Torres News_Edition 151_10 October 2024

Thursday, 10 October 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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Waiben celebrates Fiji Day STORY AND PIC BY CARLI WILLIS Culture and contribution were celebrated at a Fiji Day event last week, which was organised by community members who raised funds and ran the event themselves.

Respected Zenadth Kes Elder and Rotuma descendant John Abednego said it was an important way of strengthening culture.

“We normally celebrate Rotuma day, and now with this Fiji day, it strengthened the two countries,” he said.

“Rotuma and Fiji – one Polynesian side and one Melanesian side, they come in and share here.

“There are language and cultural protocols here in Torres Strait, which is good because there’s a lot of descendants here.”

Mr Abednego said he encouraged all Melanesian and Polynesian families in the Torres Strait to ‘relive’ their customs and culture.

“That’s an important part of recreating, reliving for those families that came here a long time ago,” he said.

Mr Abednego said he was worried about cultural erosion in the Torres Strait and in Indigenous cultures across the world.

Story continued and pics on PAGE 8 N

Fiji descendants Anthony, Kelera (2) and Hanarli (7 months) O’Cloudy with wife and Aka Caroline.

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THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Grants for fishing/boating assets open for fishers under TSRA’s Wapil 2 project

Pic supplied.

Full-time Traditional Inhabitant Boat (TIB) fishers are eligible for grant funding to replace boating and fishing assets, as part of the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Wapil 2 Project.

Funded by the TSRA, Department of Employment, Small Business and Training (DESBT) and the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA), Wapil 2 is

a three-year project designed to develop an ecological and economically sustainable fisheries industry in the Torres Strait.

To be eligible, fulltime TIB fishers need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), meeting the following criteria: • evidence of TIB licence holder registration (Australian Fisheries Management Authority- AFMA on behalf of Protected Zone Joint Authority -PZJA) • fish receiver receipts to prove commercial fishing has been the main source of income for at least the past 12 months • a current Australian Business Number (ABN) to prove business operations • certificates of compliance or exemption certificates with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) • a resident in the Torres Strait or Northern Peninsula Area (Bamaga and Seisia).

TSRA Chairperson

Napau Pedro Stephen AM said the funds were about the importance of building the capability of TIB fishers and ensuring safe practices at sea.

“Our fishermen must be supported to grow their businesses sustainably and be well-equipped to make it home safely after every voyage,” he said.

“The TSRA has committed $1.2 million towards critical asset replacement for eligible fishers to replace faulty outboards, boat trailers and hookah compressors.

“These assets must be used 85 per cent of the time for commercial fishing, and are nearing the end of their life usage.”

TIB fishers can submit their EOI or request more information from the TSRA Fisheries Team at fisheries@ tsra.gov.au. EOIs close

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

Thursday, 24 October 2024.

TIB fishers who submit an EOI will be invited to other funding, training and support services available through Wapil 2 Phase 1.

More TSRA news PAGES 4 & 5 + see Ad on PAGE 4 N

FLY WITH A QUEENSLANDER

NPA water supply

The five Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) communities of Bamaga, Seisia, New Mapoon, Umagico and Injinoo will benefit from local, state and federal funds to improve drinking water security.

The NPA will receive $10 million, out of about $62 million nationally, for upgrades to the Bamaga water treatment plant and new mains infrastructure.

Queensland Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing, and Minister for Water Glenn Butcher said every Queenslander had a right to clean, reliable drinking water.

“Water infrastructure, such as pipes, reservoirs, filtration systems, and water treatment plants, is complex and when it comes to the end of its life replacement costs can be high,” he said.

“Thanks to a strong partnership between three levels of government

we can deliver about $62 million for these vital water infrastructure upgrades and equipment replacements.”

LGAQ CEO, Alison Smith said Councils played a vital role.

“No community can be a liveable one without safe and secure water and councils play a critical role in the infrastructure and workforce to provide it,” she said. “This funding is a welcome step but with the looming infrastructure cliff of ageing water infrastructure and critical water workforce shortages we look forward to further non-competitive and sustainable support to tackle these massive challenges.”

Federal Minister for the Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek said there was still work to be done.

“There is still a lot of work to be done to Close the Gap on water security, and we cannot do it alone,” she said.

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024

Montessori to stay as is – for now

BY CARLI WILLIS Department of Education delegates flew to Waiben on Tuesday to meet with community members after more than 500 people signed a petition calling for early childhood education program Montessori to continue as it is.

The meeting on Tuesday, held at Waybeni Buway Ngurpay Mudh campus library, was attended by about 30 people.

Parent Diat Alferink said Tagai State College had proposed to reduce

the popular program from Kindy and Prep (over two years) to just one year as a result of State government funding to extend the hours of the centre from 15 to a possible 30 hours a week.

“The College initially told parents the extensions would mean they had less capacity to run the program over the full two years,” she said.

The petition, organised by Parents of Thursday Island Montessori Program called for the program to continue as it was.

“We are a community of parents and friends

passionately connected to the Tagai State College’s Paru Kaziw Mudh Kindergarten on Thursday Island in the Torres Strait,” the petition said. “As members of this multicultural and diverse community, we have witnessed the profound impact the Montessori program has on young learners, fostering independence, promoting a love for learning, and nurturing each child’s individual strengths.”

