Torres News_Edition 97_07 September 2023

Thursday, 7 September 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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Pic by Tari Sagigi.

For our Elders

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School was filled with warm hearts, loud voices, whistling and smiles from ear to ear as our entire student and teacher body performed Island dances for our family, friends and

extended community members – and especially for Elders – last Wednesday.

Pictured above at the event were treasured souls Anima Pearson, Selin David and Cessa Nakata.

It was a spectacular day and will be remembered for some years to come!

For more words & pics see PAGE 9 N

Keeping your community connected for more than 35 years Sea Swift provides regular, weekly essential services up and down the east coast of Australia, through the Torres Strait, into Weipa, and throughout the Northern Territory.

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Sea Swift is the lifeblood of many remote communities across the Torres Strait and Cape York.

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

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02 NEWS

THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Freecall 1800 732 850 Email enquiries@ wakai-waian. com.au 40 Douglas St Thursday Is.

Major expansion for Bamaga servo STORY AND PIC

BY CARLI WILLIS

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.

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Bamaga Enterprises Limited staff Robert Poipoi (Chairperson), Jean Williams (post office), Tom Kelly (Manager) & Bewan Idai (BP).

Bamaga Enterprises Limited (BEL) has signed an agreement with Lowes Petroleum that it says will see a major expansion of its BP service station.

The expansion was set to include larger fuel tanks, a larger café and grocery area, renewed branding to match the green and gold BP stations in metropolitan centres, and a car wash.

Long time service station manager Bewan Idai said despite high fuel prices, tourism remained as busy as ever and sales by the litre continued to grow.

He said it didn’t look like demand was slowing down any time soon.

“In terms of vehicles, you’re getting all of them from the motorcycle groups to the big caravans of people coming through,” he said.

“We’ve got a lot of petrol guzzlers on the Cape at the moment.

“We’ve seen literage sales just go up month, by month, by month.

“We’re absolutely jam packed with tourists at the pumps, it’s been a very busy season.

“But we’ve been able to keep up with demand in terms of fuel, groceries and other things.”

Mr Idai said the service station increased its capacity with six additional fuel pumps in June last year, including a 24-hour pump.

BEL General Manager Tom Kelly said the new car wash would also be a way for the community to save water.

“We have issues with water in the NPA in the sense, we have to boil a water heater in order to drink it, because the facilities are just not up to standard,” he said.

“A lot of people wash their cars in their driveways because it is quite a dusty place up here. If we can centralise it through a car wash, we can recycle water and maximise the limited water we have up here.”

He said he looked forward to works starting when the final council and building approvals were through.

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BY VELMA GARA Feros Care is hosting an RUOK? Community Day in the Townsville CBD in support for mental health next week.

Malcolm Tamwoy, who works for the aged care and disability support service in Townsville, said activities would include exercise, RUOK?

conversation starters, sausage sizzle and a live broadcast by Radio 4K1G. RUOK? Day is a national day of action to remind everyone to ask ‘are you ok?’ in support of those struggling with life.

It will be held at the Townsville Bulletin Square on Thursday 14 September from 11am to 2pm.

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2023

Main case still to be heard in TSIRC/Sea Swift saga The Queensland Supreme Court has determined invoices issued by the Torres Strait Islands Regional Council (TSIRC) to shipping company Sea Swift were invalid.

In January this year Sea Swift sought a judicial review of 253 purported invoices for “default maritime fees” issued by TSIRC amounting to over $66 million for a three-year period.

On Monday this week the Court declared that: 1. The imposition of the Default Maritime Fee evidenced by the 253 Default Maritime Fee invoices dated 21 December 2022 (numbered from INVDMF0001

to INVDMF0253) was beyond the power conferred on the respondent; and 2. The said invoices are invalid.

Sea Swift CEO Dwayne Freeman said they were pleased with the outcome.

“The outcome means that we can continue providing essential freight and services to those living in coastal and remote communities in the Torres Strait and Far North Queensland into the future,” he said.

“Sea Swift remains hopeful of being able to work with TSIRC in the future in a positive way for the benefit of the community as a whole.”

TSIRC CEO James William said the decision did not impact TSIRC’s underlying case against Sea Swift, which had not yet commenced in any court.

“It has been TSIRC’s position for years now that if Sea Swift will provide the required documentation for TSIRC to audit Sea Swift’s use of the Landing Facilities, then we can discuss what is then owed by Sea Swift,” he said.

He said it was a question of “how much was owed?”, not whether any sum was owed.

“The fact remains that there are vast periods where no documents have been produced by Sea Swift at

all, which means Sea Swift has not been invoiced for that usage,” he said.

“Sea Swift’s own documents also show that they under-reported use when they did report use at all.

“TSIRC has not unreasonably pointed to those deficiencies and requested that the documentation be provided.”

Federal Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch MP renewed his call for the resignation of TSIRC Mayor Phillemon Mosby and CEO James William after what he said was a “scathing” judgement by the Court.

“The court ruling reveals TSIRC leadership’s clear lack of integrity,

accountability, and a total disregard for the adherence of model litigant principles,” Mr Entsch said.

Mr Freeman said they were preparing to welcome the Newcastle Bay II into their fleet, a new purpose-built vessel with enhanced capabilities for servicing the Torres Strait and other Queensland areas in the wet season.

“The Newcastle Bay is going to be a game-changer for Sea Swift and will enhance the fleet, capacity and services we provide,” he said.

He said they were also waiting for details of the Freight Subsidy agreement announced at the Cost-ofLiving Summit on Thursday Island earlier this year.

Torres Strait Air aims to cut carbon emissions FIND AUTHENTIC ARTS AND ACCESSORIES ON OUR ONLINE SHOP

Daniel Takei (centre left) and Torres Strait Air staff. Pic supplied.

BY JEN ENOSA AND CARLI WILLIS A Zenadth Kes-owned air charter aviation business has committed to acquiring eight new aircraft and transitioning to a predominantly net zero carbon emission fleet within the next five years.

Torres Strait Air said there would be an initial $25-million dollar investment to replace seven ageing aircraft, with more investment to come as it began purchases of new aircraft which would grow their fleet from 11 aircraft to 19 in total over time.

Company Director Daniel Takai said the new aircraft were safer, more comfortable, had increased capacity to travel with more people and would be better for the environment.

“Torres Strait Air is taking the step forward with the increase of demand,” Mr Takai said.

“These new planes that we’re expanding with are about 30 percent faster.

“Generally, at the moment, it’s taking about 55 minutes to get to Murray, we should be able to do it now anywhere

between 40 and 45 minutes.”

Torres Strait Air covered long distances to the islands of the Torres Strait, the Cape York Peninsula and Papua New Guinea.

