, on Pages 8, 9, 10 & 11 N

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THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023 TORRES NEWS

Mabo lectures deliver leadership Last month JCU celebrated the history-making Mabo Decision with the long-established Eddie Koiki Mabo Lecture Series.

The annual Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) conference held last month in Perth – one of Australia’s largest Indigenous policy conferences – has also delivered its own series of Mabo Lectures since 2001.

Madeina wins Science Award

Gur A Baradharaw Kod Torres Strait Sea and Land Council (GBK) Chairperson Ned David was the first Torres Strait region leader to deliver the speech, his one-hour talk covered governance, leadership and policy challenges faced by past and present leaders of the Torres Strait region.

TSRA Senior Natural Resource Management Officer Madeina David has won the Australian Maritime Sciences Association’s (AMSA’s) 2023 Gigari MG Excellence in Sea Country Award.

Ms David will be presented the award this morning at the AMSA annual science meeting on the Gold Coast.

For more on GBK chair Ned David’s Mabo Lecture in Perth see page 14 N

Well done Madeina!

We’ll have the full story & pics in our next issue J

Growing regions funds opportunity

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Expressions of interest for the Growing Regions Program – an initiative aimed at supporting regional development – opened this week, Federal Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch says.

The program was opened to incorporated not-forprofit organisations and local governments to provide infrastructure funding opportunities of between $500,000 and $15 million.

Applicants were required to make a cash cocontribution, which varied based on circumstances outlined in the grant guidelines.

“The Growing Regions Program is a fantastic opportunity for our community to access funding for projects that will drive growth and development in our region,” Mr Entsch said.

“I encourage all eligible organisations to submit their expressions of interest and take advantage of this great opportunity.”

He said projects that brought a broad benefit to the local community and improved socio-economic outcomes were of particular interest.

Expressions of interests close on Tuesday 1 August 2023.

Successful applicants were then invited to provide a more detailed applications from 1 November 2023.

All projects were to be completed by 31 December 2025.

For more information about the Growing Regions Program, including eligibility criteria and how to apply visit: https://business.gov.au/grants-and-

programs/growing-regions-program-round-1

Gambing report released: win some, lose more The results of an inquiry into online gambling and its impacts on those experiencing gambling harm by the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs has been tabled.

“Australians are the biggest losers in the world when it comes to gambling,” Committee Chair Peta Murphy said.

The report recommended the Australian Government develop and implement a comprehensive national strategy on online gambling harm reduction, and more

independent research and improved data collection.

“Gambling advertising and simulated gambling through video games, is grooming children and young people to gamble and encourages riskier behaviour,” Ms Murphy said.

The report and the Committee’s complete list of recommendations can be accessed via the inquiry website at

https://www.aph.gov. au/Parliamentary_ Business/Committees/ House/Social_Policy_ and_Legal_Affairs/ Onlinegamblingimpacts

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023

GBK Cairns open for business

Share in over $37,000 worth of prizes

ENTRIES NOW OPEN

GBK board & staff members at the entrance to the new MGMN offices on the ground floor of Cairns’ Corporate Tower.

STORY AND PICS BY CHRISTINE HOWES Gur A Baradharaw Kod Sea and Land Council Torres Strait Islander Corporation (GBK) board members, staff, and more than 100 family and friends celebrated an official opening of new offices in Cairns last Wednesday night.

GBK chair Ned David described the event as a “an incredible milestone”.

“Family, look, I’m just proud you can come and celebrate

with us this incredible milestone where we went from these humble beginnings of meeting underneath a tree,” he said.

“And it’s taken us a little while, but now our presence is in probably one of the more prominent addresses in Cairns, the Corporate Tower, for our staff and people who deserve the best.”

He said he was pleased to welcome leaders from other organisations, including the Cape York and North Queensland Land Councils, to the event.

“I want to acknowledge their presence here because this is what GBK is about,” he said.

“This organisation gives a collective voice and platform for Traditional Owners.

“This is, in many ways, the genuine voice for Traditional Owners.

“This is the way yu-mi continue to carry on all them things that define us as a group, all the customary laws, the practises, the traditions.

“This is the organisation that protects it for you.

“GBK is the only organisation in this country that represents two First Nations groups, Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginals – you got no other nation, no other group in this nation that does that.

“I’m proud and humble to be chairman of this organisation.”

The new offices are on the ground floor (MGNM) and 15th floor (GBK) respectively, of the Corporate Towers between Lake and Grafton Streets in Cairns.

More pics P4 N

Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal artists living in the Northern Peninsula Area and Torres Strait region are invited to submit their artworks (created in the last 12-months) for a chance to share in over $37,000 worth of prizes.

Terms and conditions apply.

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04 NEWS

THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023 TORRES NEWS

GBK celebrates Cairns office at official opening

Nancy Nona, who did the decorations for the GBK new office celebrations.

Silen David cutting the ribbon on the new MGMN office on the ground floor. Pics by Christine Howes.

Silen David, Lavenia Ahmat, Debra Foster holding Mace Nolan (3) & Betty Foster.

Rita Gutchen & Torres Strait Island Regional Council Mayor Phillemon Mosby.

Malu Kiai Torres Strait Island Dance Group members.

Jimmy Gela with Fr David Gela.

Bruce Moore, Candice Hamilton & Nikki Burns from Uniting Care Qld.

NEWS 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023

Kaziw Meta in top 10 of national education awards Torres Strait Kaziw Meta Inc has made the national top 10 in the 2023 Australian Education Awards for their work in support of First Nations students and their families and community.

“We are very excited at Torres Strait Kaziw Meta for being short listed for the Best First Nations Program,” Acting

CEO Tom Dunsmore said.

“They received a large number of applications and we are one of 10 Excellence Awardees shortlisted for the main award.”

The Best First Nations Education Program award was a new category in the prestigious excellence awards, sponsored by CompliSpace, to recognise schools which foster

positive physical and mental health outcomes for the students they teach.

“We are proud to support the inaugural Best First Nations Education Program award,” CompliSpace Head of Operations Rachel Partis told The Educator magazine in March this year.

“This award shines a light on the many creative and

meaningful programs that nurture First Nations identity and culture to provide quality education in an inclusive environment.”

The winners in each category will be announced at the Australian Education Awards official gala event and awards ceremony on Friday 11 August 2023 at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

The Best First Nations Program award recognises the best first nations education program developed by a school in Australia.

When judging this category the following criteria was considered: • How the school was developing skills and attitudes that drive positive physical and mental health outcomes for Indigenous students • Examples of constructive partnerships with parents and community members • Training and support provided to, and by teachers, for a safe and supportive school environment for all • Examples of how the school provides quality education in a culturally inclusive environment • Tangible outcomes of the program, with a focus on the last two years

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NATIONAL TOP 10: Torres Strait Kaziw Meta Dance Team performing at Tagai State College Culture Day. Pics supplied.

