Torres News_Edition 137_4 July 2024

Thursday, 4 July 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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Pearls of wisdom

Back Row: Getano Lui (Jnr) AM, Don Waia (son of former-TSRA chair, the late Chair Terry Waia), Joseph Elu, John Toshi Kris and John Abednego.

Front Row: TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM, Noramah Bin Doraho, Rita Dorante and Patricia David. Pic by Lewis Bin Doraho.

The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) has launched the first of its celebrations to mark its Pearl (30th)

Anniversary this year.

On Monday this week more than 400 community members, current and former staff, families

and friends, enjoyed a service, coinciding with the Waiben’s Coming of the Light celebrations.

An evening event was also

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held, with feasting, song and traditional dance – including a special birthday celebration for one of the TSRA’s longest-serving

staff members Rita Dorante.

More pics and full report on PAGES 8 & 9 N

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02 NEWS

THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024 TORRES NEWS

Healthcare survey online Torres Strait Islanders are urged to have their say about healthcare issues that affect them personally in a survey led by the Torres & Cape Hospital and Health Care Service (TCHHS) in partnership with other leading healthcare services.

Community members, healthcare professionals, politicians and sector representatives were encouraged to take the Joint Regional Needs Assessment (JRNA) online survey to help shape healthcare outcomes and access to vital services in the region.

The survey was to help develop north Queensland’s first JRNA and was a collaboration between TCHHS and the Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) with Cairns and Hinterland, Townsville and Mackay Hospital and Health Services.

TCHHS Chief Executive Rex O’Rourke said planning for the future health needs of communities in Cape York, the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) and the Torres Strait was vital.

“Our populations are expanding, and they include

a very high percentage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with significant needs, as well as an increasingly ageing and socioeconomically disadvantaged population,” Mr O’Rourke said.

“To improve health outcomes for our communities, we all need to work together to ensure we have the services in place to meet current and emerging needs.”

Guide to far far north online

The ten-minute survey closes on Sunday 14 July and can be accessed here: https:// bit.ly/3L8YxV8

A colourful and detailed guide to the northern tip of Cape York has been published by by Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council.

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

The second edition of the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) Cape York Tourism booklet is online and available, providing visitors and residents to the region with a detailed guide to the area.

The 42-page illustrated booklet includes information about the unique history and cultures of the NPA’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, the landscapes and wildlife of Pajinka and a guide to what’s on, where to go, and when.

The booklets were available at the Jardine River Ferry Office and all Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) offices at Bamaga, New Mapoon, Umagico and Injinoo.

Hard copy booklets were also available from the front counters of advertisers in the booklet.

Downloads of the booklet can be sourced from the NPARC website at: https://www.nparc.qld.gov.au/

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Island man

A 22-year-old Horn Island man was charged by police with multiple property and traffic offences on Tuesday 25 June.

It was alleged that over a week, the man stole a car battery from a parked vehicle, entered a premises while subject to a Banning Notice and stole a quantity of fuel and a battery from a vessel.

It was further alleged he failed to stop when police attempted to intercept him while driving on Airport Road.

The man was charged with three counts of stealing, and one count each of driving an uninsured vehicle, driving without a licence, entering premises and committing an indictable offence by break-in, failing

to comply with a requirement to stop, obstructing a police officer, trespass and driving an unregistered vehicle.

Horn Island Police said they were committed to keeping the community safe and had urged residents to report suspicious behaviour. *If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www. police.qld.gov.au/ reporting

*Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld. com.au

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024

‘Powerful’ Coming of the Light on Waiben

Pic by Lewis Bin Doraho.

Archbishop Phillip Freier of Melbourne declared Monday a powerful commemoration of the Coming of the Light, and significant in that it coincided with the 30th anniversary of the signing of documents that led

to the formation of the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA).

In the picture is the Bishop with Ambassador for First Nations Peoples Justin Mohamed, TSRA board members and community at All Souls & St

Bartholomew Anglican Church on Waiben.

See pages 8-9 for more on the TSRA’s pearl anniversary celebrations and pages 10-11 for more on this year’s 153rd Coming of the Light celebrations N

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Funds to build on for Kaziw Meta The Australian Government has provided $4.7 million to on-Country boarding home Torres Strait Kaziw Meta to extend and improve the quality and capacity of their boarding facilities for secondary students on Waiben.

Kaziw Meta chief executive Thomas Dunsmore said the money provided the organisation with greater flexibility.

“We are thrilled and grateful for the support and funding from the Australian Government,” Mr Dunsmore said.

“This funding enables the expansion of Kaziw Meta, allowing us to provide additional housing for outer island families so their children

Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney on Waiben last year. Pic supplied. can receive an education on Country.”

The funding enabled Kaziw Meta, which had capacity for 66 boarders, to extend the Waiwi Meta boarding house to support an additional

six students, as well as upgrade the security and safety of the facility, improve the study environment for students and construct a new residence for boarding support staff.

As demand grew for boarding facilities in the region, the expansion was on target to help the organisation shorten its waiting list and improve education outcomes for students who had little or no access to secondary education close to home.

The funding was provided by the Indigenous Advancement Strategy (IAS) Children and Schooling program and built on $1.5m in Indigenous Boarding Providers grants received

by Kaziw Meta since 2022.

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04 NEWS

THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024 TORRES NEWS

Help for funeral fund victims open for Sorry Business People impacted by the collapse of funeral insurance provider Youpla Group could find answers and support from the Youpla Support Program phone line, which was now open for business.

The initiative was designed to assist First Nations people impacted by the collapse of the funeral insurance provider.

The Youpla Group, also known as the Aboriginal

Community Benefit Fund (ACBF), sold funeral insurance policies to First Nations people but collapsed in 2022, which meant many people could no longer pay for funeral expenses or conduct Sorry Business.

More than $65 million was provided by the federal government for resolution payments through the Youpla Support Program which was expected to help close to 14,000 people recover from

their financial losses and provide certainty to families.

The program was to run until 30 June 2026.

Payment through the program was available to those who paid into the ACBF/Youpla funeral fund on or after 1 August 2015.

Financial counselling was also available.

Services Australia was expected to make contact by phone with eligible recipients in the coming weeks.

Those who need to pay for Sorry Business urgently were able to call Services Australia to get the process started earlier.

The initiative was a follow-up to the interim Youpla Group Funeral Benefits Program, which closed on 30 June 2024 and allowed the families of former members to claim a grant to cover immediate funeral expenses.

“The new Youpla Support

Townsville enjoys a good Show STORY AND PIC BY ALF WILSON Hundreds of families attended the huge Townsville Show last weekend.

The Torres News was at the popular family day on Monday and saw three generations of the Baluz family.

