Torres News_Edition 103_19 October 2023

Thursday, 19 October 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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Against the tide – Torres Strait votes Pic by Carli Willis.

Shenequah Mau and Wellington Bon are both in their early 20s and voted ‘Yes’ – along with the majority on Waiben and Kirriri – in last weekend’s failed Constitutional Referendum.

Their vote went against the national tide, as did most remote First Nations communities across the nation, who also returned a majority ‘Yes’ vote in the count last weekend.

However in a blow for locals, the results for Queensland indicated the lowest support for ‘Yes’ in the country, with only 31.1 per cent of voters overall backing the failed Constitution/Voice proposal.

For more on the Referendum results see PAGES 4, 5 & 6 N

Promised subsidy offers checkout relief

BY CARLI WILLIS The $64 million State Government freight subsidy will be applied to some groceries at check outs from early next year, as the result of a promise made to the Northern Peninsula Area

(NPA), Torres Strait and Gulf regions at this year’s cost-of-living summit on Waiben.

The subsidy would come in the form of a 5.2 per cent discount on a minimum spend (yet to be confirmed) on essential goods, including fruit and vegetables, fresh

meat, dairy, frozen goods and groceries.

The measures, to come into effect on 1 January 2024, have been welcomed by state government statutory body, Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ), one of several stakeholders consulted on what the

subsidy should look like.

CEQ chief executive Michael Dykes said the announcement matched their expectation of who the subsidy would benefit.

“We presented a discussion paper that made sure that the discount would be passed directly on to

mums and dads and families when they shop at the register,” he said.

“We wished it was a higher discount, but we understand and recognise [the state government] are leading the way on this.

“There’s no other state that is taking this initiative and

we really commend them for that.”

CEQ also supplied fuel, considered an essential for island life, but Mr Dykes said the organisation had only advocated for subsidy to be applied to food.

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THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

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Promised freight subsidy to offer checkout relief STORY AND PIC

BY CARLI WILLIS

M Continued from P1 “I understand, particularly in the islands, fuel is an essential way to get into dingys, and get out and fish,” CEQ CEO Michael Dykes said.

“However, our focus is on getting healthy food into the bellies of young kids and young families and young mums.”

Member for Cook, Cythia Lui, said cost of living pressures were closely linked to health.

“We need to acknowledge all the contributing factors for why we still see poor health outcomes for people blo yumi where region,” she said.

“That stress of supporting your family or providing for your family on low income is going to take a toll on someone’s mental health and well being.”

In a statement to Torres News, a Transport and Main Roads (TMR) spokesperson said the department had worked with independent advisor Deloitte Access Economics to identify

A multi-million-dollar state government freight subsidy is expected to lower the cost of some groceries. how to deliver the freight funding package.

They said stakeholders included

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local councils, State and Federal agencies, representative bodies, industry groups, Indigenous groups, freight and transport service providers and some retail stores. “[Feedback from stakeholders] included a strong preference for freight subsidy funding to be applied as close as possible to the end customer, to try to pass the benefit to local residents,” the spokesperson said.

“Groceries are everyday food and household items that individuals or households regularly purchase for basic sustenance and domestic needs.”

The spokesperson confirmed groceries included fresh and non-perishable food products, beverages, household cleaning supplies, toiletries and other essential goods for daily living.

They said ineligible

goods included alcohol, tobacco, full sugar soft drinks, confectionery, furniture, hardware, fuel, electrical appliances, clothing, whitegoods, furnishings, manchester, bathroom equipment and kitchen utensils.

They said the decision to exclude fuel was intended to pass more benefit on to locals, rather than tourists who frequent the NPA. They said the scheme would be on an opt-in participation basis for retailers.

“Eligibility to the scheme is intended to be open to all retail outlets located in the 17 local government areas in the Northern Peninsula, Torres Strait, and Gulf regions, including grocery store chains and independent stores.”

MEANWHILE Mr Dykes said CEQ was trialling new methods of remote grocery shopping at their new location in Bamaga.

“We are trialling some very interesting things in there like e-market,” he said.

“It’s our first opportunity to introduce online shopping from the store location, where you can access a much bigger range and have it delivered within one week.”

CEQ said the newly expanded store would have a grand opening event on 26 October where more would be revealed.

Gerib Sik dancers at CIAF 2023. Pic supplied.

BLAKtivation on this weekend for CIAF Urban BLAKtivation – postponed due to rain on 1 July – will be held this Saturday from 4.30pm to 8pm on Shields Street (Esplanade to Lake Street) in Cairns.

The new CIAF satellite event was to feature members of Gerib Sik, traditional Torres Strait Islander dancers from Mer Island (in traditional dress), and dancers from contemporary Indigenous dance group, Miriki Performing Arts and Mulungu Aboriginal Corporation.

CIAF’s Artistic Director Francoise Lane said a special highlight of the evening would be the projection of an animated series of artworks from artists at Pormpuraaw Arts and Culture, Lockhart River Arts Indigenous Corporation, Yarrabah Arts and Cultural Precinct, and Yalanji Arts.

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023

Health review to be completed by December STORY AND PIC

BY CARLI WILLIS Four nationally acclaimed Indigenous health practitioners will lead investigations on a long-awaited review into the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS).

The announcement came months after local Mayors and leaders in the region called on the state government to address “declining health” and deaths at “unprecedented rates”.

Queensland Health Minister Shannon

Fentiman said the review had begun in August and would be completed by December.

She said the investigators were Professor Cindy Shannon AM, Dr Sean Taylor, Dr Mark Wenitong and Associate Professor Carmen Parter.

“I’m really confident these individuals, and the terms of reference that we have consulted extensively on, will provide the powers necessary to investigate concerns that have been raised about health services in the region,” she said

Ms Fentiman said the review would be overseen by a task force of community-elected representatives, community members, Traditional Owners and healthcare workers.

She said the review would focus on health outcomes such as life expectancy, chronic disease, preventable hospitalisations and social and emotional wellbeing.

“They will also look at patient transfers, patient experience and get to the heart of whether or not the health services we’re providing in this very remote part

of Queensland are appropriate for the population,” she said.

“I think it’s really critical we are providing health care services that are culturally appropriate, and that’s a real commitment of mine.”

Ms Fentiman said as the region depended on patient transfers to larger centres, investigators would also have powers to look into the hospitals patients were transferred

to, if necessary.

She said there was also a process underway to increase Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal representation on the TCHHS board as well as staff.

“We’ve just recruited for a new chief executive, so there will be some fresh faces on the board and in the leadership team very soon,” she said.

Kaziw Meta wins national excellence award Torres Strait Kaziw Meta has won the 2023 Excellence in Indigenous Education Award from the Australian Boarding Schools Association (ABSA).

Torres Strait Kaziw Meta chief executive Thomas Dunsmore said previous winners included St Margaret’s Anglican Girls’ School in Brisbane.

He said it was “heartening” to see the Torres Strait Kaziw Meta boarding program acknowledged globally through the ABSA. “The cultural fabric and the pride inherent in TSKM is what sets our boarding program apart,” he said. “One of the highlights is the Kaziw Meta dance team, borne out of the significance of

GTCC Galleries will be closed to the public

for the Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award 2023 event however the shop remains open.