End of Term Rewards Ceremony and Prizes for Boarders of Torres Strait Kaziw Meta

Torres Strait Kaziw Meta Dance Team performing for special visitors to Thursday Island.

Child Care Subsidy on the rise Changes to the Child Care Subsidy took effect from last Friday to deliver cheaper child care for families.

From 10 July, most families with children in early childhood education and care will receive more money back in their pockets through the Child Care Subsidy, including some who were previously not eligible.

Federal Education Minister Jason Clare said it was great news for more than one million families across Australia.

“What we’re doing here is important and it’ll make a big difference for a lot of families,” he said.

“It’s good for parents, but it’s also good for businesses, who are screaming out for skilled workers.

“And most important of all, it’s good for our children.

“This isn’t babysitting.

“This is early education.

“And every day, every moment in early education better prepares our children for school and for life.

“So this is the trifecta: good for children, good for parents, good for our country.”

Queensland Senator Nita Green said the changes would benefit more than 280,000 Queensland families.

“This will be real cost-ofliving relief for many local families, and an opportunity for more families to work, grow and thrive in our wonderful community,” she said.

The changes will cut costs by about $1700 a year for the average family on about $120,000 a year, who have a child in care three days a week.

For families on a combined income of $80,000 or less, the Child Care Subsidy rate will lift to 90 per cent.

For families with two or more children aged five or under in care, the higher subsidy of up to 95 per cent will remain.

The number of Indigenous children in early education will also be boosted by increasing the eligibility hours for subsidised child care each fortnight.

Families can now calculate their Child Care Subsidy by visiting www.childcaresubsidy. gov.au

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06 NEWS

THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023 TORRES NEWS

Commitment to patients re-affirmed

by Torres & Cape health service chair

Everyone loves Show time!!!

STORY AND PIC BY ALF WILSON Members of the Mara family were amongst many Torres Strait Islander men, women and children who enjoyed the big Townsville Show last weekend.

Donny and Wayne Mara were walking through sideshow alley when the Torres News saw them on Saturday night.

With them were children Isaiah Mara, 9, Milana Mara, 6, and Erin Mara, 7.

“We really have enjoyed coming here as a family,” Donny said.

Torres & Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) is “absolutely committed to delivering culturally responsive and inclusive healthcare services to all our communities,” chair Ella Kris says.

In a statement released in response to recent criticisms, Ms Kris said the health service was always happy for feedback.

“Our dedicated health service staff work hard to deliver the highest quality care possible right across our diverse region and we are proud of their achievements in doing this on each and every single day,” she said.

“Our health service is always happy to receive and respond to feedback from patients, their families, and our communities.

“We are open to all types of feedback and are determined to make changes where necessary to improve patient experiences of our services.

“We will willingly participate in any reviews of our clinical processes and procedures and are confident in the quality of the health care we deliver.”

She said the delivery of primary health care services in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) was Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Worker-led.

“We are also committed to the delivery of culturally safe frontline services,” she said.

“There are 81 Health Worker positions in the Torres Strait and NPA which has increased by six positions over the past

10 years from 75 Health Worker positions in 2013.

“Each primary health care service area has Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Worker positions to work alongside other roles such as nursing and medical. With everyone’s support, we will continue to work hard towards improving our cultural responsiveness, awareness, and inclusiveness in every way possible, as well as working towards continuously improving health outcomes for all our First Nations and non-First Nations residents.”

She said they had the highest ratio of First Nations employment of any health service in the state.

“As at 31 May 2023, about 21 per cent of our health service’s workforce identified as being of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent,” she said.

“This is an increase of about 5.1 per cent over the past 5 years and we continue to work on expanding this as much as possible.

“To this end, the TCHHS has a comprehensive Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Workforce Strategy in place – both to increase the number of Indigenous people working in our health service and to improve the skills and career opportunities for those already working for us.

“As well as health service staff, this training is also open to non-employee Indigenous people living in our various remote communities to help provide employment pathways for local residents

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“The TCHHS Board and Executive regard this program as an important investment in building the capacity of the First Nations workforce within the health service’s region.”

She said they were mindful of cultural awareness.

“We are also mindful of the need for all our staff to be culturally aware when delivering services to our diverse communities,” she said.

“As such, the TCHHS has a comprehensive Cultural Capability Program in place for all staff and has individual Cultural Capability Coordinators appointed for Cape York and for the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area to help direct this work.

“This program is designed to enable all our employees to develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours that are needed in their various roles to provide better service delivery to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander consumers.

“The health service recently released its Health Equity Strategy Implementation Plan which includes actions for continuous improvement to address the institutional barriers to health equity.

“The Implementation Plan also includes actions such as increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation in all areas,s including a focus on leadership roles and strengthening partnerships with other service providers.”

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08 NAIDOC

THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023 TORRES NEWS

Celebrating culture: from remote Torres Strait to biggest NAIDOC Week event in the country

Pic courtesy of Nadja Mack.

Ailan Life Photo Competition ENTER & WIN! We want to see your pic showing your Ailan Life!

Email your pic along with your name, phone number and a brief description of the pic to ads@torres.news

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

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.

The Thaiwa Dance Team lit up centre stage with traditional song, dance and language of the Torres Strait at the 2023 National NAIDOC Week Award Ceremony in Meeanjin (Brisbane) last weekend (Saturday 1 July).

For some of the team from the remote community of Iama (Yam Island), it was also their first time travelling to South East Queensland.

The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) funded the 14-member traditional dance group to make the 4,000km+ round trip to perform in the Queensland capital.

Thaiwa Dance Team Member Nellie Lui said the team represented a small, yet culturally strong community.

“We come from the proud island of Iama, which is home to about 300 people,” Ms Lui said.

“For some of us, this was our first trip to Brisbane and performing for large audiences.

“To share our culture with hundreds of guests at the event and thousands more watching on screens across Australia is a big achievement for us.

“Our songs and dances tell the stories of our old people and history carried through the generations, we hope we made our Elders proud.”

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro

Stephen AM said NAIDOC Week was an important opportunity to celebrate Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal traditions and achievements.

“TSRA proudly supported the Thaiwa Dance Team’s journey from Iama to Brisbane to share their beautiful songs, harmonies and culture with the nation,” Mr Stephen said.

“It is the first time a traditional dance group from Kulkalgal Nation, the central islands of the Torres Strait, has performed at the National NAIDOC Week Award ceremony.

“It is always a proud moment to see Torres Strait Islander cultures represented, recognised and celebrated on the national stage.”

The National NAIDOC Week Award Ceremony was the premiere NAIDOC Week event.

The televised 1 July performance also coincided with Coming of the Light, an important anniversary in the Torres Strait, which commemorates the arrival of Christianity and its influence across the region.

National NAIDOC Week 2023 runs from 2 – 9 July with the theme For Our Elders.