Signatories agreed the Indigenous-led program had been a vital part of the community for nearly two decades.

“We urge Tagai State

College and Queensland Department of Education to consult with the community and invest in an alternative solution that preserves this cherished Torres Strait Islander-led program,” the petition said.

At the meeting, the Torres Strait Islanders Regional Education Council (TSIREC) shared a brief history of the trials and tribulations of getting the program started.

Elders and community members fought for the program, which was launched on Waiben in 2009 and funded by the state and federal monies.

In a statement to the Torres News, local MP Cynthia Lui confirmed her support for the community-led petition and said she had made representations to Queensland Minister for Education Grace Grace.

“I met with parents on Thursday Island last month to listen to their concerns,” she said. “I can confirm that there has been no direction from Brisbane to end the program.”

At the meeting, the department delegates promised the community they would consult with them on any further changes.

Unity mural unveiled in Townsville mall STORY & PIC ALF WILSON

Artist Nicky BidjuPryor with his art.

Community invited to name PDR bridges

A cultural mural created by artist Nicky Bidju-Pryor, which features totems from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, has been unveiled at Townsville Shopping Centre, formerly known as Stockland.

MC was Genus Passi and Jacob Dow presented Centre manager Kelly Taylor-Smith with a Dhari.

“This today is a big step forward for our people,”

Mr Passi said.

Nicky unveiled his art in the food court section as well as a plaque.

“This artwork is symbolising unity and inclusion,” he said.

Centre manager Kelly Taylor-Smith said the ceremony and mural unveiling was the start of a new journey.

“We’re committed to making Townsville Shopping Centre a place where every member of our community feels respected and valued,” she said.

New AIATSIS council members appointed

GAB TITUI INDIGENOUS

2025

Key dates ENTRIES OPEN NOW

25 March 2025 Cut-off to arrange freight 1 April 2025 Entries Close 12 June 2025 Awards Presentation and Exhibition Opening 2 August 2025 Exhibition Close

For more information, speak

Four new members have Minister for Indigenous to a member of our team. been formally appointed to Australians Senator For more information about the the Council of the Australian Malarndirri McCarthy said 2025 Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award, please contact: Institute of Aboriginal and AIATSIS was an incredibly 07 4069 0888 | info@gabtitui.gov.au www.gabtitui.gov.au Torres Strait Islander Studies valued resource.

(AIATSIS).

“This accomplished and Artwork: “WARUP” by Normie Young 2023 Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award Entrant Appointees included Jayde committed group of First Geia, a lawyer whose family Nations Australians will were Bwgcolman, Gunggandji help lead AIATSIS to tell and Mualgal, Rodney Dillon, the stories of Aboriginal and Prof Lynette Riley and Michelle Torres Strait Islander people,” Issues x 8: 29/8/24_____ 5/9/24_____ 12/9/24_____ 19/9/24_____ 3/10/24_____ 10/10/24_____ & 17/10/24_____.

Deshong (deputy chair). 26/9/24_____ she said. york-region-package-stage-2 The Council members would “I congratulate of DOC E DUMMY E Ad F E TMR recognises the NT importance of community EXCEL Indigenous Media with Russell Curtisengagement and Janes [media advertising agency - 10% agency fee] each each serve terms of up to four the new appointees and Friday, 1 April and has extended the submission deadline to 9x7 [63] colour ad @ $6.70ex discounted multi ad rate $422.10ex [x8 $3376.80ex total] - 10% Agency Fee = $379.89ex + GST $417.88incl look per ad x 8 ads $3343.04 incl. total.

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Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) is inviting community submissions to name three bridges on the Peninsula Developmental Road—namely, the bridge over Archer River, Saltwater Creek and South Laura.

Naming the bridges would help make navigation easier for tourists, freight operators, and residents, while also reflecting the community’s connection to the region.

Community members were encouraged to submit their name ideas for the three bridges.

Guidelines and submission details were available on the project webpage: https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/projects/cape-

TN0896

Tamara Giles | Indigenous Media NT <tamara@indigenousmediant.com.au>

04 NEWS

THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

2025 Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award announced

Happy winners of the ZK youth survey prize draw

The 2025 Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award (GTIAA) is open for entries from Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal artists living in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area.

Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said he was thrilled to announce the 2025 date-claimer and encouraged artists to submit their best works.

“The 2025 Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award will be held on Thursday, 12 June 2025, with an awards ceremony and official opening of cultural and artistic celebrations,” Mr Stephen said. “The Award is the biggest event on the Gab Titui Cultural Centre’s exhibition and events calendar, attracting attention from leading cultural institutions and prominent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander curators and artists. This year, artists will vie for a share in $38,000 worth of prizes, including the coveted $10,000 first prize.”

Distinguished artist and arts worker – who was recently appointed Acting Artistic Director of the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) –Teho Ropeyarn has joined the 2025 GTIAA as the guest judge.

“Mr Ropeyarn has been the Curatorial Associate of the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair for the past decade and he will bring a wealth of artistic knowledge to this year’s judging panel,” Mr Stephen said.