Thomas Dunsmore (CEO, TSKM), Roy Auda (House Parent, TSKM), Ruth Kepa (House Parent, TSKM) & Richard Stokes (CEO, Australian Boarding Schools Association) with the award. Pic supplied. cultural exchange.

“It’s led by local Torres Strait island staff – Uncle Roy Auda, Aunty Ruth Kepa, Uncle Dyral Lui and Uncle Frank Morseu and

the boarders, who are engaged in sharing and learning dances from their islands.

“This tradition has been nurtured over a long period, so having

the program recognised in such a manner is a great outcome.”

Thomas said they had strived to provide a boarding experience that instilled a lifelong

appreciation for culture by encompassing a wide range of initiatives and partnerships aimed at fostering cultural connection, preserving Torres Strait Island traditions, and supporting the holistic development of their Indigenous boarding students.

Media and arts come to Waiben festival First Nations media practitioners and representatives from around Australia have converged on Waiben for the biennial Gathering Voices Media & Arts Festival this week.

Activities and events to date have included a workshop offered by the Australian Film Television Radio School and dance workshops with the Pryce Centre for Culture and Arts.

A Youth Arts Day tomorrow includes a journalism workshop with the Koori Mail; setting up a newsroom with Batchelor College, and industry support and mentoring.

On Saturday celebrations turn to contemporary Ailan culture and the talents of locally, nationally and internationally celebrated Torres Strait Islander

GALLERIES CLOSED 21 October 2023 to 2 November 2023

GALLERIES REOPEN to the public on 3 November 2023

Musician Getano Bann mentors student Daniella Williams in the TSIMA studios. practitioners, who have come home to share their skills and experience in a variety of artistic forms.

The Festival closes with an

open concert at Anzac Park on Saturday night featuring Christine Anu, Kee’ahn, Northern Xposure and Debe Duo and many more.

For more information see the Gathering Voices Festival advertisement on PAGE 9 N

Image Credit: Women’s Business (2023), Flora Warria.

Photography by George Serras.

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04 2023 REFERENDUM

THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Zenadth Kes turns out ‘Yes’ majority in referendum

BY CARLI WILLIS Against the national tide, remote First Nations communities across Queensland returned a resounding ‘Yes’ majority in the count for the national referendum last weekend.

Waiben and Kiriri islands saw an overall 70 per cent ‘Yes’ vote, while Bamaga voted 74 per cent in favour, as did most Cape York and other predominently Indigenous communities nationally.

However in a blow for locals, the results for Queensland revealed the lowest support for ‘Yes’ in the country, with only 31.1% of voters overall backing the Constitution/ Voice proposal.

Elder Uncle Frank Bungee Cook said it was daunting to have millions of nonIndigenous Australians voting on the Indigenous Voice.

“I shed a few tears when the ‘no’ vote came through, and it came through so fast according to the television coverage,” he said.

Mr Cook said it hurt to see First Nations people leading the ‘No’ campaign, but he

Yes23! lead Campaigner Perina Drummond with Joseph Passi and Jnr. respected the nation’s decision.

‘Yes’ campaigners who led the charge have requested a week of silence to mourn the defeated campaign.

“Dwelling won’t take me nowhere,” Mr Cook said.

“When I dwell on it, it hurts me, of the treatment of my fathers, my forefathers, and my ancestors.”

He said the result would not stop him from advocating for his community.

“I still have my voice, I still can go and advocate for my people to get better outcomes in accommodation, education, employment, and all the other things

that all Australia take for granted,” he said.

Now, he said it was time for the nation’s leaders to pick up the fight.

“It doesn’t change the fact that we still need services, we just need to close the gap, we need to address the incarceration rate, we need to address the employment rate, we need to address the health status,” he said.

“These changes still need to happen.”

University of Queensland School of Political Science and International Studies political scientist Dr Josephine Bourne said she believed governments of the day should act on the results.

“I think this actually compels them to continue even to work harder to have a better relationship with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” she said.

“There will be a lot of disappointment across Australia, in every community, Indigenous and non-Indigenous,” she said.

“So I think there’s a big healing process that will start now for nonIndigenous Australia.”

She said communities would continue the work they’d always done and continue to build the generations of tomorrow.

Shenequah Mau and Wellington Bon – both in their early 20s – voted

Uncle Frank Cook. Pics by Carli Willis.

‘Yes’ and said they wanted mainstream Australia to listen to their community’s needs.

Mr Bon said he was passionate about embedding traditional learning into education curriculums.

“In the past, our ancient learning system has been successful and I think it’s important that we implement it today in Indigenous communities for our children and for our youth,” he said.

Murray Island man Joseph Passi was a ‘No’ voter, and said he felt governments needed to build a better connection with remote communities first.

“They want to make this change, but [they

need to] look into all the remote communities,” he said.

He said there were dozens of government departments already based on Thursday Island that should be a voice for his community.

“A decision won’t change anything if it comes from the top – things must start from the roots up,” he said.

Waiben resident Anisa Kajee Fitch, who grew up in South Africa, said she was proud to vote ‘Yes’.

“I just became a citizen in June, so it’s a really special vote I think,” she said.

She said witnessing apartheid and racial segregation first hand

in her home town, she felt the ‘Voice’ was an important step towards reconciliation for Australia.

“We had the First Nations people of South Africa actually disadvantaged in many, many, many ways, and it just makes your heart really sore,” she said.

“It’s really important that everyone gets recognised the way that they should be and it’s a monumental vote.”

Lead Yes23!

Campaigner Perina Drummond, who worked for Aunty Pat Anderson in 2015, said she had been advocating for the referendum ever since.

She said the full impact of the result hadn’t quite sunk in – that not one state voted in the constitutional change – but she said she was proud Zenadth Kes communities had voted in favour.

“It will be interesting, as we go forward, to analyse this and the votes and the counts all across the country, to really understand what that means,” she said.

“We do understand that we need change and deep change within the system.”

Continued P5 N

‘Maintain hope’ for progress – call from national leaders Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney said the result on Referendum night was not what they had hoped for.

“We, of course, accept the decision of the Australian people,” she said.

She said she was proud of the tens of thousands of ‘yes’ voters “who worked so hard for recognition”.

“Achieving progress is never easy,” she said.

“Progress doesn’t always move in a straight line.

“There are breakthroughs

– and there are heartbreaks.

“But I am confident, that because of this campaign, and the millions of conversations it sparked, that a new generation of Indigenous leaders will emerge.”

Prime Minister Anthony

Albanese said he respected the decision of the Australian people.

“Just as the Uluru Statement from the Heart was an invitation extended with humility, grace and optimism for the future, tonight we must meet this

result with the same grace and humility,” he said.

“And tomorrow, we must seek a new way forward with the same optimism.”

He said the vote did not define Australians.

“We are not Yes voters or No voters,” he said.

“We are all Australians.

“And it is as Australians, together, that we must take our country beyond this debate without forgetting why we had it in the first place.

Continued P5 N

2023 REFERENDUM 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023 M Continued from P4 Ms Drummond urged people to take care of themselves and to seek help if they needed to, but to get back up when they were ready.

“Like every other time, we’ve definitely got back up again, we’ve adapted, we’ve changed and we’ve moved forward as a community and as a nation,” she said.

