Torres News_Edition 109_30 November 2023

Stories and events of the Kaurareg homeland of Kaiwalagal, the Torres Strait homeland and

Thursday, 30 November 2023 Cape York homelands of the Anggamuthi, Atambaya, Wuthathi, Yadhaykenu and Gudang Peoples.

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Ailan winners at Dance Rites

Pic by Barbara McGrady.

McGrady

New South Walesbased Zenadth Kes dance group Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam – meaning deep sounds from home – was overall winner of the Cultural Dance and Song Cycle at the first live Dance Rites in four years in Sydney last weekend.

AFL Cape York Aboriginal Cultural Dance Group were runners-up, and Eip Karem Beizam and the Deaf Indigenous Dance Group were joint winners of the ‘Rites of Passage’ award.

See full coverage PAGE6 N

PIC BY BARBARA MCGRADY

INSIDE

Beach clean-up draws tons of interest A huge number of community volunteers drove their own dinghies over to Friday Island to help with a big beach clean-up last weekend.

Faye said the clean-up project was started by Island Stars owner Joey Laifoo, who was passionate about cleaning the environment of marine debris.

Salty Monkeys founder Dennis

Mr Faye said the collected

debris was sorted and would be analysed to try to understand where it was coming from and whether any of it could be used to create a circular economy.

Full story and pics on PAGE 3 N

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02 NEWS

THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

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Viral infections still in far north communities Viral infections, including influenza and COVID-19, are still present in the Torres Strait and on Cape York, Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) Acting Executive Director of Medical Services Dr Natasha Coventry says.

She said there were also cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and common colds.

“Vaccination is a good protection for influenza and COVID-19 and everyone should ensure they are up to date with their seasonal and booster vaccinations for these,” she said.

“There is no vaccination for RSV or the common cold and the best treatment is management of the

symptoms and bed rest.”

She said most people recovered from a virus over a few days.

“Some might have another problem, or might end up with a complication from the rare virus,” she said.

“As always, if your condition does not improve, or gets worse, you must return to your doctor or local primary health care clinic for further examination and care.

“With a viral infection like the flu, or COVID-19 or RSV, or the common cold, you should stay home and rest and drink plenty of fluids until symptoms have resolved, which is usually 5-7 days.”

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

FLY WITH A QUEENSLANDER

Pic supplied.

RFDS Local Hero Awards back for 2023 Nominations are open across Queensland for the RFDS Local Hero Awards, as the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) (Queensland Section) hopes to unearth more of the state’s unsung heroes.

RFDS (Queensland Section) CEO Meredith Staib said the awards provided an opportunity for the RFDS to acknowledge members of the community who enabled the organisation to provide the finest care to the furthest corner.

“Our ability to deliver our services hinges on the continuing support of the communities where we operate,” Ms Staib said.

“These awards offer a way to express our gratitude for the kindness we receive from emergency services, healthcare professionals, volunteers, fundraisers, administrative personnel, and everyone who plays such a vital role.”

Ms Staib said the Queensland Hero would be awarded a $20,000 grant, generously provided by Ergon

Energy Retail, to support a healthcare initiative in their community.

“We’re grateful to the Awards’ partner, Ergon Energy Retail, for helping us to shine a light on the unsung heroes behind the RFDS,” she said.

Ergon Energy Retail Executive General Manager Ayesha Razzaq said she was looking forward to hearing about this year’s nominees.

“This is our eighth year supporting the awards and each year we’re overwhelmed by the stories of bravery and selflessness of all the nominees,” she said.

“As a regional Queensland business we’re proud to celebrate these everyday heroes.

“We’re also thrilled to provide a grant to improve health and wellbeing in local communities.

Local heroes can be nominated from anywhere across Queensland, with nominations closing on 12 December.

You can nominate a hero at https://www.

rfdslocalhero.com.au/

2024 Queensland Greats Awards nominations open Nominations for the Queensland Greats Awards, which recognise individuals who have made a significant contribution to Queensland and who are exemplary role models, and the institutions, public or private, that have contributed significantly to the development of the State, are open.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the Queensland Greats Awards were an opportunity to celebrate and thank extraordinary Queenslanders for what they did.

“I am proud to join

all Queenslanders in recognising homegrown talent and outstanding achievements every year,” she said.

“It could be a friend, co-worker or community organisation doing amazing things – if you know a remarkable Queenslander, now is the chance to nominate them.”

Nominations can be made at www.qld. gov.au/qldgreats until 5pm, Friday 16 February 2024.

Recipients will be announced in June 2024 and honoured with commemorative plaques displayed at Roma Street Parkland, Brisbane

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2023

Beach clean-up draws tons of local interest

Joey Laifoo speaks to the crowd.

Pics supplied by Jonathan Finney thanks to Salty Monkeys.

ABOVE & BELOW: Volunteers collected more rubbish than they expected to find.

organisations out there that are looking at helping out universities, other companies that could help do something because it’s not a local problem, it’s a global problem.

“There’s a lot of people out there with solutions, we’ve just got to find the right one the right people to help us out.”

He said they were grateful every helping hand and that it was interesting to see where the rubbish actually came from.

“There was a lot of plastic bottles, you can have a look on the tags and the names and the labelling,” he said.

“And a majority of them were all offshore.

“So some of the places of origin from the plastic bottles that were handed in was Malaysia and Thailand.

“It was quite surprising, I think we almost got 200 lighters in total that people picked up.”

Mr Faye said if the organisation could safely figure out how to export the rubbish to a waste facility, there was definitely room to arrange more events like it.

He said the community response was bigger than he or Mr Laifoo had expected.

“When we saw a total of 20 boats show up, I think it’s a pretty big outcome.”

GAB TITUI

Waiben-based Island Stars teamed up with the Salty Monkeys’ Marine Debris Task Force to organise a large-scale beach clean-up on Friday Island last weekend.

Salty Monkeys founder Dennis Faye said the project was started by Island Stars owner Joey Laifoo, who was passionate about cleaning the environment of marine debris.