Visit www.naidoc.org.au for more information.

Learn more about TSRA at www.tsra.gov.au or follow us on Facebook.

Pics supplied.

NAIDOC 09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023

‘Deep purpose’ behind Lala’s work for NAIDOC win

BY TALEI ELU

Proud Meuram woman from Erub, Lala Gutchen, has won the prestigious national NAIDOC Caring for Country and Culture Award for her contribution to language preservation and involvement as a key cultural witness in an historic Queensland Land Court case.

Lala said she was extremely proud to have put Erub in the spotlight and have wider recognition for her work.

“It’s something community blor mine e mina proud of and receiving the award all my pamle ya where Darnley know more about all know the work that I do,” she said.

“It was a proud moment for all my families here on Erub and families down south.”

On stage, Lala took a moment to thank her parents and her Elders for their guidance and support for her work, and emphasised the importance of this years’ theme: For Our Elders.

“I be esso my parents, and I took the time to acknowledge my Elders from Murray to Boigu,” she said.

“This theme isn’t just for this year, it is every year we should acknowledge our Elders and I learn from Elders all across this continent.

“They are our libraries.”

For the past three years Lala has worked with the Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation on the Erub Mer language project with her father, Kapua Gutchen, an Erub Mer mentor and language holder.

Together they recorded over 2000+ unrecorded words in Erub Mer. As part of her work in

language preservation and education, Lala co-authored a series of journal articles for the Foundation of Endangered Languages.

In 2019 she was named a Young Champion by First Languages Australia after providing mentoring as a Community Educator through Living Languages, and participating in research discovery workshops with the Queensland State Library.

She said she felt a deep purpose to her work and had made sacrifices in her own life to ensure the preservation of language.

“I left lots of good jobs and opportunities where mainland, but in the back of my mind if I be move for another man’s land I would be lost, I thought ‘why, when I can care for my country and stay on my country’.

“We were put here for a reason to care for our country and language because without language you are lost, you can’t understand land or sea country and I be wande make sure our young people can still speak our language.”

She said she hoped the award would inspire more young people to take the time to sit and learn language from their Elders.

“The sun e set on our old people, and e rise on our young people,” she said.

“In my getting the award I hope it opens up the door for all them young people to standup and learn from mepla Elders.”

The National NAIDOC Awards were hosted in Meanjin (Brisbane).

The Torres Strait Regional Authority was one of many who sponsored the event, and they supported the Thaiwa Dance Team from Iama to perform at the celebrations.

Lala and her daughter Florence with Torres Strait Island Regional Council Mayor Phillemon Mosby. Pic supplied.

Ailan Life

WINNER CEQ $150 GIFT CARD – JUNE 2023

The winner of the June 2023 Ailan Life photo competition is Nadja Mack – Congratulations!

Nadja submitted her beautiful pic taken at Bayo Beach on Waiben. “I love looking at the shells that stick like flower arrangements to the driftwood. My puppy Pippi (pictured in the winning photo left) loves eating them,” Nadja said.

Nadja has very kindly donated her prize to the Thursday Island Animal Support Group (TIASG), so they can use the voucher next time they have a vet clinic.

“The clinic is run by volunteers from Vets Beyond Borders. I am sure they would love the treats that the voucher would be able to buy them,” she said.

For your chance to win, email us your pic showing David Hunter (Store Manager), Sonia Einersen from TIASG with her donated $150 gift voucher and Harriet Holland (Assistant Store your Ailan Life along with your name, phone number and a brief description to ads@torres.news Manager). Pic supplied.

10 NAIDOC

THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023 TORRES NEWS

TN0461 • 09/02/23 d/D d > ^h : d dK , E' t/d,Khd EKd/ h dK Y Ed ^ ^ , h>/E'͕

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

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

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

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

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

For late flights – you have a booking.

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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

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‘Amazing’ start to Mackay’s NAIDOC week celebrations Mackay enjoyed and “amazing” morning of NAIDOC celebrations when they opened their week with the 4MK Torres Strait Islander Dance Group. Elder Arthur Ahwang raised the flag (below).

Pics by Tanya Youman, Mackay Regional Council.

NAIDOC 11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023

Townsville NAIDOC launched from Barracks STORY AND PICS

BY ALF WILSON NAIDOC celebrations in Townsville were launched from the Jezzine Barracks on Sunday from 8.30am.

Dancers included the Torres Strait Komet Group while Torres News correspondent Velma Gara did a welcome on behalf of Torres Strait Islanders and made a touching speech.

“From when I started working in the media in the mid-1980s to now, the objective has always been to be the voice for our people,” she said. “To let the wider community know that we speak different languages, have created song and dance for our mob.

“I worked at the Townsville Aboriginal and Islander Media Association and in those days we used

Topsy Mola & Velma Gara

Otari reel to reel, Sony cassette recorders and playing vinyls.

“It was a specialist field you had to be taught to use those equipment.

“Nowadays, a mobile phone is all you would require to record and video.

“Technology and social media has opened the door for anyone to be a storyteller to capture events.

“This year’s NAIDOC

theme – For Our Elders – resonates well with being a voice for our people.

“We always record our elders, so families and communities have them for future generations.

“It has always been our elders who we draw strength from for their knowledge and experience.

“They are our cultural knowledge holders and trailblazers.

Komet Dancers in action.

the flag raising.

Aunty Virginia raised the Aboriginal flag, Charles Cloudy, with assistance from Velma raised the Torres Strait flag and a council representative raised the Australian flag.

Events continued over the week with another highlight, the NAIDOC march, set for tomorrow along Thuringowa Drive, followed by a Family Fun day at Riverway park.

TS flag being raised.

Eddie & Eileen Savage with their TS and Aboriginal themed cakes.

Those in attendance in front of the raised flags.

The entertainers.

“So my message here today is to record and video our elders so we do have their recordings forever.”

The Torres News spoke to a lot of Torres Strait Islander men and women including Topsy Mola.

“This has been a very successful morning and everybody enjoyed themselves,” Mrs Mola said.

At around 10.40am everybody walked nearby for

Otare Day, Addie-Mae Day & Connie Day.

Jimmy Tapau & Sameria Sinak.

12 COMING OF THE LIGHT

THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023 TORRES NEWS

Waiben celebrates Coming of the Light’s 152 years The 152nd anniversary of the London Missionary Society landing on Erub, which brought the Gospel to the people of the Torres Strait, was celebrated at All Souls & Bartholomew Anglican Church on Waiben last Saturday.

The combined service was attended by the Uniting Church of Australia, Australian Christian Church, Catholic Church,

Seventh Day Adventist Church, Church of Torres Strait and Pastor Nathan Seden for which organisers said they were grateful.

They also thanked the many people who contributed to the day, which started at 5pm with a procession from the church grounds to the Surprise Boat Monument.

A traditional feast followed at the Anglican Parish Hall.