“As a practising artist, his career includes eight solo exhibitions, numerous group exhibitions and international showcases.

“Mr Ropeyarn will lead a panel of cultural advisors, bringing together a breadth of knowledge to the judging process to identify

Ten young people have been announced as winners of the Zenadth Kes Youth Survey Prize Draw after completing the comprehensive survey targeting young people aged 12 to 25 residing, studying, or working in the inner islands, including those temporarily living away for study or work.

The survey was open from 20 July to 24 August 2024 and supported by a Youth Research Group and steering committee of local stakeholders, traditional

2025 GTIAA guest judge Teho Ropeyarn.

Pic by Ben Searcy.

owners, and community organisations.

Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Chair Napau Pedro Stephen and Acting CEO Charlie Kaddy drew the winners last month.

“We received 156 completed surveys, and 42 young people entered the draw to win one of 10 $50 CEQ Vouchers,” Mr Stephen said.

“Congratulations to the 10 lucky winners, and thank you to all the young people who participated in the survey.

“Your invaluable feedback will shape a new Inner Island Youth Strategy to ensure future funding, and initiatives are aligned with the essential support services that young people need,” he said.

The Inner Island Youth Strategy consultations reached a total of 601 engagement touchpoints with 34 engagement events across the Kaiwalagal region, including Waiben (Thursday Island), Ngurapai (Horn Island) and Kirriri (Hammond Island).

Continued P5 N

works that provoke conversation, embody culture and capture hearts.”

The Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award was established as an initiative of the TSRA’s Culture, Art, and Heritage Program to provide opportunities to local artists who wished to increase their exhibition experience and exposure nationally.

Entries close Tuesday 1 April (5pm).

Artworks received after may be excluded from the exhibition and award.

For more information about the Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award or to submit an entry, please contact Leitha Assan, Exhibitions

and Public Programmes Manager, Gab Titui Cultural Centre, 07 4069 0873, leitha.assan@ tsra.gov.au or call 07 4069 0888.

Youth Survey prize winners with TSRA’s Healthy and Safe Communities Program Manager Charles Turner, TSRA Healthy and Safe Communities Project Manager Patricia Akee & TSRA Member for Saibai and Assistant Portfolio Member for Safe Communities Chelsea Aniba. Pics supplied.

ATTENTION TRADITIONAL INHABITANT BOAT (TIB) FISHERS IN THE TORRES STRAIT Register your interest to make your fishing business stronger!

Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Fisheries Program has launched its latest Grant as part of Phase 1 of the Wapil 2 project.

This is on the back of our successful Boat Safety equipment rollout currently underway to full time fishers via our Grants.

It will help to build a sustainable fishing industry with access to: •

More than $2 million in grants for assets and infrastructure

•

Training in marine, diving, and seafood handling/processing

•

Professional business and other support throughout the process.

Scan the QR code for more information

To be eligible, full-time TIB fishers will need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), meeting the following criteria: •

evidence of TIB licence holder registration (Australian Fisheries Management Authority- AFMA on behalf of Protected Zone Joint Authority -PZJA)

•

fish receiver receipts to prove commercial fishing is the main source of income for at least the past 12 months

•

a current Australian Business Number (ABN) to prove business operations

•

certificates of compliance or exemption certificates with Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA)

•

a resident in the Torres Strait or Northern Peninsula Area (Bamaga and Seisia).

Submit your EOI and/or speak to a member of the TSRA Fisheries Team for support on 4069 0999, email fisheries@tsra.gov.au or visit our website www.tsra.gov.au/the-tsra/programs/fisheries/

NEWS 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024 M Continued from P4

strategy before it is launched in late 2024.

Community members will be invited to comment and provide feedback on the final

For more information, visit the TSRA website or follow updates on social media.

• The 10 $50 CEQ Voucher prize

winners were:

Catherine Paton, Masepah Akee, Lui David, Charli Jones, Layla Drummond-Viti, Leilani Lewin, Thomas Barron, Carmelo Whap, Anima Dorante-Garnier & Zion Nye-See Kee.

• “One of my main hopes, even though we must leave the island to pursue our careers, I hope Thursday Island is a place that we can come back to.” Leilani Lewin, (pictured above with TSRA Chair Napau Pedro Stephen).

• “I feel like there are not very many opportunities for young people to get jobs, that seems to be one of the biggest problems in the region.” Thomas Barron.

• “I’m so glad to see a federal government agency do something for young people; especially in the Torres Strait.” Catherine Paton.

• “The survey was nice, it was easy to answer the questions.” Zion Nye-See Kee.

Collaboration behind the launch of Boigu’s bio-cultural landscape profiles The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) and the Boigu community are proud to announce the launch of their Bio-Cultural Landscape Profiles.

The profiles were unveiled

by Malu Kiai Rangers and the Malu Ki’ai RNTBC at a cultural celebration held on Boigu last month.

The launch marked a significant milestone in Boigu’s history of preserving and transmitting traditional language and ecological knowledge for future generations.

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM commended the Boigu community for the breadth of cultural and scientific knowledge captured.