Mr Takai said the seven aircraft he was replacing, and three of the new aircraft he would order, were BN2 Islander aircraft that could transition to net zero carbon emissions.

He said the aircraft would initially run on regular fuel, but would later be upgraded to Hydrogen Propulsion fuel, which produced zero carbon emissions.

“Our homes are at risk of rising sea levels up there in the Torres Strait, so we need to look towards playing our part,” he said.

“Our partnerships that we’re creating new with these aircraft suppliers will allow those conversions so we can be operating our aircraft in Torres Strait in the future where we’re not producing any carbon emission.

“This will help protect our environment, our homes and our people.”

He said since Torres Strait Air started in 2014, it had worked hard to form

positive working relationships with other aviation organisations, as well as authorities, to set the organisation in good stead for the future.

“We’ve worked very closely with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority over the past 10 years to continue to build our business to ensure we provide the highest levels of safety that we can,” he said.

“I’m hoping this investment further solidifies that trust that we have from our people that are clients of aviation business.”

Mr Takai said he hoped to encourage local and state governments to come on board and support the venture into the future as the Torres Straits’ only Zenadth Kes-owned charter business.

He said his family had a long history of running local businesses.

“Aviation is a very risky industry,” he said. “My wife and two daughters all hold highly responsible positions in the company.

“And our greater extended family of the Torres Strait are the beneficiaries of our family’s dedication and our family business.”

Cheap fights on offer into ‘accessible’ Queensland Cheap one-way flights are being offered into Queensland to boost “accessible tourism”, thanks to a partnership between the Queensland Government, Virgin Australia airlines and Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ).

From Monday this week Virgin went live with 300,000 flights priced from $49 to locations, including Cairns and

Brisbane, on offer.

TEQ said the $4 million campaign would help families feeling the pinch of cost of living rises.

CEO Patricia O’Callaghan said TEQ had also launched a podcast that explored what it was like to travel as a person with disability.

“We are incredibly proud to be launching the Accessed

That podcast, and owning the conversation around accessible travel, and embracing the accessible travel community,” she said.

Queensland’s Treasurer and Acting Tourism Minister Cameron Dick said the Queensland is Calling campaign was a way to celebrate the 2023 Year of Accessible Tourism.

“We want people to know Queensland is for everyone,” he said.

“It’s a huge opportunity for our industry, particularly in the lead up to Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”

Sales were limited and would end at 11.59pm on Sunday 10 September, unless sold out.

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04 NEWS

THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

More than 1,000 pets treated by volunteer fly-in vets STORY AND PICS

BY CARLI WILLIS One of the country’s most remote, entirely volunteer-run vet clinics has treated over 1000 pets in just nine visits to Waiben over the past two years.

Animal Welfare

League Queensland (AWLQ) board member, and Vets Beyond Borders (VBB) volunteer co-ordinator, Sylvanna Wenderhold said before the clinic started in June 2021, there were no vets on the island.

Working closely with the Thursday Island Animal Support

Group (TIASG), the two organisations have helped to raise money to fly vets – who completely volunteer their time – to Waiben.

Ms Wenderhold said the visits started with one nurse and two vets, but now brought three vets and three nurses.

“The reason why

all the volunteers come here is to end the overpopulation problem that was previously here, and is still to some extent happening,” she said.

“We also found that all the dogs had heartworm, which is a massive problem on the island – and still lots of

Ailan Life

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

dogs have heartworm.”

While the vets were funded to fly from Cairns to Waiben, they had to pay their own way to Cairns.

Volunteer vet Rose Hasegawa flew all the way from Perth and said she was passionate about addressing the heartworm issue.

She said the climate combined with the isolated nature of the island, where infected animals were in close proximity of each other, created the perfect conditions for heartworm.

“Heartworm is not something common that I see in Perth,” she said.

“These worms are transmitted by mosquitoes and the other thing that probably makes Thursday Island a bit of a hotspot is that there’s a lot of dogs that already carry the heartworm.

“Once there’s a big pool of carriers, it spreads really quickly.

“Hopefully, with more work that we do here and more treating, we can get the numbers down and the risk levels lower.”

Ms Wenderhold said the volunteer vets had also had a huge impact on reducing the number of stray animals on the island as well.

“The biggest reason why we’re here is population control, because there were just way too many puppies and kittens and not enough homes,” she said.

“We were told when we first started coming, there were a lot of stray dogs that would be very hungry and even eat shells on the beach, because there was nothing to eat.”

Ms Wenderhold said to help bridge the

access divide, address over-population and treat heartworm, the vets perform desexing, testing and treatments in exchange for a voluntary donation.

Ongoing medicines and treatments could be charged to owners, but the TIASG volunteer their time to order and liaise with owners on their pet needs.

To date Thursday Island Vet Clinic has desexed 349 pets, performed 275 heartworm tests and issued 219 SR12 ProHeart heartworm vaccination injections.

Ms Wenderhold said the program helped to educate the community more broadly around preventable disease.

“I think the word is getting around and people are very receptive to coming to bring their animals in,” she said.

Vet Hilary Chok desexes a pet.

Each week we will publish a pic showing the Ailan way of life in the Torres Strait and the NPA – the kids swimming, a BBQ at the beach, fishing, scenic shot, etc – from local photographers and readers across our region. Just email us your pic of Ailan Life along with your name, phone number and a 25-word description to ads@torres.news

This week’s pic was submitted by Joseph Sabatino.

“The picture was taken at Horn Island wharf on my way to work on 31 August 2023,” Joseph said.

Joseph is now in the draw to win this month’s $150 gift card! Good luck!

Multiple entries may be submitted, but every entry (or entrant) may not be published. All pics submitted will be considered in the draw for the monthly gift voucher. Winners of the CEQ Ailan Life competition are determined by CEQ. Entries to the Ailan Life photo competition may be used by the CEQ marketing/promotions team as background images for store promotions such as posters, digital noticeboard specials, counter-facing displays (POS) screens, and/or on their website and social media. Entries may also be used in-store to promote the ‘Ailan Life’ competition.

Sylvana Wenderhold, Natasha Curlew, Sarah Green, owner Marcella Pauling, Ben Purtle, dog Papun & Nicole Ternoway.

Ailan Life

WINNER CEQ $150 GIFT CARD – AUGUST 2023

The winner of the August 2023 Ailan Life photo competition is Lazariah Nona – Congratulations Lazariah.

Lazariah’s pic of her children, Victor and Mikaela Gibson-Nona, was taken on Thursday Island.

“I left my home on Badu Island 11 years ago to upskill and pursue a career that would help my people, no kids, no partner. Now, I return with my family to give back to my people. I am excited that they now get to learn their culture, language, lore’s and practices. What a beautiful place that we now call home – TI,” Lazariah said..

