Torres News_Edition 84_07 June 2023

Thursday, 8 June 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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CULTURAL FESTIVAL

The 2023 Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival was held on Waiben during Reconciliation Week and featured more than 60 performances held over four exciting days in

various locations. From the combined prayer service to the Mabo Celebrations held last Friday, the week of cultural celebrations was a success by all measures. Pictured above are

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02 NEWS

THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023 TORRES NEWS

Getting to The Point on NITV

Cast and crew of NITV’s The Point enjoyed a Waiben perspective when they recorded local discussions around the Voice to Parliament last week. The program went to air on Tuesday night and is available on SBS On Demand.

New ferry deal a boost for getting students to school

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

Students across the Torres Strait will have more ways to get to school and back with a long-term contract signed to provide another ferry service.

Department of Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the sevenyear deal between the Department of Transport and Main Roads and Loban Marine was for services between Horn and Thursday Islands.

“We know how important getting a good education and students shouldn’t have to go without simply because of where they live,” he said.

“The operating environment for school

services in the Torres Strait is unlike anywhere else and we are working with our service providers to deliver safe and comfortable school trips for students.”

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said the new service was a big win for education and would benefit students now and into the future.

“Vessel costs and the unique operating environment experienced in the Torres Strait are reflected in the contracts between TMR and our service providers,” she said.

“This is enabling our service providers to purchase replacement vessels and introduce them for the community.”

FLY WITH A QUEENSLANDER Language grants open

Applications for the 2023 Indigenous Languages Grants program are open, with grants of up to $10,000 available for initiatives which support the preservation of First Nations languages.

Queensland Minister for Treaty and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Leeanne Enoch said a range of cultural activities may be eligible for the grants, including art, drama, music and film projects, Yarning Circles, audio recordings, workshops, signage, books, posters and brochures.

Project Team Leader and Cultural Adviser Aunty Ruth Ghee said revitalising the languages of the Torres Strait was one of the important goals of the creative team behind Straight from the Strait – a musical combining traditional dance, language and song with contemporary music to celebrate the legacy of the Torres Strait Island men who left their homes and families to build much of Australia’s railway transport infrastructure.

“The 2022 Songlines Tour was conceived so that we could engage with community and local language experts from Meriam Mir and Kala Lagaw to ensure accuracy and authenticity as we learned and performed traditional songs,” she said. “Thanks to the Indigenous Languages Grant, we were also able to professionally record and translate 10 of these songs during the tour, as well as proudly performing for community on Thursday Island. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to preserve this vital cultural legacy in such a meaningful way.”

Applications close on Monday 12 June 2023.

For information, including how to apply, see www. qld.gov.au/ilg

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023

All smiles at WKNM Culture Day Apology Students, staff and visitors pulled together for Waybeni Koey Ngurpay Mudh’s Culture Day held last Wednesday to a theme of For Our Elders.

The day was a huge

success with three hours of dancing – including a special performance by visiting Saibai Island dance team Muyngu Koekoper – entertainment and food.

Pics supplied.

The Torres News wishes to make the following clarifications concerning our story last week (Edition 83, 1 June 2023) about the MGMN-supported Deadly Driver’s program on Badu: • Deadly Driver’s is not affiliated with Queensland Government; • The Indigenous Drivers’ License

NEWS 03 Unit (IDLU) is a Queensland Government program for Transport & Main Roads; and, • Deadly Driver’s went to Badu to support jobseekers in preparation of the IDLU visit to Badu.

We would like to apologise for any confusion.

ARTWORK

CALL OUT CAIRNS INDIGENOUS ART FAIR | 13-16 JULY

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 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 CLIMATE CHANGE NEWS

THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023 TORRES NEWS

On Country hearings start for Australian climate case

Uncle Paul and Uncle Pabai in community hall before court arrives. Pic Grata Fund.

Aunty Vera delivers welcome to Country to the Court. Photo Ruby Mitchell, Grata Fund.

Original artwork by Marcus Lee Design

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Hearings for the landmark Australian Climate Case started this week on the island of Boigu, where Guda Maluyligal plaintiff Uncle Pabai Pabai gave evidence of the climate harms experienced by his community.

The court and legal teams arrived to a rainy, steamy morning on the island and were welcomed at the airport by local school children.

After an opening prayer and Welcome to

Country by Aunty Vera and Uncle Lenny, the judge presented with a Yam leaf, as was the custom in Boigu.

Plaintiffs Uncle Pabai and Uncle Paul were represented in court by Fiona McLeod SC, who said in her opening statement that the world was on track for catastrophic climate changes by the end of the century, representing a real and catastrophic threat to human wellbeing and planetary health.

“The evidence that will be led in this case will show that the Commonwealth has and continues to ignore the dire and existential threat to the lives of its own citizens,” she said.

“Its failure to act is a failure of the fundamental duty of a government to protect its citizens and First Peoples from harm.

“It is a failure to protect fundamental human rights including the right to life and the right to self determination.

“At its most basic, it is an abrogation of the social contract.

“Unless urgent and serious action is taken by the Commonwealth in relation to climate change, it is highly likely that, by mid century – that is less than 27 years from now, in the lives of these Applicants and their children – many Torres Strait Islanders will be forced to leave their homelands, because large parts of it will not be habitable.

“Having to leave will inevitably mean the severing of connection to country, and thus the destruction of Ailan Kastom.

“The destruction of thousands of years of tradition and connection belonging to the oldest living culture in the world.

“The destruction of self and identity for Torres Strait Islanders.

“The need for urgent and serious action to be taken by the Commonwealth in relation to climate change cannot be overstated for these people.

“Because many low lying islands are barely meters above sea level – these places, and the entire area of Zenadth Kes, are particularly vulnerable to the effects

of climate change.”

After lunch Uncle Pabai was asked questions by Ms McLeod and Stephen Lloyd KC. He provided evidence, including showing the judge video footage of a king tide breaching the seawall.

He said their ancestors were very important to them.

“Their knowledge, their understanding, passed on from generation to generation,” he said.

“This is why I’m saying - my people should never be removed from our land.

“They are giving us who we are today.

“They are the most important people to us.

“When we do a ceremony, we invite them, call upon them.

“If I can’t do that because my community goes underwater I will lose my identity underwater.

“I will lose everything that is important to us.

“We will be able to tell our stories if we are not here, but how will we show our children the evidence, if we are not able to be here?

“If this Island is gone, we’ve got nothing.”

Fred Pabai was called as the second witness, and was also questioned

by Ms McLeod.

He talked about how culture was passed down, the importance of many sites, including the red sand bank, the Tree of Spies and the Tree of Skulls.

He said the spirits go to the red sand bank.

“It is sacred and we have a duty of care and respect to the red sand line,” he said.

“This is one of the core reasons that when we visit, we respect it.

“That was passed from generation to generation until now.”

Ms McLeod said the evidence would show the Commonwealth had ignored the threat to the lives of its own citizens.

The case will continue until 19 June.

Hearing dates for community / lay evidence: Badu 8-9 June Saibai 12-14 June Cairns 15 June – TBC

For more information on the Australian Climate Case, visit the website: australianclimatecase. org.au

NEWS 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023

RSL event pays tribute to Indigenous veterans’s service The contributions of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have served and sacrificed for Australia were recognised at RSL Queensland’s annual Indigenous Veterans’ Ceremony in Brisbane late last month.

In line with National Reconciliation Week, the Indigenous Veterans’ Ceremony has become an integral part of the RSL Queensland calendar.

RSL Queensland State President Major General Stephen Day DSC AM said the ceremony was an opportunity for the entire community to acknowledge that many Indigenous veterans were treated neither equally, nor fairly, during but particularly after their return from service.

“RSL Queensland aims to create a deeper understanding of our military history by helping to tell the story of indigenous veterans,” Maj Gen Day said.

“We continue to acknowledge that Indigenous veterans made a significant contribution in serving our nation, yet many were denied the same pay or entitlements

as other Australian veterans who fought for their country in the same wars.”

Navy veteran Marsat Ketchell addressed the ceremony as the keynote speaker.

After his 26 years of service, Mr Ketchell played a key role in advocating for Indigenous service men and women, and said he was committed to supporting veteran wellbeing and integration into the community.

“Today is an opportunity to share my story and to share the truth,” he said.

“The truth that we are still here despite the fact that in the past, both during and after their service, Indigenous and some non-Indigenous personnel and veterans were not treated equally.

“We did serve and we’ll continue to serve.”