“The Bio-Cultural Landscape Profiles are a testament to the deep connection between the people of Boigu Island and their environment,” Mr Stephen said.

“This has been a threeyear long project, led by a comprehensive flora and fauna survey which documented native wildlife and cultural elements such as star constellations, moon phases, and wind directions.

TSRA CEO, Malu Kiai RNTBC Chairperson, Environmental Specialists and Malu Kia Rangers with the Boigu Biocultural Profile. Pic supplied.

“TSRA was honoured to collaborate with Elders, Traditional Owners, Malu Ki’ai RNTBC and the Malu Kiai Rangers to empower the Boigu community with continued maintenance in their connection with land, sea and heritage.”

Malu Kiai Senior Ranger Nelson Gibuma said it was important to create the

landscape profiles.

“I feel very happy on this day as I think of our future generations to come,” he said.

“In my days, teaching was passed down to me by my parents, uncles and aunties verbally, which was hard to record.

“Today, it is easier to look back on these teachings through written documents in

black and white.

“These documents capture knowledge, educate and preserve our language, which we speak daily, and we can use these to continue to share our traditional knowledge of land, air and sea with our people.”

TSRA’s Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) team guided the research, documentation process and project management to codevelop a resource that would inspire greater appreciation and efforts towards preserving the region’s unique cultural heritage.

The profiles were also rich in language and featured artwork and illustrations by Boigu artist Barry Maitie and environmental specialist David Fell.

“Boigu’s Bio-Cultural Landscape Profiles demonstrate the power of communitydriven initiatives, bridging the past and the future,” Mr Stephen said.

The Bio-Cultural Landscape profiles will soon find their place in schools, community centres and homes to share generational knowledge and a sense of pride, connection – and enduring legacy for generations to come.

06 NEWS

THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Historical negotiations under study

BY ALF WILSON A five-year project looking at how Torres Strait Islanders have historically dealt with outsiders and their influence hopes to ultimately better enable Indigenous people to negotiate with governments in the present day.

Head of Research at JCU’s Indigenous Education and Research Centre, Associate Professor Sana Nakata – the daughter of Professor Martin Nakata – was to lead the study.

“During the study, we will be talking to people on Thursday Island and will visit some of the outer islands,” Professor Sana Nakata told the Torres News.

“There will also be research workshops for community on TI.” She said the Productivity Commission had found that Federal, State, and Territory governments had once again not made any significant gains in improving the life outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“This landmark study addresses a significant gap in our understanding of Torres Strait Islander agency,” she said.

Associate Professor Sana Nakata. Pic supplied.

“We’ll be examining how Torres Strait Islanders have navigated legal and policy frameworks of governments over the past century and find how Islanders adapted to changes in their region but still managed to preserve parts of their traditional way of life.”

Prof Sana said the team would use a combination of extensive archival research interviews, oral histories and community research workshops with Torres Strait Islanders both on the mainland and in the Torres Strait.

“This project will enable us to undertake a comprehensive study that has the potential to empower Indigenous narratives, contribute to

cultural preservation, and inform policy development in ways that can benefit all Indigenous communities,” Associate Professor Nakata said.

She said understanding Torres Strait Island traditions of self-reliance and making their own way in life had been marginalised in modern times.

“Indigenous people are too often represented as either beneficiaries of benevolence or victims of colonisation,” she said.

“By centering Islander perspectives, we can produce a history of political action and change that takes seriously the agency of Islanders in navigating complex conditions.

“This restores Islanders’ position as a people who have always advanced self-determination agendas on their terms and not others in order to build futures of our own making.”

The five-year project was funded by a more than $1.7 million grant from the Australian Research Council’s Discovery Indigenous scheme.

5000 businesses making their mark The number of verified Indigenous businesses on Supply Nation’s database has reached 5000.

Established in 2009, Supply Nation has worked with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses and procurement teams from government and corporate Australia to help shape today’s emerging and rapidly evolving Indigenous business sector.

In the year 2022/2023, Supply Nation facilitated and enabled $4.1 billion of spend with verified Indigenous suppliers.

“In 15 short years, Supply Nation has supported job growth, innovation, and access to services, expertise, and international markets,” CEO Kate Russell said.

“This all leads to direct benefits for families and communities right across the country.

“We look forward to the next 15 years of continued growth and meaningful change.”

She said the milestone was a testament to the significant contribution of

Supply Nation board members Anita Lee Hong, Matthew Lunn, Glenn Johnston, Michael McLeod, Penny Bingham-Hall & Aaron Fa’Aoso. Pics supplied.

Supply Nation CEO Kate Russell.

Indigenous businesses to the Australian economy, and their database contained businesses operating in agribusiness, food and beverages, construction, engineering and professional services,

logistics and transport, hospitality and training, tourism, energy and resources, aerospace, satellite services, creative industries as well as cybersecurity and data protection.

“The diversity of the Indigenous business sector cannot be underestimated,” she said.

“I am constantly overwhelmed and inspired by the passion and maturity of Indigenous businesses, particularly those in remote regions, and the growing contribution they are making to economic and jobs growth as well as the communities and customers they serve.”