For your chance to win, email us your pic showing your Ailan Life along with your name, phone number and a 25-word description to ads@torres.news

David Curan (IBIS Store Manager), left, with Lazariah Nona and her son Victor Pakus Gibson-Nona with their $150 gift voucher. Pic Leilani Lewin.

NEWS 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2023

Japanese links celebrated at Waiben festival STORY BY DARREN MONCRIEFF – PICS BY CARLI WILLIS AND DIAT ALFERINK The first Chrysanthemum Festival held on Waiben last weekend celebrated the historical and familial links between Torres Strait Islanders and Japanese pearl divers.

Various craft stalls, a range of teas in place of saké, and a selection of sweet and savoury Japanese snacks took the place of chrysanthemums at the PKA Hall.

The festival was run by Thursday Island Wakayama Kenjinkai (TIWK) Inc, a local alignment of Wakayama Kenjinkai from the Wakayama Prefecture (region) in Japan.

Wakayama Kenjinkai celebrated Japanese people from Wakayama who emigrated to other parts of the world in the late 1800s and the early part of the 1900s.

They included men employed in Australia primarily as pearl divers across the Top End of Australia – in Broome in WA, the Northern Territory and in the Torres Straits.

The celebrations take several forms and were held at different times of the year, and in many parts of the world, where Japanese people from Wakayama have had an impact, and whose descendants remain today.

One of their celebrations was the Chrysanthemum Festival which featured flowers (chrysanthemums), traditional Japanese food, and saké, a Japanese rice wine.

TIWK secretary-holder Larissa Takai said they were keen to share their culture.

“So we’re scheduling festivals about every second month in line with festivals that they celebrate over in Japan, because that is what we are,” she said.

“The Kenjinkai is the descendants of those from the Wakayama prefecture and descendants from Japan celebrating our culture here in the Torres Strait, because we’ve not only got our Japanese culture but also our Torres Strait culture, so we just would like to share it with our community.

“We do plan to do these every year.”

Organiser and TIWK member Tamily Shibasaki said the

Healthy Choices 4

community response and support for the event had been “great”.

“It’s been great because everyone’s putting 150 per cent into it and enjoying themselves in the process,” she said.

“We encourage everyone to come along and just participate in these ongoing festivals that we have.

“We also have something coming up in December, and then big plans for early next year.

“I can’t say too much about that at the moment, but we’ll keep everyone posted as we go.”

There were also plans afoot to take a Straits flavour to the Land of the Rising Sun. “This is our first year because we’ve only just established our Kenjinkai this year, in line with a conference that we’re doing over in Wakayama in October,” Larissa said.

“I’m honoured I was asked to become the secretary for the Kenjinkai.

“It gives me great pride to be able to show where our family’s culture comes from and being able to share it with our community here in the Straits.”

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06 NEWS

THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Emergency services facilities boost for Bamaga/NPA

BY CARLI WILLIS

Years of campaigning is about to pay off for rural fire and emergency service volunteers in the Northern Peninsula Area as the Queensland Government commits $4.5 million to build a new state-of-the-art facility in Bamaga.

Local Rural Fire Service (RFS) First AdsIN E Officer volunteer Eddie 19x3 monthly ad Newman welcomed the

investment and said the current facility, based on the beachfront in Seisia, was prone to deterioration being so exposed to the elements.

He said the new site was in a more central and accessible location in Bamaga for fire callouts.

Mr Newman said he had recommended to government the design for the new facility included more room for equipment, washing facilities and training rooms.

“I can’t wait, it’ll be something that community needs, that NPA needs, and I think it will just bring more volunteers,” he said.

“Most of our volunteers at the moment are teachers, outsiders or visitors.

“They are good but it comes down to holidays, or when they move out of town, and I’ve got to start again.”

Mr Newman said there were about 20 volunteers in the region.

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However last September school holidays was an eye-opener, he said, as fires broke out while volunteer numbers were low.

“It was terrible and we only had three of us here, three locals, [we’re] lucky it wasn’t a major disaster,” he said.

“That’s why I want to chase more local volunteers or people who are going to be in town especially during the school holidays.

“Especially with the season now, and climate change bringing more hot and more wet conditions.”

Last week NPA’s ministerial champion, Minister for Regional Development Glenn Butcher, attended the new site.

The Minister said he hoped the new facility would boost the capacity of emergency services in the region and help accommodate growing pressure from tourism.

“The best way to do that is have the state-ofthe-art equipment, but also a state-of-the-art facility for them to

utilise and do their work,” he said.

“We’re currently at the point where the department now is going to go to tender to get someone to not only design it, but then construct it.

“The main part is the opportunity to train people in that brand new facility, which the local council has helped facilitate.

“It will be sitting on council land, perfectly located right across the road from the police station as well.”

Mr Butcher said it was estimated 80100,000 people visited the region during peak tourist season.

“We’re hoping this $4.5 million investment will be built and finalised by the end of 2024,” he said.

Mr Newman said he had also been lobbying for a permanent paid RFS role to be based in the region to help with administrative duties and organising training sessions.

Last month the Queensland Fire and Emergency Service

said it would employ an additional 114 staff to support frontline Rural Fire Service volunteers across the State – to date the location of those funded positions has not been announced.

Mr Newman hoped the new facility would help attract one of the sought-after positions to the NPA. “That person can go around and promote emergency services and get more volunteers, because I think it’s very hard to find volunteers these days,” he said.

Funds raised for NPA Year 12 formal A Year 8 Market Day at Northern Peninsula Area State College last week raised $1800 to go towards the Year 12 formal.

Community members, teachers and students pulled together to organise games, entertainment, kaikai and a live DJ. Senior Campus Head of School Jude Di Giacomo said the organisation of the day had also helped form part of the Civics, Business and Food and Technology curriculum.

“We would also like

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Minister Glenn Butcher & RFS First Officer Eddie Newman. Pic supplied.

to thank everyone who took part in making our market day possible,” she said.

“On behalf of our Year 8s, we would again like to thank our teachers, teacher aides, sponsors, the people who took part in making our market day possible and especially Bamaga

senior campus for letting us have our Market Day here and supporting us,” she said.

“The Year 12s will use this money to ensure their Formal and Graduation are very special and memorable.”

She said they were grateful to sponsors who included CASSIES,

Seisia Supermarket, Kiosk and Campground, Oasis Accommodation, Umagicio Campground, Rob Carmody Consructions, Bamaga BRACS, BP, IBIS, Traders, Pharmacy and Dreamtime, Premite Workshop, Top End Motors and Ice Works.

Pics supplied.