Mr Faye said it was the first of what they hoped could be many more community clean-ups.

He said the collected debris was sorted and would be

analysed to try to understand where debris was coming from and whether any of it could be used to create a circular economy in the region.

“The data is important for us, because we want to know what we’re getting even the quality of what we’re getting, because we can treat it as a resource and not waste,” Mr Faye said.

“Once we’ve understand what we’re getting and how much of it, then we can look at potentially finding a solution to deal with it locally.

“I think it’s better for us to deal with it ourselves because we’re here [and] always will be.

“There are definitely

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ABOVE: A huge number of community members drove their dinghies over to Friday Island to help with the clean-up.

TOP RIGHT: Volunteers could win a Salty Monkeys hat in some of the activities held.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Jason Maloney offering his time and his quad bike to help the team out.

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

Photography by George Serras.

shop.gabtitui.com.au

04 NEWS

THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

TSRA launches three-year sustainable fishing project A long-awaited project – Wapil 2 – aiming to boost Torres Strait Islander participation in the local fishing industry and increase economic benefits to communities in the region is up and running after extensive local consultation with the community and fishing industry.

It was hoped the three-year project, led by the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA), would facilitate growth through enhanced fishing participation and help form viable infrastructure partnerships for seafood handling, improved

supply chains and marketing.

Communities across the region, including all 17 inhabited islands and the communities of Bamaga and Seisia in the Northern Peninsula Area, were encouraged to participate.

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen

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AM said it was important to have the right foundations in place to ensure the project succeeded.

“We know that appropriate infrastructure, like wharves and storage facilities and equipment like the right boats and support services are important but so are training, knowledge and safety for divers and fishers,” Mr Stephen said.

“What we are delivering here is the whole package to ensure we create a sustainable, economically viable and culturally sensitive fishing industry for our people to manage and prosper.

“It’s also an integrated system from the sea to the factory and on to domestic and overseas markets.”

The core themes of Wapil 2 included enhancing fishing participation, vessels and equipment, boat and diving safety and compliance, business development support,

Pic supplied.

finance and insurance for fishing operations as well as viable infrastructure options.

Mr Stephen said Wapil 2 was not possible without the support and collaboration of many organisations.

“Our appreciation and thanks go to the National Indigenous Australians Agency for providing additional financial and logistics support,” he said.

“We are also most

grateful for the ongoing assistance of Torres Strait Island Regional Council for infrastructure leasing, Queensland TAFE contracted to deliver training through the Torres Strait Maritime Pathways Project, Gur A Baradharaw Kod (GBK) Sea and Land Council Torres Strait Islander Corporation and Malu Lamar as the Native Title representatives, as well as the Australian Maritime

Safety Authority and Queensland Government for support with compliance and raising safety awareness issues.”

TSRA asked local communities to have their say in a survey about current fishing practices, effort, equipment and infrastructure to provide baseline data for the Wapil 2 project.

Learn more at www.tsra.

gov.au

2022-23 Annual Report tabled The Torres Strait Regional Authority’s (TSRA) latest Annual Report 2022-2023 was tabled in the Australian Parliament last month, detailing outcomes delivered directly through its program areas and in partnership with communities, government and non-government agencies.

The TSRA was established on 1 July 1994 and celebrates its 30th anniversary next year.

Highlights of 2023 included the TSRA-supported Torres Strait Major Infrastructure Programme (MIP).

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said the TSRA Board continued to ensure their 20 communities throughout the region were represented and benefitted from the delivery of TSRA program activities and projects.

“We continue to advocate to the highest decision makers in Australia, and in 2022-2023 hosted the Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney and Ambassador for First Nations People Justin Mohamed ensuring the needs of the region remain highly visible and a funding priority,” Mr Stephen said.

TSRA Chief Executive Officer Vonda Malone said she was proud of TSRA’s operational outcomes in 2022-2023 that reflected its role as the region’s leading Australian Government agency to successfully advocate, monitor and coordinate regional efforts with other government agencies.

“A key success indicator

Other highlights from the TSRA’s work in 2022–23 included:

This year’s Annual Report featured artwork by Torres Strait Islander artist George Gabey, called Beginning of Life. for the TSRA is our ability to connect key partners who include and value Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal perspectives across policies, decisions and investment,” she said.

“The outcomes achieved in 2022-2023 reflect our ‘partnerships for success’ approach as we continue to progress toward TSRA’s purpose of Closing the Gap for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people living in the region.”

Mr Stephen thanked Deputy Chairperson Horace Baira, who was Acting TSRA Board Chairperson for a substantial time during the reporting period.

“I also acknowledge and thank the TSRA Board Members, Chief Executive Officer and staff for their dedication and effort in what was another challenging but successful year,” Mr Stephen said.

• Torres Strait Maritime Pathways Project supported four courses and 48 participants to complete a Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal).

• Twelve You Sabe Business courses delivered on Waiben (Thursday Island) to a total of 84 participants (each attended three sessions).

• Mentoring support provided for eight new and existing local businesses.

• Growing Our Own Tagai Transitions Maritime Project with Tagai State College and TAFE Queensland enabled 42 school students to undertake maritime operations, first aid and safety courses.

• For university students, 11 TSRA Assistance with Tertiary Education Scheme scholarships supported students enrolled in studies.

• 80+ artists and cultural practitioners sold their artworks or products and participated in or facilitated workshops and activities through the Gab Titui Cultural Centre.

• 90 per cent of TSRA staff identify as Torres Strait Islander and/or Aboriginal.

• Over half the total workforce are women and more than one third of Rangers are female.

Download the TSRA Annual Report at www.tsra.gov.au

NEWS 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2023

Cape York Peninsula Lodge second-time winner

BY CARLI WILLIS

Bamaga Enterprises Limited directors Reginald Williams OAM, Jean Williams and Leandra Wilson receive the award. Pic supplied by Queensland Tourism Industry Council.

Cape York Peninsula Lodge in Bamaga has won a top title in the Queensland Tourism Awards for the second year running.