He said he hoped the importance of culture and tradition, and how it can be integrated into the Commonwealth Defence Force, was what people at the ceremony would remember.

“It is time join together and recognise the strength of uniting in our differences,” he said.

“For us to be fully

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Keynote speaker & Navy veteran Uncle Marsat Ketchell. Pics supplied.

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Bamaga Enterprises Ltd June Update

Cape York Peninsula Lodge developing tomorrow’s leaders Cape York Peninsula Lodge has launched a six-month traineeship program so high school students in the Northern Peninsula Area can learn life-long skills for future careers.

The inspiring program offers work experience across the property’s award-winning dining and accommoda�on facili�es.

During the traineeship, students are offered regular work du�es including serving food and drinks, taking down customer orders and clearing tables.

Working their way up Locals Ivy Solomon (17 yo) and Zari Hosfield (16 yo), became the Lodge’s first high school trainees for 2023 in March, and have already been hired as casuals.

Both want to work in hospitality and tourism once they graduate from high school.

Ivy says the program pushed her “out of the comfort zone” and helped her gain invaluable customer service experience.

ABOVE: Uncle Marsat Ketchell, Don Taylor & Bill Whitburn OAM, RSL Qld State Vice President.

RIGHT: Attendees left floral & cultural tributes to honour those who have served.

BELOW LEFT: RSL Qld State President Major General Stephen Day DSC AM & Uncle Marsat Ketchell.

Uncle Marsat Ketchell gives the keynote address

Student trainees Zari Hosfield (far left) and Ivy Solomon (middle) are currently working alongside Restaurant Supervisor Dharminder Singh (far right) at the Lodge.

Meanwhile, Zari says the traineeship has proven to be very valuable in helping her gain work experience, which will be important when applying for future hospitality jobs.

Since Zari and Ivy started, the Lodge has already taken on

four new trainees.

Cape York Peninsula Lodge is an Indigenous-owned property owned and operated by Bamaga Enterprises Limited.

Email recep�on@cypl.com.au if you’d be interested in joining the next round of traineeships.

Cape York Peninsula Lodge, Corner Lui and Adidi Streets, Bamaga QLD 4876 Phone: 4069 3050 • www.cypl.com.au

06 NEWS

THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023 TORRES NEWS

New housing org carries high hopes for better outcomes

ROUND TABLE – Elevating local and regional voices: (L–R) TSIRC Deputy Mayor Cr. Getano Lui Jnr OAM, Division 9 – Iama, Ambassador for First Nations People Justin Mohamed, TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM, TSIRC Mayor Cr Phillemon Mosby, Torres Shire Council Mayor Cr. Yen Loban & GBK Chairperson Ned David. Pics supplied.

First visit by First Nations Ambassador to Torres Strait

The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) welcomed Australia’s inaugural Ambassador for First Nations People Justin Mohamed on his first official visit to region last week.

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said the TSRA was proud to host Ambassador Mohamed during National Reconciliation Week and the Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival on Waiben.

“The visit elevates the importance of the Torres Strait region, our culture and our people on a national and international stage,” Mr Stephen said.

“We trust the lasting memories of our vibrant culture, traditions, song and dance will help carry the voices and aspirations from our islands to the world.”

As part of the three-day trip, Ambassador Mohamed visited local schools, Indigenous-owned businesses, non-government organisations and attended TOP: BRIGHT FUTURES – Tagai State College leaders (L–R) Mawai Whap, Tyrell Whap & Norethy Warria with Ambassador for First Nations People Justin Mohamed.

BOTTOM: YOUNG LEADERS – Inspiring local students.

a regional roundtable with a range of community, local, state and federal representatives on Thursday last week.

The Ambassador said the visit aimed to strengthen international ties for the region and understand Torres Strait perspectives on foreign policy.

“It was a privilege to experience the Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival and meet with elected representatives, cultural leaders and community members to hear directly from local people about their interests in foreign and trade policy,” he said.

“Supporting the meaningful economic development and participation of First Nations peoples in the global system is one very important facet of my role as Ambassador for First Nations People.”

Mr Mohamed was made Australia’s inaugural Ambassador for First Nations People by Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong, Minister for Indigenous Australians

Linda Burney and Senator Patrick Dodson in March this year.

He brings a strong connection to community to the role, having worked in Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal health, social justice and reconciliation over decades.

He has been extensively involved in First Nations community-controlled sector, as well as working in government and the corporate sector.

As Ambassador for First Nations People he was responsible for leading the Government’s efforts to embed Indigenous perspectives, experiences and interests across the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade, and develop a First Nations Foreign Policy Strategy.

For more information visit www.dfat.gov.au/

international-relations/ themes/indigenous-peoples/ ambassador-first-nationspeople

NATSIHA CEO Ivan Simon, ATSIHQ Deputy Chair Angie Akee, ATSIHQ Chair Mary Doctor & ATSIHQ director Charles Martin. Pic supplied.

Specialist research, policy and advocacy for First Nations housing was bought together under one roof last month, with the opening of a new office for the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Housing Association – NATSIHA. The office in Sydney was opened with a launch attended by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and advocates from across the housing and homelessness sector.

Waiben-based Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Housing Queensland director Charles Martin said NATSIHA would enable a unified First Nations voice to the Federal government.

“It’s a very useful organisation and it’s trying to bring together all the stakeholders in the states so they can be united into a national voice,” he said. “So as a body NATSIHA, can try and help solve housing problems throughout the country.”

NATSIHA CEO Ivan Simon said they were determined to power progress on First Nations housing.

“There is an enormous challenge ahead of us but NATSIHA is determined to bring solutions to the The 2021 Census showed 24,930 Aboriginal and/ or Torres Strait Islander people were estimated to be experiencing homelessness, up 6.4 per cent from 23,437 in 2016.

This represents one

table,” he said. “Housing is at the centre of our lives, and we have an enormous challenge ahead of us to bring solutions to the key challenges of lack of supply of affordable housing and severe overcrowding.

“We are here for the long haul.”

Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney said access to safe and affordable housing was crucial to the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“It affects so many other outcomes, like health, education and family safety,” she said. “I congratulate NATSIHA on the opening of their office and look forward to working with them in future.”

NASTIHA Chief Operating Officer Rob Macfarlane said the establishment of NATSIHA brought together some of the most passionate and committed advocates and practitioners in First Nations housing into one organisation.

“We know that a critical part of the solution to the appalling housing disadvantage our people are experiencing is to build the capacity of the community controlled sector that understands and knows how to best meet our community’s needs,” he said.

in five (20.4 per cent) people experiencing homelessness in Australia. Of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experiencing homelessness at the time of the 2021 Census: • Three in five (60.0 per cent) were

living in ‘severely’ crowded dwellings • Almost one in five (19.1 per cent) were in supported accommodation for the homeless • Nearly one in ten (9.3 per cent) were living in improvised dwellings, tents, or sleeping out.

Treaty act sets in motion long awaited change for Queensland Queensland’s Path to Treaty Act 2023 – underpinned by the UN Declaration to the Rights of Indigenous Peoples – was passed into law by the Queensland Parliament sitting in Cairns early last month.

The Act specified key bodies to be appointed to progress the Queensland truth telling and healing process and to prepare community for treaty-readiness. The Interim truth and Treaty Body (ITTB) was integral in the drafting of the Act, which received bipartisan support.

Minister for Treaty Leeanne Enoch said she was “absolutely determined” to help guide Queensland through the truth and treaty process.

A key focus for the ITTB was

to lead the establishment of a First Nations Treaty Institute, which was informed by consultation with community groups and key stakeholders from across the State, over the past several months.

The ITTB would also support Queensland Government to establish the Truth Telling and Healing Inquiry.

The Institute and the Inquiry will guide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the Queensland Government in working together towards truth telling, and ultimately treaty negotiations.

For more information on the key structures that will progress Truth and Treaty in Queensland, visit the ITTB website at www.truthandtreatyqld.org.au

07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023

BE READY FOR THE CONVERSATION. What’s the Voice referendum about?

It’s about whether we should change the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by setting up an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. A referendum is the only way to change the Australian Constitution.

What is the Voice?

The Voice would be a permanent body that gives independent advice to the Australian Parliament and Government on matters that affect First Nations people.

The Voice aims to help the Parliament and Government to make better decisions and deliver better outcomes for First Nations people.

How will the Voice be set up?

How it’s set up would be determined after the referendum with input from First Nations people, the broader public and the Government. The Parliament would then make a law to set up the Voice.

The intention is that its members will be chosen by and representative of, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from across Australia.