“It has been great to be here with my daughters and grandchildren and I am very busy but enjoying it,” Elizabeth said.

They checked out sideshow alley, rides, exhibition halls and entertainment action at the centre of the Showgrounds, and said they caught up with lots of friends.

LEFT: Back: Members of the Baluz family are Shana, Dorothy, grandmother Elizabeth, Bokeem.

Front: Zepeneisa & baby Jerziah in pram.

Program makes sure that 14,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their families can get a financial resolution so sorely needed after the Youpla collapse,” Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney said.

“This money will help First Nations families recover from the financial stress they have endured, through no fault of their own, at a time when they are most

vulnerable dealing with the loss of a loved one.

“The Albanese Government has provided continual support for families who have been affected through the interim program, and now an enduring resolution through this new program.” *For more information about the Youpla Support Program, go to niaa.gov. au/Youpla or call Services Australia on 1800 136 380.

School holiday transits in play STORY AND PIC

BY ALF WILSON Proud mum Brenda Nona was one of several Torres Strait Islander parents who travelled to Townsville last week to bring their boarding school sons or daughters home for the school holidays.

Brenda picked up her 18-year-old daughter Jusarah Nona who attended St Pat’s College on the Strand.

“I came down from the Torres Strait today and am heading off tomorrow as I am a bit tired,” Brenda said.

Jusarah Nona, her mum Brenda Nona & Hollie Parkes.

Jusarah said she was delighted to be going back home for a few weeks.

“Awesome,” she said.

“I will be doing some training for footy and

fishing over the holidays.

“Will spend some quality time with families and catch up. Also go diving and catch some fresh seafood as well.”

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NEWS 05 Housing and trust on agenda

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024

Torres Air’s new TECNAM P2012 Traveller aircraft. Pic supplied.

New aircraft to fly as soon as next week Torres Strait Air (TSA) has taken delivery of the first of two larger capacity modern multiengine aircraft, a TECNAM P2012 Traveller, into its fleet.

It’s the first milestone since the announcement in September last year of a multi-million dollar financial investment in the first 100 per cent Torres Strait Islanderowned and operated air charter aviation business over the next five years.

TSA founder and company director Daniel Takai said he was looking forward to the new aircraft operating as early as next week.

TSA has further committed to replacing seven BN2 Islander Aircraft with new modern Islander aircraft that can transition to hydrogen propulsion operating with zero carbon emission.

United Kingdom-based Britten Norman planned to deliver the first of those new Islander aircraft to Horn Island by September 2025.

“This announcement of our investment to the people of Torres Strait is a testament to our commitment to our First Nation People and aviation safety in Torres Strait and beyond,” Mr Takai said.

“This first milestone is aligned

with Torres Strait Air’s 10th anniversary, and we are further excited to take delivery of our second new Traveller aircraft in the next few weeks with the second aircraft due for operational use mid-August.

“I look forward to our passengers enjoying the wonderful experience of air travel in our brand-new technology-advanced aircraft while we continue to provide the highest levels of aviation safety, passenger comfort, operational efficiency, reliability and affordability for our people and those who come to visit us throughout Torres Strait and the Cape York Peninsula Area.”

Getano recognised as Queensland Great Getano Lui has been recognised for his leadership and advocacy for the Torres Strait and its people with a 2024 Queensland Greats Award.

Mr Lui received the individual recipient award for his 50 years of leadership and services as a prominent advocate for the Torres Strait at a ceremony in Brisbane.

His notable achievements included his pivotal role in establishing the Torres Strait Island flag, participation in international affairs as Co-chair of the Bilateral

Committee – Traditional Inhabitants Meeting between Australia and Papua New Guinea, and unwavering commitment to advancing the Torres Strait Island community.

Mr Lui has provided steadfast local leadership to the community of Iama (Yam) Island in a career spanning from 1974 to 2024, while also serving as an inspirational figure to the next generation of leaders.

Mr Lui’s daughter, local MP Cynthia Lui, was the first Torres Strait Islander elected to the Queensland Parliament.

Queensland’s First Nation mayors Trust’ to acknowledge the critical and councillors are seeking to importance of trust in Australian democracy’s different levels of meet with Federal Ministers government, its institutions and in Canberra this week in a bid amongst its citizens. to secure desperately needed housing funding to tackle chronic First Nations mayors, who had a overcrowding. strong presence at the conference, said they were also keen to make Their opportunity to lobby was an their case for housing funds on a extension of the annual Australian par with the $4 billion program Local Government Association’s established for the Northern Territory (ALGA’s) national conference, held earlier this year. from Monday to Wednesday this week, which included a Regional Palm Island Mayor Alf Lacey said Cooperation and Development the housing crisis did not recognise Forum. the Northern Territory-Queensland border.

ALGA was the national federation of state and territory local “We are desperately short of government associations. secure and available housing in our communities too,” he said.

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Getano Lui with the 2024 Queensland Greats Award he was presented with in Brisbane last week. Pic supplied.

CONNECTING COOK with Cynthia Lui MP

Good news for Torres & Cape!

Cost of living relief was our number one priority in the recent State Budget. Recognising that costs pressures vary in Eleven remote councils throughout the Torres Strait and Cape Queensland households, we are delivering wide-ranging relief.

York will each receive funding of $45,000 to provide Starlink We will all have more money in our pockets from the $1000 power satellite equipment, installation and service. bill rebates from the State Government, Free Kindy, Free TAFE, free Torres Shire Council will get a facility upgrade under tools for first-year apprentices, abolition of stamp duty for first home the Department of Tourism and Sport’s Minor buyers, increased amounts for kids’ sports vouchers, and reduced car Infrastructure Fund with a $415,000 outdoor activity registration. As we all know up here in Far North Queensland, what space planned for Horn Island. Congratulations also works for people living in the South East corner does not always bring to Zenadth Kes Junior Rugby League for receiving a relief for people up here. I have been fighting for our communities to $2500 Active Clubs grant to increase participation. deliver change that matters like significant upgrades and repairs across 15 Tagai college campuses on 13 islands, the Thursday Island Health Hub and the Horn Island Affordable Housing Project.

(07) 42231100

cook@parliament.qld.gov.au

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06 NEWS

THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024 TORRES NEWS

Call for better thinking about border/fishing issues

BY CHRISTINE HOWES & CARLI WILLIS Local and federal leaders have called for better resourcing and a stronger partnership between government, community and industry in the Torres Strait in the wake of a group of illegal fishers being picked up near Saibai last month.

Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) CEO James William said strategic thinking and support from governments at all levels was required.

“And how they should be investing in our region,” he said.