NEWS 07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2023

Teacher aides celebrated in Appreciation Week A big thanks to teacher aides across the Torres Strait was expressed in several different ways last week as part of Teacher Aide Appreciation Week.

“Thank you for all the work you do with our students and families on a daily basis to support the path to life-long learning,” staff and students said in their own ways across several campuses.

“We see your diligence, commitment, and impact as students grow, develop skills, and gain knowledge.”

Warraber teacher aides were gifted with a week of no lunchtime duties.

Badhulgaw Ngurpay Lag teachers put on a breakfast feast and each of their teacher aides were acknowledged for their work, with personalised certificates

and special handmade flowers for their hair.

On Poruma Mr Jen and Mrs G cooked a delicious lunch for teacher aides and ancillary staff.

“Our deadly teacher aides were presented with certificates of appreciation to acknowledge their hard work and valuable contribution to our school,” they said.

Two of WBNM’s best at our afternoon tea for Teacher Aide Appreciation Week.

Happy Teacher Aide Appreciation Week, our fabulous teacher aides from Iama Campus.

Kadhego teacher aides receiving the buckets full of happiness made by the students.

Badhulgaw Ngurpay Lag celebrated our wonderful teacher aides this week as part of Teacher Aide Appreciation Week.

What’s On IN TORRES SHIRE To Lead, Provide and Facilitate a sustainable, safe and culturally vibrant community.

Meetings & Events Happy Teacher Aide Appreciation week from Warraber Ngurpay Lag.

Tuesday 19 September

September 2023 Ordinary Council Meeting

PUBLIC NOTICE Thursday Island Sports Complex New operating hours will commence from Monday 4 September 2023

Awesome trio of teacher aides from Dauan Campus.

Monday to Friday – 6am to 10am & 12pm to 7pm Saturday & Sunday – 12pm to 6pm

Should you have any enquiries please contact: Manager, Sports Complex on (07) 4083 1288 Dalassa Yorkston CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER September 2023 To view all current public notices and alerts, visit www.torres.qld.gov.au and follow and like us on Facebook All enquiries to Council Office J P (07) 4069 1336 J E admin@torres.qld.gov.au J 68 Douglas St, Thursday Island

A big thank you to our teacher aides at Poruma Campus.

08 NAIDOC

THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Cowboys House celebrates NAIDOC in Townsville STORY AND PICS

BY ALF WILSON A large number of Torres Strait people from numerous islands attended a special NAIDOC event where the boarding students and their families paid respect to elders at NRL Cowboys House in Townsville on Friday.

Just under 300 families from 30 communities were at the event to see their sons and daughters, who attend either the boys or girls campuses as boarders.

The Torres News was invited and took pics of families from Waiben,

Erub, Badu, Mer, Iama, Darnley, Saibai, Boigu, Warraber, Moa, Dauan and Mabuiag.

It was a later than usual NAIDOC event so family members could travel.

The youths were expected return to their communities soon for school holidays.

Cowboys House captains Desharnthie Nona (Badu Island) and Leland Michael (Cooktown) spoke to the large audience which packed a sports hall and overflowed outside.

“This is so good to have so many people here from the Torres Strait, Cape York, Yarrabah, Cairns,

Cooktown, Hope Vale, Woorabinda and other places,” Leland said.

Guests were welcomed to country by Linda Saltner for the Wulgurukaba people and she presented an emotional speech.

The Wulgurukaba Dancers performed and also did the smoking ceremony.

It was an event where Indigenous culture was shared with the broader community and there was many invited guests.

After the official part of the event families, including many children and youths, enjoyed hand and charcoal painting and other activities.

From left are Yam Islanders Patrina Kepa, Nellie Lui, Bethalia Dau, Clara Lui & front children: Norena Kepa, aged 4, Skylar Kepa, 2, Billy Bann, 3, Jack Kepa jnr, 6 & Jaely Kepa, 8.

Darnley Islanders Jared Charlie, Nixon Mye, Gibson Charlie & JT Charlie, 5.

LEFT: Ossie Mackie & Maryann Edoni. RIGHT: Kentaro Sabatino holding Kevin Mye, 2, Xavier Sabatino, 7, Jairus Sabatino, 5 & Sinatta Cloudy.

Racyna Binawel (Moa) with Lalita Kris & Taisie Kris.

Ralph Sam (Saibai), Amos Tautu (Cook Islands), Ashley Saltner jnr & Steven Tom (Boigu).

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2023

NAIDOC 09

Sacred Heart celebrates NAIDOC – For our Elders!

STORY AND PICS

BY TARI SAGIGI Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School was filled with warm hearts, loud voices, whistling and smiles from ear to ear as our entire student and teacher body performed Island dances for our family, friends and extended community members – and especially for Elders – last Wednesday.

Over the past five weeks Sam Bon and Leroy Pedro have spent

three afternoons a week teaching students and staff Island dances.

Their hard work paid off when the beat of the drum started and the audience were able to see the students smiles.

The Kirriri campus joined in and performed with students with Years 2 and 3 coming in strong, and Years 4, 5 and 6 putting on a good show.

Then came the staff, who made the students and audience cheer.

We then had our very own Lui and Lawrence Bon, with

their Dad Aaron perform Mer dances.

To end the performances Mr Barwoo performed his home town corroboree.

The island dancing continued for another couple of hours by the students – it was a spectacular day.

The School NAIDOC team would like to thank everyone involved, from the police, who cooked more than 200 sausages to our seamstresses and the singers who joined in with Leroy and Sam. Big Eso to all.

10 NEWS

THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Rangers train to better protect from oil spills

BY CARLI WILLIS Zenadth Kes rangers are better prepared to protect culturally and environmentally significant sea country from potential oil spills after completing training with Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) earlier this year.

Twenty-two Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) rangers from the islands of Saibai, Ugar, Masig, Erub, Poruma,

Iama and Warraber were flown to Waiben for the three-day course in August.

Senior Ranger Barry Pau, from Darnley, said local rangers were the “eyes and ears” for maritime departments, and it was critical they were trained to respond to potential incidents such as oil spills.

“We can pass the knowledge down to other locals, that are not in the departments, and make them aware of

what to expect if there’s an oil spill,” he said.

“We are the first responders to everything that is happening out there” Mr Pau said rangers were chosen for training from islands based along a shipping channel and had response kits based on their island.

He said MSQ could take one to two weeks to gather equipment and travel to the outer islands to clean up an oil spill.

TN0461 • 09/02/23

Mr Pau said despite having never seen a spill in his seven years as a ranger, the team took being prepared – in the unlikely event – seriously.

“Just off Darnley Island there’s a sandbar there north of Brumble Cay and it’s the second largest turtle rookery in the world, so we got to protect it, that’s also our food,” he said.