The busy accommodation and tour business received a gold award (first place) for the 4.5-5 star accommodation category as well as in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Tourism category this year.

In 2022, the business took out three awards, including its first gold award, silver for Aboriginal and Torres strait Islander Tourism and bronze for the Qantas Award for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Tourism.

Governing organisation Bamaga Enterprises Limited chair Robert Poi Poi said the state recognition was a major drawcard for the region.

“It really puts us on the map in terms of World Tourism, and we can only grow from there and sell to the world what we can offer,” he said.

He said there was demand and room for the business to expand further, if stakeholders in the region allowed it.

“I want to see Cape York Lodge expand and grow from where we are to cater for bigger sized tourism,” he said.

“We offer a diverse range of touring packages for tourists from all parts of the world.

“We’re located in a very unique spot in Cape York [with] two cultures involved – Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal – and the experience is really good.

“We take them up to the very tip of Australia to experience that, and we take them down to the waterfalls.”

“I think a big ‘thank Mr Poi Poi said the business saw many you’ goes out to all buses, each full of the staff, from the full tourists, during the busy operations right down to season the cleaner, for the hard “I’m very proud as work and effort put in, chairperson and director of the enterprise to be able day-in, day-out, to keep all the tourists and guests to see the company win 16x2awards,” _____ Excel E Dummy happy.” E AdsIn E these he said.

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06 NEWS

THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Big wins for Ailan dancers at national Dance Rites comp from home – was overall winner of the Cultural Dance and Song Cycle at the first live Dance Rites in four years in Sydney last weekend.

BY CARLI WILLIS New South Walesbased Zenadth Kes dance group Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam – meaning deep sounds

More than 350 performers from 30 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nation and clans gathered at the Opera House to share culture through song and dance after the competition was held online during the global pandemic.

Performances were judged by a First Nations expert panel, which included Elma Gada Kris and Sani Townson, and hosts included Rhianna Patrick.

AFL Cape York Aboriginal Cultural Dance Group were runners-up, and Eip Karem Beizam from Meriam and the Deaf Indigenous Dance Group from Gimuy Walubara Yidinji were joint winners of the ‘Rites of Passage’ award for outstanding contributions to cultural revitalisation.

Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam lead choreographer Toby Cedar said their team

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Kaurareg Native Title Aboriginal Corporation Announces the Appointment of a New Board of Directors Horn Island 27 November 2023.

The Kaurareg Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (RNTBC) wishes to announce to its members, our communities, and valued stakeholders the appointment of a new Chairperson and Board of Directors.

Following the Corporations recent AGM held on 23 November 2023, KNTAC members voted for a new Board of Directors to lead the corporation forward for the next two year term.

We are very proud to introduce to you, Chairman Mr Eliziah Wasaga, Deputy Chairman Saliman BinJuda, and Directors Mrs Ivy Wasaga, Mr James Ah Mat, Ms Tessie Wasaga, Ms Enid Tom and Mr David Bosun.

Please share with us in welcoming our new leaders.

General Enquiries For further information or general business enquires please make contact with the Corporations General Manager; Ms Jodi-rae Mills by phone 07 4090 3861 or email kntac.gm@outlook.com

S TAT E L I B R A R Y O F Q U E E N S L A N D

was made up of Cedar and Sailor families of the Peiudu clan of Erub, and based on the mainland.

He said he had supported other groups in dance for many years and this was the first time his family had danced to their own step.

He said it made him happy to promote Zenadth Kes culture outside of Queensland, and to see a strong representation of Torres Strait Islander nation groups at the event, which included the Boigu Island Dance Group, Kutaw Zoeru Torres Strait Island dance group Brisbane, and Ngagalayg Kabaw Buway represented in the competition.

He said events like this were an opportunity for young people to work with other Torres Strait Islanders.

“The main thing is that when you win the cheque, I watch all that pikinninney celebrating and that’s what it was for, for thempla for showcase their identity,” he said.

Eip Karem Beizam dance group’s Lawini Marou & Annette Mabo. Pic by Wayne Quilliam thanks to the Sydney Opera House.

“I was one of them – I didn’t grow up in the Torres Strait and I wanted to make a change for our children.

“Very proud that when they sing, they sing in our language and they sing with pride and they dance with pride

because they know the stories.”

Eip Karem Beizam Meriam Cultural Group Lead Ofa Mabo said it had been an awesome experience.

“It is such a great event to attend, and showcase the stories

and song lines of the different tribal groups of Australia,” she said.

“We met up with families and friends and made new friends and connections – being present at the Dance Rites was a powerful feeling of a living culture breathing, and to hear the heartbeat of this country was a pheromonal experience.

“We see Dance Rites as a platform for our stories to come alive, it is a great space to connect with our first nations brothers and sisters, elders, knowledge keepers, and future leaders.”

Mr Cedar said in a the city, 3000 kilometres away from their ancestral homes, it gave young people great pride to represent their culture.

“Before the finals, I said, ‘children, you already won in my eyes, because culture comes first’,” he said.

“We tell them that this is bigger than all of them.

“Very proud, very proud moments over the weekend.”

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Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam dancer George Dow wears a mask made by Toby Cedar called Wada.

Pic by Dianne Brookes thanks to Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam Dance Group.

ABOVE: Ngagalayg Kabaw Buway dance group.

Pics by Wayne Quilliam thanks to the Sydney Opera House.

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Runners up in the Cultural Dance and Song Cycle category, AFL Cape York House cultural dance team. Pic thanks to AFL Cape York House.

TN0025 NEWS 07 Health service offers new traineeships for 2024 8x2 classies TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2023

High school students interested in pursuing a career in health now have a direct pathway, thanks to a new traineeship program offered by the Torres & Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS).

Starting next year, the traineeships were on offer to 20 students from throughout Cape York, the Torres Strait, and the Northern Peninsula Area as part of the State Government’s Deadly Start Program.