Scan here to visit the website

Be ready for the conversation, get informed at

Voice.gov.au

Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra

08 NEWS

THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023 TORRES NEWS

IBIS Waibene unveils memorial for Francis ‘Maia’ Mosby Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) has paid tribute to the memory of Francis ‘Maia’ Mosby, with the unveiling of a memorial in his honour at its IBIS Waibene store.

Francis, 19, was a development player and Northern Pride Community Engagement Officer who passed away from injuries sustained in a car accident in 2012.

The official opening of the Francis ‘Maia Boy’ Mosby Memorial featured a Northern Pride v Souths Logan Magpies jersey, a memorial photo, and a dedication plaque in Francis’ honour.

The Northern Pride jersey design was inspired by his family, with artwork by Marsat Ketchell featuring the totems representing Maia’s life and family.

The unveiling ceremony, which included a healthy BBQ and cultural dancers, was attended by special guests including the Mosby family, CEQ Chair Dr Mark Wenitong, CEQ board members, Michael Dykes (CEO, CEQ), Vonda Malone (CEO, TSRA), Napau Pedro Stephen (Chair, TSRA), Enid Tom (Kaurareg Native Title Aboriginal

Corporation (RNTBC), Garreth Smith (CEO, Northern Pride), and CEQ team members.

CEQ General Manager Enterprise and Engagement Fred Gela delivered an emotional tribute from the heart which reflected the feelings of the CEQ team.

“Francis continues to inspire future generations with the memorable contributions he made as a role model for community, particularly through his work with the Northern Pride’s Take Pride wellbeing and development program,” Mr Dykes said.

“CEQ is privileged to bring this jersey home to Maia Boy’s family to create a memorial dedicated in his honour, so the memory of this beloved community idol will be celebrated and accessible to everyone who visits Waibene.

“CEQ cares about what is important to community, every day, always. “Thank you to all who contributed on the day – the guest speakers, and all the family, friends and community members who came together to be a part of this special event.”

Theo & Mrs Mosby & Dr Mark Wenitong unveiling jersey. Pics supplied.

Freecall 1800 732 850 Email enquiries@ wakai-waian. com.au 40 Douglas St Thursday Is. Our very own cultural safe, Psychological and Counselling support service that delivers to youme first nations and non-indigenous people throughout “Zenadth Kes” region. The Social, emotional wellbeing bor youme in the community e responsibility and business bor youme everyone.

Michael Dykes CEO CEQ, Theo Mosby, Gareth Smith CEO Northern Pride, Uncle Bobby Binawel & artist Marsat Ketchell.

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10

CULTURAL FESTIVAL

THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023 TORRES NEWS

Cultural Festival truly a celebration – Mayor Pics by Lewis Bin Doraho with thanks to Torres Shire Council.

The 2023 Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival was held on Waiben during Reconciliation Week and featured more than 60 performances held over four exciting days in several locations.

From the combined prayer service, hosted by the Torres Shire Indigenous Advisory Committee, to the Mabo Day Celebrations held last Friday, the week of cultural celebrations was a success by all measures.

“This truly was a celebration – the first fully curated and run Festival since 2018, and communities across the Torres Strait loved catching up and re-connecting with family and friends,” Torres Shire Mayor Yen Loban said.

“What makes it even more special with these connections, was the innovation of a purpose-built gallery and forum space where there were displays of the various family genealogies going back generations upon generations.

“Also on display was the timeline, the history, of the Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival itself and daily signings and forums around this year’s theme – the Masig Statement Malungu Yangu Wakay (Voice from the Deep).

‘The dance teams – Muyngu Koekaper Saibai Island, Dhamuw Koedal Badhu Island, Urab Poruma Island, Zogo Tudi Warraber Island, Iama Dance Team Yam Island, Masig Dance Team Yorke Island, Neguams Dance Troupe Mer Island, Kaziw Meta Dance Team Thursday Island and Kawadji Wimpa Dance Team Lockhart River – are to be congratulated on their impressive performances on every day of the festival.

“A special mention to the surprise performance by Team Torres Shire during the final hour of the Festival was amazing and well received.

“This has been our coming of age Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival.

“Great things can happen if we keep our culture strong and our communities together in pursuit of our shared autonomous future.

“Torres Shire Council has curated, funded and hosted this event for almost two decades.

“Significantly this Reconciliation Week sees the Queensland Government being a proud sponsor of the event, a vast difference to the Queensland Government forty years ago.”

The Festival was MC’d by Indigenous Advisory Committee member and Torres Shire Council Deputy Mayor Cr Gabriel Bani who was ably assisted by Chair of the Indigenous Advisory Committee Cr John Abednego.

It was officially opened with a procession and welcome from Kaurareg Traditional Owner Elder Uncle Saila Savage and KNTAC Chair Milton Savage.

Speakers at the official opening included Member for Cook Cynthia Lui, Cr Loban, TSIRC Mayor Cr Phillemon Mosby and Indigenous Advisory Committee Chair Cr John Abednego.

The next day the 2023 Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival went to the Elders Star of the Sea, so that they too might enjoy the festival and celebrations of culture.

“This was a very emotional and moving time for everyone,” Cr Loban said.

“It was both humbling and an honouring, the significance of bringing the Festival to the Elders was a highlight.”

The Tagai Culture Day was also held that afternoon.

Thursday last week was opened by Lockhart River dancers, Kawadji Wimpa, followed by Dhamuw Koedal and Iama Dance teams who featured at the Cultural Village, followed by performances in front of the HACC Centre on Douglas Street by Urab and Zogo Tudi.

Performances by Muyngu Koekaper and Neguams Dance Troupe in Anzac Park were also well attended by community members.

The Masig Forum that day included a very moving signing of the Masig Statement accompanied by the singing of the Island Hymn.

Event Manager and Torres Shire Council CEO Dalassa Yorkston said it was wonderful.

“Families were commenting on the wonderful atmosphere, how much they learnt from the genealogy display and the importance of discussing the Masig Statement,” she said.

“Council and the Indigenous Advisory Committee wish to extend a big esso for this feedback.

“Very positive feedback was also received from the media that attended the 2023 Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival, including NITV, The Point and Channel 10.

“Radio 4MW also covered the Festival.

“Council has engaged in partnership agreements with media.

“We feel that this is truly the beginning of a new beginning.”

On Friday a Float Parade for Mabo made its way in procession from Mr Turtle to the Festival Grounds on the eve of Mabo Day. Cr Abednego said the parade was a celebration.

“The sounds, the deep rhythmic chants as the Parade entered the Festival Grounds made my heart jump for joy,” he said.

Cr Loban said the legacy of the five plaintiffs was remembered and honoured.

The morning’s festivities culminated in the cutting of the Mabo Day cake and lunch, followed by an afternoon and evening of singing and entertainment.

The Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival was proudly hosted by Torres Shire Council with support from the Queensland Government and the Torres Strait Regional Authority.

Other sponsors and supporters included the Torres Strait Island Regional Council, Arts Queensland, Tourism and Events Queensland, Peddells, SeaSwift, Community Enterprise Queensland, CAS, Preston Law, Leftfield, Dread Sound, Austek, Coral Sea Concrete, Supply Nation, TI Concrete Works, Tropic City, Reel Planning, National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA), Davidson Development Solutions (DDS), Lewis James Media, Kwik Copy, Babinda Electrical, Cairns Hardware, Events NQ, Cape Air Transport, Ergon Energy, Fourier, OSE Group, Torres Strait Air, DDA, OHS Consultancy Services, ARO, Kaiwalagal Ferries and Charters, Rebels Thursday Island Tours and C Alexander & Associates Consulting and Torres News.

The 2023 Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival winners were: • Best Stall: Small Beginnings.

• Best Business: Public Health Centre, Douglas Street.

• Best Float: Saibai Island.

• Festival Queen: Aunty Tassie McDonald.

CULTURAL FESTIVAL 11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023 Pics by Lewis Bin Doraho with thanks to Torres Shire Council.

12

THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023 TORRES NEWS

YUMI College News

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

Waybeni Koey Ngurpay Mudth Head of Campus Matthew Tully

On Wednesday 31 May, our staff and students celebrated their annual Culture Day for 2023. This years theme was ‘For Our Elders’. Across every generation, our Elders have played, and continue to play, an important role and hold a prominent place in our communities and families.

It was a fantastic day of learning, joining cultural activities and focusing on the importance of diversity, tolerance and respect for all.

We thank the community and invited guests for their engagment and showcasing their culture.