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08 NEWS

THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Waiben celebrates Fiji’s national day in cultural style M Continued from P1 STORY & PICS BY CARLI WILLIS “When people from another place come here and they try to recreate the culture and the

language, which is good, but I see there is erosion in all different Melanesian and Polynesian people,” he said.

“That’s one of the downfalls, it overtakes your human being and

affects your skills and ability.

“Torres Strait has its dark history where the government of the day, they have stopped people from practising their culture here.”

Frank Petero moved to Australia

as a young man but he kept his cultural connections as he eventually made his way to the Torres Strait and met his wife of 29 years.

“In Torres Strait, I met my wife – she is a school teacher,” he said.

“I went back to Rotuma and told my chief I’m not coming home because it’s my purpose that I left.

“My purpose is to help build my house and look after my family and my people.”

TOP LEFT: Kaurareg Elder Sika Manu (aka Milton Savage), was invited to share a Welcome to Country at the event and participate in ceremony with Fiji descendants.

XTREMECARE AUSTRALIA ‘THE FNQ’S LEADING NDIS PROVIDER’ Xtremecare Australia offers

BOTTOM LEFT: Rotuma descendants George Pedro, Lency Pedro and Leroy Pedro.

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BELOW TOP: The Fiji Day Committee helped organise the event. Pic

by Barbara Ibuai.

communities.

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BELOW CENTRE: Fiji descendants share culture through dance.

Mele Tau & Treicee Fangupo.

Frank Patero enjoys the kava ceremony.

NEWS 09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024

Gimuy festival shines on art, song and dance A huge program of art, song and dance were features of the second annual Shine on Gimuy festival in Cairns earlier this week.

Led by artistic director Rhoda Roberts and a dedicated

committee of cultural guides, Shine on Gimuy delivered a comprehensive line-up of music performances, cultural dance, comedy, and conversations in a celebration of First Nations peoples, arts,

and cultures.

The festival opened with a ‘Calling Country’ ceremony featuring Mabuiag dancers Gubaw Goeyga Sagulaw Buway.

The Music Makers program was a spotlight

for musical artists/ singer-songwriters from the region including Mau Power, Kee’ahn, Jessie Grainer Chong, and DJ Bala Will with Masters of Ceremony Jodie Cockatoo and Dizzy Doolan.

The 2024 Conversations series included Professor Martin Nakata (Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Indigenous Education & Strategy) and Aaron Fa’Aoso.

While Shine On

Gimuy’s primary program of events ran from last Thursday to Sunday, the ENTWINED-themed Artstory Light Walk on Gimuy Boulevard will remain in situ until the festival closes this coming Sunday.

HAVE YOUR SAY Cum youmi tok por shape eh youmi future Performers at the Shine on Gimuy festival in Cairns included Mabuiag dancers Gubaw Goeyga Sagulaw Buway. Pics supplied.

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THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Notice of Community Meetings GBK Leaders visit Masig and Poruma Poruma Community

Monday 14 October 6:00pm to 9:00pm Olandi Pearson Memorial Hall, Poruma Catering provided

Masig Community

Wednesday 16 October 6:00pm to 7:30pm Masig Community Hall, Masig Light refreshments provided

GBK invites all community members and Native Title Holders to attend community engagement meetings on Masig and Poruma. These meetings are a chance to connect with GBK to learn more about our services, ask questions, and discuss important topics affecting the community.

We encourage everyone to attend and get involved!

Purpose of Meeting

• Sharing information about GBK’s role and function as the region’s: • Native Title Service Provider (NTSP) • Community Development Program (CDP) Service Provider (MGNM).

• Sharing information on GBK’s other stakeholder engagements and advocacy work • Providing an opportunity for community members to hear from Chair Ned David, Principal Legal Officer Susan Walsh and MGNM’s General Manager, Shakira Sabatio and ask questions.

• Providing an update on your island’s traditional boundary mapping project from members of the project team (PBC Support Coordiator Frank David, Cassie Lang, consultant lawyer and Julie Lahn, consultant anthropologist).

Interested? Contact us now

For further information please contact Herbert Warusam and the www.gbk.org.au GBK PBC Support Team on pbcsupport@gbk.org.au or 07 4083 1000

07 4083 1000

If you are unable to attend this meeting in person, a video link via Microsoft Teams is available. Contact us to register admin@gbk.org.au

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TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024

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Masig Island Community Centre 8:30am – 4:00pm

October 2024

WEDNESDAY

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Masig Community Centre 8:30am – 11:00am Poruma Island Community Centre 2:00pm – 4:00pm

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It is now a requirement that the Hazard Perception Test is completed before doing a driving test.

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Licence Testing (Written & Practical), Licensing & ID Services and all enquiries I t i s n o w

Poruma Island Community Centre 8:30am – 4:00pm

October 2024

Licence Testing (Written & Practical), Licensing & ID Services and all enquiries

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Calling all jobseekers Q u e e n s l a n d D i g i tN al o L iW cC eEn’V c e E GOT Y a sh – EOFUT COVERED! A p p n o w a v a i l a b l eMGNM w ill cover allPID OLSU caosvtsai for Download ! for registered Jo lable bseekers.