Mina Big Eso/ Thank You On Behalf of Archdeacon Chris Wright, Deacon Ben Paton, Church Councils & Mothers Union of All Souls & St Bartholomew, we would like to say Big Eso to the following for their support.

Businesses who gave in-kind donations and support: Yen Loban Ferry Service; Community Enterprise Qld (CEQ); TI Convenient Store T/A; Seehop P/L. Community Families who donated food for the Feasting: Kelly Seden & Family; Wasie Tardent; SIlen David; Lydicia Ikeda.

We’d also like to thank the Department of Treaty, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Partnership, Community and the Arts (DTATSIPCA).

Families who cooked: Kevin Wigness, Joshua Ah Wang; Benjamin Dai; & Young Boys; Aunty Ceah Cook, Fisi Ahwang: Palista Ketchell; Cissy Ketchell; Francisca Gutchen; Peter Yorkston; Silen David Jnr; Bakoi Namok; Pauline Ah Wang Marianne Cook; and our church families.

Church Decorators: Mona Ahwang; Fabianne Ahwang; Majella Fileword.

If we have missed your name, please accept our apology.

July 1 Committee 2023

COMING OF THE LIGHT 13 Weather no deterrent for Cairns’ Coming of the Light celebrations TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023

STORY AND PICS

BY BEL LUI

Vickey Doolah, Mrs Gloria Ware & friend.

Despite unfavorable weather in Cairns for a re-enactment performance of the arrival of the London Missionary Society Missionaries who came to Darnley (Erub) Island Torres Strait 152 years ago on a religious mission, the commemoration continued indoors.

A church service with hymn singing and

speeches was held at St John Anglican Church officiated by The Right Reverend Dr Keith Joseph Bishop of North Queensland, and assisted

by Torres Strait Islanders Mualgal Fr Victor Joseph and Erubamle Rocky Gela. The congregation was treated with some refreshments after the service at the church’s Parish Hall and a celebration feast and more hymns singing at parish hall of St Margaret in the evening.

Reverend Bishop Keith Joseph & Rocky Gela.

Bishop Keith Joseph, Rocky Gela & Victor Joseph.

Amanda & John Lui, Kolon Solomon & Ruth Saveka.

The Congregation.

The Congregation.

Deliberation: Fr. Victor Joseph.

Hundreds celebrate at St Matthew’s Anglican Church in Townsville STORY AND PICS

BY ALF WILSON More than 100 Torres Strait Islanders celebrated “Coming of the Light” last Saturday at St Matthew’s Anglican Church in Townsville.

The celebration, which started at 10am, featured an excellent re-enactment of the arrival of missionaries on Darnley.

The warrior actors were Douglas Kaigey and Ali Day and the missionary was played

by Tia Takai.

He was accompanied

by Aicey Day, who played his great great grandfather Jimmy Dei – one of four who convinced Erub warriors the missionaries were not a threat, after which they accepted Christianity back in 1871.

After the reenactment a service was conducted by Father Elimo Tapim, Father Dalton Cowley and St Matthews Priest Stephanie Patching, followed by a feast outside.

Re-enactment of the arrival of the missionaries.

Inside the church for the service.

From left standing at St Matthews Church Priest Stephanie Kitching, Father Dalton Cowley & Father Elimo Tapim.

Aicey Day & Annie Munro.

As they were – part of the re-enactment.

Confrontation at the re-enactment.

Coming together at the re-enactment.

Audience members walking to enter church after re-enactment.

Mary Horope & Millianna Davey.

14 NEWS

THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023 TORRES NEWS

Following the lead: governance and policy challenges faced by past and present leaders The Mabo Lecture has been delivered to the annual Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) conference – one of Australia’s largest Indigenous policy conferences – since 2001.

Early last month Gur A Baradharaw Kod Torres Strait Sea and Land Council (GBK) Chairperson Ned David made Mabo Lecture history as the first Torres Strait Island leader to deliver the speech.

The one-hour talk covered governance, leadership and policy challenges faced by past and present leaders of the Torres Strait region.

It was an opportunity to share traditional beliefs and contemporary practices with a national audience.

“Since before the arrival of the Church in the late 18th century we have always known that the seas and lands of the

Straits are our Godly inheritance,” he said.

“We have strong and continued spiritual and cultural customs we practice at the opening and closing of all GBK board meetings, community meetings, school parade and many other events with a prayer that acknowledges the Almighty higher power of Augud/God, present in our lives always.

“I want to celebrate and pay my respect to the five Meriam who made the original claim: Eddie Koiki Mabo, Reverend David Passi, Sam Passi, James Rice and Celuia Mapo Salee.

“As we know Eddie Koiki Mabo was the first named plaintiff, hence the name Mabo Decision.

“I just feel that we cannot thank them enough, based on the current complicated nature of the work now, it would not have been any different for them

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GBK chair Ned David delivering the Mabo Lecture in Perth. Pic with thanks to Dion Creek back then.

“Building consensus, getting everyone on the same page, on the same course - it would not have been an easy thing to do.

“Kebisu, Rusia, Marou, George Mye and Koiki Mabo, in my opinion, are leaders, role models.

“Couragous.

“Visionary.

“Fearless.

“Intelligent.

“Unwavering integrity… leaders who pushed the boundaries.

“These are leaders that I encourage my people to emulate.

“We shouldn’t shut any doors or put any limitations on seeking reforms to get a better deal for our people.”

Mr David reflected on leadership and governance challenges faced by leaders in the region today.

“My hope is that speaking about these matters here will open up a dialogue among and between regions across the country,” he said.

“To have those courageous conversations about the work in front of us, and beyond the upcoming referendum.

“Layers of governance imposed on us in the name of ‘efficiency’ continues to create inefficiencies in service delivery and directly impacts on the quality of life in the region.”

Mr David mapped out the layers of governance

in the region and the complications and conflicts that came with those layers.

“Over the decades, governments and mainstream media continue to demand that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples take responsibility for their lives and their communities,” he said.

“With that responsibility comes the need for the government to share power with us and commit to cogoverning with us.

“For far too long now, governments have been able to make policies about us, without us.

“This includes developing and delivering programs without First Nations’ autonomy in leadership.

“We also need to believe in our ability to be autonomous leaders.

“We need to get better at working in unity to deliver for our people.

“Having so many layers of governance that are an extension of the State creates tensions between Indigenous leaders, because our people work across all of these mechanisms.

“The one thing we agree on is that we are over-governed in the region.

“It raises the question – can one mechanism do the job of protecting the interests of First Nations peoples?

“Or does it require several mechanisms to navigate the various governance environments of the State?

“The next question this raises for me is – how can we build the leadership capabilities in the region to work together in a more sophisticated way?

“So together we can navigate the complicated State processes that we have become entangled in.

“I am also highly conscious that this is not about finding fault with individual leaders, it’s about us understanding the historical and contemporary sociopolitical forces that are causing these tensions between us.

