Torres News_Edition 118_22 February 2024

Thursday, 22 February 2024

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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Our 2024 seniors step up

Waybeni Koey Ngurpay Mudh

newly renovated library.

(WKNM – Tagai Senior Campus)

Families were right behind the new badge holders, including 2024 senior Josie Pabai from Boigu, who was proud

celebrated their 2024 Year 12 Seniors last Friday, and officially opened their

l Edition 118 l $2 incl. GST

to walk up for her badge with her mother Sere Pabai and grandmother Waimed Pabai.

See full coverage PAGE 7 N

CDP changes welcomed Local Community Development Program (CDP) provider Gur A Baradharaw Kod Torres Strait Sea & Land Council (GBK) has welcomed the new federal Remote Jobs and Economic Development program announced last week.

The program, which would let communities decide what jobs were created and included a $185 million Community Jobs and Business Fund, was set to replace the CDP later this year.

GBK chair Ned David said he looked forward to the reform process.

“GBK welcomes the announcement from the Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney, and looks forward to working with her and her Department as the proposed changes are discussed further with our community,” he said. “In particular GBK welcomes the commitment to real jobs, enterprise creation and the opportunity for capital investment in our region.

“Given National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) will be coming to the region as part of informing the community of the changes, GBK will be ensuring the voices of First Nations people in the Torres and Endeavour Straits are heard, and that the unique challenges we face are considered as part of the reform process.”

A NIAA spokesperson said the Minister was committed to developing a new program in partnership with First Nations People and communities.

“The detail and timetable for consultation will be released publicly,” they said. “The NIAA looks forward to consulting with Torres Strait Island communities as part of the upcoming consultation process.”

NPA CDP provider NPAWS has been asked for comment and we hope for more information in our next issue.

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02 NEWS

THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2024 TORRES NEWS

Textiles, prints and paintings on show in Townsville gallery

Bernice Zaro & Aicey Zaro in front of his artwork titled Abob.

Virginia Wyles (Wulgurukaba Elder) with Ken & Pam Newman.

Artist Gail Mabo with her late father Edward Mabo’s clay pot artworks.

STORY AND PICS

BY VELMA GARA

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Torres Strait Island textiles, prints, and paintings from the City of Townsville Art Collection have gone on show at Townsville’s Perc Tucker Regional Gallery in an exhibition called Eastern Threads.

Councillor Margie Ryder offered a welcome from the Council at the opening, and spoke about the long and proud history of Torres Strait Islanders in Townsville.

She said it was great to showcase their art for residents and visitors to see.

More than 60 artworks were on display at the gallery, put together by first-time curator, Gail Mabo.

“I’ve attended many exhibitions and I’ve seen people put artworks up at other exhibitions,” Ms Mabo said.

“So I then invited people into my house (Perc Tucker Regional Gallery) because that’s the only way I can put things and be comfortable with where

they are – as if this is my house.”

The launch included Welcome to Country

by Virginia Wyles and dance performances by the Komet Torres Strait Islander Art & Culture Group.

Dancer Adi-May Day said she could see how culture had evolved through the exhibition.

“I see how culture has evolved throughout the generations,” she said.

“Each artefact shared a story towards each individual who gazes upon them.

“We’ve been exhibiting these creations and acknowledgement towards how significant this land of Australia is and how important our natural resources are.”

Eastern Threads will be on display until 14 April.

Townsville’s Pinnacles Gallery was also showing a collection of Alick Tipoti’s unique linocut printmaking and award-winning sculpture works, contemporary masks and film.

The exhibition, Mariw Minaral, will be on display until 3 March.

One of Alick Tipoti’s sculptures from the Mariw Minaral exhibition.

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TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2024

Marine upgrades works in progress - MSQ

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Proposed new boating facility at Quarantine Head.

Council has closed the jetty at Badu. Pics supplied.

Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) says they are making progress with the Torres Strait Islands Marine Infrastructure Program (TSIMIP), a $40 million investment in marine facilities to improve safety and access for waterway users in the Torres Strait and NPA. Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish said the government understood the importance of safe and functional marine infrastructure in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area.

“Nobody knows the Torres Strait’s ‘blue highway’ like the community that relies on it every day, so we are working with local experts and stakeholders to determine priorities,” he said.

“MSQ is only just getting started on its marine program within the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula areas.”

They said the jetty at Badu was nominated by TSIRC as the next highest priority and MSQ has appointed a contractor to undertake essential repairs, which were planned to start in June this year.

Member for Cook, Cynthia Lui said maritime infrastructure was “incredibly important” to the day-to-day activities of people in the Torres Strait.

“I’m pleased MSQ is working closely with the community to understand what works will be most useful, and which ones can be delivered quickly,” she said.

“Between the Australian Government and the Queensland Government, the people of the Torres Strait will see more than $80 million in upgrades to our critical marine infrastructure.”

The works were to be delivered in parallel with a separate $40 million upgrade

MSQ has worked closely with Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) and other key stakeholders and councils to assess priorities and allocate funding, with the following works prioritised: • Construction of a new, small craft boating facility at Quarantine Head on the north-western side of Waiben – a TSIMIP priority – to replace the existing, disused ramp and rock wall, and improve safety, access and boat-launching capacity for the community.

• Upgrades to the Rosehill Boat ramp on Waiben to increase amenity and useability.

• ‘Make-safe’ works to repair damaged and unsafe marine facilities in TSIRC’s area, that were not covered under Commonwealth funding.

(This program has already delivered essential repairs to reopen the damaged jetty at Dauan in mid-2023.)

program in the TSIRC area, funded by the Australian Government.

MSQ was also working with the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) on the progressive delivery of priorities at Seisia identified in the Northern Peninsula Area Marine Hub Master Plan.

The Master Plan envisioned a major upgrade of existing facilities to help trade and support commercial activities and freight operations.

MSQ said it would also work with NPARC to understand the issues identified in the Master Plan and develop a plan of action to address their safety and amenity requirements.

In addition to the TSIMIP, MSQ was also rolling out a project to upgrade Aids to Navigation (buoys and beacons) throughout the Torres Strait, which was on track for completion later this year.

“Significant” upgrade for busiest wharf

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Horn Island wharf will be upgraded by the end of this year. Pic supplied by Ports North.

A new pontoon, passenger waiting areas and a pedestrian walkway will be part of a significant upgrade to the wharf area on Horn Island to be completed this year.

The $11.1 million Horn Island Passenger Facility Upgrade (HIPFU) was to build on current facilities.

Chief Executive Officer of Ports North Richard Stevenson said the upgrade would substantially impact locals and visitors.

“The Horn Island port facility enables essential supplies to enter the region and is part of many residents’ day-today living,” he said.