“I believe that we should be really encouraging a stronger partnership between government, community, and our industries in our region, to be able to participate and draw benefit from that.

“I believe the future of the Torres Strait is a strong Torres Strait Islander nation, that is supported and engaged in industries, even government-based industries such as Border Force or quarantine or the primary industry activities, [such as] fisheries.

“There is no doubt that there are certain industries that would really work well for our region and our job as council, particularly with our leaders advocating this for their communities, is to ensure that we maximise that.”

He said communication – and input from the local communities – was “relative”.

“We’ve got a great relationship working with the relevant agencies, including the Australian government agencies on the ground, such as Border Force,” he said.

“There are particular constraints that they have to consider, and that may prevent them from making the appropriate contact, but from an immediate perspective, we do have awareness of certain things that have occurred.

“And, of course, from our perspective, we should be encouraging a different conversation to say, ‘well, how do we do this so that community, their input into the whole thing, is considered, as well as the input from the relevant agency?’.”

He said Illegal fishing was “significant” in the Torres

Last week’s Torres News coverage of illegal fishers caught near Sabai.

Strait, where fish stocks were carefully managed to ensure overfishing.

“Illegal fishing is significant in the Torres Strait because it is a very wellmanaged sustainable fishery,” he said.

“As more pressure overseas is applied to the fishing stock in other countries, it means those fishermen from neighbouring countries around Australia will be looking elsewhere.

“And certainly the Torres

Strait is one of those locations and it’s quite attractive for illegal activity.”

Federal MP Warren Entsch said he had tried to confirm the use of civilians in the pursuit of the illegal fishers in the latest incident, but had

been unable to do so.

“In all the years I’ve been in this job, I’ve never, ever experienced this,” he said.

“And it is totally unacceptable.

“It makes the community feel very uncomfortable, makes them feel more vulnerable.

“And when you have a look at how thinly covered the border forces, particularly up on the actual border between Australia and PNG, [are] you’ve got to have serious concerns about the lack of presence, both of officers and their vessels.”

Mr Williams said the size of the Torres Strait – 42,000 square kilometres of ocean – was “tough” for authorities to work across.

“The reality is, from a surveillance perspective, that takes a significant amount of resourcing,” he said.

“It’s not just about identification, it’s also about how we convey that to the necessary authority, and I suppose that’s a broader challenge, in terms of how we look at the region and how we address these issues more strategically with our state and Commonwealth partners.”

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08 TSRA 30 YEAR CELEBRATIONS

THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024 TORRES NEWS

Pearl Anniversary: Torres Strait Regional Authority celebrates 30 years strong Thirty years ago, a vision for a voice from the Torres Strait became reality when the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) was established on 1 July 1994.

On Monday this week – coinciding with the 153rd Coming of the Light celebrations – hundreds of community members joined the start of the TSRA anniversary celebrations.

Archbishop Phillip Freier, Ambassador for First Nations Peoples Justin Mohamed and inaugural TSRA Chairperson Getano Lui (Jnr) AM were among the distinguished guests.

The morning program included a church service and re-enactment of the historic declaration signing of TSRA at the Parish Hall of the Cathedral Church of All Souls and St Bartholomew on Waiben.

Sunset signalled time for feasting, song and traditional dance into the night.

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen said the celebrations acknowledged past, present and current staff and board members.

“TSRA was established in 1994 following a review of the

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) Act, which recognised the separate and distinct nature of Torres Strait Islanders,” Mr Stephen said.

“Our 30th Anniversary reflects on the advocacy of our ancestors, work by our predecessors to pave the way and dedication of our long-serving staff to guide our young people and next generation.

“TSRA was created by our people, for our people of Zenadth Kes.” TSRA’s longest-serving staff were also recognised for their 30 years of service and dedication: • Patricia David • Noramah Bin Doraho • Rita Dorante • Bonita Yamashita Mr Stephen said the TSRA continued to provide a direct voice from the islands to the nation’s political capital of Canberra.

“For the past 30 years, TSRA has been a lead Commonwealth government agency for Indigenous Affairs led by a First Nations Board and strong Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal workforce,” he said.

“Since 1994, TSRA has helped facilitate 28 Native Title

determinations for almost 100 islands, islets and cays, funded more than $300 million towards infrastructure and supported hundreds of scholarships and sponsorships.

“We continue to care for culture and economic development, including through our Gab Titui Culture Centre and for land and sea through our world-class ranger program.

“Thank you to our predecessors who established TSRA on 1 July 1994 and the board members, staff and communities who continue to advocate for our people and region.

“Like the circle shape of the pearl, our story does not end, it continues.”

The Perfect Pearl artwork for the 30-year anniversary was designed by award-winning Torres Strait Islander artist and this year’s NAIDOC Week poster winner, Deborah (Deb) Belyea.”

Deb was a proud member of the Samuawgadhalgal, Cassowary Clan, whose bloodlines stretched to the people of the top Western Torres Strait islands of Saibai, Dauan and down to the BamagaSaibai community of Cape York.

PICS BY LEWIS BIN DORAHO

Rita Dorante with TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM cutting the TSRA 30th anniversary cake.

TSRA’s longest serving staff Rita Dorante, Noramah Bin Doraho, Patricia David and Bonita Yamashita with Mr Stephen (middle).

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TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024

TSRA 30 YEAR CELEBRATIONS 09

Dancers help celebrate the TSRA’s 30th anniversary celebrations.

Pics by Lewis Bin Doraho.

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TI St Paul’s Dance team help celebrate the TSRA’s 30th anniversary.

Rita Dorante shares a smile as her birthday cake is revealed.

10 COMING OF THE LIGHT

Coming of the Light acknowledged at highest levels

THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024 TORRES NEWS

Rockhampton celebrations underway Musician Getano Bann (pictured below) said he was thrilled to help the Rockhampton community celebrate this year’s Coming of the Light celebrations at the Dream Time Cultural Centre on Monday.

Mr Bann said he wished all his families and friends a happy celebration for the day.

The full-day Rockhampton event also served as a launch for the region’s NAIDOC Week with a flag-raising ceremony.

Pics supplied.

Regan Lane and Kerryn Ah Chee star in a Prime Minister & Cabinet video produced to mark this year’s Coming of the Light. Pic supplied.

Cairns crowds enjoy celebration service

Torres Strait Islanders and their To recognise the occasion, the Department of Prime Minister and communities have celebrated The Cabinet (PM&C) hosted its first-ever Coming of the Light across the state Coming of the Light event that and country Queensland Minister included guest speakers and a short for Treaty, and Aboriginal and film screening to educate about the Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, day and its importance to Zenadth Kes Leeanne Enoch says. people and culture.