“I think we need to pause and reflect, and think deeply about what has happened to us, and how it is expressing itself now, in our behaviours.

“We need to ask ourselves, what we need to do to transcend our colonial circumstances, to collaborate with each other as leaders in this complicated situation.

“This brought to my mind the effects of oppression and internalised oppression.

“When we internalise oppression from the dominant group oppressing us, we start to believe what they are saying about us.

“Islanders have always been strong in our cultural identity and our relationship with the sea, our islands and our way of life.

“A contemporary example of this inner strength and knowing is the work of the Torres Strait 8.”

Mr David said the Torres Strait 8 were eight Torres Strait Islanders and six of their children who successfully submitted a complaint to the United Nations Human Rights Committee (UNHRC) highlighting that Australia violated several Articles of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

1. Article 2 (which defines the scope of legal obligations State Parties accept under the ICCPR); 2. Article 6 (the right to life); 3. Article 17 (the right to be free from arbitrary interferences with private life, family, and home); 4. Article 24 (the rights of children to protection); and 5. Article 27 (the right to enjoy culture) (together, the Identified Human Rights).

“The Torres Strait 8 submitted that changing weather patterns causing sea level rise coupled with Australia’s inaction would damage their livelihood, culture, and traditional way of life,” he said.

“They also reported that the Sea level rise already caused flooding and erosion on their affected island, noting that higher temperature and ocean acidification produced coral bleaching, reef death, and the decline of seagrass beds and other nutritionally and

culturally important marine species.

“Approximately one metre of land is lost every year.

“In addition, a tidal surge in recent years has destroyed family graves, scattering human remains.

“The cultural heritage of the First Nations Peoples of the Straits is of great importance to our communities because it is central to our peoplehood and overcoming the effects of colonisation and internalised oppression.

“Cultural heritage is the means through which we continue to practise our culture, maintain our identity, and remain connected to our ancestors and our traditional knowledges which we have sustained through our practices over thousands of years.

“This also extends to the right to maintain, control, protect and develop their intellectual property over such cultural heritage.”

He said vigilance was also required around the Queensland State Government’s Path to Treaty initiative.

“We will remain vigilant and practice our autonomy by choosing whether to opt into a State-based treatymaking process down the track,” he said.

“Treaty should not be used by States to merely reinforce their claim to sovereignty over our waters, lands and people - it must be built on the agreement that two forms of sovereignty exist in one jurisdiction.”

He said regional leadership was also key to providing a practical direction for future planning leading up to the Voice referendum.

“I think regional leadership is key to preparing our people leading up to the referendum and beyond ballot box,” he said.

“It is difficult to predict the outcome of this referendum, so it’s important for us to plan for a yes and a no outcome.”

Note: Mr David’s Mabo Lecture is expected be published in full later this year – watch this space for details of where and when.

ART NEWS 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023

UMI’s 10th Freshwater Saltwater exhibition opens

Giethalay (Mud Crab) by Anzak Newman. Pics by Lovegreen Photography.

Several Torres Strait and NPA artists will feature in UMI Arts’ 10th annual Freshwater Saltwater Exhibition, which officially opens tomorrow night in Cairns.

Featuring 20 works on canvas and paper, fabrics, ceramics, and artefacts by 11 of the region’s best-known, mid-career to established artists, Freshwater Saltwater

is UMI Arts’ popular, premium exhibition with a track record for attracting the attention of art lovers and collectors from home and away.

Exhibiting artists include Natasha Davui (Cairns), Anzak Newman (Bamaga), Rosie Ware (Moa Island, Torres Strait) and Peter Kulla Kulla (from NPA).

UMI Arts’ Exhibitions

and Gallery Officer, Robyne Pacey said Freshwater Saltwater was a curated group exhibition featuring a distinct and diverse lineup of artists.

“This year’s beautiful and thought-provoking collection of artworks is a collective and artistic response to culture and Country that represents the flowing together of our First Nations people’s

Rosie Ware – linocut on silk. cultures and stories, from rainforest to desert to island,” she said.

She said there were many notable works comprising this year’s exhibition.

“Freshwater Saltwater is a real celebration for our artists who have independently achieved a major milestone in their career with artwork that is a high level of quality,

collectible, and exhibition ready,” she said.

“While we do focus many of our programs and exhibitions on developing emerging artists, Freshwater Saltwater is about enhancing the profiles and careers of our more established members who by osmosis, provide an inspiration to newcomers – demonstrating just how far art practice and cultural

expression can take you.”

UMI Arts’ Freshwater Saltwater Exhibition officially opens at 6pm on Friday 7 July 2023 at UMI Arts’

Jensen Plaza Gallery in Manoora.

The exhibition is free to view between Monday and Friday and runs until 31 August 2023.

For more, visit www. umiarts.com.au

2024 NAISDA audition/applications process launched The applications and auditions process for students keen to join NAISDA Dance College, Australia’s leading national arts training organisation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, in 2024 are has been launched.

NAISDA – formerly the National Aboriginal Islander Skills Development Association – has enjoyed a rich history of nurturing and shaping the careers of renowned First Nations performers for nearly 50 years.

It has provided a unique pathway to further study and offered Australia’s only nationally accredited dance and performing arts qualifications specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

“We believe arts education is the most powerful way to change the world,” NAISDA CEO Kim Walker said.

“NAISDA is shaped by the needs and aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and communities across Australia.

“It’s their performances, works, steps and sounds that power Australia’s creative economy and shape the future of Australia’s performing arts industry,” Mr Walker said.

“We understand that coming to NAISDA may be the first experience away from home

for many students, therefore, we build a secure, holistic community around them, to help ease anxiety and remove barriers to training.”

“As we open our application and audition process for our 2024 intake, we invite educators, mentors, friends and family to help us discover the next generation of First Nations dance artists.

“If you know a talented First Nations person who is 16 years or older and lives and breathes dance, culture, and creativity, encourage them to take a step towards their dreams by applying to study at NAISDA today.”

Successful applicants will be invited to NAISDA for onsite auditions from 3 to 5 October.

For auditionees who live 90 minutes or more from the college, ABSTUDY assistance is available to cover travel costs and NAISDA provides accommodation and meals during the audition period with the support of ABSTUDY. To apply, First Nations applicants aged 16 and over should visit www.naisda.com. au/apply and submit their application before 21 August 2023.

For any enquiries, please contact NAISDA on auditions@naisda.com.au or 1800 117 116 (toll free).

Meet NAISDA Diploma Student Harlisha!

Harlisha Newie-Joe. Pics H photography

by Lisa Haymes.

Harlisha Newie-Joe is a proud Torres Strait Islander woman from the Goemu and Wagadagam tribe.

She spent most of her life growing up in Weipa on Algnith Country and lives on the Central Coast of New South Wales, on Darkinjung Country.