Also a huge thank you to Ms Deb, Ms LJ and Mr Sam who prepared, organised and provided activities for the whole school community. The atmosphere was incredible!

13

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023

are. Lessons are engaging and caters to the different learning styles of all our children.

Warraber Ngurpay Lag Head of Campus Natalie Van Zyl Term 1 Attendance - 52 Students Enrolled Current

83.97% (44 students)

Target Goal

90% (47 students daily)

Literacy Our campus continues to develop, implement and enjoy the success of our literacy program. 2022 saw the introduction of Structured Synthetic Phonics (SSP). Our students have been enjoying their morning literacy block routine and have shown improvements with their spelling, reading and writing.

Positive Culture for Learning Our Positive Culture for Learning team meets weekly to analyse students data on our campus.

The team decides what student behaviour needs to be explicitly re-taught to our students.This changes each fortnight.

Data that is analysed includes: attendance, positive behaviours, major and minor negative behaviours and our whole school approach.

This fortnight we are focusing on keeping our school clean. To reinforce this message, the school had an emu parade on Friday 26 May.

pampering their mothers with mini make overs.

“It was a beautiful time for parents and community to see their children show appreciation to the achievements and efforts of their mothers and mother figures” - Mrs Van Zyl. Under Eights Day Celebration Staff, students, family and community members joined the fun as the school celebrated Under Eights Week. This years theme is PLAY - you, me & communities. Play is such a brilliant tool for learning in the early years.

The celebrations and activities this year included outside play, traditional weaving, face painting, arts and crafts and many more.

Our teachers aides are being assisted further with fortnightly professional development sessions. The daily routine has ensured that was tailor to individual students’s needs and meet each child where they

Mother’s Day Celebration On Tuesday 9 May, all students celebrated Mother’s Day. Students showed their appreciation by

“The whole school and community came together to spend quality time with our little ones. It was a time of connectedness and celebration”. - Mrs Van Zyl.

Iama

ensure your child attends school every day and on time!

to be supported to complete their homework in a supervised learning environment before they go home from school.

Ngurpay Lag Head of Campus Tessie Portelli Term 1 Attendance - 64 Students Enrolled Current

56.9% (37 students)

Target Goal

90% (58 students daily)

Literacy At Iama Ngurpay Lag it is great to see all students engaged and on task in their explicit SSP lessons. All teachers have routines fine tuned and well established in supporting students in their targeted Literacy rotations.

Your child’s best learning time is at the start of a school day. That’s when every minute counts the most. “Every Day Counts” Let’s work together to

Ugar Ngurpay Lag A/Head of Campus Gaia Nobel Term 1 Attendance - 15 Students Enrolled Current

73% (11 students)

Target Goal

90% (13 students daily)

The students and community of Ugar Eruer Uteb have had a very busy Term 2. We welcomed our Acting Head of Campus, Miss Nobel, and have jumped straight into learning.

Literacy All students have been working hard with their PLD program during literacy times. Students love our reading groups; we are currently reading the Talisman decodable reader series. We can’t wait to find out what is going to happen next.

In our English unit we are learning about characters

Positive Culture for Learning Our Positive Culture for Learning focus for this week is: Expectation: I am Respectful, Behaviour: I listen to the person who is talking and Routine: I can look at the person who is talking We practice this daily in class and role model our focus during Parade.

Homework Club Students continue to attend “Homework Club” an initiative funded by the Queensland Government.

Sessions are held on Mondays and Thursdays from 3.00pm to 4.30pm. Students from Prep to year six complete their set class homework, participate in activities to consolidate their work and enjoy a health snack during this time. Our groups are currently full with a maximum of 24 students per session.

This initiative also supports busy families for students

in a range of stories. We read and break down the characters to get a better understanding of their personality. We analyse their actions and thoughts.

We are enjoying seeing how characters can be so different across a range of texts.

Numeracy During our numeracy lessons we have been building on our knowledge of Number and Place Value. We are remembering that internal zeros still hold a place value – they are equally important to the number!

In fractions, we have been dividing lots of shapes equally.

We have discovered you can do the same thing with numbers to convert them into fractions, percentages and decimals too!

Positive Culture for Learning This week’s focus is: I am a proud learner – I participate in all classroom activities and I try my best in every learning activity.

Year 4/5/6 Classroom Our 4/5/6 Dubui class have been doing some great learning this year.

We are very proud to compete in Tagai’s Readers Cup Challenge for 2023, our readers are currently tying 2nd place with Saibai. Looking forward to competing in the next few rounds!

Year Kindergarten/Prep/1 Classroom Our Kindy, Prep, Year one class have been enjoying exciting activities out on our veranda.

We have been getting out as much as possible to use our outdoor equipment and develop our gross motor skills. We have also been learning about our letter sounds and how these can be blended to form words to help us read and write.

This is especially important during assessment times and it helps all students do their very best.

School Garden We have been spending sometime on Friday afternoons in our school garden. With the rich soil and rain, we have been having at Ugar our seedlings are growing fast and strong.

Soon we will have watermelon, pumpkin, tomatoes and lots of other healthy vegetables.

The school and community are looking forward to the next weeks of the term as we have many upcoming events to organise and enjoy together.

Big eso to the families and community members who support us with these celebrations.

14

CULTURAL FESTIVAL

THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023 TORRES NEWS Pics with thanks to Torres Shire Council.

CULTURAL FESTIVAL 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023 Pics below by Nadja Mack, pics right by Alima Ahwang.

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16 ART & HEALTH NEWS

Othello production wins 2023 Reconciliation partnership gong

Lee Lewis (QT), Darrell Harris (CIAF), Dean Gibson (QT) & David Graham (QT). Pic supplied.

Queensland Theatre and Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) has won the coveted Partnership category of the 2023 Queensland Reconciliation Awards with their much-acclaimed theatre production of Othello.

The production exemplified the intrinsic value of strategic partnerships that in effect led to an increased knowledge of Torres Strait Islander language, song, and dance while showcasing the outstanding talent of Torres Strait Islander artists.

Representatives from both Queensland Theatre and CIAF attended last week’s award ceremony and said they were thrilled.

CIAF General Manager Darrell Harris said strategic partnerships with major institutions and corporations expand the scope of possibility, can harness many synergies and were a key focus of the organisation’s future growth strategy.

“Founded on the true spirit and principles of reconciliation, CIAF’s partnership with Queensland Theatre is the perfect

example of how an inspired collaboration can achieve outstanding results,” Mr Harris said.

The Torres Strait Island adaptation of Queensland Theatre’s Othello premiered at Bulmba-ja in November 2021 in partnership with CIAF, and was followed by a successful season at the Bille Brown Theatre as part of Brisbane Festival.

The show was seen by more than 8000 people and received widespread publicity and critical acclaim.

Adapted by Jimi Bani and Jason Klarwein, Othello presented a fusion of two powerful cultures – Shakespeare and Wagadagam.

Set between Cairns and the Torres Strait, this tri-lingual production (Kala Lagaw Ya, Yumpla Tok and English) illuminated the vital role of the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion during World War II when more than 800 Torres Strait Islander men volunteered to protect the northern tip of Australia.

“The joy of making a work led

by such extraordinary artists like Jimi Bani and Jason Klarwein that brings together all of Queensland is huge,” Queensland Theatre Artistic Director Lee Lewis said.

For co-creator and lead actor Jimi Bani (My Name is Jimi, Our Town), staging Othello as part of CIAF 2021 was a chance to share the stories of his family and fulfilled a longheld career aspiration.

He said Othello was the role he had been wanting to play since studying and graduating from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts in 2007.

“It’s fitting that we set this version in wartime 1942 in the Torres Strait,” he said.

“My grandfather, the late Solomon Gela and my great grandfather, the late Ephraim Bani Snr both enlisted — as did all able-bodied Torres Strait Islander men.

“I grew up on Thursday Island and had the privilege of hearing their war stories, and I continue to carry all these men and women in my heart.”

THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023 TORRES NEWS

Soldiering on with culture STORY ALF WILSON • PIC ADF Proud Badu Islander Warrant Officer (W02) Annie Dufficy (pictured) is a talented artist deployed in Sinai, Egypt – many thousands of kilometres away from her Torres Strait homeland.

She also has Aboriginal heritage from Bamaga.

Multi-talented W02 Dufficy is also a gifted sportswoman who has excelled at rugby league, rugby union and Australian Rules football.

Her Torres Strait heritage inspires her art work in Egypt and on weekends WO2 Dufficy can be found sitting peacefully with a paintbrush in hand creating a sense of calm for herself.