“The Coming of the Light is a Meriam Mer, Kaurareg and holiday celebrated by Torres Strait Dhanggati woman Regan Lane, who Islanders on 1 July each year,” she was born in Alice Springs (Mparntwe) said. and raised in Cairns (Gimuy), and “It recognises the adoption Kulkalgal woman, Kerryn Ah Chee, of Christianity through island who was born in Sydney, Blacktown communities during the late nineteenth (Gadigal) and raised in Cairns (Gimuy) century. work in the First Nation’s Policy “Torres Strait Islanders living on Branch at PM&C. the islands and on the mainland come “For me, this is a day where family together to honour this anniversary gathers, engages in traditions and we Hinterland Weekly 12x3 CONTRA AD [n/c 25-04-24] every year. practice culture,” Regan said.

AdsIN E Excel E Dummy E “Islanders of all faiths celebrate the “The religious aspect of Coming of •Coming Contact Clair, CEO. 026 250 – for my Nene, ofAdvertising the Light in a- Andrew festival like the 0459 Light is important Andrew Clair <andrew.clair@fl yhav.com> • Horn Is. Base Manager Kent no other in Australia.” many of my elders andJoshua ancestors.”

STORY & PICS BY BEL LUI

TN0755

A crowd of Torres Strait Islanders and friends commemorated the 153rd anniversary of the Coming of Light with a thanksgiving service at St John Anglican Church in Cairns on Monday evening.

The ceremony and service were led by North Queensland Bishop, the Right Rev Keith Joseph.

After the service, there was feasting and entertainment at the Church Hall well into the night.

On Sunday evening a service and celebration was held at the Royals Church in Portsmith.

Clergy – Bishop Keith Joseph, Fr. Dalton Cowley & Rocky Gela.

0439 904 089 - Joshua Kent <joshua.kent@flyhav.com>

ABOVE & BELOW: The congregation.

The special Coming of Light Cake.

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Kenny Thaiday enjoying the special cake.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024

COMING OF THE LIGHT 11

Waiben celebrates 153rd Coming of the Light PICS BY LEWIS BIN DORAHO This year’s 153rd Coming of the Light commemoration saw a huge community turnout at the Cathedral of All Souls and St Bartholomew on Waiben on Monday.

It was, as Archbishop Phillip Freier of Melbourne said, a passing on of the story to others.

The event was a personal one, too – it also marked 40 years since Bishop Freier was ordained on Thursday Island.

“A lot of this also is the passing on of the story and responsibility

for the next generation,” Bishop Freier said.

“That was emphasised by the comments by the founding chairman of TSRA (Getano Lui Jnr), saying how he stepped up to the responsibilities and opportunity he had had 30 years ago, which was more than a generational change.

“In the church, I always feel that young people stepping up in the ministry is as important; to see what we do is intergenerational and sustained.”

The day was also the 38th year since the consecration of the first Torres Strait Islander bishop, Bishop Kiwami Dai.

Monthly Winner JUNE 2024

The winner of the June 2024 Ailan Life photo competition is Joy Pham – Congratulations Joy. “Taken at ANZAC Park, the frangipani in full bloom under the clear blue sky creates a perfect harmony of nature’s colours and serenity,” Joy said.

Photo Competition

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

Joy Pham with her $150 gift voucher with Peter Kartsmann (IBIS Manager).

Pic Leilani Lewin.

12

THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024 TORRES NEWS

Understanding your corporation’s

GENERAL REPORT All corporations set up under the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 (CATSI Act) must lodge a General Report with the ORIC every year. The purpose of reporting is to improve transparency and accountability.

If you are a Director of a PBC, it is important that you understand your reporting obligations.

What is a general report?

A general report is an official document that tells the story of a corporation for the financial year from 1 July to 30 June.

The general report is the way corporations must share information with the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations. The information then appears on the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC) website.

What information is reported?

A general report covers three (3) main groups of information about a corporation for the specific financial year: • Corporation details – name, Indigenous corporation number (ICN), Australian Business Number (ABN), size, main place of business, registered office/document access address, contact details and activities.

• Its people – its contact person/secretary, directors and members • Basic financial and employee information – income, assets, deductible gift recipient status, number of employees

13

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024

When does it need to be filed?

General Reports must be lodged with ORIC between 1 July and 31 December each year.

Corporations that don’t lodge reports within six months of the end of the reporting period could face prosecution. The maximum penalty for each report not lodged is $27,750.

Where can you find a general report?

ORIC keeps a record of all general reports filed by an organisation on its website (www.oric.gov.au).

Differences between

THE CORPORATIONS ACT & CATSI ACT There are two laws which allow people or groups to set up a corporation: the CATSI Act and the Corporations Act 2001.

The CATSI Act is a special law for the benefit of Indigenous people. It is based on the Corporations Act but in important ways it is different. It aims to takes the needs and circumstances of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people into consideration when running a corporation.

PBCs can only be set up under the CATSI Act, not the Corporations Act. The CATSI Act also establishes the role of the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC) and the Registrar of ORIC. ORIC supports and regulates the corporations that are incorporated under the CATSI Act. It provides tailored services that responds to the special circumstances of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups and corporations.

ORIC offers advice on how to incorporate, delivers training for directors, members and key staff in good corporate governance, makes sure corporations comply with the law, and intervenes when needed.

How can GBK help your PBC? Search the Corporation Register on the ORIC’s website to find your corporation. You can then download copies of all the documents the corporation has lodged with ORIC, including all past general reports.

GBK and the 22 Registered Native Title Bodies Corporate (also known as PBCs – Prescribed Bodies Corporate) are set up under the CATSI Act and therefore have to lodge General Reports.

GBK offers all PBCs assistance with the drafting and lodging of their General Reports.`

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

14 CLIMATE CHANGE NEWS

THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024 TORRES NEWS

Youth Verdict challenges International Court of Justice The Gutchen family leading celebrations with Murrawah Johnson (second from left) after their win at the Queensland Land Court in 2022. Pic supplied.

TN0461 • 11-04-24

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has been challenged to consider the particular rights and needs of First Nations (FN) people after they decided to exclude Youth Verdict’s submission on the responsibilities of fossil fuel exporting Nation States around climate change impacts.

The ICJ was asked by the United Nations General Assembly, following an initiative led by Vanuatu, to

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provide an advisory opinion concerning the obligations of Nation States concerning climate change impacts.

Youth Verdict made a submission to the ICJ in March this year, through their lawyers.

The submission was based on their Queensland Land Court case in 2022, which saw the defeat of Clive Palmer’s proposed Galilee Coal Project (Waratah case).