“Plus that’s where the Great Barrier Reef starts, so we have got to act on

it before it gets on the reef.”

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said 11,682 voyages were made by ships through the Torres Strait and Great Barrier Reef in the 2022-23 financial year.

“The remote, pristine and beautiful Torres Strait region is a major shipping route for international vessels navigating to and from Queensland’s ports and can be navigationally challenging,” she said.

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

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

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

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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“It is also part of a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area declared by the International Maritime Organization.

“It is important we deploy every means at our disposal to ensure, in the event of a shipping incident, we have as many locals as possible trained to manage the incident and mount an effective response.”

Ms Lui said 73 people had been trained in basic equipment and shoreline operator courses in the region since 2018.

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said the TSRA Rangers had grown from one ranger group on Mabuiag Island in 2009, to 55 rangers across 14 island communities in 2023.

He said rangers used traditional knowledge and western science to care for land, sea and culture.

“TSRA Rangers undertake regular training and carry out various on-ground activities, including pest and weed control, marine debris management, surveillance and monitoring, dugong and turtle management, seagrass monitoring, cultural heritage site protection and traditional ecological knowledge recording and management,” he said.

“As of mid-2023, women make up about a third of TSRA’s Ranger workforce with a record number of 19 female Rangers, up from eight previously.”

New recruit Felisha Pearson, from Poruma, said she had thoroughly enjoyed learning from maritime professionals as well as senior rangers and Elders in the group.

“Aka Edna there, she is one of our elders in Central Islands and I’m excited to learn and grow from her experience,” she said.

“Something I want to get out of this job is, one day when I’m an Elder, I want to be someone that’s knowledgeable and got that experience.”

Ms Pearson said there was a ship passage that came within five kilometres of both sides of her island, making

them particularly vulnerable.

“We’re kind of exposed to it, if it does happen,” she said “We’ve been doing all the theories about planning and how everything works, the logistics of it.

“So when it does happen, or if it does happen, we know what to get out and how to set it up and everything.”

Bradley Pabai, originally from Boigu Island, joined the Rangers almost two months ago as a supervisor for the top Western Cluster of islands.

He said he had been working in local government but was encouraged by his brother to become a ranger.

“I think my experience, my knowledge and my cultural values can serve this job,” he said.

“Protecting our sea beds, protecting our sea life, our mangroves systems and things like that.”

The Rangers’ newest and youngest recruit was 19-year-old Poruma and Yam Island man Frederico David, who said he felt like he was “flying in space” when he found out he got the job.

“I was in heaven, I felt really happy,” he said. “I love to work with land and sea, it was part of me growing up.

“Because how we do our daily things in our daily life at home, we do the same thing in this program.”

He said it made him proud to be learning more about how to protect the environment.

“Make sure that our environment is running smoothly and clean, for ourselves, the land, the sea, and also for the animals,” he said.

Mr Pabai said protecting cultural sights, songs and language about Country was a big part of the Rangers’ roles.

“It’s important we store this information for future generations,” he said.

See pics opposite P11 N

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

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

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

@TSIMAtorresnews

NEWS 11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2023

Bradley Pabai started just over a month ago.

Elder Edna Nai said she loves sharing her knowledge of plants with the young rangers.

TSRA Rangers now have a record number of female rangers. Pics by Carli Willis.

Felisha Pearson (left) says her Elder Edna Nai inspires her.

Rangers learn how to operate machinery needed in a clean up.

Bradley Pabai was keen to learn how to clean up spills.

Rangers learn how to clean up oil spills in the ocean.

New recruit Frederico David is over the moon to get the job as a TSRA Ranger.

Senior Ranger Barry Pau said he loves his job.

Gathering Voices Media and Arts Festival 2023 Friday 20 October to Saturday 21 October 2023 ANZAC Park, Thursday Island Activities:

Media Workshops, Inspiring Voices Music Concert, Zenadth Kes Film Festival

Dread Sound

Rangers Tanya Anau (Saibai) & Belphine Stephen (Ugar)

Mabu Mabu Food Experience featuring Nornie Bero

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Thursday Island – PUBLIC NOTICE Ferry Carpark Line Marking Works Notification Ports North wishes to advise that line marking will be undertaken by RoadTek at the ferry carpark on Saturday 9th September.

The carpark will be closed from 5pm Friday 8th September and we request that all vehicles are removed from site prior to the closure.

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Ports North appreciates your ongoing cooperation to enable completion of these car park improvement works.

For further enquiries please email: scott.ivory@portsnorth.com.au

SPORTS 13

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2023

BEL support for youth Bala and the Boomers secure ticket to 2024 Paris Olympics

David-John Nona at the Queensland School Sport State Champions in June.

Pics supplied.

Jay Sebasio helped the Logan Thunders win silver at the South Queensland Junior Basketball championship in July.

Bamaga Enterprises Limited (BEL) is bolstering its support of young Indigenous athletes by providing a new round of youth sporting sponsorships for Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) residents.

Community members can apply for help with costs in areas such as education or training, sports and recreational activities, women’s and men’s issues, arts and culture, and aged support.

BEL’s sponsorship programs have helped several rising stars make their mark in their respective sporting disciplines, including David-John Nona and Jay Sebasio.

BEL Chairperson Robert Poipoi commended David-John and Jay for their exceptional achievements in rugby league and basketball, respectively.

He emphasised the importance of supporting young Indigenous athletes and empowering them to pursue their passions, while promoting a sense of community pride through sport.

“BEL is proud to support these young athletes and play a part in their inspiring journeys,” he said.

“We will continue to champion the growth and success of Indigenous athletes across various sports.”

Breaking a 42-year drought Seisia-born 11-year-old David-John played a crucial role in his Under 12 rugby league team’s historic victory at the Queensland School Sport 10 – 18 years Rugby League state championship in June.

The win marked the first time a Northern Region team won the prestigious title since 1981.

David-John’s exceptional performance and determination were evident throughout the tournament, where he faced more experienced opponents from southern regions.

BEL provided the young rugby player an $800 sponsorship, which covered his player fees and uniform expenses, enabling him to showcase his talent and achieve a long-held goal.

“Winning the state championship with my team is a dream come true,” David-John said.

“It feels amazing to know that our victory marked the first time in 42 years for a Northern Region team to win the championship.”

Beyond his personal triumph, David-John was instrumental to promoting youth participation and

talent development.

In 2021, he co-founded the North Queensland Balas (NQ Balas) Under-11 rugby league team with his brother, Elijah.

NQ Balas offered young boys a platform to showcase their skills, gain valuable experience in carnival games, and highlight the vibrant NPA communities.