The dots she paints connect not just images, but her Indigenous story with others.

Based in Brisbane, her home is Badu Island in the Torres Straits.

Her work as a soldier was part of Operation Mazurka, an Australian contingent helping implement the security provisions of the EgyptianIsraeli Treaty of Peace.

“When you’re deployed, work is all around you,” she said.

Her brush remains ever in reach as she works on a scene on the entertainment wall at The Cove – the recreation area for the Australian contingent to the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) at South Camp in Sharm el-Sheikh.

Anne said it was especially important to bring Indigenous culture to the MFO. “We’re a very multicultural country and nations here want to know why we all look different,” she said.

“Not a lot of people overseas know much about the Indigenous Australians.

“I want to share as much as I know about the culture to my new friends here in the MFO.” As a Warrant Officer, Anne serves as the force chief clerk, providing administrative advice and policy guidance to the force headquarters.

She also manages administration for the 13 MFO nations.

WO2 Dufficy is also part of the Army’s Indigenous cultural advisory board and loves receiving care packages from Indigenous children all over Australia.

“They write letters asking questions like ‘what kind of people are over there?’,” she said.

Department of Defence North

Queensland Region Public Affairs Manager Ken Wilson praised W02 Dufficy’s work.

“Anne is presently deployed to Egypt where she is using art to educate and inspire colleagues and international partners about Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture,” Mr Wilson said.

Back in 2015 then-ranked Sgt Annie Dufficy was a star in the ladies competition at the Arthur Beetson Foundation Murri Knockout rugby league carnival held at Redcliffe.

At the time she was an Indigenous Recruiting Officer for the Australian Defence Forces and one of the stars for the Highlanders team, who reached the Deadly Choices ladies grand final.

She has also excelled at AFL in Bendigo.

“I learnt to play Aussie Rules at Auskick in Townsville as a little girl and also lined up for a junior team called the Bohle Bears,” she said.

She has regularly participated in Rugby Union annually at the Australian Services Rugby Carnival which is a battle between the three services Army, Navy and Air Force.

“The games between Army, Navy and Air Force sides are what I look forward to every year,” she said at the time.

“I love playing alongside my Army sisters, and it’s an honour being selected for the Combined Services side (ASRU) to play in the Nationals Competition.”

Diabetes under inquiry focus

COVID boosters offer best protection

The broader impacts of diabetes on Australia’s health system and economy, and recent advances in the prevention and management of this significant health condition, will be the focus of a new inquiry by the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Health.

Committee Chair Dr Mike Freelander said diabetes was the world’s fastest growing chronic health condition, currently

Local MP Cynthia Lui has asked Torres Strait and Cape residents to arm themselves against an oncoming winter surge of COVID-19 She said the COVID-19 peak was anticipated for late June 2023 “Booster doses are recommended for most people and can be taken alongside other vaccinations, such as the flu shot,” she said.

“The onset of winter is a timely reminder for us all to be vigilant to the risks of infectious disease.

impacting approximately 1.3 million Australians.

“The Committee looks forward to conducting this inquiry to better understand the current situation regarding diabetes in Australia, including the effectiveness of current Australian Government policies and programs aiming to prevent, diagnose and manage the condition,” he said.

“The Inquiry will be broad and will also look at lifestyle factors and

the interaction between lifestyle, Type 2 diabetes, and obesity.”

Submissions from interested individuals and organisations are invited by 31 August 2023.

For more information, including the full terms of reference and details on how to lodge a submission, see the Committee’s website at

https://www.aph.gov.au/ Parliamentary_Business/ Committees/House/ Health_Aged_Care_and_ Sport/

“Some experts believe we will soon enter our fifth wave of COVID-19. “Daily case numbers are surging across the country and may peak sometime around the end of June.

“One of the best ways to protect yourself, your family, and your community is to keep up-to-date with immunisations.

“They might not stop you from getting COVID but they will certainly help to reduce the severity of symptoms.

“If you haven’t had a booster or been infected with

COVID-19 in the past six months, I would encourage you to get to phone your local chemist to arrange your next dose.

“This is especially important for people over the age of 65 or anyone over the age of 18 with medical comorbidities, disability or complex health needs.

To find where you can get your booster, use the COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic Finder at https://www. healthdirect.gov.au/australianhealth-services

GAB TITUI NEWS 17

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023

Ailan fashion showcased in Lawgaw Rugaw Yakamay

Weaving highlighted in three-day workshop Gab Titui Cultural Centre hosted a free, three-day Traditional Weaving Workshop, with a surprise performance by the Thaiwa Dance Team from Iama last week.

Local MP Cynthia Lui also dropped in. “Weaving has always been a part of Torres Strait Islander culture and

it keeps our culture alive for future generations,” she said.

Practitioners included Hans Ahwang, Nancy Nona, Flora Warria, Margaret Gabay and Angela Torenbeek.

Thanks to Hans Ahwang for his pics.

Community volunteer initiative Lagaw Rugaw Yakamay (Island Clothes Show), created and directed by Geoynaw Isua, was showcased at Gab Titui Cultural Centre on Wednesday and Thursday last week.

The idea was to showcase

and market local artists and designers creative talents who included Aunty Cessa Nakata, Darlene Fell, Tiki Marie Nona, Dulcie Nakata, Tamily Shibasaki, Joey Laifoo and Goeynaw Isua, all of whom contributed their merchandise and valuable time.

Lagaw Rugaw Yakamay was about highlighting the talent ‘hidden’ creations of our best and brightest in the field.

The show attracted a small crowd who were entertained by local models and Island Stars Dance team, who performed a traditional dance after the show.

18 MABO DAY

THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023 TORRES NEWS

Historic Mabo decision confirmed Native Title On 3 June 1992, the High Court of Australia made a decision that changed the history of Australia.

The decision put the Torres Strait Region and Murray Island (Mer) on the map for the rest of the country and the world.

Many Australians had never heard about Mer or

the Torres Strait before.

Overnight Mer was in the spotlight, with newspapers, radio and TV stations all over Australia and overseas reporting on the iconic victory of a group of Meriam People who had the passion and strength to fight the government all the way to the highest court in the country… And win!

Why is the Mabo Decision so important for Australia?

The High Court not only acknowledged the traditional rights of the Meriam People, but it also introduced the concept of Native Title into the Australian legal system for all First Nations Australians.

The High Court found

that Australia was not terra nullius when James Cook claimed it for the British Crown in 1770 after he climbed the summit of Possession Island in the Endeavour Strait.

Because of the Mabo Decision, First Nations Peoples’ laws and customs are able to be recognised across all of Australia.

The decision led the Australian Government to create the Native Title Act 1993.

Since the law began to operate in 1994, Native Title has been recognised by the Federal Court over almost 45 per cent of Australia’s land mass.

And in the Torres Strait Region, over almost every

Native Title booklet launched To mark the 31st anniversary of the Mabo decision by Australia’s highest court, Gur A Baradharaw Kod Torres Strait Sea and Land Council (GBK) has launched a booklet about Native Title that will be of interest to all First Nations People in Zenadth Kes. “The Native Title Story of the Torres Strait Region explains how Native Title was recognised in the Torres and Endeavours Straits Region and what this recognition means for Native Title holders and those dealing with them,” GBK chair Lui Ned David said.

“It also explains the role of Prescribed Bodies Corporate - or PBCs as they are commonly known - in managing the rights on behalf of the Native Title Holders and how GBK as the Native Title Service Provider supports PBCs and Native Title Holders.

“The 28-page booklet is also a source of information for anyone who wants to learn more about Native Title – a legal concept that has its origin in the Torres Strait.”

GBK provides Native Title services to Native Title holders, Native Title claimants and PBCs. All 21 PBCs within the five nation groups of the region – Kemer Kemer Meriam, Gudamaluialgal, Maluilgal, Kulkalgal and Kaiwalagal – are members of GBK. Torres Strait and Aboriginal Land trusts are also eligible to become members.

You can download a copy of the native title booklet from GBK’s website at www.gbk.org.au or pick up a copy from GBK’s office on Level 1, 82 Douglas Street, right above Col Jones.

NPA marks Mabo Day with a march A welcome from MC Pastor Wagel Tapau greeted Mabo Day marchers in the New Mapoon community on Friday last week.

Apostel Tim Tamwoy offered an opening prayer

Fraser Nai studying GBK’s new booklet on Native Title. Pic supplied.