“The upgrade will

increase capacity and deliver safer, more accessible passenger facilities.

“Ports North respects the importance of port infrastructure to keep communities connected.

“Around 700 people can pass through the Horn Island facility each day.

“Fabrication work will commence immediately at our contractor’s facilities in Queensland.

“We expect on-site construction to commence in the second half of 2024 to deliver a new pontoon, passenger waiting areas and a pedestrian walkway.

“Once finished the facility will be more

resilient to weather conditions and will berth two 12 metre ferries at the same time.”

Member for Cook Cynthia said the upgrades would make travelling to and from Thursday Island a better experience.

“Horn Island is one of the busiest marine facilities in the Torres Strait, catering for a vast number of people travelling to and from Thursday Island, from the outer islands of the Torres Strait and further down south,” Ms Lui said.

“These upgrades will allow the wharf to accommodate larger vessels and will make travelling to, from and through Horn Island

much more accessible and comfortable.

“This infrastructure build has been a long time coming, with critical upgrades aiming to ensure safety and security for passengers.”

Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish said the upgrade would also keep the region connected to the state economy.

“The Horn Island upgrades will have a significant impact for locals who rely on port facilities for necessary goods and daily transport,” Mr Mellish said.

“We’re investing in important infrastructure that keeps Far North Queenslanders

connected to trade and economic opportunities.

“This project is needed and we know how important this facility is to the community.”

The new pontoon will have a roof cover to protect passengers and a raised pedestrian walkway will be constructed along the full length of the causeway to allow passengers to access the pontoons more comfortably.

Fabrication work was due to start this month and onsite construction in the second half of the year.

The project was due for completion by the end of November, ahead of the wet season.

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04 LOCAL COUNCIL ELECTION NEWS hard-working and honest.

VOX POP THE QUESTIONS:

What are the biggest issues for Councils?

What changes do you want to see in your local Council area?

What do you look for in a candidate?

Bongo Sagigi Issues: The cost of living for a start, the freight, if it’s subsided it’ll be alright, but there is one shipping company that controls the monopoly.

Changes: Councils should make more land available for local people.

Candidates: Transparency, honesty and accountability.

Nakau Issues: To fix up the main roads; there

are potholes that are really bad.

Candidates: Somebody honest and with Christian ways, so the money doesn’t go the wrong way, it stays in the community.

Tagel Daniel Changes: More communication.

Candidates: Someone who is

Alison Issues: Transparency and accountability with more community interaction, because we don’t know what’s going on, we don’t know what’s being addressed.

Changes: Public transport. I’ve travelled a lot to Third World countries but I could still get a bus!

Here, it costs the elderly $20 to pick up their medication.

OPPORTUNITY

OUR ELECTION COVERAGE...

Every mayoral candidate will have the opportunity to speak on Radio 4MW. The Torres News has a set list of questions which will be asked of everyone, on-air, as part of that interview – their answers will be

THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2024 TORRES NEWS This would provide jobs for more local people and more transport alternatives.

Candidates: People who have experience in private business, and those who engage daily with the community.

Kelly Issues: Maintaining the roads.

Changes: New leaders, a change in representation – new people in, old people out.

Candidates: To lead by example.

Election processes taking their course Almost 1500 Queenslanders across the state have been nominated for the 2024 local government elections to run for mayor or councillor positions in their local communities.

The local government elections will be held on Saturday 16 March.

Ballot paper order draws were undertaken following the close of nominations early last week.

In total, there were 15 mayoral positions and 46 councillor positions across the state left uncontested.

In the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area, there were four uncontested councillor positions in the Torres Strait Island Regional Council and one in the Northern Peninsula Area.

“All of the candidates in ballot paper order are

transcribed and edited to not more than 300 words for each candidate, and published in the Torres News with a photograph of the candidate if submitted by our deadline.

now published on the ECQ website,” Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said.

“Local government elections are logistically quite complex for us to deliver, and the ECQ team is continuing to work hard behind the scenes ahead of the opening of early voting. It’s a great time to plan now for how you will cast your vote in the elections, remembering that you must vote in your local government area.”

Electors can head to the ECQ website (www.ecq.qld. gov.au) for more information.

If you won’t be in your local area on polling day you must consider how you will cast your vote – either in early voting or by applying for a postal vote.

Postal vote applications close on Monday 4 March.

Voting is compulsory.

sent us their photograph by no later than 5pm Monday 11 March (deadline for Issue 121, publication date Thursday 14 March 2024).

For advertising enquiries in the Torres News contact Shaz at ads@torres.news

DEADLINE Every Mayoral candidate should have answered the questions and/or

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NEWS 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2024

Telstra contractors must be investigated – Entsch

BY CARLI WILLIS Telstra has been asked to investigate the contractors it uses to provide maintenance work in the wake of a series of outages in the very far north in recent months, Federal Member for Leichardt Warren Entsch says.

Mr Entsch held a meeting with the telco not long after a service outage in the Cape and Torres Strait lasted 40 hours, during which time some residents were unable to call triple zero.

“I heard [that] the incident [at Telstra’s Coen station] occurred well before they had advised it had and that there was an issue of lack of fuel, and that they didn’t call a helicopter pilot out at the time,” Mr Entsch said.

“It just doesn’t seem to make sense.”

Mr Entsch said the meeting was held on Friday 2 February, two weeks after the outage that ran from Friday 19 January to Sunday 21 January.

He said no commitment was made as to when and how Telstra would investigate its contractors.

“They know where to get me and they know that I will

Warren Entsch. Pic supplied.

The government says its reviewing Telstra’s Universal Service Obligation. Pic Carli Willis.

continue to pursue it,” he said.

“I’m aware there was a mum from Napranum that had a sick child and couldn’t ring triple zero.

“They had to flag down somebody to help which was fantastic that they did it, but so unnecessary.

“It put somebody’s life at risk – these things are serious matters and they need to be addressed.”

Telstra Regional Manager Rachel Cliffe said they held their contractors to a high standard.

“We conduct an extensive review of any major outage like this to get under what happened and what we could do to improve,” she said.

“In this instance, a number of things, some of which

were out of our control, occurred at once and we’re sorry for the impact this caused for people in the Cape and Torres Strait.”

Acting Communications Minister, Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus KC MP said his department had also worked with Telstra to understand the issues impacting its network.

“Based on the information provided to the department at the time, Telstra took a range of steps to restore impacted services as quickly as feasible, but weather posed some operational challenges in gaining access to key sites,” he said.