BEL’s support extended to the NQ Balas, with sponsorships of $500 for the Vic Jensen Carnival competition and $1100 for the Vern Daisy Carnival last year.

At the Vern Daisy Carnival, the NQ Balas Under-11 team played five games, winning all of them – four of those games left their opposing teams scoreless.

David-John continued to inspire other children to open life-changing doors, and has confidently represented the Northern Region with BEL’s assistance.

Torchbearer for Torres Strait basketball Meanwhile, Jay Sebasio, a talented Torres Strait Islander basketball player, made her own waves at national level this year.

Jay scored an impressive 20 points in the final match of the Queensland State Championships in July, for the South Queensland Junior Basketball Competition’s Division 1 Under-14 Logan Thunder team.

The team secured the silver medal with four wins and only one loss, earning the chance to compete in the upcoming National Championships in Victoria.

With BEL’s $3000 sponsorship, Jay was able to fly down to Bendigo for last year’s competition with her dad, Aaron Sebasio.

Her father acknowledged the impact of BEL’s contribution to Jay’s success.

“BEL’s sponsorship and support have deepened Jay’s connection to her home and fostered a true sense of belonging within the community, which is eagerly watching her grow,” he said.

Jay’s aspirations extended beyond national success, as her dream was to play basketball at a collegiate level in the United States and eventually join prestigious leagues such as the WNBA or Australia’s WNBL. Visit BEL’s website to explore the exceptional opportunities BEL offers through its sponsorship programs at: www.bament.com.au

Bala Patty Mills shot with a 100 per cent strike-rate from the free-throw line in the Australian Boomers’ final match against Georgia at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup on Sunday night.

The NBA superstar was in the top three performers for the Boomers in the 100-84 win.

Patty came away with a personal haul of 18.6 points per game, 5.2 rebounds per game and 5 assists per game, and 11/11 from free-throws.

It came after Australia’s elimination from the World Cup play-offs at the hands of

STORY BY VELMA GARA & DARREN MONCRIEFF Slovenia (91-80) in an earlier game, which knocked them out of contention.

Last week the Boomers defeated Finland (98-72) and Japan (109-89), but suffered a narrow loss to Germany (85-82) in the group stage.

They finished with a 2-1 winloss tally, which was enough to advance to the next round.

The tough Slovenians, however, proved their undoing.

Although Bala and the

Boomers bowed out of the World Cup earlier than expected, they have secured their tickets to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

New Zealand’s loss to Greece ensured Australia went to top spot in the Oceania basketball group, earning them automatic qualification for Paris.

The Boomers finished 10th out of the 32 teams competing for the World Cup. The tournament continued this week with quarter-finals involving Canada, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Serbia, Slovenia and the United States.

Patty Mills drives to the basket against Slovenia’s Aleksej Nikolîc as Boomers coach Brian Gioorjian looks on at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup. Pic Basketball Australia/FIBA.

Teyahna and Monique to play for Gems in FIBA U17 world comp

BY VELMA GARA Teyahna Bond and Monique Bobongie have been selected to represent Australia as part of the Gem’s U17 national basketball team.

The Australian Gems and Emus teams are set to compete at the FIBA Oceania U17 Championships in Papua New Guinea next month against Guam, Samoa, New Zealand and the home side.

The women’s and men’s teams were both defending their number one rankings at the Championship, the first major FIBA event hosted in PNG since the global pandemic.

Teyahna and Monique were teammates this year in the Queensland North U18 girls’ team and attended a Basketball Without Borders camp.

They also played NBL1 – Teyahna played for Cairns Dolphins in the North competition and Monique played for the Centre of Excellence in the East competition.

Monique Bobongie (GEM select), Joel Khalu (EMU Asst Coach) & Teyahna Bond (GEM select). Pic supplied by Basketball Qld.

14 SPORT

Sailor stars as Mam rested

ROUND UP

BY ALF WILSON

Fullback Tristan Sailor was one of the best on the ground for the Brisbane Broncos, who lost 32-22 to the Melbourne Storm at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane last Thursday.

The Broncos were without stars Ezra Mam, Reece Wallace and Adam Reynolds, who were rested for the finals series which starts this weekend.

Brisbane went into the game a warm favourite sitting on the top of the table however dropped to second after Penrith defeated the Cowboys on Saturday.

Tristan was classy in defence and attack.

He filled in at

fullback for Reece Walsh, and had two try assists and a line break from 14 carries – he was brilliant all night.

A full-strength Broncos side will meet the Storm again this Friday night in a qualifying semi final at Suncorp Stadium.

They have earned a double chance for finishing in the top four.

Cowboys out but Cotter tireless The North Queensland Cowboys will miss the final series after their 44-12 loss to premiers the Penrith Panthers at BlueBet Stadium on Saturday night.

Star lock forward Reuben Cotter was tireless in attack and defence and saved several Panthers tries with tackles close to the line.

The Cowboys needed to win to have any chance of snaring a top eight position but it was game over at half time when the Panthers led 26-nil. In the final analysis the Cowboys finished 11th.

The Panthers finished minor premiers and will meet the fourth placed

Warriors in a qualifying semi final on Saturday afternoon at BlueBet Stadium.

Hammer nails victory Hamiso “Hammer” Tabuai Fidow finished off a great season by starring in the Dolphins 34-10 win over the Warriors at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday.

It was ninth win of the year for the Dolphins who many judges tipped to finish last but ended up 13th.

The Dolphins have defeated five top-eight teams in their debut season – Roosters, Raiders, Knights, Sharks and Warriors.

Gagai rested Classy centre Dane Gagai was rested when the Newcastle Knights defeated the St George Dragons 32-12 on Saturday to wrap up fifth spot in the finals series.

The Knights have a home elimination semi final against Canberra Raiders at McDonald Jones Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

It was the ninth win on end for the high rolling Knights.

Rabbitohs miss finals The South Sydney Rabbitohs will not play finals football after losing 26-12 to the Sydney Roosters at Accor Stadium on Friday night.

Flying Rabbitohs back Alex “AJ” Johnston did not score a try but still finished the season on 21 four pointers after 27 rounds of fixtures.

AJ started at his normal position on a wing but was moved to fullback after a Rabbitohs injury.

It has been a disappointing season for South Sydney which was top of the table and premiership favourites after round 11.

Good finish for Fifita David Fifita ended the season well when his Gold Coast Titans beat the Bulldogs 34-30 on Sunday at Cbus Stadium.

The tough second rower was hard to handle for the Bulldogs defence.

The Titans ended the season in 14th position and the Bulldogs were 15th.