One of the grounds Youth Verdict successfully argued in the case was that climate change threatened the cultural rights of First Nations Queenslanders as defined in the Queensland Human Rights Act 2019.

The Waratah case raised a number of the issues expected to come before the ICJ in the advisory proceedings.

Youth Verdict sought to be heard because First Nations Peoples were not represented at the ICJ level, and they believed Australia could not represent them or the interests of First Nations Peoples, in the proceedings.

Their ICJ submission addressed climate change in the settlercolonial context, the uniquely destructive impact of climate change on First Nations and the obligations of States to Indigenous Peoples under international law.

The submission was rejected by the ICJ on the basis that the Court did not consider Youth Verdict to be an ‘international organisation’.

Youth Verdict has asked the ICJ to reconsider given it was a First Nations-led organisation with members who had strong cultural and genealogical connections to the Pacific and across Melanesia.

The group said its membership was “inherently international” because of these cross-border cultural and genealogical connections and the cultural unity of its Torres Strait Islander members and the Melanesian people.

Youth Verdict director Lala Gutchen was a First Nations witness in the landmark Youth Verdict v Waratah case.

“Due to the Torres Strait’s geographical location, it has long been a melting pot of First Nations peoples

and First Peoples of the Pacific,” she said.

“From the mainland of Australia, through Zenadth Kes, up to Papua New Guinea and throughout Melanesia and the broader Pacific region, we have always been connected, and we have always engaged with each other from a position of mutually respected laws and customs.

“Our First Law protocols serve as a guide to navigating the intersection of our cultural rights and the human rights of First Nations peoples.

“They reflect an understanding of how First Law in relation to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ traditional law and custom should be considered.”

Youth Verdict said it should have also been regarded as an international organisation based on a traditional law perspective, as it was formed between First Nations and because its membership comprised of individuals from different Indigenous Peoples.

Youth Verdict FN lead, director and 2024 Goldman Environmental Prize winner Murrawah Johnson said their submission to the ICJ included First Nations expertise of Country, climate and cultural knowledge that had passed down through thousands of generations.

“The Aboriginal laws of Australia are the oldest living environmental laws on the planet,” she said.

“Aboriginal law and environmental law are one and the same.

“Making this submission is important to Youth Verdict because we know that First Nations peoples in the Australian Nation State face systemic oppression and further dispossession of our lands and waters at the same time as we try to confront the impacts of climate change.

“The Australian Settler Society is not representative of our First Nations and does not include our principles of decisionmaking, governance, laws and customs.

“Our voices need to be heard directly.

“We are urging the ICJ to reconsider its position.”

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024

NEWS 15

Ailan lead at FestPAC forum

Photo Competition Each month our proud sponsor CEQ will pick their favourite entry and the winner will receive a $150 Gift Card to use at any of your local CEQ stores!

WITH THANKS TO ARPAKA DANCE COMPANY MANAGER DARNELL WILLIAMS–NIUE The 13th Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture – themed Ho‘oulu Lāhui: Regenerating Oceania – convened in Hawaii, earlier this month, and included an Australian delegation led by Wug Village elder and artistic director and founder of Arpaka Dance Company Dujon Nuie.

The world’s largest celebration of indigenous Pacific Island arts and culture, the Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture (FestPAC) was launched in 1972 by the South Pacific Commission (now The Pacific Community – SPC) to halt the erosion of traditional practices through ongoing cultural exchange.

Delegations from other countries included American Samoa, Cook Islands, Fiji, Guam, Kiribati, Nauru, New Zealand, Palau, Tonga, Vanuatu and Taiwan.

The Australian delegation also featured musician Will Kepa, artists Yessie Mosby and Solomon Booth, and a company of talented dancers including Alumni and students of NAISDA, musicians and cultural ambassadors, all dedicated to showcasing the rich cultural traditions of the Torres Strait Islands.

Their performances contributed to the cultural exchange and mutual understanding among the diverse groups represented at the festival, which was described as a ‘transformative experience’.

“The opportunity to interact with artists from different Pacific nations, exchange ideas, and showcase their cultural heritage on an international platform was both enriching and inspiring for the members of the company and connecting with families in the Pacific,” they said.

“The festival provided a unique opportunity for cultural exchange, learning, and collaboration that will have a lasting impact on the company’s future endeavours.

“Arpaka’s participation in

the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts in Hawaii was a resounding success.”

The company’s performances captivated audiences, celebrated with diverse cultural heritages from across the Pacific, and fostered cross-cultural dialogue and understanding.

The experience was not only a showcase of artistic talent but also a celebration of cultural diversity and unity among Pacific nations.

“Arpaka’s journey to Hawaii will be remembered as a significant milestone in their ongoing mission to preserve and promote traditional and contemporary arts on the global stage,” they said.

“We would also like to take the time to thank and acknowledge Bangarra Dance Theatre, Ume Style, the Mackie Brothers, Toby Cedar from Cedar Balas, Dreamtime Shop in Cairns and Obery Sambo for making the Dari combs, NAISDA and the team from FestPAC at Creative Australia for their support.”

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 shots, 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 pics, taken on Kirriri

Island, were submitted by OLSH P-2 Teacher Kirriri (HMD) Island Michelle Nolan.

“Welcome to our Ailan Life!

School and education can be both challenging and rewarding. These are some of our favourite photos from our 2024 journey on OLSH Kirriri Island. Au Esoau, Koeyma Eso and thank you,” Michelle said.

The students families are 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.

16 ARTS NEWS & CLASSIFIEDS Back: Kiyani NamokMajid, Kaya Durante & Georgiana ThomasPeddell.

Front: Kimberley Jackson, Sara Van Gelderen & Kyleja NamokMajid.

THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024 TORRES NEWS

Young voices help headline 2024 CIAF Six young voices will join one-half of pop group Shakaya, Simone Stacey (pictured right), in support of Australia’s rap sensation BARKAA who will headline Cairns Indigenous Art Fair’s (CIAF) Saturday night concert on 27 July.

A celebrated Cairns musician and youth worker, Simone with the young voices will open CIAF’s much-anticipated

Music at Tanks.

Ahead of the gig, Stacey and the young musicians provided a taste of what audiences can expect at a media

event with an impressive acapella performance in Cairns last week.

Simone said she was overjoyed to be opening the show for headline act Australia’s Indigenous hip-hop artist BARKAA and to be joined by an empowered group of young women using the stage to express themselves through powerful harmonies and narrative storytelling.

The young women all participated in Simone’s

original song writing program, No Shame in My Game.

“This is all the sisters coming together and sharing their stories,” she said.

With rehearsals in full swing between now and the one-night performance this month, Simone will perform a compilation of original songs written with backing vocals and harmonies from her six young vocalists.