Local MP Cynthia Lui said the results in remote communities spoke volumes.

She extended a heartfelt offer to community members wanting to discuss the results of the campaign to reach out to her office directly.

“I just want to again reiterate and give reassurance for community that my job is not done because the referendum went a different way,” she said.

If you, or someone you know, are feeling worried or no good, we encourage you to connect with 13YARN on 13 92 76 (24 hours/7 days) and talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter.

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Ivy Trevallion & Surinder Ahboo. Pics Carli Willis.

AEC Supervisor Marie Laifoo.

Ramsey Ado & Amey Ado. Perina’s crew.

Pic by Perina Drummond.

Ellie Jackes, Jaylan Bin Tahal, Darcy Leighton Erin Sinclair.

Annabelle Orr & Kylie Orr. Ryan Fitch & Anisa Kajee-Fitch.

M Continued from P4 “Because too often in the life of our nation and in the political conversation, the disadvantage confronting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people has been relegated to the margins.

“This referendum and my Government has put it right at the centre.”

He said change had happened, regardless of the

result, and it was not the end of reconciliation or the road ahead.

“Constitutional change may not have happened tonight but change has happened in our great nation,” he said.

“Respect and recognition is given at events.

“The fullness of our history has begun to be told.

“Maintain your hope and

More pics on P6 N

Wellington Bon. know that you are loved…

“The issues we sought to address have not gone away, and neither have the people of goodwill and good heart who want to address them.”

Yes23 campaign director Dean Parkin thanked those who had backed them.

“Together we’ve shown the enormous progress that’s been made, but the result reveals the long road we

have left to travel,” he said.

“For Indigenous people, these past few months told a painfully familiar story – one of hope and heartbreak, but also of love and community.”

He said the movement they had built should not be wasted.

“While this result is undoubtedly difficult to face, the powerful movement that

we’ve built over these past few months won’t just go away,” he said.

“Over the past few months, 60,000 volunteers have formed action groups in communities across Australia.

“This should leave us with some hope for achieving a better future, one day.”

He said it was not a time

to lose hope.

“Take this time to heal and to reflect on all that we have achieved together – and, when you can, find a way to re-commit to the change we want to see in this country,” he said.

“This was never going to be the last campaign for recognition and justice – it’s yet another chapter in the story of our struggle.”

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THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

M Pics continued from P5

Inside TI’s voting centre.

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Townsville’s ‘no’ to Palm’s ‘yes’ STORY AND PIC

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Townsville, which sits in the Federal seat of Herbert, voted ‘No’ to the Voice to Parliament with a majority of 75.23 per cent.

Despite the result, Townsville for Yes campaign coordinator Ben Gertz said he was proud of the work put in over the last three months, particularly the results from Palm Island, where Bwgcolman people voted 75 per cent ‘yes’ – in favour of change.

“Although the rest of country voted against the Voice, you start to see some results come through that show that communities absolutely overwhelmingly supported it,” Mr Gertz said.

The Australian Electoral Commission reported a high number of enrolments for young

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Dr Janine Gertz with her nephew Ben Gertz (Townsville for Yes) at the campaign headquarters awaiting results.

Indigenous voters.

Mr Gertz said it was important as an issue that directly affected the community.

At one of the Townsville polling booths, Rikisha Phineasa, handed out pamphlets for the ‘Yes’ campaign and said most, but not all people were civil.

She said most, whether they were a ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ supporters, would acknowledge them and politely decline any pamphlets.

“Unfortunately, we did have a few incidents of people shouting white power at us,” she said.

“Nazi salutes and had one comment about my skin colour.”

‘Yes’ campaign volunteer Max Lenoy said it was disheartening to see people react so negatively to the referendum.

“I’m aware that there

are certain issues just in Townsville such as youth crime, unemployment, different things that have impacted the relationship between Townsville community and its indigenous peoples,” he said.

“But I was doing it for my family, doing it for my children, I stood in the hot sun because I knew that’s a place I wanted to be, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

“So we will keep fighting and we’ve been fighting you know for the last 230 years, so we’ll just continue to do that.

“It’s the positive I’m taking from it; the mateship and camaraderie as well.

“I think everyone should hold their head high for what we’ve been able to achieve.”

Mr Lenoy said he was interested to see what the future held regarding a Treaty.

“Because of the Uluru Statement, that’s about Voice, Treaty, Truth, and most states and territory are embarking on a Treaty process,” he said.

Another ‘Yes’ supporter who was involved with the polling booths, Helen McDonald, felt there was “buckley’s chance” of a Treaty.

“From some of the comments that I heard, I don’t think truth telling is going to work because I don’t think people care enough,” she said.

“I think it’s just so sad and disappointing, I feel really bad for all those people who have put their heart and soul into this.”

However, there were some positives for the ‘Yes’ campaigners.

Mr Gertz said he felt there were new, younger Indigenous voices coming through from all different corners of the country.

“They’re ready to make sure they have their voice heard,” he said.

Mr Lenoy urged anyone who was feeling particularly sad or disappointed with the outcome to seek support, especially Elders.

“We need to go back to protecting ourselves,” he said.

“You know, stay safe, stay connected with your mob and listen to your Elders.

“Make sure you have a cup of tea with the Elders soon, yeah, just to make sure they’re good.”

NEWS 07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023

Pawa for change in the hands of our youth Newly launched Ailan Pawa workshops, held with Ailan Ambassadors from most Torres Strait communities, were now a key pillar to the Our Islands Our Home campaign, Community Organiser and Digital Storyteller Waniki Maluwapi (Gibuma-Marr) says.

“The Ailan Pawa program is grounded in building peer-networks and supporting young people to develop the skills needed to become climate leaders in their communities,” she said.

“The program is a culturally safe space where young Torres Strait Islanders, also known as ‘Ailan Ambassadors’, are resourced to become leaders in the climate movement by building their skills in climate justice, community organising and storytelling for impact.

“It is the first youth climate program of its kind.”

She said there were Ailan Ambassadors from Warraber, Poruma, Erub, Boigu, Saibai, Masig, Mabuiag, Badu, Ugar, Iama, Meanjin (Brisbane) and Gimuy (Cairns).

“We hope to engage more young people from the entire region in the future,” she said.

Ailan Ambassadors with Senator Penny Allman-Payne, Councillor Francis Pearson & Torres Strait 8 Claimants; Ted Billy, Kabay Tamu & Daniel Billy at the Ailan Pawa Youth Summit on Masig earlier this month. Pics by Karl Bouro.

“Through engagement with the Ailan Pawa program participants will lead in developing actions, and participate in political advocacy designed to shift the Federal Government to allocate the significant additional funding needed for seawalls in the Torres Strait.”

Saibai Ailan Ambassador

Ethel Jackonia said she was keen to get more youths involved. “[I want to] teach our young generation about what’s the real cause behind climate change and what we can do to stop it from happening,” she said. “[I also want to] encourage young people to step up

because it’s time for us to fight for our communities.

“Our elders have done their part, and now it’s time for us to fight for our island homes.

“I’m hoping to get more youths involved from across the region, and help voice our concerns to the Australian government about how

climate change is affecting our island homes.”

Masig Ailan Ambassador Josiah Mosby said he was also keen to take information back to his community.