Mr Entsch said he also wanted to see a second fibre optic cable run up to the Cape, so if one line of communication went down,

Virtual Treaty sessions held in wake of Kirrily

BY GILMORE JOHNSTON AND CARLI WILLIS PwC’s Indigenous Consulting (PIC) was forced to hold virtual sessions in Waiben and Weipa earlier this month after on-ground consultations planned for January had to be cancelled thanks to ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily.

PIC was hired to assist the Interim Truth and Treaty Body (ITTB) to have a look at what future treaty and truth-telling processes might look like.

PIC manager and Ngaro, Giya and Mbarbaram man from far north Queensland, Gresham Congoo, acknowledged the short notice of the event as well as connectivity challenges faced by the region.

He said feedback on the roll-out of consultations would help form the next phase.

“Part of our recommendations into the next stage of the trip planning process [was] acknowledging some of those shortcomings that have come about due to the process timeline,” he said. “But also the extreme weather events.”

The ITTB last held an on-ground consultation on Waiben in March 2023.

Mr Congo said the treaty and truth-telling process had been years in the making He said another recommendation made to the ITTB was the inclusion of non-Indigenous people in discussions.

“After the referendum, I think there was an acknowledgement that there

was a lack of understanding from non-Indigenous people around the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” he said.

“When you consider pastoralists families actually hold some of that knowledge, that needs to come out as part of that process.”

He said the recommendations would go into a ‘community guide’ or ‘truth-telling strategy’ the ITTB would review.

“I would strongly encourage everyone to go on to the ITTB website, to have a look,” he said.

“It’s really important that we’re all informed and know where it’s going at this current stage.”

An ITTB spokesperson said the consultation process on a truth and treaty strategy was closed.

“In addition to virtual engagements and face-to-face consultations, a truth-telling survey made available to all Queenslanders to share their input on truth-telling has been promoted over recent months through ITTB social media platforms, website and targeted email databases, including Torres Strait Islander organisations and individuals,” they said.

“Consultations and the survey have now been completed and we are in the process of collating all feedback to inform development of the strategy and supporting documents.”

Neither the PIC nor the Interim Truth and Treaty Body would respond to questions about how many people attended the online sessions.

there was a second that could be relied on. “[I] highlighted the total inappropriate or inadequacy of the service and the fact that we were depending on a single line,” he said.

“If one [site] went out the whole Cape and the Torres Strait went out [and] was happening [at] too much of a frequency.”

Ms Cliffe said she hoped work to make the service more resilient should be completed by mid-year.

“This project is using the latest optical technology that will effectively allow us to push traffic past a site that’s having a problem, ensuring sites down the line can continue to provide services to customers,” she said.

After the January outage,

the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) also called a meeting with Telstra for a report on what had happened.

They asked for this year’s federal Regional Telecommunications Review chair, Alannah MacTiernan, to visit the region.

Ms MacTiernan said the committee would sit today to discuss the regions it would visit.

“We won’t be able to respond to every kind invitation, but we are very keen to make sure that we get a good cross-section,” she said.

“Far north Queensland and Torres Strait is in that mix we will be considering.”

Ms MacTiernan said the committee would also meet with the First Nations Digital Inclusion Advisory Group, who produced a report in October 2023 that looked at the digital inclusion gap experienced by First Nations people.

Ms MacTiernan said the review committee was told by federal Minister for Communications Michelle Rowlands they should focus on Telstra’s Universal Service Obligation as a priority.

“Our first major briefing is on the universal service

obligations, what the shortcomings are and what the opportunities for reform might be,” she said.

“Then when we go out into the communities we can be listening [and] doing further engagement on that subject.

“Is the [service] obligation really delivering [and] where we can actually maximise benefit?”

Under the Universal Service Obligation (USO) agreement with the federal government Telstra was responsible for ensuring 24-hour free access to emergency service numbers.

Ms MacTiernan said Minister Rowlands had launched a discussion paper on the USO that the public could respond to by March this year.

“When they were established they were really very much focused on the copper wire infrastructure,” Ms MacTiernan said.

To have a say on how to modernise the Universal Service Obligation go to: https://www. infrastructure.gov.au/ have-your-say/betterdelivery-universal-services

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06 NEWS

THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2024 TORRES NEWS

Deadly Start for health studies students from Zenadth Kes

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Ailan Life

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

A ‘Deadly Start’ program, which helped 260 young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander senior school students kickstart their career in health last year, has been launched at the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) for the first time.

The program has been run by Metro North Health since 2019, mostly in South East Queensland, but this year two Zenadth Kes students have joined the program.

In 2023 the program partnered with Seed Foundation, who provided mentors and guidance.

Operational Manager Rick Phineasa said the program was about helping young people complete their Certificate IIIs in health.

“Our job is to make sure we try to grow our own,” he said.

“Them kids work one day a week and study health too. “[When] they finish, they have a Certificate III in Health Support Assistance or Health Services.”

Mr Phineasa said the program was targeted at Year 11 students, who worked and studied for 12 months.

“After that, we’re now looking to support thempla to make sure they hopefully [get into] the health industry,” he said.

Mr Phineasa said he knew the struggles of young people trying

Rick Phineasa takes pride in nurturing young people to find their career pathways. Pic by Carli Willis. to fit into a Western system, which was why the support from the Seed Foundation was crucial.

He recalled being sent down south to study by his parents barely being able to speak English.

“I’ve been blessed now and I help kids when all leave here go mainland,” he said.

“I can help them to navigate through them coleh man system, which is quite easy, but nothing like home to be honest.”

Ida Bowie from the TCHHS said her role was to provide support to the students.

She said she had also been sent down south for school.

“It was a big shock to the system having to wear skirts and shoes to your school and having to talk English, it was challenging,” she said.

Ms Bowie said the experience helped her relate to the

experiences of other Zenadth Kes young people entering education and training.

“For me, thempla ya our future and it’s important that we help and guide them through.

“We will be having two schoolbased traineeships for TI, Bamaga, Weipa, and Cooktown.

“I will be travelling off to all them main hubs and supporting them students and the staff as well.”

Ms Bowie said the TCHHS had also recently announced a new facet of the program – a state-wide cadetship.

“This is more of a legitimate pathway once them trainees complete the school-based traineeship.

“If they decide to go further to go uni and you know, study further, there is the state-wide cadetship with health so that’s the next step.”

Teacher Cedella hopes to inspire

Each week we will publish a pic showing the Ailan way of life in the Torres Strait and the NPA – the kids swimming, a BBQ at the beach, fishing, scenic shot, etc – from local photographers and readers across our region.

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

This week’s pic, taken at Friday Island, was submitted by Lily Jane Shibasaki.

“Friday Island at its best. No filter. Mother nature presenting a beautiful day with the highest tide of the month,” Lily Jane said.

Lily Jane is now in the draw to win this month’s $150 gift card!