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Notice of Intention to Appoint a Grantee

The Minister for Resources and Critical Minerals intends to appoint the Masigalgal (Torres Strait Islanders) Corporation RNTBC (Corporation) as grantee for the following lands, located in the Torres Strait: • Lot 39 on SP347091 (Marsden or Igab Island) • Lot 41 on SP347092 (Kabbikane or Kizi Thiam Island) • Lot 42 on SP347096 (Auken or Sik Thiam Island) • Lot 43 on SP347097 (Bourke or Bak Island) • Lot 47 on SP347099 (part of Dalrymple or Damudh Island) • Lot 51 on SP347093 (Layoak or Yauk Island) • Lot 52 on SP347100 (Mimi or Memei Islet) • Lot 54 on SP347094 (Keats or Umaga Island) The appointment of the Corporation as grantee of the land is proposed to be made pursuant to section 35 of the Torres Strait Islander Land Act 1991 with the grantee holding the land for the native title holders of the land.

A Torres Strait Islander person particularly concerned with the land may make written representations to the Minister about the proposed appointment.

A locality map showing these areas is available from the Department of Resources.

Representations must be received by 5:00pm on 31 July 2024 and may be made to: Minister for Resources C/- Kylie Eddie (Manager) Indigenous Land Operations Department of Resources PO Box 937 Cairns QLD 4870 For further information, contact Kylie Eddie, Manager, Indigenous Land Operations on 0427 575 892.

The Honourable Scott Stewart MP Minister for Resources and Critical Minerals

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The Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) will celebrate its 15th anniversary with its Not Selling Cakes exhibition honouring the exceptional talents and contributions of artists integral to the event’s success over the years.

The exhibition title, Not Selling Cakes, was part of a quote from the late Billy Missi (1970-2021) and was first used as the name for a landmark 2006 report investigating issues around the sustainability of Indigenous art centres in Far North Queensland and the Torres Strait.

The report was critical to the conception and launch of CIAF in 2009.

The quote was: “…Whatever you write, just tell them we are not selling cakes here – we are printing money!”

Billy Missi was a prolific artist and proactive maintainer of language and culture for his people.

Not Selling Cakes reflected CIAF’s evolution from its beginnings at the Tanks Art Centre to a state-wide celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts across multi-arts platforms.

CIAF Curatorial Associate

Zane Saunders, Transition (2018). Pic Greg Hillman-Kuranda Photography.

Teho Ropeyarn said a collective of 15 key industry leaders, collectors, academics and curators important to the establishment and growth of CIAF nominated artists for this exhibition.

“Not Selling Cakes underscores Queensland’s First Nations communities’ enduring legacy and cultural vibrancy and CIAF’s commitment to fostering positive partnerships among government, industry, and community,” Mr Ropeyarn said.

Not Selling Cakes features 21 artists: 17 living and four deceased, including Zane Saunders, Alick Tipoti – Badu, Brian Robinson – Cairns, Jimmy K Thaiday – Erub, Billy Missi (deceased) – Cairns, Arone Meeks (deceased) – Cairns and Florence Gutchen – Erub.

Not Selling Cakes: Celebrating CIAF’s 15TH Anniversary.

A Cairns Indigenous Art Fair Satellite Exhibition.

Friday 5 July – Sunday 28 July.

Three Generations of original connection Three Generations, Three Songs is a performance that brings to life the poignant stories and enduring spirit of the Manbarra and Bwgcolman peoples of Palm Island through original songs by three generations of the same family, celebrating their deep connection to their island home.

Gail Mabo, Normey Jay and Nashaye have explored their own lived experience, consulted with their elders, and engaged with the Palm Island family to bring the Manbarra Bwgcolman stories to the stage,

Three Generations, Three Songs – stories from the Manbarra and Bwgcolman peoples. Pic AFCM. guided by Deline Briscoe.

The performance, in Townsville on

Saturday 3 August, will

feature a collaboration between the Manbarra Bwgcolman Songwriters,

Topology and the Australian Festival of Chamber Music musicians.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024

More pics from last week’s Mangroo Festival on Iama ...

MANGROO FESTIVAL NEWS 17

18 SPORT

THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024 TORRES NEWS

General Ezra’s NRL career-first Obe Geia leads the way

ROUND UP

BY ALF WILSON

Backline general Ezra Mam kicked the first ‘40-20’ of his already impressive career when his Brisbane Broncos lost 32-16 to the Warriors across the ditch at Auckland on Saturday.

Classy five-eighth Ezra produced the stunning kick in the 48th minute for an understrength Broncos side missing five State of Origin stars.

Soon after Ezra’s ‘40/20’, teammate Selwyn Cobbo flashed over the line and the referee awarded the try.

However, on review,

the ‘Bunker’ overruled the decision, deeming that Selwyn had lost control.

It was the 53rd NRL match for the 21-yearold Ezra.

The Broncos have dropped to 10th on the ladder and face a daunting task at Suncorp Stadium on Friday for their huge showdown with the Panthers.

A big crowd was expected for a replay of the 2023 grand final and some from the Torres Strait have already booked their tickets to be there.

Reuben rested A courageous Cowboys side without their six Origin stars, including forward Reuben Cotter, beat the reigning premiers of the past three years the Penrith Panthers 16-6 on Sunday.

While the Panthers also had most of their Origins reps rested the Cowboys faced adversity to take the points.

The game was played at the Panthers’ home ground at Penrith The Cowboys had two players sent to the sin bin for 10 minutes each, and they had to defend defiantly.

The win propelled the Cowboys into the seventh spot.

Dolphins loss A Dolphins side without Hamiso TabuaiFidow went down 26-6 to St George on Sunday.

Hamiso was rested after Origin Game II and the Dolphins missed his general play and ability to win games.

The Dolphins now sit outside the top four in sixth position.

Tough night for the two Xaviers Star Canberra Xavier Savage had few scoring opportunities when his side lost 16-6 to table-leading Melbourne Storm on Saturday night.

Xavier was heavily marked by the Storm defence and was tackled by more than one

opponent numerous times.

A Storm back was placed on report for a tackle on Xavier Savage in the second half.

The other Xavier, Storm PNG international Xavier Coates, suffered a hamstring injury in the 74th minute and looks certain to miss Queensland’s third State of Origin deciding match on 17 July at Suncorp Stadium.

Gagai strong in Knights win Reliable centre Dane Gagai was a key player for the Newcastle Knights which beat struggling Parramatta Eels 34-26 on Saturday.

A massive home crowd of 27,424 watched the game, the majority parochial Knights fans.

In the other games, the Roosters thrashed the West Tigers 40-6 and the Bulldogs beat the Cronulla Sharks 15-14 with a field goal in golden-point extratime.