Mount Gambier, SA celebrates Mabo Day

BY CHARLOTTE VARCOE With thanks to The Border Watch (Mount Gambier)

Community members came together at Mount Gambier City Hall last week to celebrate Mabo Day. The morning tea also recognised Mount Gambier/Berrin Torres Strait Islander elder Uncle Jack Sailor.

Speaking with The Border Watch, Uncle Jack recalled working alongside Eddie Koiki Mabo himself in the railway industry.

Uncle Jack said Mr Mabo was “alright, cheeky, funny and an

everyday person” and did not realise he was going to end up the face of Native Title.

“I didn’t know there was going to end up being an Eddie Mabo day because to me he was just an ordinary guy,” Uncle Jack said.

“I knew him as an everyday person.”

Originally from Queensland, Uncle Jack moved to the South East around the 60s and worked on the Victoria railways.

He said he was happy people were recognising the work Mr Mabo did and that reconciliation was good for the future.

“I am happy people are starting to move forward and I remember when the police came to me with a piece of paper that said I was a free man,” Uncle Jack said.

“I hope we have a good future, we have had our time but everything changes when you grow older.” https://borderwatch.com.au/ news/2023/06/05/mabo-daycelebrated/

RIGHT: First Nations elder Uncle Jack Sailor celebrates Mabo Day with his great-great granddaughter Miley & his greatgranddaughter Kaitlyn Steed.

followed by a welcome to country and guest speaker Gebie Bon were on the agenda for the day, along with cultural activities and lunch.

Pics thanks to NPARC.

island and most of our sea country.

When all claims have been resolved, it is expected that 60 per cent of Australia’s land will be covered by Native Title rights. That is almost two thirds of the continent.

Source: The Native Title Story of the Torres Strait Region, launched by GBK on 30 May.

MABO DAY 19

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023

Mabo Oration finds Voice STORY & PICS VELMA GARA The Mabo Oration was delivered to a sell-out crowd by co-author of the Uluru Statement Professor Megan Davis in Townsville last week.

Professor Davis acknowledged the late Eddie Koiki Mabo’s High Court victory as she explained the differences the Voice would bring to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s lives.

She said if Australians voted for the Voice – constitutionally enshrined recognition – it would give advice on laws and policies that affected Indigenous people.

The Mabo Oration was about celebrating and paying tribute to Eddie Koiki Mabo and the landmark High Court decision which legally recognised Indigenous people had a special relationship to the land that existed prior to colonisation.

Prof Davis then joined a discussion panel with Professor Henry Reynolds, Gail Mabo and Jeff McMullen (Master of Ceremonies) after the speech.

Prof Reynolds said he thought the referendum would get through, but with a small majority, and said he was concerned political parties would use it to achieve political victory.

Prof Megan Davis & Prof Martin Nakata.

Francis Tapim & Les Malezer.

He also said the Mabo decision had raised Australia’s standing internationally because other countries watched how Australia dealt with Indigenous people.

The decision to move the Mabo Oration to a regional venue paid off, with 430 people attending the sold out event, many of them from other regions.

The event, hosted by the Queensland Human Rights Commission (QHRC) in partnership with Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), was held in Brisbane since 2005.

The most recent Mabo Oration was held in 2019.

Panel Discussion – Jeff McMullen (MC), Prof Henry Reynolds, Gail Mabo & Prof Megan Davis.

Bryan Keon-Cohen AM QC, June KeonCohen & Dr Peter Malouf.

William Mabo (Dancer/Didgeridoo Player) conducting the Smoking Ceremony.

Stephen Mam (Yes 23 Qld Campaign Coordinator) & Patrick Neliman.

Jeff McMullen & Gail Mabo.

Warraber school celebrates Mabo Day with food, dance and culture Warraber Ngurpay Lag celebrated Mabo Day on Monday this week.

Head of Campus Natalie Van Zyl said students were engaged in cooking, dance, story time, flag-making, face painting, coconut husking, and weaving.

“The day honoured Eddie Mabo’s legacy, fostering cultural pride, unity, and respect for Torres Strait Islander traditions.

“It was a vibrant and educational celebration with many community members in attendance.”

Words & pics with thanks to Harry, Florence & Trudy Lui.

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SPORT 21 Island of Origin kicking off

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023

BY ALF WILSON

At the Reconciliation Awards ceremony in Brisbane was Garbutt Magpies Club President Leon Stubbs (left), Francis Tapim (Mer - centre) and Randall Ross (Darnley - right). Pic submitted.

Garbutt award for community work

BY ALF WILSON Townsville’s Garbutt Magpies Sporting & Cultural Association has won a Queensland Reconciliation Award in the category of Community. “[It] was a dream come true to honour Our Elders of Past, Present and Future”, club stalwart Randall Ross said.

“The recognition of the award is not only for our Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islanders, Australian South Sea Islanders but also our Non-Indigenous who we proudly call family.

“We also honour our families and our great sponsors who have been apart of the Club in the past 10 years to ensure the legacy of Garbutt Magpies who formed in 1955, continues into the future.

“Many of the Elders from the past were responsible for

developing future leaders and we want to ensure we continue to develop our future generations as future leaders of today.”

Mr Ross travelled to Brisbane with club President Leon Stubbs and former great player and elder Francis Tapim for the award presentation.

Two of the club’s founding members were the late Anastasia Maria Ross (nee Kanak) and her husband Manny Ross of Aboriginal Juro and Kunjuun heritage.

They were the grandparents of Mr Ross who also played with the club.

Mr Stubbs said the Garbutt Bombers Sporting and Cultural Association followed the following Kukatja saying: “Mariakarti nyawa, kurranyu nyinama. Look back if you want to go forward.”

“Garbutt Magpies are intergenerational and are

proactive in reconciliation processes,” Mr Stubbs said.

Mr Stubbs said the storylines they had created and maintained were responsible for many projects including The Garbutt Magpies Cup for schools, NQ First Nations Cricket Carnival, Cultural Camps, Community participation activities such as involvement in NAIDOC Day and Mabo Day. “Garbutt Magpies are about creating an identity for positive experiences,” he said.

Meanwhile the club took 47 children and 23 adults to Magnetic Island in late May for an AFL participation day.

They juniors were from the affiliated club the Garbutt Bombers Magpies and it was a huge family event.

“We made a huge day of it having a barbecue at Alma Bay and going for a swim and just relaxing,” Mr Stubbs said.

Flames snap losing streak their games against Brisbane Capitals.

The women’s final score was 86-72 and the men had a bigger margin loss, 123-75. Pirates guard, Chris Cedar, fought hard off the bench with 15 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists.

This weekend’s Round 11 games will see Sunshine Coast Phoenix travel north to play Townsville tomorrow night and Cairns on Saturday night.

Darwin Salties will have a hectic road trip – Gold Coast (tomorrow), South West Metro (Saturday) and North Gold Coast (Sunday).

At the time of printing the top four teams on the NBL One North ladder, with win-loss records were:

BY VELMA GARA Townsville Flames snapped their losing streak with a convincing win over the Salties, 86-59, in Round 10 of the NBL1 North competition last Saturday night.

It was Darwin’s first loss at home.

Flames guard Indiah Bowyer (pictured right) had 15 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals whilst teammate and Opals guard, Steph Reid, was very influential with 26 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists.

Darwin Salties men’s team got the win against Townsville Heat, 102-84. Guard Deba George had a quiet night, only scoring 8 points and two 3-pointers and for the visitors, Michael Cedar made three 3-pointers for 10 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists.

Salties first quarter set the tone for the men’s game with 36 points scored.

Home team shot 16 from 43

Mens

three-pointers for the game.

In other fixtures, TJ Diop’s Gold Coast Rollers won both of their games against Northside Wizards (90-77) and Rip City (120-97).

South West Metro Pirates wasn’t successful with both women and men’s teams losing

1. Logan Thunder 12-1 2. Gold Coast Rollers 11-2 3. Ipswich Force 8-3 4. Darwin Salties 8-3

Womens 1. Northside Wizards 11-0 2. Darwin Salties 9-2 3. South West Metro Pirates 9-3 4. Logan Thunder 9-4 Pic supplied by NBL1.

Nine men’s and at least three women’s teams will compete at the three-day Island of Origin rugby league carnival which starts on Badu Island next week.

The carnival is one of two premier rugby league sporting events in the Torres Strait, along with the Zenadth Kes carnival held in October on Waiben.