Good luck!

Multiple entries may be submitted, but every entry (or entrant) may not be published.

All pics submitted will be considered in the draw for the monthly gift voucher. Winners of the CEQ Ailan Life competition are determined by CEQ. Entries to the Ailan Life photo competition may be used by the CEQ marketing/promotions team as background images for store promotions such as posters, digital noticeboard specials, counter-facing displays (POS) screens, and/or on their website and social media. Entries may also be used in-store to promote the ‘Ailan Life’ competition.

Teachers can play a unique and influential role in our lives – a role that can continue to shape us long after we leave the classroom.

For Cedella Anson (pictured), an Erub Neur woman from Darnley Island, it was a teacher – her own Aunt – who inspired her to follow that pathway.

“My Aunt was the first person who inspired me to become a teacher,” Cedella said.

She recalled students going out of their way to say hello to her as she taught across remote Queensland communities.

“I felt really inspired because it made me think she had an impact on them,” Cedella said.

“Then I thought, after I had my first child, I need to get into education because I too want to make a difference.”

As a mother to one with another baby on the way, her final year of university was not easy.

“On Monday I gave birth to my second

Pic supplied.

son and on Thursday I remember going to class,” she said.

“I was so determined.

“I just thought if I do this for my boys, they’ll always see me as a strong Blak woman and that it doesn’t matter what your circumstances are, you can get through it.”

Flash-forward to the present, Cedella is now a secondary teacher and level coordinator.

She said becoming a teacher had, amongst other things, given her choices.

She said it was

important to acknowledge and recognise First Nations and Western teaching systems.

“Education gives you so many options,” she said. “You can step into different worlds – I can be educated in my Islander world and in the Western world. It opens your mind and gives you confidence.”

Cedella said she prided herself on being a teacher who provided a culturally safe and supportive environment for all her students – her lived

experience and deep cultural understanding underpinned her craft.

“I feel like nobody will know our kids like we know our kids,” Cedella says.

“As Indigenous people, we have that intrinsic connection with each other and I am able to acknowledge and enforce cultural things all the time, such as being culturally strong and educating them on the importance of knowing their identity”.

Cedella hoped her story would encourage more people to consider a rewarding career in teaching.

“I hope that I can inspire others to understand how they can make a difference too,” she said. “There are so many benefits to teaching – you’ll be in a career where you know that you make an impact, where you know you’re shaping young people’s lives, or, the next generation.”

To find out more about a rewarding career in teaching go to www.

BeThatTeacher.gov.au

NEWS 07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2024

WKNM celebrates library renos and Badge Day Waybeni Koey Ngurpay Mudh (WKNM) officially opened the newly renovated library and celebrated their 2024 Year 12 Seniors last Friday.

WKNM Staff said the morning started with an opening of the library space, with an acknowledgment “to all the wonderful people who were involved in making the changes for the library to happen”.

They said that included WKNM Head of Campus Suberia Bowie and Business Service Manager Brian Reader, who did a lot of the groundwork with builders and planned to ensure the second storey space was accessible for all students (disability inclusive).

“Thanks to Pastor Nathan Seden, who gave a moving prayer to bless the facility and some of the Year 12 prefects share their words of excitement for use of the new study spaces,” they said.

“Thank you to all the community members and parents that attended and made time to come and check out the new space.”

The Year 12 Badge Ceremony was hosted by Head of Year Lily Jane (LJ)

Shibasaki and School Captain Henry Holland.

“They led the formalities with a beautiful touch of having all Year 12s parents/guardians escort their 2024 senior proudly to their seats, there was not a dry eye in the house,” staff said.

“The ceremony involved leadership acknowledgment for Year 12 leaders – school captains and vice captains as well as the newly appointments position of prefects, along with the annual role of cultural leaders.

“Sports captains and Boarding house captains were also recognised for their leadership capability as well as the Student Council, which involves representatives from each year level.

“Students in senior school that have been awarded a QATSIF scholarship were also recognised for their efforts and application to the educational funded program.

“The parent response was great advice from Tahmat Mills, all around gratitude sharing – ‘if you appreciate someone, be sure to let them know’.

“Thank you to all those involved on the day, it was a wonderful occasion for all.”

LEFT: Henry Holland, Phillip Keenan, Jikidda Manuel and Tyrese Manuel.

BELOW RIGHT: Tyrese Manuel and Philip Keenan (Year 12 students) with Tyrese’s Mum and Phillip’s Aunt, Dulcie Manuel.

Pics thanks to Dulcie Manual.

Pics by Danielle Wylie or as credited.

Year 12 Prefects Liam Hay, Parimah Daniel & Jikidda Manuel taking a look at the new and improved study space.

Tony Tiplady, Karen Wright, Suberia Bowie with parents Mrs & Mrs Kelly & Dino Seden.

Senior Prefects looking on as Pastor Seden prepares for blessing with Head of Campus Matt Tully.

TN0768 3 ISSUES: 22/2/24_______ 29/2/24 _______ & 7/3/24________.

Excel E Dummy E AdsIN E

Sports House Captains with Mr Arkell: Sally Gela, Tamara David (Baidam), 10x7 (70) colour ad @ $6.50 incl locals rate $455incl. x3 $1365 -- OR -- 12x5 [60] @ $6.50 $390incl. x3 $1170 Terence Mosby, Pele Lui (Kuiam), Sean Seriat & Kutuane Waia (Kozac).

MARIO SABATINO -- mario_sharon@bigpond.com

Cannon Boggo Leaders with Aunty Irene Laifoo.

QATSIF leaders Sonrae Lui, Udiwad Tapim, Shontay Kelly & Jikidda Manuel with Mariah Mosby (P&C Life Member).

Year 12 leaders.

08

THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2024 TORRES NEWS

GBK’s Quick Guide to

MEETINGS FOR MEMBERS

Are you a member of a corporation registered with ORIC? Find aout more about meetings for members and how you can get invovled

Meetings are an essential part of ensuring good corporate governance. A corporation can not run without holding members’ meetings, and members can not have their say as a corporation member without attending them.

A General Meeting is for all members of a corporation, including members, directors, the contact person/secretary, authorized observers, auditors (if present), and proxy holders (if allowed).

At these meetings, members have the opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns. General meetings can cover various topics, such as major plans or projects, changes to the corporation’s name or rule book, and voluntary winding up.

Find out more The Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 (CATSI Act) sets out the rules for meetings but there are some parts of the law that corporations can change in their own rule book.

There are different types of general meetings: • GENERAL MEETING - held by the corporation as required to address specific matters. The CATSI Act doesn’t stipulate what business must be conducted at general meetings • ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM) - held every year (before November 30). The CATSI Act is more specific about some matters that can be dealt with at AGMs - including reviewing the corporation’s annual report, electing directors, updating member details, and appointing an auditor (if required).