Bwgcolman State & St Michael’s Catholic School teams from Palm Island.

STORY BY ALF WILSON PIC BY CYNTHIA CORMACK The Obe Geia junior rugby league carnival – named after the first Cowboys A-Grade player from the Indigenous community – was held on Palm Island late last month, and was a great success.

Obe Geia Jnr’s family was originally from Moa Island and he is from one of about 10 big Torres Strait families on Palm Island.

North Queensland Toyota Cowboys ambassadors Ray Thompson (Saibai) and Tahlulah Tillett (Badu) were also at the carnival to cheer the players on.

It was held at the Palm Barracudas Oval with a total of 15 local and mainland primary school teams competing for boys and girls aged 10-12 years.

The carnival promoted the benefits of sport, fitness and healthy living

and grassroots rugby league and also aimed to increase positive attitudes and behaviours, and reduce truancy.

In the grand final St Clare’s Catholic School defeated Currajong State.

The carnival was established in 2009 by the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys to bring communities together and promote the importance of inclusion in North Queensland and helped make Obe Geia jnr a genuine role model for youngsters on the island.

The day was enjoyed by all involved and featured a strong cultural education component, with students having the opportunity to experience first-hand the beauty of Palm Island, its people and their culture.

Senior students from Kirwan High School and Ignatius Park College officiated as referees and touch judges for the modified rules games.

Fifita/Gagai should join Maroons Baira continues scoring romp If Queensland are to win the third State of Origin match to claim the series trophy, selectors need to pick champion Torres Strait players David Fifita and Dane Gagai, Torres News footy correspondent Alf Wilson writes…

Queensland won the first State of Origin match and NSW rebounded with a resounding 38-18 victory in last Wednesday’s second clash in Melbourne.

It is obvious changes are needed for the blockbuster third encounter and what better men for the job than David Fifita and Dane Gagai.

Both have served the Maroons with distinction in the past.

Badu Islander David played eight Origin games for Queensland between 2019 and 23.

The rampaging second-rower was snubbed by selectors for the first two series matches and has been in wonderful form for the Gold Coast Titans.

Centre Dane, with ties to Iama and Badu, played 22 times for the Maroons between 2015 and 22, scoring 12 tries, and has been in great touch for the Newcastle Knights.

Dane was a reserve for Game II. He oozes experience at Origin level.

Both David and Dane are renowned try-scorers and would add energy and give the Maroons plenty of additional options.

Football fans around the

Channah Griffin & Wendy Bire.

Pic Alf Wilson.

Straits and NPA will be hoping that both are picked – if you are a Queensland supporter, that is, but not if you follow the Blues.

NSW win Origin II Champion centre Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow scored a try for the Maroons in their 38-18 loss to NSW in State of Origin Game II at the MCG. Queensland had won Game I and the victory by NSW sets up a decider in the much anticipated third clash in Brisbane on Wednesday 17 July.

A total of 90,084 spectators were at the MCG and many millions more watched it live on Channel Nine.

NSW had the game safely in their keeping when they led 34-nil.

Key Maroons back Hamiso and fullback Reece Walsh were well-marked by the defence.

Not to be outdone, and with 20 minutes remaining, Hamiso scored a try to reduce the margins to 34-12.

Hamiso left the field in the

24th minute with a shoulder injury but was able to return for the second half.

In what was good news for Maroons supporters Hamiso has been cleared to play in the decider.

The other Maroons Torres Strait Islander, forward Reuben Cotter, left the field in the 36th minute for an HIA which he passed. Reuben played his usual consistent game.

Hamiso’s try followed three by the superstar in Origin Game I, and he will be a key player in the coming match.

Of the 43 Origin series since 1982, this will be the 23rd to go to a decider.

Maroons take women’s title Meanwhile in Townsville on Thursday night the Queensland Maroons beat the NSW Sky Blues 22-6 in the third women’s State of Origin match to claim the title.

It was the first time the women’s series had been played over three games.

Both the Maroons and Blues won a match each to set up the decider which was played in rain making the ball slippery.

A total of 22,819 fans watched at Queensland Country Bank Stadium and some came down from the Torres Strait.

The Torres News spoke to many who were heading to the game including Channah Griffin and Wendy Bire who were ardent Queensland fans.

Phil Gela was going to watch the match on the big screen in the CBD.

BY ALF WILSON Brenton Baira, who has a huge following on Badu Island, scored two tries and booted nine goals for a personal tally of 26 points when his Dolphins beat the Tweed Seagulls 58-12 at Kayo Stadium in the weekend’s round of games in the Hostplus Cup on Sunday.

The flying outside back scored tries in the 24th and 66th minutes and dominated.

A sharp-shooting kicker, Brenton also landed nine goals, some from difficult angles, during his quality effort.

That followed 18 points by the rising star in the previous round, a performance which earned Brenton selection in the QRL round 15 team of the week.

“Electric winger Baira was on fire against the Wynnum Manly Seagulls on Saturday, helping the Dolphins to an important victory,” the QRL website reported.

“The Dolphins took down the third-placed Seagulls 38-8 with Baira scoring two tries.

“He also had 139 run metres, two tackle busts and two line breaks.”

Brenton’s father, Royston Baira, was a former Canberra Raiders NRL player who still lined up at Allblacks carnival.

Pride a cut above The Northern Pride continued on their winning way with a hard-fought 20-12 win over the Mackay Cutters at Barlow Park in Cairns on Saturday.

Erub United back Dantoray Lui lined up in the centres in the Pride run-on side, while Seamus King-Smith came off the interchange bench.

The Mackay team included second-rower Jamal Shibasaki.

It was a four-try-totwo performance for the Pride who are second on the ladder behind the Norths Devils.

Winger Robert Derby has played four times for the PNG Kumuls national side and scored a hat-trick of tries for the Pride.

The Pride was missing backs Jake Clifford and Tom Chester who played for the Cowboys in the NRL in their win over Penrith Panthers on Sunday.

Blackhawks down to Devils A Townsville Blackhawks side which

included backs Gehamat Shibasaki and Dudley Dotoi lost 36-10 to the ladder-leaders Norths Devils.

The game was played at Jack Manski Oval in Townsville and the Devils led 24-nil at halftime.

Gehamat lined up in the centres and “Deadly” Dudley on a wing.

Missing from the Devils side was Erub United back Julian Christian.

Hunters fly over the Jets The PNG Hunters impressed with a 28-22 win over the Ipswich Jets in an away game on Sunday.

Hunters try scorers were Alex Max (two) Valentine Richard, Finley Glare and Judah Rimbu. Jamie Mavoko kicked four goals.