The Torres News has the men’s teams as: Surumau Gladiators (Warraber), Wakaid Warriors and Argun Warriors (Badu), Pioneer Knights (Waiben), Apudthama Brothers (NPA), Magun Warriors (Iama), Paga Panthers (Boigu), Goemu Raiders (Mabuiag) and Roxin Eagles (Dauan).

Organised by Dhadhin Geai Dhadhin Geai Warriors, the best footballers from around the Torres Strait will line up for various teams and, we hear, some big names from down south may also make the journey.

The most recent winners, NPA’s Apudthama Brothers, will be back to defend their title.

We also understand champion back Aaron

Binawel (pictured) and his brother James will be in Roxin Eagles colours, along with sons of coach and former hard hitting forward Wrench Mau. Wakad Warriors will be boosted by the services of potential match winner Raymond Baira.

Quality player Windsor Bowie will lead the charge for the NPA side whilst the highly skilled Kepa brothers look set to be with Magun Warriors.

Paga Panthers will be strong with numerous boys from Boigu in their ranks.

Under the guidance of Masi Nona, Argun Warriors will also field a formidable unit and hope to repeat the effort of 2011 when they beat Saguci in the final.

Surumau Gladiators will be in their 10th year

since they were formed, with organiser Cr Kabay Tamu.

He said the carnival will be entertaining and sure to produce some great action.

“We have been training since late February and early March and will have 17 boys from Warraber,” he said.

“Teams are allowed a squad of 30 but only 25 can play in each game and it will be unlimited interchange.”

Front rower Cr Tamu will line up for the Gladiatiors and his teammates will be expecting him to make plenty of metres up the centre of the ruck.

“This will be my 14th year of Island of Origin football,” he said.

The women’s teams ready to compete were Pioneer Dames and Jillaroos with several others expected to take the field.

Big crowds were expected to converge of the Joe Mairu Memorial Oval to cheer their sides on.

The popular fastest man and woman in the Torres Strait sprint will also be held.

The carnival started in the 1980s and has always been a great success.

Teyahna to play in top level Abu Dhabi basketball camp

BY VELMA GARA Rising basketball star Teyahna Bond (pictured right) was selected to attend a high level basketball camp held in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates this week.

Bond was amongst only 80 talented youngsters from Asia, Oceania and the Pacific who got to go to the 13th Basketball Without Borders Asia camp, hosted by the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA).

Launched in 2001, Basketball Without Borders was the NBA and FIBA’s global basketball development and community outreach program that brought together elite players from outside the US to learn the game from world-class players and coaches, showcase their skills in front of NBA, WNBA and FIBA personnel, and compete against top talent in the world.

BWB has reached more than 3900 participants from 134 countries and territories since 2001, with 105 former campers advancing to the NBA or WNBA. The NBA and FIBA have staged 67 BWB camps in 44 cities on six continents.

This year’s Asia camp brought together the top prospects from Asia,

Oceania and the Pacific.

The 16-year-old Teyahna was joined by another two Queenslanders, Monique Bobongie and Roman Siulepa, in a group of 10 athletes selected from Australia.

Torres News was told Teyahna was selected based on her outstanding basketball skills and leadership abilities.

It was her opportunity to showcase her basketball skills and gain valuable knowledge on topics such as strength and condition, life skills and nutrition.

Pic supplied by NBA Australia.

22 SPORT

THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023 TORRES NEWS

Cotter named ‘Man of the Match’ in Origin 1

BY ALF WILSON Residents of Boigu, Saibai and Badu islands had special reasons to cheer when Queensland beat NSW 26-18 in the first State of Origin series match last Wednesday at Adelaide Oval in front of more than 48,000 spectators.

Forward Reuben Cotter was named Man of the Match for his tireless display over the 80 minutes.

Hamiso Tabuia-Fidow scored two tries and David Fifita also had a strong game. “Hammer” scored at the seventh and 73rd minutes and was dangerous from his position at centre every time he touched the ball – he also ran 143 metres.

Reuben made an amazing 34 tackles in the toughest rugby league match in Australia.

David was once again as tough as nails, at one stage he had blood coming from a head wound.

TSIRC Division 1 Councillor for Boigu Island Dimas Toby said all of the Boigu families were really proud of them.

“I watched the game in Cairns with my family,” he said.

“My son, aged 15 years old, was playing for Cairns Kangaroos and was definitely very proud for Rueben, the ‘Boigu man’ and idolizes

Hamiso – Badaim/shark fins are his Totem.”

TSIRC Saibai Island Cr Conwell Tabuai, an uncle of the Hammer, was glowing in his praise of the trio.

“All the Queenslanders and both Maroons and Blues supporters are very proud of them reaping the region and the state,” Cr Tabuai told the Torres News.

Waiben rugby league identity Frank Cook, who has been involved with local club Suburbs for more than 40 years, watched the match at home on the box.

He said he was highly impressed with the trio and said they were role models for youngsters, and helping to break down barriers in leaps and bounds.

“The effort by Reuben was priceless and made me breathless,” he said.

“He was everywhere when the Maroons needed him.

“Hammer was very good and scored two tries and is a natural talent.

“David is a proud Badu Islander and grew up with us up here and is now an elite talent.”

Frank said the effort by Hammer and Cherbourg lad Selwyn Cobbo to each score two tries, as well as one to nonIndigenous five eight Cameron Munster, was a real message for

Reconciliation.

“Here we had a Torres Strait islander, an Aborigine and a non-Indigenous player all combining showing how we can combine and connect and it is a good message towards Reconciliation,” he said.

“My advice to all players is not to try to be 100 per cent better than the opposition but 1 per cent better.”

Everybody said they were looking forward to the second Origin clash on Wednesday 21 June at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium, when the Maroons can wrap up the series with a victory.

MAROONS WIN LADIES ORIGIN Meanwhile the Queensland Maroons ladies team defeated NSW 18-10 in the first Ampol State of Origin game at CommBank Stadium in Parramatta last Thursday night in front of a crowd of 12,972.

The game was broadcast live on FOX Sport.

The second and final ladies Origin series match will be played in Townsville on Thursday 22 June.

Under this year’s points aggregate rules system, anything other than a loss by eight points or more will be enough to take control of the shield, which NSW won in 2022.

Edrick’s third week of doubles

BY ALF WILSON PRIDE FLY OVER JETS Northern Pride had a convincing 30-18 win over the Ipswich Jets at North Ipswich Oval on Saturday in round 12 of the Statewide Hostplus Cup. They ran in five tries to three, and now sit ninth on the ladder in the 15-club comp.

TWO TRIES FOR EDRICK Tall winger Edrick Lee continued scoring efforts, snaring two four pointers in his CQ Capras 20-18 loss to the Brisbane Tigers at Totally Workwear Stadium.

It was the third week in a row Edrick has registered two tries, and he looks ready to return to the Dolphins NRL team soon.

GIDEON HITS FORM FLYING winger Gideon Gela-Mosby scored a try for the Wynnum Manly Seagulls in their 38-12

win over the Townsville Blackhawks in round 12 of the Hostplus Queensland Cup. Former Cowboy and Erub United carnival star Gideon was a danger every time he received the ball and crossed for his four pointer at the 21st minute.

It was 12-all at halftime but the Seagulls took control after the break.

HUNTERS BIG WIN Buoyed on by a huge parochial home crowd at PNG Football Stadium in Port Moresby, the Hunters defeated the Tweed Head Seagulls 38-14 on Saturday.

Visiting teams find it difficult to come away with the points there and the Hunters try scorers were Tommy Moide, Junior Igila, Morea Morea, Rodrick Tai, Solo Wane and Junior Rop. Sharp shooter Jamie Mavoko booted five goals in a game in which the Hunters led 18-12 at halftime.

BAIRA SHINES FOR DOLPHINS Promising youngster Brenton Baira scored a try for the Dolphins in their 44-12 victory over the Clydesdales at Kayo Stadium Redcliffe on Saturday.

CUTTERS END A DROUGHT Mackay Cutters scored their first win of the season when they beat the Falcons 16-10 at Sunshine Coast Stadium on Saturday.

The Capras are placed fifth of the ladder, the Northern Pride seventh, the PNG Hunters 10th, the Townsville Blackhawks 12th and the Mackay Cutters 14th.

Next weekend on Saturday the Capras meet Tweed Seagulls at Piggabeen Sports Complex, PNG Hunters v Western Clydesdales at Santos National Football Stadium, Burleigh Bears v Norths Devils at UAA Park, Sunshine Coast Falcons v Townsville Blackhawks at Sunshine

Coast Stadium, Brisbane Tigers v Redcliffe Dolphins at Totally Workwear Stadium and Mackay Cutters v Wynnum Manly Seagulls at BB Print Stadium.