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ID L U d o n o t p r o v id e a v eh ic le .

Scan the QR Code for more information or, Call 1800 130 886 | Email: idlu@tmr.qld.gov.au

www.mgnm.com.au 07 4212 0000 jobs@gbk.org.au

12

THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

YUMI College News

TA G A I S TAT E C O L L E G E

Executive Message Jeff Jones, Executive Principal Greetings all across the Zenadth Kes nation. It is an honour and privilege to be appointed as the new Executive Principal of Tagai State College, following in the footsteps of Mr Michael Ward.

I am excited by the opportunity that this position affords me both personally and professionally and look forward to progressing the college vision of ‘Navigating YUMI to a Successful Future’.

At little bit about me- I am married father of five adult children and four grandchildren. My wife Jo will join me living on Thursday Island in the new year after she gives away her job as a principal of large primary school in Ipswich. We are fully committing to Tagai and will sell our house making the Torres Strait our home.

Yolanda McLean, Head of School Tagai State College: Steering Towards Excellence in Education From Friday, 16 August to Tuesday, 20 August, Tagai State College held its Head of Campus (HoC) Forum in Cairns, with proactive participation from all HoCs and valuable input from our community stakeholders.

We were honoured to have TSIREC Board members Arthur Naawi, Susan Billy, Monty Naawi, Charles David, and Benny Dau join us, alongside our esteemed guests Leon Proud, Michael Flood, and Sean Maher, who enriched the discussions with their insights.This forum marked a significant step in our journey towards achieving Equity and Excellence as we prepare for the 20th Anniversary of Tagai State College in 2027—a milestone we are excited to celebrate with our community.

We bid a heartfelt farewell to Michael Ward, who served with dedication over the past three years, and welcomed Jeff Jones as our new Executive Principal. Jeff led a reflective session on our collective “Why,” reminding us that our purpose is to provide a supportive, equitable, 21st Century learning environment for our students. Our goal remains clear: to ensure that 100% of our students achieve outcomes that will give them the best start in life after school.

During the forum, we finalised our 2025 to 2028 Strategic Plan and began work on the 2025 Annual Improvement Plan (AIP), which will be shared with our community next term. This plan, developed in collaboration with TSIREC, will guide our efforts in continuing to provide quality education for our students.

Our College Business Manager, Nolly Griffiths, provided updates on our progress in HR, Finance, Facilities, and Information Technologies, emphasising the importance of consistent systems across all campuses. Tagai State College is committed to excellence in education, and we look forward to continuing our journey with the support of our community.

Exciting Developments in Maths Education: Maths Champion Training in Cairns

From Monday 26 to Wednesday 28 August, our Maths Champions participated in an enriching training session in Cairns, led

by Dr. Jodie Miller from the University of Queensland, alongside Kate Leggo and Kaylene Chippendale. During this training, the team unpacked some of the newly developed resources, modelled lessons, explored the capabilities of SeeSaw, and gathered feedback on the usefulness of these tools for teachers.

On the professional front, I am a career educator having taught both primary and secondary classes.

My role as a teacher and as a principal has seen me work across six educational regions in the state, five of which I have been a principal in.

My First Nations community experience prior to this was being the principal of Bwgcolman Community School on Palm Island. That experience has been the highlight of my career so far and led me to take on a range of other roles which eventually all led to me being successful in coming to Tagai.

As we head into the final stretch of the year, across the college in our primary campuses we will continue to focus on our students so they speak, read and write Standard Australian English proficiently as well as enriching their cultural identity. In our secondary school we continue to focus our curriculum and teaching so that by the time our year 12 students exit they can achieve one or more of the following; • • • • •

Proficiency speaking a Torres Strait Islander Language Enter a university; and or A clear Vocational Education and Training (VET) pathway to employment; and or Direct employment; and or A Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) or a Queensland Certificate of individual Achievement (QCIA).

I look forward to visiting our communities across the Torres Strait in the coming months I seek to understand the commonalities and points of difference of our different campuses.

Currently, only 52% of our students in P-6 are achieving a grade of C or above in Maths, indicating that there is significant work to be done to improve these results. While there may be various factors contributing to this low achievement rate, our focus is on developing a more consistent approach to teaching Maths. This approach aims to help teachers better understand the key foundations of teaching mathematics systematically and to provide a clear scope and sequence for the year, term, and weekly lessons.

The purpose of these Maths Champion roles is to support the implementation of our new V9 curriculum, aligning assessment and reporting with a more engaging pedagogical approach to teaching mathematics in all K-6 classrooms.

There was a buzz of excitement in the room as we explored SeeSaw, a new platform that the college will use to enhance student engagement in teaching and learning. SeeSaw will also support teachers in differentiating instruction, monitoring and assessing student progress, enhancing students’ digital capabilities, and increasing overall student engagement.

Our Maths Champions will return to their classrooms to practice some of the new strategies they learned on SeeSaw. If you’re interested in getting a head start on this, please reach out to one of the team members. They will be providing more information early in Term 4 as we prepare for the 2025 academic year. I encourage all of you to observe these outstanding teachers and HOCs in action to gain a better understanding of what will be expected in 2025. This is an exciting time for the college as we reimagine how mathematics will be taught moving forward.