Review your corporation’s rulebook to see what rules are in place for your meetings.

• FIRST GENERAL MEETING - held by a new corporation within three months of registering under the CATSI Act.

The ORIC website has some great resources for corporation members, including fact sheets and a videos.

Directors are responsible for scheduling general meetings at a reasonable date, time, and location. Members cannot directly call a general meeting but can request the directors to do so.

A notice of meeting must be provided at least 21 DAYS in advance.

Notices should be sent to directors, members, the secretary or contact person, observers, and auditors, following the methods outlined in the corporation’s rule book.

GET IN TOUCH WITH US www.gbk.org.au 07 4083 1000 admin@gbk.org.au

NEED ASSISTANCE? Contact ORIC Phone 1800 622 431 email info@oric.gov.au website oric.gov.au

09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2024

Are you 16 – 21? ready to

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GBK’s Meriba Ged Ngalpun Mab service has launched

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een 16-21 tw e b d e g a re a u o If y islands r e n in e th in g in years, liv ore that 15 m g in rk o w t o n and are hours per week IBLE. YOU MAY BE ELIG

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10 NEWS

THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2024 TORRES NEWS

Kick-start for PowerSavvy program launched from Waiben Ergon Energy Retail has kick-started its PowerSavvy program with a digital meter rollout across some of Queensland’s most remote communities, including the Torres Strait and NPA. After a launch was held on Waiben earlier this month, Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said a range of PowerSavvy initiatives had been developed based on feedback from

TN0461 • 18-01-24

The Ergon Energy group at the launch of PowerSavvy. Pics 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 (18/01/2024) J All TI transfers include complimentary bus service on Thursday Island J

residential and business customers.

“From installing digital meters that will give customers greater visibility of their energy use and enable more rooftop solar, to educating the next generation through the PowerSavvy schools program, we are empowering our remote customers to save and prepare for a renewable energy future,” Ms Lui said.

“The Government has invested $3 million in the PowerSavvy program and our remote customers and communities will reap the benefits for years to come.”

The installation of digital meters was to start on Thursday Island this month, followed by Horn Island and businesses in the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA).

“Digital meters will give our community a much clearer view of their electricity use in almost real-time, meaning locals can check their usage on the Ergon Energy website to save energy and money,” Ms Lui said.

Ergon Energy Retail Executive Retail Manager Ayesha Razzaq said a digital meter would also pave the way for the installation of a solar PV system for those who were interested in renewable energy solutions.

“We will let customers know when the crew is coming to install the new digital meter, which will require a brief power interruption for safety reasons, and any dogs to be separated from the work area or securely restrained while work is in progress,” Ms Razzaq said.

“Across Queensland we are aiming to have all of the old basic meters replaced with modern digital meters by 2030, so the

PowerSavvy program is ensuring our remote communities are ahead of the pack, at no additional cost to customers.”

Customers in the Torres Strait and NPA communities were also eligible for PowerSavvy white goods rebates to help with the cost of upgrading to 4-star energy-efficient models.

“When you buy a new energy-efficient appliance at the Community Enterprises Queensland (CEQ) Col Jones store they will apply the rebate at the point of sale, and you will receive a surge protection device,” Ms Razzaq said.

“Ergon Retail will also cover the cost of disposing of your old white goods when you replace them because we know that can add up to $100 or more.”

Ergon Retail has also partnered with Mura Kosker Sorority and NPA Family and Community Services to conduct Home Energy Health Checks at the request of residential customers who wanted to identify savings at home.

“Residents can register their interest in Home Energy Health Checks with these community-based organisations and the team from Ergon Retail will also be offering face-to-face energy advice consultations for businesses when we are doing community visits,” Ms Razzaq said.

“We understand the power of a grassroots program that covers all ages and stages of life, so we are working with local schools on a PowerSavvy educational program pitched at primary and high school students we hope to start rolling out in Term 2.” *More information is on the PowerSavvy website: www.ergon. com.au/powersavvy

P J 07 4069 1586 • F J 07 4069 1408 • E J info@rebeltours.com.au • W J www.rebeltours.com.au • Important: Horn Island Bus Pickups must be requested the day before.

• Please note: Please be aware that we will have ferries to meet every Qantas and Skytrans flight from Cairns. If you can not see a ferry that suits your flight please call the office on 4069 1586.

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

• Sunday ferry 13:45/14:00 ONLY operates when Qantas operates that flight.

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 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. Schedule may change without notice.

BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.REBELTOURS.COM.AU

AVOID THE QUEUE!

SCAN ME and Book your ferry now using this QR code, pay online.

The launch of PowerSavvy on Waiben-Thursday Island was celebrated with a cake.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2024

MARKET NEWS 11

They were all stars at Blak Markets STORY & PICS ALF WILSON

Juanita Mills, Taye and Tari Sagigi loved seeing the community streaming through buying up second-hand wares. Pics by Carli Willis.

Waiben’s first secondhand market a hit Waiben hosted its first second-hand market at the Bowls Club on Saturday.

People streamed through the doors, buying up all manner of things from the 12 stallholders, including décor, nursery accessories, clothing, kitchenware, appliances, toys and a whole range of bits and bobs they had found around their houses.

Tari Sagigi said it was her sister Juanita Mill’s idea, which had stemmed from having too many items lying around the house.

“We had takers for stall holders, in the first couple of days,” Tari said.

“We were pretty booked, probably in the first week that I promoted it, and there are people on the waitlist for our next one, which will happen in two months.”

But she said the best part was the community pulling together to support local charity groups.

“We have a couple of the stalls donating to Ronald McDonald House and another stall is donating all of their takings to the animal shelter,” she said.

“My daughter has a stall, she’s made at least two different sporting teams outside of school that have district trials for other sports, so she’s raising funds.

“We’ve actually had some midwives come through and buy items to take over to Bamaga to hand over to new mothers over there.

“So that’s pretty lovely to hear, supporting our local mothers and our new mums.”

Tari said organisers were donating the $15 they collected from stallholders to the animal shelter as well.

“A few good charities are in need at this point in time, [so] why not give back,” she said.

But she said over and above all of that, it was a great social opportunity for our small island community.

“We get to see who’s new on the island and they get to see what we’re all about,” she said.

“It’s just really good for our community for people to get out.”

Ms Sagigi said people could reach out to her on Facebook to show their interest in holding a stall at future markets.

Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal art and craft was showcased in Townsville during the Indigenous versus Maori All Stars matches in Townsville last Friday.