TCHHS Interim Chief Executive Mr Dean Davidson said the new program was an opportunity to further increase the number of First Nations people working in the health service.

“We know how vital it is to provide that cultural link in the healthcare journey of our consumers and by employing local people it shows our dedication to best supporting these communities,” he said.

“We see these students as a long-term investment in the growth of this health service and hope some go on to become leaders in both Torres and Cape HHS and their communities.”

Over two years the students will complete their Certificate II in Health Services Support and a Certificate III, which will include paid work experience at one of the health service’s four hospitals – in Weipa, Bamaga, Cooktown, or Thursday Island.

TCHHS Traineeship and Work Experience Coordinator Iadakul Bowie said students would complete their traineeship during Year 11 and Year 12.

“Students can then decide if they want to pursue further specialised study in nursing, medicine, allied health, or other areas, or commence work in other areas such as operations or administration,” she said.

“We have been working with the high schools in the area, along with TAFE, and already have strong interest from students.

The health service previously offered traineeships to some students around the region, with particular success in the oral health team on Thursday Island where all of the dental assistants are local people.

The health service also offers regular work experience opportunities to students.

Minister for Health, Mental Health, and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman said they knew more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people working in hospitals directly improved health outcomes for First Nations people.

“This is an exciting opportunity for young people to have a direct pathway into a career that allows them to support their home communities,” she said.

“We also have 3500 free Diploma of Nursing places to fill through our Fee Free TAFE program for anyone looking to take up a career in the health industry.

“As your Torres Champion and the Minister for Health, I am proud of the investments our government is making to ensure the Torres and Cape region thrives for generations to come.”

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said there was a need for more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors, specialists, nurses, carers, and allied health professionals in our health centres and hospitals.

“These traineeships are a fantastic way of gaining skills that directly helps our communities and opens the door to a fulfilling career pathway,” she said.

“I am proud to be part of a government that is committed to Health Equity for First Nations communities.”

Any students interested in the traineeship program or work experience should speak to their schools or contact: TCHHSTraineeships@health. qld.gov.au

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TCHHS Traineeship and Work Experience Coordinator Iadakul Bowie.

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Council Services during 2023/24 Festive Season Thursday Island & Horn Island SHIRE OFFICE CLOSED 12 noon, Thursday, 21 December 2023 REOPEN Tuesday, 2 January 2024 LIBRARY CLOSED 12 noon, Friday, 15 December 2023 REOPEN 9am, Monday, 8 January 2024 GARBAGE Domestic and Commercial Collections NO KERBSIDE PICKUP on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day (affected residents reminded to put bin out the day before and Council will collect) NORMAL SERVICE OTHERWISE WASTE TRANSFER STATIONS (Thursday Island and Horn Island) OPEN Weekdays from 9am to 4.45pm OPEN Weekends from 9am to 12 noon CLOSED Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day NGURUPAI (HORN ISLAND) SPORTS COMPLEX CLOSED 12 noon, Saturday, 16 December 2023 REOPEN Monday, 8 January 2024 TORRES SHIRE SPORTS COMPLEX (TI) – STADIUM / POOL / GYM CLOSED from 12 noon Thursday 21 December 2023 to Tuesday 26 December 2023 OPEN 12noon to 6pm Wednesday 27 December 2023 to Sunday 31 December 2023 CLOSED New Year’s Day – Monday 1 January 2024 OPEN NORMAL HOURS Tuesday 2 January 2024

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08 NEWS

THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

First Nations media reps ‘converge’ on national capital

BY CARLI WILLIS

Stan Grant listening to Nunawal Elder Matilda House giving her welcome to country. Pic supplied.

Natalie Ahmat (NITV). Pic supplied.

Little more than a month after the failed national referendum for an Indigenous Voice to parliament, 23 First Nations media organisations from across the continent gathered on Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country for the annual First Nations Media Australia (FNMA) Conference, Converge last week.

More than 100 first nations media workers, including TSIMA CEO and Torres News editor Diat Alferink, and Torres News news director and Koori Mail sports editor Darren Moncrieff, met at Old Parliament House for the three-day event.

Discussions around the media and its role in political process were the focus with speakers including FNMA co-chairs Naomi Moran and Dre Ngatokorua, Stan Grant, John Paul Janke, Brett Leavy and Lowanna Grant.

Sessions included a celebration of 30 years of Triple A in Brisbane, leadership and governance, digital skills, young people, grants and media training, Artificial Intelligence technology and social and emotional wellbeing.

Federal Minister for Indigenous Affairs Linda Burney opened the conference with a heartfelt speech and acknowledged the critical role Indigenous media played in relaying Referendum messaging

to their communities.

“If it had not been, quite frankly, for you, this year, there would have been more warped stories appear in the many papers,” she said.

“Be proud [of] the 65,000 years of shared history that you all have, read each other, and [understand] how that is the glue that binds us as First Nations people,” she said.

“I see you as a place for culture and language to thrive, for content creation and innovation, as employment pathways for young people.

“I also see this is a very important sector going forward.”

Minister Burney said in the future she hoped once again for a First Nations media presence in the federal press gallery.

She said there was still more unpacking of what happened in the Referendum to do, and urged the media to find the “silver linings”.

“The first [is] truth and treaty, and there are things happening right across this country,” she said.

Keynote speaker Stan Grant called on First Nations journalists and media outlets to stand with their own truths.

“All you’ve got is the truth and your voice,” he said. “Stand with the people who suffer, tell their stories and you will never, ever, ever be wrong.”

Mr Grant said he acknowledged the extra load First Nations media workers carried during

the Referendum process.

He said there was a shared responsibility among all people to honour the truth in the media.

“You know how you show love for someone, you show it by telling them the truth,” he said.

“You open their hearts to the truth.”

FNMA IndigMob team member Glenys Opum said she wanted to see more young people in the media industry.

“It’s good for the people that have been in the industry for quite some time to have that youth perspective,” she said. “We are the next leaders are of the new generation and we learn from our elders.

“We give them that respect, because it’s a two-way learning.”