“I hope to use these newly attained skills to bring more attention to my community and break it down to work with my community,” he said.

Ugar/Badu Ailan Ambassador Buddie Baria said he was keen to talk about Ailan Pawa in his communities.

“And encourage them that we should stand together for our island homes in this climate change issue,” he said.

“I want to give back to them the tools I have gained from [attending] the Ailan Pawa Summit and hopefully one day run my own workshops in the community.

“I hope we can have more workshops in the meantime so it empowers us, and especially young people of this Zenadth Kes nation, to be part of this movement and help make noise in this world about our home.

“This I believe will be the trumpet that is yet to be heard from our country and across the world.”

Ailan Ambassadors: Buddie Baria, Ethel Jackson & Josiah Mosby

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08 NEWS

THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Fiji celebrates special day

BY FLORA WARRIA Torres Strait Islanders, families and friends celebrated Fiji Independence Day with our local Fijian community on Waiben last week.

Fiji became an independent sovereign state when its colonial status was removed on 10 October 1970.

A Kava ceremony held between the Fiji nation and the Kaurareg nation honoured each other, showing their gratitude and respect.

The celebration was followed by a feast of Fiji Lovo (Amai / Kapmauri) and Ailan

‘LLaise Tonga.

Goeyga Pudhai Dance Troupe performing for the tourists .

Cruise ship tourists welcomed

kai kai, followed by a special dance item from our Tongan family on Waiben.

Fiji, Tonga and

Torres Strait Island culture united in a perfect harmony and unison marking an enjoyable night for all.

Bala Rendy doing a thank you speech on behalf of the small Fiji community here on Waiben. Pics supplied.

Kava ceremony.

Sixty tourists from on board the Coral Discoverer stopped over at Badu Island on Monday this week, before making their way to Waiben.

The ship was on its way across the northern coastline of Australia from Darwin to Cairns on a 12-day journey.

The travellers, from across Australia and overseas, enjoyed cultural performances by the Goeyga Pudhai Dance Troupe, the best of art and crafts creations at the Badu Art Centre, and mingling with the locals.

“This is a very cultural tour that is a good chance for these older Aussies who wanted to meet the Indigenous people from the communities of the north,” Coral Expeditions guest lecturer Ian Morris OAM said.

“Often it is their last chance, so it’s very important to them.”

Goyma Gondarra from Galiwin’ku, Elcho Island, Northern Territory was a guest lecturer and cultural spokesman

representing Northeast Arnhem Land on the tour.

He said he took over the mantle from his grandfather, who was a cultural spokesman and mentor to Mr Morris, who has served the Coral Expeditions for over 20 years as guest lecturer.

Mr Morris also helped to set up the Kakadu National Park in the late 1970s, worked on documentaries with David Attenborough and the ABC Natural Film Unit, BBC, National Geographic, and Discovery Channels. As an expert of nature, plants, birds, animals and strong relational connection to the Galiwin’ku people, he now runs a school in Darwin teaching Indigenous children about bush life and caring for country.

“The cycads of Badu Island are unique and cannot be found anywhere else in Australia,” Mr Morris said.

“Coming to Badu Island is an even bigger bonus.

“I know it can be complicated for community to have a large group of white people running around, so we do appreciate being

allowed to come and see the community and enjoy the cultural aspects.”

Badu resident and Arts Worker/Artist Matilda Nona said she supported tourist visits to community because they were well-controlled.

“It is important for community that tourism is managed well to protect our environment and handled respectfully and in cultural sensitive ways,” Matilda said.

Redcliffe couple David and Ann Hanger boarded the expedition to experience more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture after their tour of the Kimberleys last year.

“We thought the art theme tours would help us to understand a little bit of the culture and the arts of the Kimberleys, Arnhem Land people and Torres Strait Islanders,” Ann said.

“All my working life I never met any Aboriginal people and this is a great opportunity to meet some, and to learn more about them because they are our First Nations people.”

Coral Expeditions team: Maddie Hunt, Goyma Gondarra, Ian Morris OAM & David Keech.

Badu Island elder & dance troupe member Aunt Lassika Eseli teaching tourist Wendy Dennis to beat the Marap tram.

A productive sales day at Badu Art Centre.

STORY AND PICS

BY JILLIAN BOWIE

A TORRES NEWS LIFTOUT INFORMATION FEATURE

EDUCATION “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Nelson Mandela.

To advertise in our Education feature on Thursday 9 November issue please email ads@torres.news or call 0419 828 639

09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023

Friday, 20 October

Thursday, 19 October

Festival Program

Community Workshop Program (Pre-Festival)

AFTRS Film Workshop Port Kennedy Association Hall

Music Support & Mentoring

9:30am – 12:30pm

Getano Bann will host 1:1 support and mentoring for musicians and songwriters pre-festival.

Facilitator: Cornel Ozies Who: Community (limited places)

Getano returns to the Torres Strait to continue to support and mentor Torres Strait based songwriters and musicians to create, develop and songs that express our people and culture.

Dance Workshop with Pryce Centre for Culture and Arts TRAWQ Community Hall

3:30pm 5:30pm

Facilitator: Cleo & Rita Pryce Who: Young people (12-26yrs)

Koori Mail Journalism Workshop TSIMA Office

12pm - 2pm 6pm - 8pm

A trained music therapist Getano has previously worked with local musicians, Black Paradise, Frank David and Daniella Willams.

TSIMA Office Who: Musicians and songwriters

Who: Aspiring writers and journalists

(registrations required)

9:30am - 12:30pm

Festival Newsroom Makem Music Contemporary Dance Songwriting

• • • •

Arts & Culture Mabu Mabu Salty Monkeys Graffiti Lane

Youth Arts Concert featuring Kee’ahn and Zenadth Kes Youth Choir ANZAC Park

12:30pm - 1:30pm

Artist Networking Event & TSIMA Logo Launch

REGISTER AS A LOCAL ARTIST

Bach Beach 5:30pm - 6:30pm Who: Artists of all genres (by invitation)

ANZAC Park

Festival Program

Inspiring Voices Concert

6pm – 10pm

Featuring films made by Torres Strait Islander Creatives and Torres Strait premiere Screening of Katele by John Harvey, winner of the Best Short-Documentary Film in Australia.

ANZAC Park 6pm – 10pm

Port Kennedy Association Hall 10am - 12pm Featuring a panel of media experts; AFTRS, NFSA, Koori Mail, Batchelor College and hosted by TSIMA

INSPIRING VOICES CONCERT

Headline Act: Christine Anu Kee’ahn, Airileke Ingram with Melanesian performers; Sorong Samarai, Sprigga Mek, Jugu, and of course our local acts Northern Xposure, Joey Tapau, Daniella Williams, Jack Bani and Debe Duo.