Blak Markets were set up in the Townsville CBD on the morning of the games outside of the Grand Chancellor Hotel, more famously known as the ‘Sugar Shaker’.

It was the ideal place for them, just metres from the popular Cowboys League’s Club across Flinders Street.

A lot of foot traffic passed through the area, and whilst there was some rain around, the stalls were under a covered area.

Organiser Ros Sailor said the markets attracted visitors from a wide area including the Torres Strait and Cape York.

“There were people here from as far away as Brisbane, Mount Isa, Cairns, Yarrabah, Rockhampton, Palm Island, Weipa and other places,” Ros said. “It has been good.”

Adie Marou Snr’s stall for his new business Marou Go had large Torres Strait and Aboriginal flags holding pride of place at the back of their stall under a tent.

“I have family on Mer and this has been great here today,” Adie Snr said.

Four generations of 75-yearold Noel Cannon’s family also walked into the area and looked at the stalls.

The games were a massive boost for the local economy, with most accommodation booked out and lots of spending at cafes, hotels, restaurants and other businesses.

TOP: Danielle Somerville and Adie Marou snr with Adie Marou jnr at the Marou Go craft stall.

CENTRE: Michael and Ros Sailor.

RIGHT: Martha Marr checked out the craft stalls.

12 NEWS & SPORT

THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2024 TORRES NEWS

Culture takes pride of place in lead-up week to All Stars

BY NEVILLE JOHNSTON Rugby league fans from all walks of life and cultural backgrounds poured into Townsville Stadium for the sixth instalment of the NRL Indigenous Māori All Stars cultural and sporting event last Friday night.

Townsville, which was Gurrumbilbarra to the Wulgurukaba people and Thul Garrie Waja to the Bindal people, welcomed the men’s, women’s and mixed touch footy teams from each side.

The match has fastbecome the traditional starting point for the new NRL season each year, as a week-long event that combines cultural elements and sport.

With the far north of Queensland in the middle of the wet season, heavy and sporadic rain mixed with humid temperatures brought challenging conditions.

Since its addition to the NRL calendar in 2019, the annual Indigenous-Māori clash has grown and developed into a travelling roadshow of sorts.

It has been played along the east coast of Australia and in New Zealand.

Last year’s game was in Rotorua.

Next year’s game was slated for another location in Australia, and early indications were Sydney would be next to play host.

The teams began the week with a special Welcome to Country ceremony by Traditional Custodians, Elders and the community.

The event included a smoking ceremony, traditional dance and singing from the Wulgurukaba

dancers, and a performance by the Komet Torres Strait Island Art and Cultural Group.

Players from the men’s and women’s teams also presented a traditional dance performance of their own.

One of those was a ‘binding dance’ – a mark of respect to those who had just welcomed them to their Country.

Emotions shifted into overdrive when the playing group locked arms with the Komet Torres Strait Islander Cultural Group to deliver a stirring rendition of Baba Waian, a chorus composed by the late Miseron Levi from Wug Village, Moa Island.

“Singing that song together with the boys and girls to me was very emotional,” cultural support for the women’s teams Elsie Seriat said.

“I felt humbled and honoured to be representing our mob and especially having our high-profile mainland brothers and sisters singing that song.”

The players watched on as the St Patrick’s School girl’s team won their school competition.

It was a particularly proud moment for All Stars veteran and co-captain Tallisha Harden.

“We’ve got so many Torres Strait Islander girls who are boarders at our school, so I know their families were really proud when they won that competition,” she said.

“It was such a great experience to see them really happy and successful because they love their rugby league.”

The players also engaged with the Townsville

Aboriginal and Islander Health Service (TAIHS), who held an All Stars community day, giving local community people an opportunity to meet and interact with the players.

All Stars captain Latrell Mitchell, former NRL great Greg Inglis and several other players and greats, also visited Palm Island on Wednesday.

“It is really important that for events like this when we have an opportunity, to go over to places like Palm Island and meet with the people,” Australian Rugby League Indigenous Council (ARLIC) Queensland rep Ed Monaei said.

“It’s a game for the people, and more importantly the people get to interact, engage and be with the players who are representing their own people.”

The day before the big game, last Thursday, all the teams were put through their final paces with a Captain’s Run at the stadium.

The men also took the opportunity to practice their ‘War Cry’ and the Women their ‘Unity Dance’.

In keeping with the theme of ‘unity’, the teams gathered centre field and gave another stirring rendition of Baba Waian, and the soothing sounds of the Torres Strait Islander chorus echoed around the empty stadium.

The final training session was an opportunity for players to acknowledge and thank their families for their love, support and guidance on their respective journeys in their lives and footy careers.

Left front: Dane Gagai.

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow. Pics by Lewis Bin Doraho.

Historic NZ tour remembered at All Stars gathering

BY ALF WILSON Two members of the first Indigenous rugby league side to tour New Zealand were honoured as VIP guests at a function in Townsville before the Indigenous All Stars game on Friday night.

Francis Tapim and Pat Mara, along with another member of the NZ tour Dale Henaway, were guests at the gathering held at the Cowboys building behind Queensland Country Bank Stadium last Tuesday.

“There were members of the Cowboys, NRL officials, coaches and people from sporting clubs there and they played a video of our visit last year to NZ for a 50th

anniversary reunion,” Francis said.

“It was great to be there.”

The trio got to reminisce about the visit back in 1973 and a subsequent reunion held last year.

“It was good that our trip is still being recognised after all these years,” Francis said.

Francis said they answered lots of questions about that historical NZ trip.

Pat said the video brought back fond memories of the trip.

“We laughed and yarned and thought about the former team members on that trip who have passed away or couldn’t be here because they are sick,” Pat said.

The 70-year-old Pat said he last visited Masig,

Francis Tapim, Dale Henaway and Pat Mara. Pic supplied. and nearby Erub where his mother lives, some years ago.

“I hope to get back up there soon and will tell family and friends all about the trip, reunion and Cowboys

building visit,” he said.

Francis has fond memories of the 1973 tour when he and Pat lined up as back line centres, with Dale at second row forward.

Francis, 76, said the 1973 team played 11 games against Maori combinations and won nine.

“A total of 40 players toured in 1973 and the ones

who were still alive travelled to New Zealand, [last year]” he said.

“We met other players from Brisbane, WA, NSW, the NT and other places.”

They said they were welcomed at Auckland and the following day had a meet and greet with the 2023 Australian Indigenous Allstars players.

The three were gifted sportsmen in their day.

In addition to being quality rugby league players, both Francis and Pat were also stars for the Garbutt Magpies Club who contested the rival code in the Townsville Australian Rules football league.

The pair were renowned for their speed and skills.