Shibasaki shines for Blackhawks

BY ALF WILSON Torres Strait Islander players shone for the Mendi Townsville Blackhawks when they defeated the Sunshine Coast Falcons 44-30 in a hard fought elimination semi final of the Hastings Deering Colts competition on Saturday.

Blockbusting forward Jamal Shibasaki scored two tries.

The Torres News was at Townsville’s Jack Manski Oval and saw Jamal charge over for his first try at the fourth minute.

The rampaging Jamal crossed for his second four pointer at the 44th minute to be one of the best on the ground.

“Jamal scored his tries when we needed them and was great.

Darnell was safe when he came on and whilst Dudley was well marked it gave us opportunities on

the other side of our attack,” coach Roy Baira told the Torres News.

In the other semi final, speedster Brenton Baira scored a try, kicked three goals and a field goal in the Dolphins 33-20 win over the Burleigh Bears.

In next weekend’s preliminary finals Blackhawks will meet the Tweed Seagulls at UAA Park on Saturday and the next day Brisbane Tigers v Redcliffe Dolphins at Totally Workwear Stadium. Winners will advance to the grand final.

Finals week 2 Wynnum Manly Seagulls and the CQ Capras have advanced to next weekend’s preliminary finals after wins in elimination finals.

On Saturday Wynnum Manly beat Souths Logan Magpies 3024. A day later at Rockhampton’s Browne Park, the Capras went in as underdogs and defeated the

Sunshine Coast Falcons 38-10.

Winger Edrick Lee was missing from the Capras lineup but expected to return for the preliminary final.

In the other game Burleigh Bears will meet Wynnum Manly with winners to advance to the grand final a week later.

HostPlus Team of the Week Tristan Sailor, who plays for Souths Logan Magpies, set up three tries in the side’s 34-26 loss to the Tigers in week one of the finals and amassed 179 metres, recorded four offloads, four line break assists and three tackle breaks. Northern Pride Will Partridge was named at number three in the side’s 15-14 loss to Wynnum Manly Seagulls. Pride teammate Kenneth Fonoti came off the bench and made great impact and was named in the forwards.

THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Hynes gives time to fans STORY AND PICS

BY ALF WILSON Allan Waia was one of many Torres Strait Islander men, women and children who got to meet star Cronulla Sharks players after their 32-12 win over the North Queensland Cowboys in Townsville late last month.

The game was held at Townsville’s Queensland Bank Stadium.

Allan was also thrilled he got to yarn to quality Sharks centre Jesse Ramien.

“He was a very friendly man and it was a pleasure to talk to him,” Allan told the Torres News.

Popular and high profile Sharks halfback Nicho Hynes, the reigning Dally M Medal (NRL best and fairest) winner was happy to meet, greet and sign autographs.

“We have enjoyed our trip to Townsville and it has been a good atmosphere,” Nicho said.

Nicho and his halves partner, five eighth Braydon Trindall, were one of only two number six and seven Aboriginal combinations in the 17 club NRL. The other pair were Canberra Raiders Jack Wighton and Jamal Fogarty.

Hynes was near best on the ground and scored a try whilst Trindall, nicknamed “Tricky”, kicked a 40/20 and was dangerous all night.

The pair were genuine role models for youth around Australia.

Allan said he has many relatives living around the Torres Strait including members of the Kris, Savage, Nona, Namok and Kawani families.

“I want to get up there soon and visit St Paul’s and Saibai and

Torres News correspondent Alf Wilson with NRL superstar Nicho Hyness. Pic supplied.

Allan Waia with Jesse Ramien.

Cronulla Shark player Braydon Trindall. learn the skills of turtle and dugong hunting and meet family,” he said.

The 34-year-old Allan formerly played rugby league for Centrals Club in Townsville and said the Sharks play ers were mostly “tall”.

“Back in my day they were mostly short and stumpy,” he said.

“I asked Jesse where the Sharks were sitting on the ladder, and they were fourth, and it was

so good to talk to him.”

Courtney Lavender travelled 400kms from Mackay for the game and was glowing in his praise of the Sharks players after Hynes and Ramien signed a jumper for her.

“The Sharks players were very obliging in taking the time to sign my Sharks shirt and hat before getting on the bus heading to the airport – great bunch of guys,” she said.

NRLW

NRLW Cowboys struggle to find momentum after losses

ROUND UP

BY ALF WILSON Proud Torres Strait Islanders Tallisha

Harden, Tahlulah Tillett and Jasmine Peters were amongst the Cowboys ladies best in their 48-16 loss to St George Dragons in round seven of the Telstra NRLW comp at Townsville on Saturday afternoon.

Co-captain and forward Tallisha made many runs up the middle to give her side field

position and tackled her heart out.

Five eighth Tahlulah used clever tactical kicks to advantage and also made many tackles against often bigger opponents.

Tahlulah and her halves partner Kirra Dibb combined well to set up one Cowboys try.

Centre Jasmine, who

is dangerous in attack, was the target of strong defence by the Dragons, who led 28-6 and halftime and scored nine tries to three.

The Cowboys sit second last on the ladder in the 10 club comp.

Cowboys coach Ben Jeffries spoke about the loss at the post match press conference.

“Three in a row [losses] up here, not good,” he said.

“That’s the story of our year so far, we go in and out of games, when we have momentum we struggle to keep it and when you’ve got the momentum you’ve got to keep it. Our resilience at the moment isn’t great.”

In round eight, the

Dragons travel to the Cronulla Sutherland shire to face the Sharks while the Cowboys take on the Raiders on the Gold Coast.

It was the second game of a Queensland Country Bank Stadium double header and in the earlier match the Brisbane Broncos women scored a nail

biting 32-28 over the Cronulla Sharks.

In other games the Knights beat the Raiders 20-12, Titans d West Tigers 16-4 and Roosters d Eels 46-12.

Full ladder: Roosters 1, Knights 2, Titans 3, Broncos 4, Raiders 4, Dragons 6, Sharks 7, West Tigers 8, Cowboys 9, Eels 10.

SPORT 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2023

U17 Crusaders girls match confirmed for Cairns AFL ROUND UP

BY AFL CAPE YORK DEVELOPMENT OFFICER KEIRAN SCIBERRAS The Cape York & Torres Strait Crusaders will make their return in the U17 Girls division in a ‘curtain raiser’ match against Cairns before a professional AFL Women’s (AFLW)

game in Cairns in October.

The Crusaders team, made up of residents from AFL Cape York House for Girls, Tagai State College, NPA State College and other partner schools throughout the regions, will undergo AFL training, team-building activities, and a meet and greet with AFLW players in the lead-up to the representative event.

Following their match, they’ll get to watch the Hawthorn Hawks host the Richmond Tigers at Cazaly’s Stadium on 20 October during the

AFLW’s Indigenous Round.