Harlisha started training at NAISDA in 2020 and is in her fourth year of studies.

She has trained with various industry professionals including Deon Hastie, Jasmin Sheppard, Alfred Taahi and Nicola Sabatino, and has performed with the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 2021 – 2023 with Jannawi Dance Clan.

Harlisha worked with Jo Clancy on a Youth Dance Festival Film with her group Wagana, directed by the dance filmmaker Sue Healy.

In 2023 Harlisha participated in a weeklong collaborative creative workshop with NIDA and the Arts8 intensive weekend which sees two students from each of the Arts8 training organisations undertaking workshops within each other’s creative practice.

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THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023 TORRES NEWS

NBL1 gears up for NAIDOC round

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BY VELMA GARA Southern Districts Spartans women’s team are showing they mean business with a win, 66-56, over the top seeded team, Northside Wizards, in Round 14 of the NBL1 North competition last Sunday afternoon.

Spartans guard, Jessica McDowell White, played the whole game and had a doubledouble with 10 points and 12 assists.

Other games results – Darwin Salties played

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also had 10 points each.

Dolphins guard, Teyahna Bond, did not suit up for the game.

Cairns Marlins had a scare and nearly lost to lowly placed Rockhampton Rockets but they managed to score in the last 10 seconds of the game to win, 91-90.

Marlins moved into the top four on the ladder.

Townsville Heat finally got another win, 101-69, against the Rockets. Guard, Michael Cedar, was consistent and collected 15 points, six rebounds and four assists.

It was a memorable night for the Heat as they hadn’t won a game since Round 3.

This weekend the NBL1 will celebrate Indigenous communities with the First Nations Round as part of NAIDOC Week.

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another triple-header against Logan Thunder, Ipswich Force and Red City Roar.

Men’s results for Salties were losses to Logan (97-75) and Ipswich (106-105) but they got a win last Friday against Roar, 117-93.

Top seed Gold Coast had a convincing win against North Gold Coast, 115-88.

Rockhampton Cyclones headed north to play Townsville and Cairns and the women’s team had convincing wins against Flames (67-47) and Dolphins (91-60).

The Cyclones defence was smothering and both home teams couldn’t handle it with home team scorers in the low – Flames guard, Indiah Bowyer, had 10 points and for the Dolphins, both Shaneice Swain and Leichan ‘LJ’ Williams

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

Salties Indigenous round jersey. Pic supplied.

SPORT 17

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023

Three stars to watch in Cowboy Sareka quietly confident third Origin match STORY AND PIC BY ALF WILSON

ROUND UP

BY ALF WILSON

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Reuben Cotter and David Fifita have been named in the Queensland Maroons run on side to meet NSW in the third State of Origin match.

PNG star Xavier Coates (Melbourne Storm) has also been named in the side as a winger.

Game three of the series will be played at Sydney’s Accor Stadium next Wednesday.

Although it is a “dead rubber” with Queensland having won the first two matches at Adelaide and Brisbane, the Maroons will want to make it a three nil whitewash.

Hamiso (Dolphins) will line up in the centres, Reuben (Cowboys) as a prop and David (Gold Coast Titans) also packing down in the forward pack as a second rower.

Cowboys stars Valentine Holmes, Murray Taulagi and Jeremiah Nanai are also in the run-on side.

Another Cowboys player, Tom Deardon, was selected as an emergency player.

Seb flies high In other NRL news, aerial dominance by Mabuiag Islander Sebastian “Seb” Kris was a highlight of the Canberra Raiders 26-22 victory over the David Fifita-inspired Gold Coast Titans at GIO Stadium in the national capital in NRL Indigenous Round 18 on Saturday.

David scored two tries and set up a third during his best on the ground performance, and almost led the Titans to victory in the clash.

Seb made the highlight reels by jumping high into the air above a pack to score a try at the 16th minute.

But David crossed

after a barnstorming run in the 22nd minute and brushed an opponent aside at the 39th minute to score.

Next weekend the Raiders meet the St George Dragons at WIN Stadium, while the Titans are back at home to take on the Dolphins in a local derby.

Hammer, Ezra and Tristan shine Five eighth Ezra Mam and fullback Tristan Sailor produced solid performances when the Brisbane Broncos beat the Dolphins 24-16 at the Gabba in Brisbane on Saturday night.

The Hammer also had a good game for the Dolphins at centre.

Star Broncos winger Selwyn Cobbo scored three tries for the Broncos.

At the after match press conference astute Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett was glowing in his praise of the Hammer.

“We were very pleased with our effort,” he said.

“Hamiso (TabuaiFidow) is one of the best fullbacks in the game but we have a problem with our centres at the moment and we had to do something about it.

“He can handle that position and I thought he did a really good job there,” Bennett said.

The Broncos have a bye next week before meeting the Bulldogs in round 20 at Belmore.

The Dolphins will meet the Gold Coast Titans next Sunday.

Cowboys win big The Cowboys recorded the biggest win in their club history when they thrashed the West Tigers 74-nil on Saturday night at the QCB stadium.

It was also a massive turnaround after the Tigers beat them 66-18 six weeks earlier at Leichhardt Oval in Sydney.

Eight Cowboys scored tries and they have charged up the NRL ladder to be sitting ninth, from languishing at 15th just five weeks ago.

The Townsville Stadium has become a “Cowboys fortress” with the team winning

six from eight there this season.

Cotter was impressive in both attack and defence and was a key player.

Such a huge win boosts the Cowboys for and against percentage which will be vital in the back part of the season.

The Cowboys have a bye next week before they travel to Manly in Round 20 to meet with the Sea Eagles.

AJ two tries despite wet ground A wet ground and a heavy slippery ball did not stand in the way of Alex “AJ” Johnston scoring two tries when the South Sydney Rabbitohs beat the Warriors 28-6 at Go Media Stadium, Auckland on Friday night.

His first try came after a backline movement which was a set play and the Rabbitohs led 12-6 at halftime.

AJ’s second try came after a classic kick by five eighth Cody Walker and the pair have formed a great combination this season.

Tallisha to co-captain Tallisha Harden was named North Queensland Toyota Cowboys ladies cocaptain with Kara Dibb at last week’s NRLW Season launch at The Ville Resort-Casino in Townsville.

Both were international and State of Origin representatives and were recruited as much for their off-field leadership as their on-field brilliance for the Cowboys’ maiden season in the NRLW. Tallisha made her debut for the Indigenous All Stars in 2014.

“When Tallisha steps into a room she has a presence and a calming factor, which rubs off on the group,” Cowboys NRLW Head Coach Ben Jeffries said.

“I know that firsthand from working with her in Indigenous All Stars camps – and we have a huge contingent of Indigenous players in our squad who all look up to her.

“She is like the Godmother of our group, she will always find something positive out of a negative situation.”