CLASSIFIEDS 13

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2024

ADVERTISING J M: 0419 828 639 J E: ads@torres.news PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION LOCATED AT THURSDAY ISLAND Telstra plan to upgrade the existing telecommunications facility comprising a 23m steel lattice tower off Chester Street, Thursday Island, Queensland 4875 (1RP748031) www.rfnsa.com.au/4875022 1. Telstra Corporation Limited (A.C.N 051 775 556) are currently upgrading existing mobile network facilities. The purpose of this installation is to improve 4G and 5G mobile coverage and connectivity for our customers in the in the Kings Beach service area.

2. The proposed facility upgrade includes the removal of six (6) existing panel antennas, the installation of six (6) new panel antennas (each no more than 2.8m long), as well as the installation and removal of associated ancillary equipment (including, but not limited to the installation of three (3) new remote radio units (RRUs)). All internal equipment will be housed within the existing equipment shelter located at the base of the facility.

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 Rd, Manoora • Marketplace Newsagency – 2/96 McLaughlan Rd, Bentley Park • NewsXpressCairns Central – Cairns Central Shopping Centre, 126 McLeod St • Railway Newsagency – 48 McLeod St, Cairns

• Raintrees Newsagency – Raintrees Shopping Centre Alfred St, Manunda MOSSMAN • News Extra Mossman – 35 Front Street PAlM ISlANd • ABIS Palm Is. – Bwgcolman Supermarket, 67 Beach Rd TOWNSVIllE • Mooney Street News – 72-86 Mooney St, Gulliver • NewsXpress Garbutt Central – 1/221 Ingham Rd, Garbutt • NewsXpress Sun City – 307 Flinders Mall MACKAY • Moores Newspower – 332 Shakespeare Street

Buai Mudh Thursday Island Neighbourhood and Community Centre Free Internet Library

NOW OPEN Family friendly, all welcome.

(6 Computer Monitors available)

Relaxation Quiet Space to unwind Hot Coffee/Tea Study area Big TV to unwind Kids play corner Access to Mura Kosker Programs

156 Douglas Street (next to Meriba Mudh) Open 9am to 4:30pm Lunch time closure 12:30pm to 1:30pm We also have Hire facilities available to cater from small to large groups.

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

3. Telstra regard the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the above description.

4. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about this proposal. Further information and/or written submissions should be directed to Adi Ananda, Aurecon Australasia Pty Ltd (A.B.N 54 005 139 873) via email to: adi.ananda@aurecongroup.com or via post to: Adi Ananda, Aurecon Australasia, PO Box 23061, Docklands, VIC, 8012 by 5pm on 8/03/2024.

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.

EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF – DIAT ALFERINK E editor@torres.news NEWS DIRECTOR – DARREN MONCRIEFF M 0431 148 881 • E darren@torres.news

Port Supervisor Thursday Island

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

(Housing accommodation provided)

TSIMA CORRESPONDENTS Jen Enosa, Sylvia Tabua & Gilmore Johnston.

Ports North is responsible for the development and management of port facilities vital to the economic growth of Cairns and regional centres in Far North Queensland. The Corporation has extensive property, marina, tourism and cargo facilities in Cairns and its regional ports.

CADET JOURNALIST – FLORA WARRIA M 0473 231 367 • E flora@torres.news

An opportunity exists for a Port Supervisor to join our Operations Team at the Port of Thursday Island. (Housing accommodation is provided).

ADVERTISING

As Port Supervisor you will be responsible for monitoring and controlling operational activities and maintenance to deliver safe, secure and cost-effective port services to existing and potential customers.

Reporting directly to the Manager Port Services, the successful applicant will have an understanding of marine operations and port facilities together with experience in repair and maintenance of plant, equipment and facilities.

The role requires leadership skills, well-developed customer service and communication skills, first aid certification and a good level of computer literacy. A coxswain certificate and current drivers licence are essential.

You will be required to be able to satisfy the criteria for obtaining a Maritime Security Identification Card.

Further information on the role is available on: www.portsnorth.com.au/about-us/ employment/ Applications close 1 March 2024 and can be sent to recruitment@portsnorth. com.au or Recruitment – Ports North, PO Box 594, Cairns Qld 4870. www.portsnorth.com.au

@TSIMAtorresnews

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

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

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ACCOUNTS

ABN 16 657 427 908 SHARON GALLERY M 0419 828 639 • E shaztorresnews@gmail.com PO Box 385, Thursday Island Q 4875

CIRCULATION COVERAGE AREA – Covering news and events of the Torres Strait and the Northern Peninsula Area including: Badu, Bamaga, Boigu, Dauan, Erub, Horn Island (Ngurupai), Iama, Injinoo, Kerriri, Mabuyag, Masig, Mer, Moa - Kubin (Arkai) and St Pauls (Wug), Muralag, New Mapoon, Poruma, Saibai, Seisia, Thursday Island (Waiben) - TRAWQ and Port Kennedy, Ugar, Umagico, Warraber and everywhere in between.

PUBLISHED – every Thursday.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula regions. We pay our sincere respects to the Elders and the Peoples of the Torres Strait and the Northern Peninsula Area, across whose traditional lands and seas we report.

This newspaper is dedicated to recognising, preserving and promoting the traditional cultures and customs of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples of these regions.

Our offices are sometimes unattended. Please call and leave a message or email editorial, advertising or accounts.

The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) is a Commonwealth statutory body located on Thursday Island, delivering a wide range of services to Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people living in the Torres Strait region.

Public Programs Officer APS5 SALARY RANGE $77,135 – $81,794 LOCATION – THURSDAY ISLAND Plus 15.4% superannuation, district allowance, housing subsidy, and leave fare allowance (payable after 12 months’ service).

The TSRA Culture, Art and Heritage Program is seeking a suitably experienced, enthusiastic and motivated person to be our new Public Programs Officer. This role is ongoing/non-ongoing and is open to Torres Strait Islander or Aboriginal people only.

The Public Programs Officer will assist in supporting the Gab Titui Culture Centre reputation as the hub within the Torres Strait for preserving, promoting, encouraging and educating regional, local, national and international visitors about Torres Strait Islander culture and art, through the Public Programmes initiatives.

Applications close at 11:30pm AEST, 6 March 2024.

To Apply: • View this vacancy on our website at https://tsra.nga.net.au/ and apply online.

• If you do not have access to the internet please contact the HR Team on (07) 4069 0700.

For further information please contact Leitha Assan on Tel: 07 4069 0873 or email leitha.assan@tsra.gov.au Please note: TSRA accommodation is not available for this position

14 SPORT

THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2024 TORRES NEWS

NBL play-offs – who will win? AFL social comp for Waiben AFL Cape York has announced the launch of free social AFL on Waiben to encourage physical activity and give young people more opportunities for structured sport.