Ms Opum said for that to happen, more funding and support was needed for First Nations media so there were clear pathways for young people into the industry.

“One of the other youths mentioned, you can’t be what you can’t see,” she said.

“When you’re within these communities, you’re just stuck in that environment, because you just aren’t aware of what else is out there.”

She said funding for more traineeships would be a start.

“Once there’s pathways that can lead to different directions, they’ll be more inclined to actually go and apply to be in those positions,” she said.

TOP LEFT: Co-host FNMA Co-Chair Naomi Moran (Koori Mail) with NIAA’s Peter Perfrement.

ABOVE LEFT: Alex Dorante accepts an award for 33 Creative at the gala dinner.

ABOVE RIGHT: First Nations Media Gala Dinner. Pics Carli Willis.

LEFT: TSIMA CEO Diat Alferink & Torres News journalist Carli Willis at Converge in Canberra.

RIGHT: Trisha Collins and Jyi Lawton from Triple A celebrating 30 years. Pics supplied.

FNMA staff Mykalya Friday Shaw and Glenys Opum with a local attendee.

Pic supplied.

CLIMATE CHANGE NEWS 09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2023

These two are on their way to COP28 in Dubai

BY ALF WILSON Two of NQ Cowboys House best young students are excited about a trip to Dubai for a United Nations Conference about Climate Change.

Both Year 10 students, Kentaro Sabatino from Waiben and Elianah from New Mapoon, will represent NRL Cowboys House on the world stage at the COP28 UAE United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai from November 30 to December 12.

They will travel as part of a group of six students in partnership with Pimlico State High School for the conference and will meet with individuals from across the world to discuss and learn more about how climate change is impacting their generation.

Both are creating footprints for their families and communities, by travelling further than anyone in their family ever has before.

They said they were looking forward to representing their families, cultures and homes with pride, and giving others from around the world a chance to learn about the Cape York Peninsula and the Torres Strait Islands.

The event offered platforms for different groups, including youths, from civil society, NGOs, the private sector and Indigenous people to have their voices heard, promoting dialogue and awareness

Kentaro Sabatino and NPA’s Elianah Tabuai as they prepare to leave for Dubai. Pic by Matt Taylor, NQ Cowboys House. about climate action through conferences, panel discussions, presentations and more.

For Elianah, whose coastal home was situated on the mouth of the Wenlock River, the conference presented a vital opportunity for her to discuss how climate affects culture as she noticed delays in the arrival of the wet season.

“Climate change is something I’ve thought about especially during this year because the wet season hasn’t really come and that has a lot to do with climate change,” she said.

“The environment is very important to my culture, having sacred places and especially with erosion being a very bad thing, sacred places

get destroyed during the wet season cycle and through cyclones, and that destroys people’s hearts because it means a lot to them.

“I’m also keen to learn more about the culture over there; I have a culture myself and I love telling people and teaching people about my culture and I love to learn about theirs.”

Kentaro said travelling to a big city like Dubai was a big change from what the pair were used to in Townsville, and worlds away from his home in the Torres Strait Islands, but he was looking forward to making his voice heard about issues that affect his home on the global stage.

“Sea level rising (is

impactful), most of the islands in the Torres Strait are flat and they’ll get submerged under water if the sea level keeps rising,” he said.

“I’m hoping to learn about their culture too, see how they do things and… simply hoping to gain more understanding of climate change.”

Kentaro and Elianah’s attendance at COP28

was made possible by support from the Ian and Shirley Norman Foundation, fundraising at home in community, NRL Cowboys House fundraising activities and contribution from the students’ families.

The Conference of the Parties (COP) was the main decision-making body of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and brings together the 198 Parties – 197 nations plus the European Union – who have signed on to the Framework Convention.

COPs served as the formal meeting place each year for the Parties to negotiate and agree on how to tackle climate change, reduce emissions and limit global warming, with COP28 hosting over 70,000 delegates including heads of state and world leaders.

The first COP was held in 1995.

According to the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA), sea levels in the region were increasing at a rate of 6 – 8mm per year.

The two-week journey across the world won’t be all work, however, with the House students provided the opportunity to enjoy some of Dubai’s iconic tourist attractions.

While Elianah was excited to taste-test Arabian coffee, both were looking forward to experiencing the local cuisine while visiting the Burj Khalifa, Ferrari World Theme Park and enjoying a speedboat tour of Dubai.

Government attempts to strike out on-Country evidence The Australian Climate Change Case has continued in the Federal Court in Naarm, where last week the Government attempted to strike out on-country evidence offered by Traditional Owners.

The Government objected to observations about changes in local weather patterns and local sea level rise, the impact of importing food on community health, and decreasing lifespans.

Counsel for Pabai, Julian Murphy, successfully argued that witnesses were not offering any sea level prediction on Saibai but giving colour to his observation of seawalls over the past 10 years.

His Honour accepted that lay evidence was given to express

an opinion about those matters and rejected the overwhelming majority of objections, surmising that their evidence was based on what people had seen and it was necessary for them to express that opinion.

The last scheduled day in the Australian Climate Case hearings in Melbourne was on Monday.

The Court heard evidence from two government witnesses: Christopher Connolly and Dr Shay Simpson, regarding seawalls constructed to protect islands in the Torres Strait from climate change induced sea level rise.

Mr Connolly’s evidence was his department provided $5 million in funding to TSIRC, to enable them to build seawalls on

low-lying islands in the Torres Strait.

TSIRC applied for the funding in early 2012.

An internal document at the time showed a member of the department had assessed the seawalls project as follows: ”Without the seawall there could be future displacement of the whole community and the economic costs associated with that would include the consequent re-establishment cost in another location.”

A case management hearing has been set for 12 December 2023 to address the contents of an affidavit the government was ordered to to provide regarding a public interest immunity claim.

More to come J

Aunty McRose Elu speaking outside Federal Court in Melbourne.

Pic by Catherine Black, Amnesty International.