The Taste of Mabu Mabu Bowls Club 12pm -2pm

• • • •

ANZAC Park

Zenadth Kes Film Festival

Saturday, 21 October Media Industry Forum

Rotating Media Workshops

BOOK TO JOIN Cost: $80pp

Torres Strait Islander Chef from SBS “The Cook Up”, will showcase our local ingredients

Saturday 21, October

ANZAC Park

Arileke Ingram

Kee’ahn

Christine Anu

Joey Tapau

6-10pm

& Melanesian Performers

Daniella Williams

Jack Bani

For more information, please contact TSIMA on 4069 1524 or 0497 618 738

Northern Xposure

Debe Duo

Dread Sound

Please contact Anthea to register for Pre-Festival Community Workshops via projects@tsima4mw.org.au For more information about the festival, please contact Lorem ipsum TSIMA on 4069 1524 or 0497 618 738

The Gathering Voices Festival is brought to you by TSIMA, with the support of:

Dread Sound

10 NEWS Torres News team doubles with new writers on staff TSIMA and Torres News is very excited to introduce our new Waiben-based team to our Ailan community.

TSIMA CEO and Torres News editor Diat Alferink said the changes were already evident on each page.

“We are now in a much better position to offer local content on local issues that affect us all,” she said.

“Our staffing resources have now doubled on the ground, and our core team has grown from three to six.

“We’re very happy to welcome Yamaji man and Koori Mail Sports

editor Darren Moncrieff on board as our News Director.

“Carli Willis, who has Mua connections, has come to us from the ABC in Longreach, and has already had a big impact on our local content, so we’re excited to have her here.

“And to complete our team, we have newly appointed cadet Flora Warria, also from Mua, who is keen to expand her media skills to include writing and reporting with cultural perspectives, knowledge and understanding.

“Welcome to you all, and Koeyma Eso for joining our team.”

TN0461 • 09/02/23

THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023 TORRES NEWS DARREN was born in Boorloo (Perth) but grew up with his extended family in Kuwinyardu (Carnarvon) in the north-west of Western Australia.

He has lived in the Kimberleys, WA, the Northern Territory and northern New South Wales.

“I’ve had a variety of jobs over the years,” he said.

He said they included school cleaning, greenkeeping, labouring, dairy farming, mechanics and other mediarelated work in print and radio.

“I don’t mind physical labour at all and loved my outdoor jobs,” he said.

“I enjoy media because

it means our people have representation and voice in a medium that dominates 21st Century life.

“Who better to speak to our people than our people themselves with lived and

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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

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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.

W Ϭϳ ϰϬϲϵ ϭϱϴϲ

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

shared experiences?

“That’s mostly what I love about this work.

“I want to bring my skills to youpla newspaper, with new language and ways I’m learning along the way.

“Hopefully, the $2 our countrymen spend for each edition is money well spent and worth the read – that what is in there is original content that informs our people and the wider community as seen through the lens of Blak perspective, and that nyooja (non-Indigenous people) can also take away a better understanding with those perspectives.”

CARLI was born in Gimuy (Cairns) where she grew up to love nature, swimming and camping.

“I grew up in a multicultural family with Torres Strait Islander connections to Mua, Scottish, Irish and English heritage,” she said.

She said she worked in the arts for many years, running music gigs, in communications and at Bumma Bippera Media.

“Before moving to Waiben, I had been living and working on stunning Iningai Country at Longreach with the national broadcaster ABC as a multi-platform reporter,” she said.

She said she was grateful to have the opportunity to live on Waiben and work for TSIMA and Torres News.

“I have a lot to

learn and am grateful to everyone who has connected, given advice and made me feel welcome so far,” she said.

“I’m excited to learn about the importance of my own heritage here in the Torres Strait, in particular that of Mua Island.

“Applying skills I have in multiplatform reporting and professionalism in sensitively reporting from small communities, I hope to help elevate the voices from these regions to a national audience.”

FLORA was born on Waiben and was raised in Kubin Village on Mua Island, and by her two adopted families on Badu Island and St Paul’s on Mua. “I am of Torres Strait (Mer, Moa), Kaurareg, Aboriginal, Melanesian, and Polynesian descent,” she said.

“I come from the Wug clan of the Mualgal tribe of Moa Island.

“My blood lineage and heritage also connect me back to Waiben (Thursday Island), Kiriri (Hammond Island), Muralag (Prince of Wales Island) both on my father’s side.

“My mother’s side is from Mer Island (Dauareb tribe).”

Flora’s first job was as a community nurse, or healthworker, in her own community before she had a

start in journalism and broadcasting for TSIMA back in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

She left the workforce shortly after to raise her family and said she was happy to be back in media after such a long absence.

“What I hope to bring to the Torres News is stories that will capture the reader’s attention and their imaginations at a grassroots level with cultural perspectives, knowledge and understanding,” she said.

COMMUNITY NEWS 11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023

Broncos three-try star, Ezra, a big hit at home Brisbane Broncos flyer Ezra Mam drew a decent crowd of family, fans and well-wishers at a visit to Ken Brown Oval last week.

The three-try star of the Broncos’

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

pic 1

NRL grand final side was back with family on the islands after a hectic season that saw his team come agonisingly close to premiership glory.

Ezra brought Broncos staffers

with him and made a handful of public appearances before retreating for a well-deserved break from the public’s gaze with Mum, Tomasina Ahwang, on Hammond Island.

One of his appearances was at

Ailan Life 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 Joy Pham has submitted three pics, which she took at various locations on Thursday Island. Joy has told the story about each pic.

PIC 1: After a few rains, the lawn is covered with

the TSIMA studios where he joined broadcaster Sylvia Tabua in the studio.

Another was at the Bowls Club for traditional kai kai, music and dance.

BELOW LEFT: Ezra Mam

attracted a decent crowd at Ken Brown Oval last week.

BELOW RIGHT: Family and friends joined the NRL star.

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!

a green colour. The dawn sunlight shines through the houses on Thursday Island, bringing fresh energy to people.

PIC 2: The scenery looks like a painting as

the sun slowly sets behind the mountain and the late afternoon sun throws a shadow across the water.

PIC 3: Best friends: man and a dog.

They walk together in

front of the beach creates an image of peace of mind, beauty and freedom.

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

pic 2

pic 3

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.

12

HOW YOU CAN HELP FAMILIES IN NEED

CLASSIFIEDS

Buai Mudh Thursday Island Neighbourhood and Community Centre

ADVERTISING

M: 0419 828 639 E: ads@torres.news

Lot 27 Langie-Draha Street, New Mapoon Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) is seeking Expressions of Interest from any interested businesses, organisations or individuals who would be in interested in leasing the following block of land and building.

Mura Kosker is accepting donations of:

Clothes Non-perishables Dry goods Toiletries Diaper and wipes Toys

156 Douglas Street (next to Meriba Mudh) For more information, please contact: Lazariah Nona Buai Mudh Community Centre Coordinator 07 4069 1663 (“Press 2” for Buai Mudh) tincc@murakosker.org.au

For Sale by Public Tender:

Lot Details: Lot 27 on SP279528 Address: 5 Langie Draha Street, New Mapoon Qld 4876 For more information on the Expression of Interest including how to obtain a copy of the relevant forms or arrange an inspection, interested parties should contact Shannay Gebadi on 0439 198 633 or shannay.gebadi@nparc.qld.gov.au Expressions of Interest close 3rd November 2023.

2012 Suzuki DF140 Outboard Motor • • • • •

Approximately 1250 engine hours Professionally removed from 6m aluminium boat Includes prop, control box, gauges and cables Engine sold ‘as is’ with no warranty or guarantees No reserve price (highest bid will be successful)

Offers to be submitted in a sealed envelope to the DFAT Torres Strait Treaty Liaison Office, Commonwealth Building, by 5pm Wednesday 25 October.