Blockbusting forward Sareka Mooka, one of five Torres Strait Islander players in the North Queensland Cowboys side is excited about the much anticipated NRL Telstra Women’s competition.

Sareka (Mabuiag), Essay Banu (Boigu), Jasmine Peters and Tallisha Harden (both Badu) and Tahlulah Tillett (Moa) are in the Cowboys squad for the season which commences on 22 July.

Essay and Sareka have signed for the 2023 and 24 seasons, Jasmine 23 to 25, and Tallisha and Tahlulah for 2023.

Tahlulah also has a contract option for the 2024 season.

The biggest Women’s Premiership ever will feature nine rounds, double headers and, for the first time, matches in primetime.

The 12 team draw included new teams Canberra Raiders, Cronulla Sharks, North Queensland Cowboys and Wests Tigers.

In round one on Saturday 22 July, the Cowboys ladies clash with the Titans in a Queensland derby at Cbus Super Stadium.

The Cowboys ladies first home game was set for round three on Saturday 5 August in a blockbuster against the Brisbane Broncos at Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

The Torres News caught up with Sareka as she arrived at Cowboys headquarters ready for training last week.

“We have to do some gym work first and then will train on the field,” she said.

“I am really looking forward to the coming season and think we can do well.

“It is great to have five girls from the islands in the team.”

Sareka is employed at NRL Cowboys House in Gulliver suburb as a boarding supervisor.

Born in Cairns before relocating to Townsville, Sareka has represented in the Prime Minster’s XIII, First Nations Gems and Indigenous All-Stars over the past year.

Sareka Mooka with Torres News correspondent Velma Gara.

A physical middle or edge forward, Mooka played eight games for the premiership-winning 2022 Gold Stars in the Queensland ladies comp.

She also shone for the Mackay Cutters in their 2023 Queensland Ladies comp.

Under coach Ben Lonergan the Cowboys ladies have had a rigorous pre-season which will hold them in good stead for the season.

That has included a run up Castle Hill and plenty of strengthening work in the gym at Cowboys headquarters near Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

Sareka told Torres News she had last visited her home on Mabuiag Island in 2021 but intended to get back there after the season.

“I have lots of relatives on Mabuiag and a lot live here in Townsville,” she said.

The quietly spoken Sareka said she had followed the Island of Origin carnival last month as closely as she could from afar.

“It was great to Mabuiag side Goemu Bau Raiders take out the men’s comp and my relative Stephanie Mooka was in the Kayin Kosals ladies team which took out the grand final,” she said.

It’s been a big fortnight for try scoring machine Jon Reuben

BY ALF WILSON Elusive winger Jon Reuben scored two tries for the Norths Devils who lost 30-16 to Tweed Seagulls at Bishop Park in the Indigenous round 16 of the Hostplus Queensland Cup premiership comp.

Jon scored his four pointers at the 28th and 48th minutes and was a problem for the defence.

It has been a great fortnight for Jon who was named by the QRL in the Team of the Week for round 15.

He scored three tries for the Norths Devils then in their win over Souths Logan Magpies, and was best on the ground.

Speedster Jon has been a key member of the Erub United side at Allblacks carnivals.

He ran 131 metres, made three line breaks and one tackle break.

Northern Pride centre Will Partridge was also named in the team of the round after scoring two tries in his side’s northern derby victory over the Townsville Blackhawks.

He kicked three from four conversions and two penalty goals, as well as registering 200 metres on the run, including 81 post-contact, five tackle breaks

and 13 tackles.

Two PNG Hunter players, Ila Alu and Morea Morea, also made the team.

Ila helped inspire the Hunters to the upset of the round against the Sunshine Coast Falcons.

More Indigenous round action PNG Hunters scored a 14-8 victory over the CQ Capras at Santos National Football Stadium in Indigenous Round 16 of the Queensland Cup premiership on Saturday.

Northern Pride went down 36-10 to Brisbane Tigers before a home crowd at Barlow Park on Saturday night.

For the Pride Justin Frain and Taniela Ta’ufo’ou scored tries and Will Partridge slotted the goal.

Townsville Blackhawks and Redcliffe Dolphins played a 24-all draw at Kayo Stadium.

Blackhawks try scorers were Cowboys outside back Kyle Feldt, Zac Laybutt, Robert Derby and Taniela Sadrugu. Thomas Duffy kicked four goals.

Mackay Cutters had a 36-20 win over the Ipswich Jets at North Ipswich Reserve.

At the completion of round 16 the Pride was placed sixth,

Capras eighth, Hunters 10th, Blackhawks 11th, Devils 12th and the Cutters 14th.

In round 17 this coming weekend, Ipswich Jets v Townsville Blackhawks at North Ipswich Reserve, PNG Hunters v Burleigh Bears at Santos National Football Stadium, Northern Pride v Wynnum Manly Seagulls at Barlow Park, and Cutters and Norths Devils have the bye.

Hastings Deering Colts Premiership In their Indigenous Round 11, Brisbane Tigers defeated Northern pride 48-12 at Barlow Park in Cairns.

Samuel Cramp, Sami Raivaroro tries scored Pride tries and Seamus King-Smith from Cape York kicked two goals.

Mackay Cutters beat Ipswich Jets 52-30 and the Redcliffe Dolphins rolled Townsville Blackhawks 28-20 at Kayo Stadium.

Star Brenton Baira kicked two goals for the Dolphins and PNG player Ragarive Wavik snared two goals for the Blackhawks.

The Dolphins are sitting second on the ladder, Blackhawks sixth, Cutters ninth, Capras 10th and the Pride 14th.

18 SPORT

THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023 TORRES NEWS

AFL enjoys bumper year so far – with more to come With anotehr 10 weeks of school wrapped up last term, AFL Development programs have been put on hold over the School Holidays, but here’s a look at what we’ve done so far ...

In-school Football a big hit Our in-school AFL programs ran for five weeks across the inner islands of the Torres Strait this term.

The sessions were completely free for all participants who attend school on the days that the AFL Cape York Game Development team visits.

They’re the entry point to our AFL programs and teach young people fundamental movements and football skills in a fun and supportive environment.

This term we conducted sessions at Horn Island Primary, Thursday Island Primary, Thursday Island Senior campus, Sacred Heart – Thursday Island Campus and Sacred Heart – Kirriri.

Auskickers kicking goals The after-school Auskick program was once again very popular with Sacred Heart, Tagai primary (Thursday Island) and Horn Island primary hosting After-school Auskick sessions.

This year over 110 participants signed up to join in on the AFL action afterschool.

Each participant also received their Auskick pack and football, so they can keep practicing their footy skills over the holidays!

High-school NPA/Tagai Girls Debut at carnival This term saw the first ever Tagai/NPA AFL team make their debut at the AFLQ Schools Cup – Junior Division in Cairns.

Not only was this the first time Tagai or NPA has entered a team, but it was the first time a team further north than Cairns has entered the competition.