Northern Pride has the bye.

HASTINGS DEERING COLTS PREMIERSHIP ROUND 7 In round seven of the Hastings Deering Colts Statewide premiership Townsville Blackhawks TS stars Tyreice Baira-Gela and “Deadly” Dudley Dotoi scored tries in the 32-18 win over the Wynnum Manly Seagulls at Jack Manski Oval in Townsville.

Ragarive Wavik kicked four goals and the talented trio look set for bright rugby league futures.

Mackay Cutters went down 16-10 to the Sunshine Coast Falcons and Northern Pride lost 32-28 to Ipswich Jets.

Javan Mosby and Anderson Kuna scored tries for the Pride.

Rampaging Reuben stars in Cowboys stampede

ROUND UP

BY ALF WILSON In what was an upset, the North Queensland Cowboys beat hot favourites the Melbourne Storm 45-20 in front of almost 19,000 spectators at Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium last weekend.

Scores were deadlocked 14-all at halftime then the Cowboys were inspired by a speech from coach Todd Payten at the break.

The Cowboys scored eight tries to three with Reuben Cotter once again one of the best on ground.

Reuben started on the interchange bench after his man of the match performance in the first State of Origin victory by Queensland over NSW just four days before.

He made lots of tackles, has some strong runs and was a thorn in the side of the Storm.

That win has turned the tide for the Cowboys who only a few weeks back conceded 66 points in a loss to the West Tigers.

The Cowboys moved from 16th place to 14th on the 17 club points table.

The Cowboys have a bye this week before meeting reigning premiers and ladder leading Penrith Panthers Panthers on Friday 15 June 15 in Townsville.

AJ IS A THREE TRY HERO A hat trick of tries

by Saibai Islander Alex “AJ” Johnston was a highlight of South Sydney Rabbitohs 46-28 win over the Gold Coast Titans in NRL round 14.

Queensland State of Origin forward David Fifita came off the interchange bench for the Titans just three days after starring for the Maroons in their 26-18 win over NSW. AJ has now scored 12 tries in 13 matches this season.

EZRA MAM SCORES LONG RANGE TRY Young five eighth Ezra Mam continued his fine form by scoring a scintillating try in the Brisbane Broncos 20-12 win over the Cronulla at the Sharks home ground Points Bet Stadium on Saturday night.

Billed as the match of the round between sides which sat second and third going into round 14, the Broncos showed great determination to win at a ground which is regarded as a Cronulla fortress.

The Broncos had Reece Walsh, Pat Carrigan, Payne Haas and Tom Flegler backing up from last Wednesday night’s Origin series

opener at Adelaide Oval, while Cronulla halfback Nicho Hynes played 12 minutes for the Blues.

Five minutes before halftime Ezra scored his classic try and he was dangerous all night.

Ezra started and finished the 90-metre Broncos when he passed the ball near his own line to send giant winger Corey Oates galloping down the touchline and backed up to collect a kick from his winger and score.

The humble Ezra was asked about the try by a FOX Sport commentator after the match and replied, “I got a lucky bounce.”

The Broncos led 14-6 at halftime and never looked like being overhauled.

The Broncos will host the Newcastle Knights at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on Saturday.

BRENKO LEE INJURED IN LOSS Impact centre Brenko Lee left the field injured in the first half of the Dolphins 30-8 loss to the Warriors in Auckland last Saturday.

Astute Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett rested two try Queensland Maroons State of Origin star Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow for the clash.

The Dolphins will take on the Manly Sea Eagles at 4 Pines Park in round 15, the first time the sides have met.

Hamiso will take his place in the side which is good news for Dolphins supporters.

Obe Geia Challenge popular

BY ALF WILSON Eleven primary school teams competed at the annual Obe Geia Rugby League Challenge on Palm Island, two of which were locals from Bwgcolman State and St Michael’s Catholic schools.

The Obe Geia Challenge was established in 2009 by the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys to bring communities together and promote the importance of inclusion in North Queensland.

It is named in honour of Palm Islander Obe Geia Jnr (pictured), who was at the games, and played two matches for the Cowboys in 2008.

North Queensland Toyota Cowboys ambassadors Ray Thompson and Tahlulah Tillett attended the carnival to cheer the players on.

The day was enjoyed by all involved and featured a strong cultural

education component, with students having the opportunity to experience first-hand the beauty of Palm Island, its people and their culture.

The grand final was won by St Clare’s Catholic School who beat Marian Catholic School.

Pic courtesy Cowboys.

SPORT 23

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023

AFL Crusaders take flight to Maroochydore

TN0230 8x2 local sports Tagai State College Crusaders.

Looking for more local sport?

The U12 AFL Cape York Crusaders are set to start play on the Sunshine Coast today for the 10-12-year-old AFL State School Championships.

More than 20 students from across Cape York, the Torres Strait and Gulf Savannah regions have amde the trip to Maroochydore to take on the best junior footballers from across Queensland.

“Each year, AFL Cape York delivers the Game Development program to over 40 communities between Cooktown and

Saibai Island and all the way out to Doomadgee near the Northern Territory border,” AFL Cape York Participation Program Coordinator Jake O’Halloran said.

“From the hundreds of eligible students that we work with, only 22 are selected to represent the Crusaders at the U12 State Schools Championships each year.

“Students are selected not only based on their footballing skills but also on their ability to uphold the three core AFL

Cape York values of Responsibility, Respect and Pride.

“This year we have students from 14 different communities pulling on the Crusaders jumper to represent where they call home.”

AFL Cape York Crusaders Coach Matt Mellahn said the program was unique.

“Our team will meet just two days before they take the field together for the first time,” he said.

“There wouldn’t be any other teams at this event that have their

players that spread out across the state, but we’re very excited to give these young people an opportunity like this to show off their skills, rewarding them for their hard-work in school and in their community.”

Jake said they were grateful for the support of their sponsors.

“We’re extremely grateful for the support of our key partnersVirgin Australia and Hertz for helping these young people have what we’re sure will be an exciting

and unforgettable experience,” he said.

Meanwhile AFL in-school programs and Auskick continue in the Torres Strait with school AFL programs on Kirriri, Ngurapai and Waiben.

With three weeks down and two to go, there’s still time to join in on the AFL action – every school campus will have visits from our Game Development team in weeks 9 and 10 of the term, so make sure you’re at school for all the footy action!

We’re happy to run it if we have it!

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

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

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

FERRY SCHEDULE JUN – SEP 2023 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.

NPA College Crusaders.

“Linking the Cape with the Torres Strait”

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.

24

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

THURSDAY 8 JUNE 2023

Torres Strait champs leading the way

Representatives from 15 communities across Australia celebrated the power of running with the Indigenous Marathon Foundation (IMF) in Mackay last weekend.

Athletes – who hailed from Groote Eylandt to Thursday Island, down to Adelaide and Murraylands and across to Port Macquarie and Brisbane – were as one with their clear message and purpose: to lead by example and spread the important message of running and healthy lifestyles within their communities.

The runners and walkers, aged between seven and almost 70, participated in a special IMF community relay event and raced in the BMA Mackay Marina Run as part of the IMF Running and

Walking (RAW) National Fun Run Championships.

The IMF RAW Fun Run Championships, now in their 10th year, included a special awards dinner to recognise the achievements of the runners and walkers, and a presentation

by Indigenous Marathon Project (IMP) Graduate Tristan Nelliman-Adams (Meriam, Kirriri and Badhulayg) to recognise and celebrate Mabo Day. Zenadh Kes was well represented with runners from Thursday Island who run regularly with IMP Graduates Harold Matthews and Elsie Seriat, flying the Torres Strait Islander flag high and proud.

The four Waiben runners were George, Rohani and Emily Nona

and Josephine Sagigi – with their ‘chaperone’, former IMF graduate Maletta Seriat.

Maletta said it was a privilege to be there.

“It was a good atmosphere and it was good to meet everybody else from around the country,” she said.

“They had their own purpose, why they did it and why they came and why they got chosen to participate in the event.

“It was a first time experience for them, and they’re already planning another one.”

Elsie said the runners who went were selected for their participation and commitment.

“The runners are all from grassroots, the RAW program is all about grassroots,” she said.

TN0529 10x7

Location.

Location.

Location.

MAIN PIC: All runners that had ties and connections to the Torres Strait from all across the country.

ABOVE: The four representatives from Thursday Island. Pics supplied.

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