TN0663 19/10/23 AdsIN E Excel E Dummy E For further details contact Andrew Berryman on 10x3 colour ad @ $6.50incl. locals rate $195incl [$177.27ex]

0427 691 &495 or DEADLINE andrew.berryman@dfat.gov.au BOOKING CONFIRM PROOF 4PM Mon. 16/10, PO 12 noon Tue. 17/10

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News 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.

PUBLISHERS

EDITORIAL

TORRES NEWS PTY LTD Diat Alferink – Chief Executive Officer E editor@torres.news 69 Douglas Street, Thursday Island Q 4875

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF – DIAT ALFERINK E editor@torres.news

ADVERTISING

NEWS DIRECTOR DARREN MONCRIEFF M 0431 148 881 • E darren@torres.news

ADVERTISING & PRODUCTION MANAGER – SHARON GALLERY M 0419 828 639 • E ads@torres.news

NEWS & CHIEF SUB EDITOR CHRISTINE HOWES M 0419 656 277 • E christine@torres.news

ADVERTISING DEADLINES

TSIMA JOURNALIST – CARLI WILLIS M 0415 705 160 • E carli@tsima4mw.org.au

Ad bookings 12 NOON TUESDAYS Ad copy (ad to be set) 12 NOON TUESDAYS Supplied Ad material 2PM TUESDAYS Classifieds 3PM TUESDAYS Published every Thursday. Circulation 1010.

Readership average: Print readership 4040 + online subscriptions + 8.1k followers on our @ TSIMAtorresnews Facebook page

TSIMA CORRESPONDENTS Jen Enosa and Sylvia Tabua.

NEWS & PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS Kantesha Takai, Jillian Bowie, Talei Elu, Shanella Majid, Bel Lui, Alf Wilson and Velma Gara.

NEWS & PHOTOS DEADLINE All news, sports and photo contributions 5PM MONDAYS

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023

@TSIMAtorresnews

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

Open 9am to 4:30pm Lunch time closure 12:30pm to 1:30pm

Torres News

DONATION DRIVE

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST Lot 44 Langie Draha Street, New Mapoon (Old Laundromat) Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) is seeking Expressions of Interest from any interested businesses, organisations or individuals who would be in interested in leasing the following block of land and building.

Lot Details: Lot 44 on SP273365 Address: 7 Langie Draha Street, New Mapoon Qld 4876 For more information on the Expression of Interest including how to obtain a copy of the relevant forms or arrange an inspection, interested parties should contact Shannay Gebadi on 0439 198 633 or shannay.gebadi@nparc.qld.gov.au Expressions of Interest close 3rd November 2023.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 24 Hour Service for DV CONNECT Ph: 1800 811 811 Lena Passi Women's Shelter ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

NPA WOMENS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HELP 24 hr Crisis Shelter – Ph: 4212 2200

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Head online and get your copy issuu.com/store/publishers/ tsimatorresnews/subscribe

TN0030 20x1 2/2/23 Published every ThursdAy Available at various outlets in the Torres Strait & NPA and also at these newsagencies and stores CAIRNS • Tobacco Stop Woree (formerly Bayview Gardens Newsagency) – Southside Shopping Village, Woree • Earlville Newsagency – Stockland Cairns Shopping Centre, Earlville • Enmore News – 5 Reservoir Road, Manoora • Marketplace Newsagency – 2/96 McLaughlan Road, Bentley Park • NewsXpressCairns Central – Cairns Central Shopping Centre, 126 McLeod St • Railway Newsagency – 48 McLeod St, Cairns • Raintrees Newsagency – Raintrees Shopping Centre Alfred Street, Manunda MOSSMAN • News Extra Mossman – 35 Front Street PAlM ISlANd • ABIS Palm Island – Bwgcolman Supermarket, 67 Beach Road TOWNSVIllE • Mooney Street News – 72-86 Mooney Street, Gulliver • NewsXpress Garbutt Central – 1/221 Ingham Road, Garbutt • NewsXpress Sun City – 307 Flinders Mall MACKAY • Moores Newspower – 332 Shakespeare Street

SPORT 13

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023

Australian Jillaroo Libby honoured The Torres Straits’ new favourite team, the Australian Jillaroos have honoured Libby CookBlack at a special presentation ceremony last week.

Jillaroo number 137, Libby played one Test for the Australian team, and that was against New Zealand in 2016.

She was among several Torres Strait Islander women to have played for the Jillaroos and for the Indigenous All-Stars.

The presentation was held in Townsville last week, as Libby’s rightful place in Australian rugby league history was unveiled.

The entire Jillaroos team, coaching and other support staff spent three days in the Torres Straits last week ahead of the 13-nation (men’s and women’s) Pacific Championships series to be played out in Australia, PNG and New Zealand between now and 5 November.

Libby Cook-Black was a happy woman at the Jillaroos presentation. Pic supplied.

Pacific comp boost for Townsville fans and has been an absolute adrenalin rush.

“We love the ‘Hammer’ but also barrack for the Brisbane Broncos and like Selwyn Cobbo and Patrick Carrigan.”

Kuntha said he was a proud Badu Islander and loved rugby league.

The Kangaroos take on New Zealand in Melbourne in week three of the Pacific Championships.

Toa Samoa head to Eden Park in Auckland in week two for a clash with New Zealand.

BY ALF WILSON It was an adrenalin rush and an awesome all-round feeling for mum Donna Savage to meet Australian rugby league player Hamiso ‘The Hammer’ Tabuai-Fidow before he starred in the Kangaroos’ 38-12 win over Toa Samoa in Townsville on Saturday.

The Pacific Championships clash at Townsville Stadium was a double-header in which the Australian women, the Jillaroos played the Kiwi Ferns earlier in the day.

The Hammer scored tries at the 39th and 54th minutes in the game, proving he was a genuine international quality footballer.

His first four-pointer, a minute before half-time, was described as a “super Test try”.

In his Test debut, after playing 70 NRL matches for the Cowboys and Dolphins, Tabuai-Fidow gleefully caught a pass and ran 80 metres to score after dodging several defenders on his long run.

Donna, her partner Kuntha Guligo and children Delphine, Hezekiah and Annie were very

Jillaroos roll the Ferns

Rugby league star Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow with family members from the Torres Strait including Donna Savage, Kuntha Guligo & children Delphine (9), Hezekiah (6) & Annie (2). Pic supplied. happy to have met him before the game.

“We arrived here at 3pm and we were hoping to get pics with him and Patrick

Carrigan, Kotoni Staggs and Selwyn Cobbo who are with the Brisbane Broncos, who we barrack for,” Donna said.

“This has been so awesome

A visit to Waiben proved an ideal tonic for the Australian Jillaroos who defeated the Kiwi Ferns 16-10 in Saturday’s Pacific Championships opener at Townsville Stadium.

The entire Jillaroos squad spent several days on Ngurupai-Horn island and Waiben earlier in the week.

They defeated their arch rivals in an entertaining match.

The Jillaroos scored three tries to two and led 16-4 at halftime.

Local footy great retires on win

BY DARREN MONCRIEFF Johnny Mosby knew his time on the football field was coming to a rapid finish when he dislocated his shoulder in a game late last year.