The girls from Years 7, 8 & 9 from Thursday Island and Bamaga Campuses put on a show at their first ever full field AFL carnival, finishing third overall.

Off the field, the girls had the opportunity to have dinner and a tour of AFL Cape York House for girls, engage in team-building activities and take part in a team training session in Cairns.

NPA Primary School represents NPA State College flew the flag for the region at the 2023 AFLQ Schools Cup – Primary division.

After their successful debut at the event last year, the team once again came to play

with 15 players selected from Bamaga and Injinoo Campus.

Three players from the team also represented our AFL affiliate side the Cape York Eagles in the U13 mixed junior competition.

Sulia Ingui and Clarence Kulla Kulla took home the Most Valuable Player and Coaches award respectively.

Players also had the opportunity to visit AFL Cape York House for Boys and AFL Cape York House for Girls.

Crusaders group.

NPA Tagai junior girls team.

Artwork on display The uniforms worn by both our AFLQ Schools Cup teams were designed by current NPA and AFL Cape York House students.

The NPA State College primary uniform was designed

by NPASC school captain Meshach Mara-Namokand highlights the Meshach’s cultural practices.

After a captivating guernsey last year, Edna Grey-Muhamad (Seisia) designed our junior female uniform which displays the unique landscape of the NPA.

AFL House Crusaders.

Kirriri AFL.

NPA Primary award winners.

Kirriri Auskick.

Crusaders at the State Championships Our U12 Cape York/Torres Strait AFL team returned from the State School Australian Football Championships last month.

22 students from 14 communities took on some of Queensland’s best footballers.

10 of the 22 representatives were selected from Cape York or the Torres Strait, with the rest of their team mates coming from everywhere between Hope Vale and Kowanyama.

Samuel Nakata Bin-Juda (shadow) from Thursday Island and Sulia Ingui (Injinoo) were selected as part of the Queensland State representative team that will take on the rest of Australia in August.

Our programs are completely focused around giving young people opportunities to participate and gain life experiences, we wouldn’t be able to do that without some our partners this term which include; Hinterland Aviation, Torres Strait Youth and Recreational Sporting Authority, Bamaga Enterprises Ltd, Torres Shire Council, Community Enterprises QLD, Weipa Town Authority and AFL Queensland.

Horn Island Auskick.

Girls Crusaders.

NPA Primary captains.

NPA Tagai junior girls present guernsey to designer Edna.

Sacred Heart Auskick.

Auskick Sacred Heart TI.

What’s next?

Next term our focus will shift to NPA and the Outer Islands, will also see the return of the U12 Crusader Cup which will see all Torres Strait and NPA Year 5 & 6 students invited to a competitive junior football carnival.

More updates to come!

NPA Tagai junior girls.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023

Stingers and Stars perform well STORY & PICS ALF WILSON

Zenadth Kes Stingers.

M Continued from P20 “All our officials were ecstatic as well,” Strait Stars coach Sam Joe said.

The team won four of their first eight matches, showing some wonderful talent.

Sam nominated Ivan Mosby (Masig), Moses Dau (Boigu), Pananiend Mooka (Dauan), Zezward Banu (Badu), and girls Delena-May Ware (Iama) and Armyni Tamwoy (Mabuiag) as just some of the standouts on his team.

Another bonus for the Strait Stars players was meeting former Cowboys, Queensland State of Origin and Test back Matty Bowen at Brothers League’s Club grounds.

“This is a very big event with people coming from many different places,” Matty said.

Zenadth Kes Stingers also performed strongly and showed some great talent.

Coach Anthony Moynisan said they were disappointed not to play their first game because of an accident in the previous match.

“We lost our second game to a Mount Isa team and then won our third against Emerald,” he told the Torres News.

Hundreds of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders children and adults converged on Townsville for the popular competition.

It was estimated that about 30 per cent of the players were First Nations Peoples and their parents, grandparents and supporters from around the State turned out in droves.

Teams were from Cairns, Townsville, Mount Isa, Mackay, Toowoomba, Yeppoon, Emerald, Atherton, Rockhampton, Bowen, Moura, Rockhampton, Clermont, Calliope, Mossman, Herbert River, Winton, Tully, Burdekin, Moranbah, Innisfail, Blackall, Blackwater, Tully, Sarina, Dysart, Cloncurry, Springsure, Gladstone, Middlemount, Mareeba, Townsville, Thursday and the Torres Strait.

Strait Stars trainer Lavinia Mabo, from Warraber Island, said players and supporters had travelled from many outer islands for the event.

“We are all happy to be here even though we travelled a long way,” Lavinia said.

Morris Cloudy also sat on the sideline along with thousands of others whilst many were under tents.

Ingham-born Laurie Spina was the inaugural captain of the North Queensland Cowboys when they entered the competition in 1995.

Spina also played with the Northern Sydney Bears, the Easts Roosters and Cronulla Sharks during his 171 game NRL career.

The carnival was organised by the Cowboys and the main sponsor was Local Search.

SPORT 19

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Morris Cloudy with granddaughter Kyoko Sabatino.

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Former Cowboy & Queensland star Matt Bowen with Zenadth Kes Stingers players.

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

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

FERRY SCHEDULE JUN – SEP 2023

Strait Stars trainer Lavinia Mabo (Warraber), and players Delana-May (Iama), Armynie (Mabuiag), Imani (Warraber) & Allyrah (Badu).

Monday to Saturday (June to Saturday, 30 September) THURSDAY ISLAND to SEISIA: Depart 6.30AM & 2.30PM SEISIA to THURSDAY ISLAND: Depart 8AM & 4PM During June to end of September, 2023, Peddells Ferry will operate on all gazetted bank holidays.

“Linking the Cape with the Torres Strait”

Stingers officials Sinetta Cloudy, Anthony Moynihan, Rob Wylie, Ora Livock & David Pearson.

Strait Stars.

Boarding strictly 15 mins prior to departure

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.

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

THURSDAY 6 JULY 2023

Stars of the future play QCB STORY AND PICS

BY ALF WILSON

Strait Stars & Barcaldine teams @ QCB Stadium. Pic supplied.

The Strait Stars team who competed at the prestigious Laurie Spina Shield junior rugby league competition last week, were delighted to be one of eight sides selected to play a curtain-raiser to the Cowboys versus West Tigers NRL clash at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium on Saturday.

Two Torres Strait teams – Strait Stars and the Zenadth Kes Stingers – were amongst 71 teams to contest the Townsville carnival for under-11 players from around Queensland.

The chance to play at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium was a rare opportunity.

Former Melbourne Storm NRL player Sam Joe coached Strait Stars, who consisted of boy and girl players from several middle and outer Torres Strait islands.

“The youngsters were so happy and thought it was a blast to play at such a huge stadium – and we had a win against Barcaldine,” Sam told the Torres News.

TN0529 10x7 Continued P19 N

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