10 CLIMATE CHANGE NEWS

THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Ailan input into clean energy and emissions reduction The development of an Australian First Nations clean energy strategy is underway with the release of a consultation paper built on a series of six roundtables held with First Nations communities over the past eight months, as well as input from the First Nations Clean Energy and Emissions Reduction Advisory Committee.

The committee advised the Minister and the Department on First

TN0461 • 02/11/23

Heron Loban and Pele Ware are part of the First Nations Clean Energy and Emissions Reduction Advisory Committee who met with the federal government. Pic supplied.

TIMETABLE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE DUE TO QANTAS SCHEDULING, SOME FERRIES MAY NOT OPERATE

Ph: (07) 4069 1586

Thursday Island/Horn Island Ferry Timetable from 27/10/2023 THURSDAY ISLAND/HORN ISLAND FERRY TIMETABLE J All TI transfers include complimentary bus service on Thursday Island J

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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

•• Important: Important: Island must be before. requested the day before.

Horn Horn Island Bus PickupsBus mustPickups be requested the day •• Please Please note: Please be aware that we will have ferries meet every Qantas and Skytrans flight note: Please be aware that we will have ferries to meet every Qantasto and

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If Cairns. you can a ferry suits your Skytrans flight from If younot cansee not see a ferry that that suits your flightflight pleaseplease call the office on 4069 1586.

SCAN ME and the office on 4069 1586.

• call Bookings are essential for 18:00/18:10 ferry Mon-Fri, and Saturday 06:15/06:20.

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Nations perspectives on Clean Energy and Climate Change.

Through the first stage of engagement, the following priorities were highlighted: • making sure First Nations Australians have access to reliable and affordable energy, wherever they live across the country • prioritising access to skills and workforce development to foster meaningful economic participation and First Nations’ business opportunities • providing practical support so First Nations people can be equal partners in the transformation.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said Indigenous Australians were important partners in the clean energy transformation.

“And they deserve access to cleaner cheaper energy – and energy security,” he said.

“By providing the opportunities for First Nations communities to share their perspectives, government and industry are better equipped to ensure the First Nations Clean Energy Strategy delivers for Indigenous Australians”.

Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney said the government was ensuring First Nations people had a real say in Australia’s energy future.

“First Nations people have strong local and cultural knowledge, including management of Country, and this can and should inform how Australia transforms its energy systems to achieve net zero by 2050,” she said.

Advisory committee member Dr Kate George said the creation of a genuine First Nations clean energy strategy and improved collaboration with government and industry sectors was fundamental to securing support for Australia’s once in a life-time clean energy transformation.

Colleague Travis Thomas said the strategy had the potential to support the four priority reforms at the centre of the Closing the Gap agreement with a focus on transforming government organisations to work better with and for First Nations people.

“It could also improve First Nations people’s access to data and in-formation to make informed decisions, and build the communitycontrolled sector,” he said.

“This can be looked upon as a moment, which does not come often, which if the involved industry, government, First Nations and the broader community approach in a reciprocal, considered manner, can truly change opportunities in involved First Nations communities.”

New bill could take on climate change A legislated duty of care to current and future Australian children would positively accelerate the Australian Government’s action to tackle climate change and create a fairer and more sustainable future, the Human Rights Law Centre says.

In their submission to a Senate Inquiry into the Duty of Care Bill, the Human Rights Law Centre said the climate crisis posed an existential threat to current and future generations of children, and called for the Albanese Government to support the Bill.

Human Rights Law Centre Legal Director Keren Adams said Australian children were already experiencing

the devastating impacts of climate change, “which are being felt most acutely by the most disadvantaged in our communities”.

“Our current laws are failing us,” she said.

The Human Rights Law Centre has recommended the Government: • enact the Duty of Care Bill, with an additional requirement that decision-makers consider impacts on children’s rights as well as their health and well-being; • require decisionmakers to engage and consult meaningfully with children and young people when considering potential climate impacts on them.

NEWS 11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2023

Gathering Day helps keep culture connections

ABOVE: Those at the SEQ Gathering Day included Elders Jenniene Allie, Aka Mary-Rose Hampson, Annai Ghee, Uncle Rupert Reuben, Uncle Billy Oui, Aka Maureen Flaherty, Aka Gillian Pearson & Patricia Banu.

STORY BY RITA ARNOTT PICS BY LEWIS BIN DORAHO

South east Queensland’s Torres Strait Islander community met last weekend on the banks of the Coomera River on the Gold Coast for Gathering Day. It was a Mina nice day to enjoy each other’s company and stay connected to culture.

Families came from north of Brisbane to south along the Tweed coast-line por kaikai, music and island dancing.

LEFT: Uncle Billy Oui with Aka Gillian Pearson are all smiles as they share culture with our Torres Strait Islander community.

BELOW LEFT: Uncle Tupoa (Swaggie) Nona amongst family and friends made sure the kaikai was kept warm, our hearts and belly’s were full for the day TOP RIGHT: Rita Arnott (nee David), Sheringa Minnecon & Lacella Arnott enjoyed catching up under the overcast cloud over iced tea.

RIGHT: Tidjane Diop with next generation, Mason Hawker proudly stay connected by sharing stories through island dancing.

Pic courtesy of Nadja Mack.

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

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

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

Uncle Billy, Tidjane Diop & fellow Torres Strait Islanders were entertained by a nephew at Charles Holm Park on the Gold Coast.

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 ART NEWS

THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Saturday last chance to learn silk techniques Shibori and motif design silk kaftan produced at NPA Art workshop in New Mapoon, Cape York.

Local artworks produced at the NPA Art Centre.

Northern Peninsula Area’s silk fashion workshops have unearthed a new set of talented designers just in time for the up coming 2024 cultural arts festival season.

The new silk fashion workshop was designed to create a collection of beautiful homewares, kimonos, kaftans and comfortable island-style tops and shorts to be dyed and decorated to wear in the tropical north, and beyond.