He was 47, had never had an injury like it, and felt all he had known since he was a teenager was about to come to an end.

But like all stubborn footballers who wanted one last shot, he got himself right for his beloved Alau Eagles and closed his career on his own terms.

Mosby’s Eagles clinched a dramatic 22-20 win over New Mapoon to take out the 2023 NPA Regional Rugby League title in front of a packed crowd at Yusia Ginau Oval in Bamaga earlier this year.

It was in the aftermath of celebrations with family, friends and teammates that he began to think, “for real” this time.

“Dislocating my shoulder last year was my lowest point,” he said of the injury he copped at last year’s Dan Ropeyarn Carnival

at Bamaga.

“Out of all my years playing, this was my first ever injury my whole life – I’ve been playing since I was 14; the worst-ever injury.

“I saw the writing on the wall. I thought, ‘this will be it’ but I couldn’t just step away from it [the game and Alau].

“I wanted one more year.”

That one more year was season 2023 of the NPARRL. Teams were Mosby’s Eagles, Bamaga Roos, Injinoo Crocs and New Mapoon Warriors, in what would be a high-stakes, intense nine-game, six-week community competition of the toughest footy around – and not that much room for old men.

“I kinda thought about it last year,” Mosby said of retirement.

“This year I was watching footy, just doing my own training, getting my shoulder to full-strength.

“But then the young boys [at the Eagles] asked me to have a run, see how the shoulder went, and I didn’t have

Johnny Mosby and wife Maryanne Mosby at his last game. Pic: supplied. no problems with it.”

New Mapoon had a solid block of games at the back end of the season.

The Warriors ran in 36 points in three consecutive games leading in to the grand final.

Alau had more of a stop-start go of it but got better as the season progressed.

In the two games they played each other, New

Mapoon had the Eagles’ measure.

And in the grand final, the teams could barely be separated.

“That shoulder, in the semis and grand final, I was feeling it,” Mosby said.

“And I kept on getting tightness in my glutes, and my knees and ankles… I was thinking that if we make the grand final, that would be enough for me.”

History showed – Mosby’s final game was Alau winning an epic grand final where the result wasn’t properly known until after several minutes after the siren.

There have been countless football games in between now and when he started as a kid.

“I think the highlight for me would be winning a hat-trick for Alau Eagles at the Dan Ropeyarn Cup in 2001, 2002 and 2003,” Mosby said.

“That same year we won the Bamaga (comp) grand final.

“Then as grand final-winners, we played [grand final winners] Napranum Bulldogs at Weipa and we beat them.

“Then we went TI to

play in the Torres Strait Cup and we won that, the first NPA team win that and I was captain.

“We had a good core of players.

“We kinda changed rugby league within our club where we had incentives that if you turn up to training you get $5, and other incentives if you stayed off the grog and didn’t get in trouble by the police.

“We were the only club to do that, it was good for all our boys, no-one was drinking and everyone stayed off the grog until the end of the season.”

After his NRL and Super League career came to an end, the great Dean Widders has retired and ‘un-retired’ from football for years after – you can’t keep the man away from those Koori Knockouts.

But for Mosby there was to be no such thing.

“That’s it for me,” he said.

“I’m almost 50, I’m 48 now, I just feel the aches and pains in my legs more.

“I reached one goal of winning a grand final, I want to travel now.”

14 SPORT

THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Mer & Masig show their skills

NBA games a win for NBL teams

AFL ROUND UP

BY VELMA GARA

BY AFL CAPE YORK’S KEIRAN SCIBERRAS

Despite being on the receiving end of some heavy losses against NBA teams, Washington Wizards and Toronto Raptors, the Cairns Taipans have gained valuable basketball experience playing against them.

The NBL v NBA games were played in the United States and Canada during the NBA preseason.

On Monday night the Raptors defeated the Taipans, 134-93.

Last Wednesday they lost to the Wizards, 145-82.

The New Zealand Breakers, also in the US, had similar results in both of their games.

They lost to Portland Trail Blazers, 106-66 and were defeated by the

Mer and Masig islands were the most recent stops for the team from AFL Cape York as part of their outer islands programs, which proved to be a big hit with young people there enjoying inschool Aussie rules and after-school Auskick.

On Mer Island AFL Cape York House residents Antonio and Anita were happy to show the kids how it’s done, helping them to learn footy skills and having yarns about what it’s like to live at AFL Cape York House.

For Masig, the action was an enjoyable two-hour after-school football match for students and teachers.

Afterwards, football equipment was presented to the school so the football fun could continue well into the future.

AFL Cape York is looking to have a bigger presence in the outer islands over the next 12 months so regular visits there is a big part of building relationships with community, families, young people

AFL Cape York’s Kieran Sciberras with students from Masig (TOP) and Mer (BOTTOM) who took part in the footy program. Pics supplied. and schools.

This week, the game development team spent time at the NgurupaiHorn Island campus.

The outer islands clinics wouldn’t be possible without the support from Tagai State College and TSYRSA. Under-17 Cape York Torres Strait Crusaders named Twenty-three of Far North Queensland’s most promising female footballers will take to the field this Friday

night, under lights at Cazalys Stadium in Cairns as part of the Crusaders representative program.

Five students from Tagai State College and one student from NPA State College have been named in the representative side to take on Cairns.

The selected students will join teammates from Mount St Bernard College and AFL Cape York House for Girls.

The match will be held as the curtain-raiser

during the AFLW Indigenous Round match in Cairns between Hawthorn and Richmond.

While in Cairns, the students will stay at AFL Cape York House, tour boarding facilities, have a meet-and-greet with professional AFLW players and, of course, watch the AFLW game.

The Tagai and NPA travelling students are proudly supported by the Torres Strait Youth & Recreational Sporting Association.

Assistant Coach Kerry Williams (left) looks on as Taipan forward Bobi Klintman takes on the Washington Wizards.

Pic thanks to Cairns Taipans.

Utah Jazz 124-94 on Tuesday.

The Breakers will play Round 4 against Melbourne

United this coming Sunday.

The Taipans will enjoy a short break before travelling

again to play the Illawarra Hawks in Wollongong on Thursday 26 October for Round 5.

NPA Blazers fire a path to future court-side successes

WORDS & PICS BY WENDY PHINASEA What an awesome last couple of days having our two Blazers basketball teams in the A-Grade & B-Grade men’s divisions at the Wongai Basketball Association’s annual Zenadth Kes Basketball Carnival on Thursday Island earlier this month.

Unfortunately our B-Grade team just missed out on qualifying for the finals and our A-Grade team made it to the semi-finals but was knocked out by seven points.

Both our teams played so well and did us all proud.

On behalf of the Blazers management team – Aaron Tamwoy, Andrew Lui, Edward Newman and myself

– we would like to acknowledge and thank the following organisations and people in appreciation and recognition for their support and assistance to help us make this possible.

First and foremost, appreciation to all our sponsors for their generous community support: Bamaga Enterprise Ltd, Community Enterprise Queensland (IBIS Bamaga), Seisia Enterprise Ltd, Seisia Kiosk, Seisia Fishing Club, Cape York Adventures, Tagai Management Consultants, Roko Pearls, OSE Group Pty Ltd, Timmy’s Coffee, Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council – NPARC, NPA College and Terence and Shirley Yusia.