Full teams for the Crusaders and Cairns will be announced closer to the event.

Teams picked for Coen Crusader Cup Teams have been locked-in for the 2023 AFL Crusader Cup in Coen this week.

NPA State College students were nominated by their school to compete against students from Coen, Lockhart River and Hopevale at the AFL Gala Day event.

NPASC students were selected based on behaviour, attendance

and having their assessment completed for the term.

All of the teams arrived in Coen last night (Wednesday) for a light training session, BBQ and an opportunity to mingle and to go over all of the competition rules.

Games will commence from 9.30am today, with teams heading back to their communities tomorrow morning.

Junior Footballers of the Week Thanks to our community partner Timmy’s Café (Snake Gully – Injinoo), we’ve

been able to select a junior AFL player from each NPA State College junior campus for the past few weeks to be the ‘Junior Footballer of the Week’.

Students are selected based on teacher feedback, attendance and effort shown during AFL classes.

Thanks to Timmy’s students receive a certificate and a voucher for a delicious iced drink and toasted sandwich!

Winners so far include: Chee Sebasio, PeninaJade Salee, Isla Tamwoy, Teho Solomon, Relsie Lifu and Tyrika Wilson.

Eagles presentations

AFL Cape York House for Boys will host the 2023 Cairns Eagles presentation night on Monday 11 September.

The event will see player awards presentations for U13 Mixed, U15 Boys, U17 Boys and U17 Girls team divisions. The presentation night comes off the back of a successful season for all teams, including the U17 Girls team who took out the 2023 Premiership last month.

NPA State College Auskick wraps up for the term

This week was the fifth and final week of in-school AFL for the term.

With huge interest this year, we’re already excited to come back.

Next week our Game Development team will head to Moa Island to work with Kubin and St Paul’s campuses, so make sure you’re at school to play AFL.

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ABOVE: Eagles Boys (ABOVE) and Eagles Girls (BELOW) at the AFL Cairns presentation night last month. Pics supplied.

Junior AFL players of the week: ABOVE – Bamaga’s Relsie Lifu) & BELOW: Injinoo’s Penina-Jade Salee.

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

FERRY SCHEDULE JUN – SEP 2023 Monday to Saturday (June to Saturday, 30 September)

Games hope to draw 2024 ailan interest

BY VELMA GARA More than a thousand children from all over North Queensland attended a unique athletic carnival, The Challenge Games, last week with organisers hoping next year’s event might attract participants from NPA and Torres Strait.

Students from Mackay, Mount Isa and far north to Mossman along with many Townsville schools were there.

Challenge Games Chairperson Lynne Derry said the games covered all disabilities and encouraged all children to achieve at their own level of ability, as well as have fun and make new friends.

Pimlico State High School student Antwone Stephen said he enjoyed the day.

His mother, Retemoi Stephen said her son loved to compete in the track and field events every year.

She said the Games had helped him to engage and grow within himself.

Each year new sporting experiences were introduced, and this year’s exhibition sports were Wheel Chair Rugby League and Table Tennis along with fun activities such as Frisbee and Fling a Magic.

Track and Field events such as athletics and long jump were also available for the students.

Ms Derry said every child was a winner and received a ribbon for each event.

The Challenge Games will be held in July 2024.

For details check the website at – www.thechallengegames. com.au

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”

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

Retimio Stephen, Antwone Stephen & Rachael Pilot.

Pic supplied.

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.

16

THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER 2023

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

Alau Eagles win NPARRL grand final

Team supporters at the grand final of the NPARRL. Pic supplied by QRL.

BY ALF WILSON A large crowd was at Bamaga’s Yusia Ginau Oval on Saturday to see Alau Eagles beat New Mapoon Warriors 22-20 in an exciting Northern Peninsula Area Regional Rugby League (NPARRL) grand final.

Spectators came from around the NPA, Torres Strait Islands and Cape York to watch the best two teams in the NPARRL battle it out, and they were not disappointed.

All of the skills were on display and in the final analysis Alau Eagles and New Mapoon Warriors each scored four tries.

When the final siren sounded, all that separated the two evenly matched teams was one, single, two-point goal.

Alau Eagles try scorers were Lachlan Young (two), Kearney Binawel and Rodney Toby jnr.

Sharp shooter Charles Baira kicked three goals.

For New Mapoon Warriors try scorers were Xavier Neliman (two), Eugene Bond and Ky Gowa.

Zengrey Nona booted the two goals.

Alau Eagles coach was Noah Mooka and Eugene Bond coached New Mapoon Warriors.

Referee Stanley Dai along with touch judges Samson Zitha and Henley Woosup did great jobs controlling the climax to the season.

The four-club competition has been a great success with good crowd numbers and interest from as far away as Cairns and Townsville in results of games.

To earn their grand final spots New Mapoon Warriors beat Injinoo Crocs 36-30 in the preliminary final two weeks ago.

Minor premiers Alau Eagles earned an armchair

path to the decider with a 22-16 win over Injinoo Crocs in the qualifying semi final the week before that.

The other side in the competition was Bamaga Roos, who also performed well during the fixtures.

The NPARRL, QRL Torres and Cape, volunteers, sponsors, club officials, referees and touch judges earned well-deserved praise for their combined efforts in making the competition a wonderful success.

“I was fully aware of the amount of work undertaken by many volunteers and stakeholders, which resulted in a great grand final day,” QRL Director Clinton Begg said.

“To say I was proud of all involved is an understatement.

“This event brings community together to play the greatest game of all – rugby league – for this I thank everyone”.

Next on the local

rugby league calendar was Bamaga’s NPA Mulitsports Dan Ropeyarn Memorial carnival, to be held at the Yusia Ginau Oval on 27-29 October.

Team lists, as per the QRL Team Sheets, were: Alau Eagles: Charles Baira, George Mudu, Hassim Adidi, Nathan Acoom, Robert Baira, Jonah Lui, Lachlan Young, Warria Mooka, Denjon Mooka, Kearney Binawel, Sherwin Young, Rodney Toby jnr, Eli Anau, Yunara Wymarra, Eccles Tamwoy, Marlon Nakachi, John Mosby, Corey Toby, Michael Namok.

New Mapoon Warriors: Mauga Nona, Xavier Neliman, Albert Cottis, Ali Muhamad, Eliaso Seriat, Alex Ishmail, Eugene Bond, Jimmy Bond, Alwyn Bond, Meun Lifu, Zengrey Nona, Lawrence Townsen, Billy Ishmail, Adagi Lifu, Ky Gowa, Justice Wasiu, Frankie Cook, Dwayne Bond, Jarrod Laifoo.

Pics above and below by Johnny Mosby.

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