BY VELMA GARA No Queensland teams will advance into the final rounds of the National Basketball League for 2024 as the Sydney Kings find their way back into the Top 6.

The Kings needed their 122–66 win against an undermanned South East Melbourne Phoenix side, and with other game results going their way they finished in fifth spot on the ladder.

The NBL season has finished this year for four teams – Cairns Taipans, Brisbane Bullets, Adelaide 36ers and South East Melbourne Phoenix.

The Taipans did end the season on a high with a win against the top team, Melbourne United, 97–88.

The play-in tournament will start next week Wednesday 28 February.

Meantime, the NBL season is on an International Basketball Federation (FIBA) break, with the Australian Boomers to face Korea tonight in game one of the 2025 Asia Cup Qualifier at

The 2024 social AFL will run for five weeks for under-12s, 15s, 16s and adults on Wednesday nights from 7 March.

Development Coordinator Keiran Scibberas said there were limited spots

available, so to be sure to get in early.

He said the rest of their programs were due to kick off in about two weeks.

“We’ll have more then,” he said.

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SEEDING QUALIFIER

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NBL road to championship. Pic supplied by NBL.

Bendigo in Victoria.

Other results from Round 20: • Adelaide 36ers def New Zealand

Breakers 76–70.

• Melbourne def Illawarra Hawks 92–87.

• Tasmania JackJumpers def

Perth Wildcats 86–72.

• NZ def Brisbane 103–87.

• Illawarra def Perth, 108–92.

Over the Black Dot returns Host of Over the Black Dot Dean Widders.

Pics courtesy of NITV.

Fire holds on to WNBL top spot

BY VELMA GARA

Townsville’s Jessica McDowellWhite in the special jersey worn by the team in recognition of the Australian Defence Force. Pic courtesy of Townsville Fire FB page.

Ladder (after Round 14):

seven points and two rebounds.

For the visitors, point guard Leilani Mitchell, had 15 points, five assists and three steals.

In the last round (15) of the WNBL, the top four spots are still up for grabs, with games started last night – it won’t be known who will make the final four until Sunday, when Townsville will host the Sydney Flames.

Fire Flyers Spirit Flames Boomers Lynx Lightning UC Caps

Games

Although the Townsville Fire lost its game by more than 30 points against visiting team, Bendigo Spirit in Round 14 of the Women’s National Basketball League, they are still sitting in the number one spot on the ladder.

Bendigo defeated Townsville, 93 – 60, thus moving into the Top 4 for the first time this season.

In the game against Canberra, Bendigo guard, Ally Wilson, had 10 points, five assists and four steals.

She was in great form against Townsville scoring 22 points, 10 rebounds and two assists.

Wilson was named WNBL player of the game and included in the team of the week.

Cayla George celebrated her 350th WNBL and 15th WNBL season with 14 points, 14 rebounds and four assists in the home game against Southside Flyers.

The Flyers were on the hunt for a win and got that by three points, 81 – 78.

Flames guard, Shaneice Swain, who came off the bench, had

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National Indigenous Television’s (NITV) flagship footy show Over the Black Dot returns to the screens next month, hosted by former NRL player Dean Widders.

Dean will be joined by analysts including dual-international Timana Tahu, proud descendant of the Gudjula and Erubian people Bo de la Cruz who is a multi-award-winning sportswoman, and former NRL professional Beau Champion.

Mr Widders said they were looking forward to another big season of footy.

“It’s great to be working with NITV again on Over the Black Dot, a show that fans and players know and love,” he said.

“With the UK Super League now also in the mix, the Dot is bigger and better than ever and I can’t wait to get stuck into it.

“The Indigenous All-Stars match was a great way to start 2024, and I’m proud of all of the players for embracing their cultures.”

Bo de la Cruz will be a regular guest as an analyst on Over the Black Dot this year.

Over the Black Dot airs weekly from Tuesday 5 March, live at 9.30pm on NITV and SBS On Demand.

Select games from the UK Super League will be live on weekends, with replays shown at 10.15pm on Tuesdays.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2024

All Stars a show of culture and footy

Women’s All-Stars team members Jasmine Peters, Kimberley Hunt & Tallisha Harden after the game in Townsville.

Quincy Dodd & Tallisha Harden with the winners’ trophy.

LEFT: The Indigenous men’s team celebrate their victory.

CENTRE LEFT: The Indigenous women’s team celebrate their victory.

CENTRE RIGHT: Kimberley Hunt charges toward the tryline to score.

BOTTOM LEFT: Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow before the game.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Captain of the men’s team Latrell Mitchell leads the celebrations.

SPORT 15 PICS BY LEWIS BIN DORAHO

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Men’s All-Stars team members Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow & Bailey Odondi-Odo after the game in Townsville.

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All Stars a show of footy & culture

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow (centre) and Bailey Biondi-Odo lead the Indigenous All-Stars men’s team in celebratory traditional dance after defeating the Māori All-Stars at Townsville Stadium last weekend. Pic by Lewis Bin Doraho.

STORY BY NEVILLE JOHNSTON

With new captain Latrell Mitchell at the helm, and a week of solid brotherly love behind them, the Indigenous men’s All Stars team played like they had been together for years, defeating the Māori men 22-14 at Townsville Stadium last Friday night.

The effort, energy and commitment put in during the week

showed through in what was a dominant display.

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and debutant Bailey Biondi-Odo carried their energetic efforts from the pre-game ‘War Cry’ into the game and both contributed to the result.

Hamiso showed his customary speed and timing to pounce on a kick in the in-goal to score a try which sent the 15,000-strong crowd into raptures.

Biondi-Odo had a strong and mistake-free game.

He was used strategically, and in bursts, by coach Ron Griffiths.

“When I came out it gave me goosebumps just to back up here, where I grew up, up north, just seeing the crowd and what we did for our culture today was pretty hectic,” Tabuai-Fidow said.

In the earlier game, the Indigenous women’s team took to the field with confidence against their Māori counterparts and put in a strong performance to win by 26-4.

They got off to the perfect start through a deft grubber by star fullback Tamika Upton, which saw second-rower Shaylee Bent open the scoring.

With constant rain, ball security and attack were high priorities, but it didn’t stop their running game.

Centre and strike weapon Jamie Chapman broke the game wide open on two occasions with slashing individual tries, the first in the 17th minute and a blistering 70-metre run in the 32nd.

Her two tries were complemented by tries to Tully-based Kimberley Hunt, who was on debut.

“I am feeling very honoured and I’ve had that same feeling all week,” Hunt said.

“I’m very grateful for the opportunity to be able to represent my community, my people and everyone else in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.”

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