A huge thank you to each Math Champion, Dr. Miller, Kate, and Kaylene—all of whom are pictured below. Your passion is contagious, and I am confident that Yumi (You, Me, Us together) are making a real difference in the lives of our children across the Torres and Endeavour Straits.

13

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024

Positive Culture for Learning As we dive into this fortnight’s Positive Classroom Leadership (PCL) focus, we are emphasizing the importance of following routines. To earn a tick on their new PCL charts, students are encouraged to demonstrate the following three actions:

Mer Ngurpay Lag Head of Campus Rebekah Hasler Term 3 Attendance - 43 Students Enrolled Current

67% (28 students)

Target Goal

90% (38 students daily)

Literacy We are excited to share that our students have been actively engaged in learning about the importance of protecting our local environment. During the recent holidays, our Mer students took part in a community cleanup initiative, helping to raise awareness about the significance of caring for our beautiful islands.

This term, we will be building on this important work in our English classes. Students will explore persuasive writing as a means to advocate for environmental protection. They will research various environmental issues affecting Mer Island and craft compelling texts aimed at convincing others that immediate action is necessary to safeguard and enhance our natural surroundings.

1. Listen first time, everytime 2. Helping Others 3. Hands and Feet to Ourselves In addition to reinforcing these routines, students are earning PCL tokens that they can use to shop at our exciting new Mer PCL shop.

This initiative not only motivates students to engage positively but also rewards their efforts and contributions to our school community.

New Teacher - Ms Ngaire McLean We are thrilled to announce that this term, we have a new teacher joining our team! Please join us in welcoming Ms. Ngaire McLean, who will be supporting our Kindy-Year 1 classroom.

As we concluded Term 3, we celebrated with a delightful Technology and Ice-cream party for students who demonstrated excellent attendance and behavior. This event was a great way to recognize their hard work and dedication.

Ms. McLean comes to us from Stradbroke Island and is excited to embrace the vibrant Torres Strait culture. She looks forward to immersing herself in our cultural events and practices during her time with us.

We encourage everyone to support our students in their efforts and to join us in promoting a cleaner, healthier environment for all. Together, we can make a difference!

We are confident that Ms. McLean will bring a fresh perspective and enthusiasm to our school community. Please make her feel welcome as she begins this exciting journey with us!

In our classrooms: We are proud learners: I participate in all classroom activities to learn.We are respectful: I use whole body listening to be respectful.

We are responsible: I listen and follow instructions to be responsible.We are safe: I keep my hands and feet to myself to be safe.

Kubin Ngurpay Lag Head of Campus Jodie Whelan Term 3 Attendance - 41 Students Enrolled Current

81% (33 students)

Target Goal

90% (38 students daily)

Literacy We are thrilled to share some positive developments happening at Kubin Ngurpay Lag! Our students are making impressive strides in reading, spelling, and dictation across the school.

Students Kydon and Davaniel using digital devices for learning, pictured above.

AFL Visit - Term 3 We are excited to share highlights from the recent AFL Cape York Sport Education Program at Kubin Ngurpay Lag from 10 to 12 September.

This program, designed for both boys and girls, focused on essential AFL skills like handball, marking, and kicking through engaging drills and modified games.

To enhance our learning experience, we are piloting innovative digital platforms that allow us to deliver critical content in new and engaging ways. Several literacy groups have started accessing dictation passages through Microsoft Teams.

This initiative not only builds fluency skills but also enhances our students’ abilities to effectively use multimodal learning devices.

We are excited about these advancements and look forward to seeing our students thrive as they explore new methods of learning. Thank you for your continued support!

Ti’Aizah enhancing her literacy skills through digital learning!

Positive Culture for Learning We are proud learners who are respectful, We are proud learners who are respectful, responsible and safe.

Led by accredited AFL coach Mr. Kieran from AFL Cape York, students improved their AFL skills while also developing gross motor abilities such as running and catching.

We look forward to welcoming Mr. Kieran back from 26 to 29 November for further skill development. Stay tuned for more updates!

14 NEWS

THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Wedding bells on Waiben for Mr & Mrs Starr TN0461 • 11-04-24 BOOK ONLINE: WWW.REBELTOURS.COM.AU

THURSDAY ISLAND/HORN ISLAND FERRY TIMETABLE (03/04/2024)

THURSDAY ISLAND/HORN ISLAND FERRY TIMETABLE (03/04/2024)

TIMETABLE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE DUE TO QANTAS SCHEDULING, SOME FERRIES MAY NOT OPERATE. School children have HAMMOND ISLAND SCHOOL FERRY TIMETABLE •priority – Community

Depart Thursday Island • Monday – Friday

Depart Hammond Island • Monday – Friday

6.40am (Departs Rebel Wharf) ***Bookings essential 7.05am (Arrives Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY 7.25am (Departs Engineers Wharf) 7.45am (Arrives Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY 3.20pm (Departs Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY 3.35pm (Arrives Engineers Wharf) 3.55pm (Departs Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY

members can travel if space permits.