Inspired by local cultures on land and sea country the silk fashion was produced with Shibori, the ultimate fusion of plant dye and screen print techniques, incorporating photo emulsion processes to craft unique and multi layered wearable art fabrics.

Visiting workshop trainer and fashion designer Anne Leon, said locals were invited to attend the workshops until this Saturday at NPA Art Centre in New Mapoon.

No fashion design experience was necessary and tuition was free although

some material costs may apply.

Students learn basic pattern and sewing skills to work with the silk fabrics, as well as Shibori techniques to dye fabrics using locally sourced plant materials, creating intricate patterns and backgrounds.

“Using local natural surrounds as our inspiration, we will draw and refine images which will become the basis for the prints: transferring images onto screens using photo emulsion and printing them onto the pre dyed cloth,” Ms Leon said.

“The rich layering of dye, print and textures enables a depth of artistry and a collection of unique garments, which we hope to have paraded in fashion parades at Cairns Indigenous Art Fair and Darwin Art Fair in 2024.”

She said maintaining a creative diary and record of experimental dyeing, Shibori and drawings would provide a valuable reference for ongoing projects.

Anne Leon, designer & NPA Art workshop trainer displays silk scarves made with Shibori dyetechnique. Pics supplied.

Pic supplied.

Lifting Indigenous voices through black&write!

State Library of Queensland’s black&write! project has offered fellowships for unpublished stories by First Nations writers for the past 12 years.

As well as prize money, the winning fellows work closely with the First Nations editors at black&write! to develop their manuscripts for publication.

Applications for 2024 fellowships opened yesterday.

The black&write! program was the first of its kind in Australia and played an important role in bringing the talents of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander writers into the spotlight.

Many of the writing fellows have successful writing careers, winning numerous accolades for their work ranging from science fiction to poetry to historical novels.

Past winners include Ali Cobby Eckermann, Jared Thomas, Nardi Simpson, Scott

Prince and Dave Hartley, Claire G Coleman, Carl Merrison and heaps more!

2022 Fellow Lay Maloney said thanks to black&write! she was on her way.

“I could tell as soon as I talked to them about this story, they cared about it as much as I did,” she said.

“This allowed me to trust them with the vision of my book.

“I entered this fellowship whilst studying and working, lacked a desk and a proper address.

“They understood the pressure I had outside of writing, and we’d schedule things to make things suitable.

“Because of black&write!

I was able to put my foot in the door and start my literary journey.

“I knew this fellowship was just the beginning for me.

“I am so lucky to have been a part of this experience and

would recommend it to any Mob looking for a culturally safe, understanding, and nurturing experience guided by expertise and passion.” black&write! senior editor and Bundjalung woman Grace Lucas-Pennington said writing a book was hard, so having an editor from a similar background, who understood history and the cultural protocols of First Nations stories, made it easier.

“We don’t place ourselves as authority over the writers and their stories, we come to the relationship as equals,” she said.

“We are here to make it as easy as possible for First Nations writers to write their truth and share their stories with readers.”

To apply for black&write!, search online for black&write!

Fellowship, email Indigenous. writing@slq.qld.gov.au or give the friendly team a call on 07 3842 9985.

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TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2023

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14 SPORT

THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2023 TORRES NEWS

Celebrate local graduates and welcome home boarders!

AFL ROUND UP

Joshua Nona.

Injinoo graduate.

BY AFL CAPE YORK’S KEIRAN SCIBERRAS

Injinoo congratulates grade 6 graduates

Ugar.

Ugar.

Latrell Solomon, Injinoo graduate.

Sulia Ingui, Injinoo graduate.

Dauan.

AFL Cape York staff were fortunate to attend the NPA State College – Injinoo Junior Campus graduation on Monday night.

2023’s school graduates were acknowledged for their hard work throughout their primary school years, as families, staff and the broader community wished them luck on their high-school journeys.

A special shoutout to: Hadassah Young-Dai, Joshua Nona and Latrell Solomon, who competed at the AFLQ Schools Cup program supported

by AFL Cape York in Cairns over the year.

Sulia Ingui also competed in the AFLQ Schools Cup (Cairns), the U12 Cape York Crusaders representative program (Sunshine Coast) and represented Queensland at the U12 National Championships.

AFL Programs at Dauan and Ugar The Game Development team kicked off last week with a visit to Dauan Island to run the in-school sports education program.

Accessible only by Dauan.

Hadassah Young-Dai, Injinoo graduate.

Sheona heading to Palm Island & Ashandra to Bamaga with her family.

Dauan.

Esther heading back to Badu Island to her family.

helicopter or dinghy, AFL staff arrived early on Monday morning and worked with every age group to teach them new AFL skills on Monday and Tuesday.

At the end of the twoday visit, every student was given an AFL prize, with goal posts donated to the school that will enable young people to keep on practicing their skills.

From Dauan, the Game Development team moved onto Ugar Island and joined Tagai State College students for their school camp.

Beachside footy, campfire songs and weaving with the rangers was on the cards for the very excited students.

Each student ended the school camp with an AFL backpack and football to keep, before heading into town to complete their colour fun run.

Boarding Students return to community Students from AFL Cape York House for Boys and AFL Cape York House for Girls began their long trips back to communities last week.

Safe travels home everyone, enjoy your time with your families and we’ll see you again next year!

A big shout out to those who did so well at Dance Rites in Sydney – we’ll have more on that next week!

TN0230 SPORT 15 8x2 local sports

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2023

NRL teams take on Las Vegas

BY ALF WILSON

Torres Strait Islander rugby league players will get massive exposure in America when the Brisbane Broncos play one of two games in Las Vegas to start the 2024 NRL season.

The Broncos for whom Ezra Mam will be one of the stars, will meet the Sydney Roosters in a historic double header.

Manly will clash with the South Sydney Rabbitohs who will line up with winger Alex Johnston.

The NRL has announced the two

NBL games suspended for FIBA competition

matches will be broadcast live in the US on the giant and popular Fox Sport 1, which will be watched by an estimated 90 millions Americans.