Our gratitude also goes out to our NPA families and friends for their support in raising funds to help the teams: Ryesa Sebasio and Yosha Sebasio, Deborah Kiwat, Rinah Lui, Tomaseena Jawai and

Wagel Tapau.

Our deadly and awesome A-Grade team, with special mention and big eso to coach Micheal David Elroy Paiwain, was Aaron Tamwoy, Andrew Lui, Johnfieu Sebasio, Neville Bond, Suwani Nona, Simon Taylor, Elijah Kamu, Deshawn Ross-Paiwan and Michael Paiwan (Coach).

Our deadly and awesome B-Grade team was: Alexander Newman, Rusty Williams, Willan Aniba, Neville Bond, Suwani Nona, Solomon WoosupWilliams, Toni Newman, Marsat Newman, Aaron Tamwoy (Coach) and Andrew Lui (Coach).

The Blazers are looking forward to returning bigger and better in 2024.

Finally to all our supporters, families and friends, mina big eso for all your support, faith, encouragement and uplifting messages to our boys.

“To learn to succeed, you must first learn to fail.” – Michael Jordan.

Blazers A-Grade Team.

Blazers B-Grade Team.

SPORT 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023

Grand results for Torres Strait teams at Bindal carnival STORY AND PICS

BY ALF WILSON

M Continued from P16 Passionate fan Clay Sambo said it was Thugerr Warriors’ first attempt at the Bindal Carnival.

“This is the first time we have entered the Townsville carnival and normally we play in the Zenadth Kes Cup on TI which wasn’t on this year,” he said.

“This has been a great victory for Saibai and just look how happy all these people are.”

In the semi-final Thugerr defeated Erub United 18-10.

Erub won their qualifying games and quarter-final matches, and were a red-hot favourite to take out the title before the Warriors got in their way.

Eastern Warriors women triumphant Eastern Warriors also enjoyed their moment in the sun when they defeated Burdekin 24-10 in the women’s final.

Warriors number 9, Jairel Martin-Savage, was named

Player of the Final and supporters celebrated long and hard with the team.

Fantome Hunters win men’s plate final A speedy Fantome Hunters beat Eastern Warriors 26-18 in the final of the men’s plate division, which was contested by the sides who finished 9th-16th at the end of the qualifying rounds.

The Hunters side was formed in the memory of people who were sent to the leper colony on Fantome Island, near Palm Island.

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The Eastern Warriors women celebrate their win at the tournament.

The women’s division grand final between Eastern Warriors & Burdekin Delta Dolphins.

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THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA The men’s division grand final was between Thugerr Warriors & Burdekin Delta Dolphins.

It was tense at the Thugerr Warriors bench during the final.

Clay Sambo showed his delight with the Thugerr Warriors win.

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Erub United represented their community with pride at the tournament.

Gordonvale set for Ailan clashes

BY ALF WILSON Three Torres Strait Island teams will take their place at the Gordonvale Indigenous rugby league carnival this weekend at Alley Park.

Argun Warriors, Mulga United and Paga Panthers will be three of 24 teams in the men’s division at the Gordonvale ground with the ‘Pyramid’ forming a stunning backdrop.

Argun Warriors competed at the recent Mackay carnival where they finished in the top eight before being their

elimination at the quarter-final stage.

The Warriors side was to include players from Badu Island’s Bowie family, working with astute coach Gerald Bowie, who hoped to produce a finely-tuned side which included quality five-eighth Maipele Morseu and veteran centre Tremayne Bowie.

It is understood the side also recruited players from the Burdekin region, Cairns and Townsville.

Gerald said this could well be his final time as coach, which he has done

successfully many times over the past decades.

“I pray we will do well and think we can and I must pay tribute to one of our officials Robyne Bowie who has done a lot of hard work,” Gerald said.

Mulga played well at the Queensland Murri Carnival in Redcliffe, where they reached the semi-finals.

Paga Panthers was a Boigu Island side with players from there and who also lived in Cairns.

The other teams joining them were Black Cockatoos, Garnet Eagles, Tagalaka

Waangu, Wayne Emmanuel Prior Memorial, Dirringhi, Mixed Relations, Pormpuraaw Crocs, Guyu Colts, Naigai Balas, Richard Turner Memorial, Bilngkumu United, Irukanji Stingers, Weipa Raiders, Northern United, Mala Yabbas, Julanda Yeatman Memorial, Koedal United, Harley Richardson Memorial, NQ Warriors, Northern Chiefs and Kila Ngaachi.

Weipa Raiders and Pormpuraaw Crocs from Cape York were expected to field powerful teams and Hope Vale’s Mala Yabbas always had plenty of good players.

“Linking the Cape with the Torres Strait”

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RESERVATIONS ESSENTIAL – TICKET ONLINE www.peddellsferry.com.au • Passengers please pre-ticket – online, agents (or by phone: booking and change of booking fees now apply) Concession fares available, conditions apply OFFICE HOURS MON–FRI, 9am–12noon & 12.30–2.30pm Office closed weekends and PUBLIC HOLIDAYS. 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.

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THURSDAY 19 OCTOBER 2023

First Erub women’s team takes to the field Erub United fielded their first women’s team at the annual Bindal Sharks rugby league tournament last weekend

in Townsville.

Team organisers said the team’s presence marked the beginning of something great.

“Tomorrow, for the first time ever, these ladies will run out and carry the title of the first Erub United women’s team,” they said.

“Some are repping for family, some are repping for their children, some are repping in-laws, but most importantly, we all

are repping Erub’s core value: unity.”

The women came second in their round robin competition for the

TSV University Hospital Women’s Shield, but were defeated in the semi-final by overall runners-up Burdekin Delta Dolphins.

The historic Erub United women’s team that played at the Bindal Sharks tournament in Townsville at the weekend. Pic supplied.

Thugerr Warriors in close grand final win at Bindal A try in the final 30 seconds and a successful conversion after the siren concluded a nervewracking final match at the 37th Bindal Sharks Indigenous Rugby League tournament.

The Saibai Island side, Thugerr Warriors, clinched victory by a single point, defeating the Burdekin Delta Dolphins 20-19.

The thrilling finish was witnessed by a packed house on Sunday at the Townsville Sports Reserve.

The Warriors were trailing 19-14 as the game entered its final minute, when secondrower Jordan Remfrey scored a try to narrow the margin to 19-18.

Up stepped Addo Waianga who lined up from the right-hand

side of the post on an angle with the fate of the decider on his boot.

Miss, and his side would lose by a point; go through, and they win by a point.

As hearts fluttered among the hundreds of Thugerr Warriors

k Chec r ou out ing z ama

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supporters, and nerves shook among everyone else, Addo kicked the ball and, as if guided by radar, saw it sail through the posts.

Thugerr Warriors were crowned champions, and the best of the 24 teams in their division.

Their supporters were overjoyed and some wept as they ran onto the field to congratulate the players with one proudly carrying a team flag.

Incredibly, Addo was not the team’s designated goalkicker; that was sharpshooter

Shaun Nona.

“Shaun had a hamstring worry and asked me to kick,” Addo said.

“I was nervous but so relieved and happy when it went through.”

Continued PAGE 15 N

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