Included in the Jets team was speedy centre Dominic Macumboy from Cape York.

The CQ Capras had a bye.

The ladder has Norths Devils and Northern Pride equal first on 26 points with for and against separating them, the Dolphins fourth, Capras seventh, Hunters eighth, Cutters 10th and Blackhawks 12th.

TN0230 SPORT 19 8x2 local sports

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024

Ailan influence on soccer club’s annual NAIDOC Football Day Boigu Island dancers will open Cairns-based football/ soccer club Edge Hill (EH) United’s annual First Nations Football Day during NAIDOC week next weekend (12-14 July).

The club said they were committed to celebrating the contributions of First Nations players, coaches, and volunteers within the club and the wider Cairns and District Football League.

The twin games were to be played at 8.30pm on Friday 12 July (women’s) and 11am on Sunday 14 July (men’s) against Southside Comets at EH United’s base at Tiger Park in McNamara Street.

The teams would wear special Indigenous jerseys designed by local Indigenous artists.

“We are very proud of our First Nations club members and are committed to promoting equality and diversity,” EH United club secretary Michael Dalton said.

“Events like the First Nations Football Day highlight the vital role that Indigenous players, coaches, and volunteers play in our club and the broader football community.”

He said the club hosted the FNQ Stingers, a local Indigenous representative team, and three of its players had represented Queensland at the National Indigenous Football Tournament.

Coach Gordon Cashmere, an Indigenous mentor, also supported young Indigenous ballplayers as part of the FNQ Stingers program.

First Nations Football Day has been held since 2021 to coincide with NAIDOC week, drawing up to 600 attendees annually.

The club said their celebrations were a testament to their dedication to encouraging Indigenous youth to engage in football and fostering a sense of community and inclusion.

Gordon Cashmere is coach of Edge Hill United’s Under-23s team. Pic EHUFC.

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South West Metro Pirates guard Alana Fraser contributed 16 points in her team’s win against Northside Wizards.

Pic NBL1 North.

NBL1’s ‘weekend of upsets’ as leaders drop games in round 12

BY VELMA GARA It was a weekend of upsets where league leaders Mackay Meteors and Northside Wizards both dropped games in round 12 of the men’s division NBL1 North competition.

The Meteors travelled north to Cairns and lost to the Marlins 87-85, but got a win back by defeating Darwin Salties 106-101 in Darwin.

The Marlins’ win over the Meteors moved them into the top 6 – the first time in a long while for the team. Brothers Ky and Kody Stattman combined for a total of 62 points and nine 3-pointers which gave Cairns the edge in this men’s game.

Deba George and Nathan

Jawai were added into the starting line-up for Salties with the two starters, Sean Macdonald and Kuoat, absent from the game.

Deba finished the game with 25 points, five assists and three steals while Nate played limited minutes and scored six points.

In the women’s division, Northside Wizards were defeated for the first time at home by South West Metro Pirates 78 to 68. Northside’s poor shooting (36.11%) was a factor in their loss.

The Pirates’ Leah Scott had an outstanding game of 30 points, 12 rebounds and six assists.

She was well-supported by Alana Fraser with 16 points, seven rebounds and four assists.

Round 13 of NBL1 North will be First Nations Round which is in line with NAIDOC Week Celebrations.

Australian Gems win Cup in China Teyahna Bond and the Australian Gems under-18s basketball team are FIBA Women’s Asia Cup champions after defeating China 96-79 in the final at Shenzen in China at the weekend.

The win means the Gems are now back-to-back Asia Cup champions, pointing to a healthy future for Australian women’s basketball.

The young team went undefeated throughout the tournament, defeating Malaysia (12438), Republic of Korea (85-52) and Chinese Taipei (90-67) in the

The Gems are just the third team, alongside China and South Korea, to have won repeat titles at the U18 Women’s Asia Cup since the

Teyahna Bond and the Australian Gems basketball team are Asia Cup champions Pic Basketball Australia.

Group phase, before a narrow win over Japan

(68-63) in the semi-final to advance to the final.

tournament’s inception in 1970.

Teyahna plays for Cairns Dolphins in the NBL1 North competition.

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

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

FERRY SCHEDULE JUN – SEP 2024

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THURSDAY ISLAND to SEISIA Depart 6.30AM & 2.30PM SEISIA to THURSDAY ISLAND Depart 8AM & 3.50PM “Linking the Cape with the Torres Strait”

Boarding strictly 15 mins prior to departure

PHONE 07 4069 1551 BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL – TICKET ONLINE www.peddellsferry.com.au • Passengers please pre-ticket – online, agents or phone (By phone: booking fee and change of booking fees now apply) Concession fares available, conditions apply OFFICE HOURS – MON–FRI, 9am–12noon & 12.30–2.30pm LUGGAGE – Per passenger (excl. infants) 1 piece up to 15kg, excess charges otherwise apply) FREIGHT – PRE PAID – Items up to 15kg carried, conditions apply.

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THURSDAY 4 JULY 2024

Round 1 challenge to Zenadth Kes

The Zenadth Kes Rugby League men’s team, coached by Terence Yusia. Pics supplied.

ABOVE: The ZKRL and NPARRL women’s teams.

RIGHT: The NPA Regional Rugby League men’s team.

BELOW: The Zenadth Kes Rugby League women’s team, coached by Terry Abednego, at Bamaga.

The Zenadth Kes Rugby League women’s team, coached by Terry Abednego, at Bamaga.

Zenadth Kes won the Noel Sagigi Shield in Game I of the three-game rugby league series between the Torres Strait Island and Northern Peninsula Area in Bamaga last Saturday.

There were two games to contest the shield – one in the men’s and women’s divisions.

The Zenadth Kes Rugby League men’s team, coached by Terence Yusia, defeated NPA Regional Rugby League 26-18.

The ZKRL women’s team, coached by Terry Abednego, scored a big win over their NPARRL sisters, 32-0.

The event was part of the annual multisport Endeavour Cup Challenge series where NPA and Torres Strait

men’s and women’s rugby league and basketball teams play against each other.

Unfortunately, the basketball component of the event was cancelled.

Last week, the NPA-based Kittyhawks Basketball

Association wrote online: “Unfortunately, tomorrow’s basketball games have been cancelled due to circumstances out of our control. Further updates will be provided soon.”

Organisers have

since said Game I would happen on Saturday 13 July when NPA went to Thursday Island to play.

“There are a few options to be decided on (if) the second and third games will be either two games on 10 August, or another date in August

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for the third game,” they said.

The remaining Endeavour Cup Challenge series games were due to be played on Saturday 13 July at Waiben and Saturday 3 August at Bamaga.