More than 65,000 spectators will be at the Allegiant Stadium and this is the first time in history that NRL matches will have been played outside of Australia and New Zealand.

The coverage will go live into other countries giving the matches an audience of more than 137 million.

Ezra and Alex are two of the highest profile players in the NRL competition and whilst they are amongst the classiest

backs are also in the top bracket of speedsters.

Both are proud of their heritage.

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo thanked the Broncos, Rabbitohs, Roosters and Sea Eagles for their participation and acknowledged NRL broadcast partners for their strong support and commitment to the concept.

“The 2024 Las Vegas matches will form part of an exciting ‘Australia Week’ in Las Vegas where we will be showcasing rugby league and Australia to the US market,” Mr Abdo said.

Jordon’s Mum took a fighting chance

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BY VELMA GARA No National Basketball League games were played in the past two weeks due to the “FIBA Break”.

The FIBA - Fédération internationale de basket-ball, or International Basketball Federation – Break is included in the NBL season as a period where players, if necessary, can depart their clubs to join with their national teams for FIBA games.

All teams enjoyed a full two weeks to get their players healthy and ready for Round Nine of the NBL24.

Cairns Taipans will host Brisbane Bullets tomorrow night at the Cairns Convention Centre and both teams will be hungry for a win.

Keanu Pinder’s Perth Wildcats are at home and will be confident for another win since they’ve won five games straight. It will be tough though as they are playing Sydney Kings tomorrow night too.

Taipans will then travel to Melbourne to play United on Sunday which will be a tough game and Bullets host Illawarra Hawks at home.

Hawks, under interim coach, Justin Tatum, won their third game against New Zealand and will be looking to get another one.

Coach Tatum took over as head coach due to the sacking of former Hawks coach, Jacob Jackomas.

NBL24 ladder has Melbourne United sitting in top spot with Sydney Kings in second place.

At this stage, other teams to compete in the ‘Play-in Tournament’ are Tasmania Jackjumpers (3rd), Perth (4th), SE Melbourne (5th) and Brisbane Bullets (6th).

However, the season is far from over and the remaining teams can still make it into the top six by winning more games – Cairns Taipans (7th, Adelaide 36ers (8th), New Zealand (9th) and Illawarra Hawks (10th).

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THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

FERRY SCHEDULE

Jordan Remfrey was player of the final when his team Thugerr Warriors defeated Burdekin Delta Dolphins to win the 2023 Bindal Sharks Indigenous Rugby League Carnival in Townsville earlier this year. Jordon is pictured holding his son Leo while his mum Robyn Remfrey holds grandson Troy. Pics supplied.

BY ALF WILSON Jordon Remfrey was born to be tough.

The rugby league footballer was Player Of The Final at the Bindal Sharks Indigenous Rugby League Carnival in Townsville when his Sabai Island side, Thugerr Warriors, defeated Burdekin Delta Dolphins to win the 37th edition of the tournament.

In 1995 Jordon’s mother Robyn won a women’s division boxing match in the Townsville Toughman contest.

It was her third fight and third win.

It was later revealed that she was three months pregnant with Jordon at the time of her fight.

People who saw her fight back then remarked that they had never seen a woman who could throw so many punches.

“I had three fights and never lost any,” she said.

“That win when I was carrying Jordon was at the Townsville Toughman contest, run by Chris Condon.

“I didn’t tell anybody that I was three months pregnant and that came out afterwards when I was asked to have more bouts and I mentioned it.

“I retired straight after and Jordon was born a healthy baby.”

She received some criticism but it was obvious Jordon, now 27, suffered no ill-effects and has become a super-fit sportsman.

“He didn’t know about my fighting in the ring until a while back,” Robyn said.

“But since he’s found out he tells people that the few scars he has on his head was because ‘Mum was a boxer (when she was pregnant with me)’.”

Her son scored the try that drew the Thugerr Warriors within a point of the Dolphins with 30 seconds left and a kick to come – they won 20-19.

“Look at him now,” proud mum Robyn said, “he is a big and fit man!

“I was very emotional when Jordon’s team won the final.”

Robyn took a welcome trip down memory lane and spoke about her days in the ring and how she became dubbed the ‘Territory Tick’.

Now 58, Robyn lives a quiet life in Townsville and said she loved looking after her three grandchildren.

She said she still followed boxing.

“I have been impressed

by Shanell Dargan who recently won the Australian super-bantamweight professional title,” Robyn said.

OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2023 Monday / Wednesday & Friday THURSDAY ISLAND to SEISIA: Depart 6.30AM & 2.30PM SEISIA to THURSDAY ISLAND: Depart 8AM & 4PM

“Linking the Cape with the Torres Strait”

Boarding strictly 15 mins prior to departure

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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.

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.

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SPORTS CONTRIBUTIONS Please email your sports stories and photos before 5PM on Mondays.

16

THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2023

J EMAIL: darren@torres.news J MOBILE: 0431 148 881

Beach rugby 5s kick up some sand

Former Cowboy Ray Thompson in action for Castle Kings. INSET: JT holds the trophy. Pics supplied.

BY ALF WILSON Beach rugby 5s looks set to come to the Torres Strait and PNG following a successful carnival in Townsville earlier this month, when former Cowboys, Queensland and rugby league Test great Johnathan Thurston was a star attraction.

More than 5000 people watched OSMAC Northern Australian Beach Rugby 5s matches on two courts along the golden sand beach on the Townsville Strand.

The sand based competition has modified rules of Rugby Union, Rugby League and Touch Football, with no line-outs, scrums or

conversions.

Director Peter Hickey told the Torres News organisers were looking at taking the game to PNG and the Torres Strait where they were plenty of beaches and sports supporters.

Under the rules each team had no more than five players on the beach field but may nominate

up to seven substitutes.

A tackle occurs when the ball carrier is held by one or more opponents.

When a player tackles an opponent and they both go to ground, the tackler must immediately release the tackled player, and must immediately get up or move away from the tackled player.

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