Please call or email for any queries. This service does not operate on public holidays, school holidays or weekends.

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.

AVOID THE QUEUE!

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

Thursday Island Water Policewoman Tonia married Donny Starr at the TI Bowls Club on Saturday.

Torres Strait Islander Police Liaison Officers travelled from Badu, Masig and Saibai Islands to celebrate the occasion with Tonia and Donny’s family.

Masig PLO Pastor

Ned Mosby officiated to ceremony.

Pics supplied.

NEWS 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024

Two lives celebrated in dual tombstone unveilings STORY AND PICS

BY FLORA WARRIA Two of Kaurareg nation’s most prominent Elders, the late Whap Charlie and the late Obediah Ara tombstone opening celebrations were held

on Horn Island last weekend.

Relatives came together from near and far for this joyous occasion, shared with families on Horn Island.

More pics on PAGE 16 J

ABOVE: All the Ara sisters.

TOP RIGHT: Children of the late Elder Obediah Ara. BOTTOM RIGHT: Families gathering together at the Hinterland Weekly 12x3 CONTRA AD [n/c 25-04-24] cemetery.

BELOW: Nieces of the late Deacon Whap Charlie: Ivy AdsIN E Excel E Dummy E • Contact Advertising - Andrew Clair, CEO. 0459 026 250 – Trinkoon, Mamie Misick, Weiba Misick and Louise Manas.

Andrew Clair <andrew.clair@flyhav.com> • Horn Is. Base Manager Joshua Kent BOTTOM: The late Deacon Whap Charlie gravestone.

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

ABOVE: Elder Seriat Young posing at his beloved cultural Island dancing, song composer and Island dance choreographer’s gravesite.

BELOW: MC Elizah Wasaga with Rev Tom Stephen, who officiated the unveiling of the tombstones.

LOCAL FARE SUBSIDY SCHEME LFS Fare Class (one way) • Conditions Apply

• See our website for Torres Strait Schedule www.hinterlandaviation.com.au

For LFS bookings J E H LFS@flyhav.com J P H 1300 FLY HAV

A TORRES NEWS LIFTOUT INFORMATION FEATURE

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

To advertise in our Education feature in the Thursday 31 October issue please email ads@torres.news or call 0419 828 639

EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF – DIAT ALFERINK PUBLISHERS Published every Thursday E editor@torres.news TORRES NEWS PTY LTD NEWS & CHIEF SUB EDITOR Diat Alferink – Chief Executive Officer CHRISTINE HOWES E editor@torres.news M 0419 656 277 • E christine@torres.news 69 Douglas Street, Thursday Island Q 4875 TSIMA JOURNALIST – CARLI WILLIS M 0415 705 160 • E carli@tsima4mw.org.au ADVERTISING ADVERTISING & PRODUCTION TSIMA CORRESPONDENTS MANAGER – SHARON GALLERY Jen Enosa, Sylvia Tabua & Gilmore Johnston.

M 0419 828 639 • E ads@torres.news CADET JOURNALIST – FLORA WARRIA M 0473 231 367 • E flora@torres.news ADVERTISING DEADLINES Ad bookings 12 NOON TUESDAYS Ad copy (ad to be set) 12 NOON TUESDAYS NEWS & PHOTOS DEADLINE Supplied Ad material 2PM TUESDAYS All news, sports and photo contributions Classifieds 3PM TUESDAYS 5PM MONDAYS

Broadcaster Broadca

16 NEWS & CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING J M: 0419 828 639 TORRES NEWS J E: ads@torres.news THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024

M From PAGE 15 – PICS BY FLORA WARRIA

JJOIN OUR TEAM

Erub

Procession to the unveiling of the Tombstones.

Job Description:

Headstone of the late Deacon Whap Charlie.

Will be working in your local community radio station and provide information to your community and/or the region You will be offered:

Training Certificate 3 in Radio Training

Requirements:

Can work immediately Work hours: 4 hours/day For more info

JEN ENOSA Senior Content Producer (RIBS) jen@tsima4mw.org.au (07) 40691524

Children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren of the late Obediah Ara.

All the grandsons and great-grandsons of the two Elders, setting the scene for the celebration that was to follow the unveiling of the tombstones.

Headstone of the late Obediah Ara. ABOVE: Ben Ali Nona (Malu Wap) cutting the ribbon on his godfather’s headstone, the late Deacon Whap Charlie.

LEFT: Nephews of the late Deacon Charlie with brother in-laws Joseph Wigness, Willie Wigness and Saila Savage (standing in the middle row).

ART & SPORT NEWS 17

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024

Cecelia and Jinneecka share UMI arts spotlight Artists Cecelia Slade (Torres Strait Islands) and Jinneecka Don (Tjapukai/Kuku Yalanji) present a showcase of a combined collection of 51 artworks in a range of mediums as part of UMI Arts Exhibition Ready program which opened in Cairns late last month.

Cecelia was born in 1990 and grew up in Cairns not really knowing much about her father’s history and culture.

In recent times she started to learn more about her family connections but from an early age was always deeply inspired by the art world.

Her childhood shaped her artistic journey into adulthood and her inspirations were animal portraits and wildlife landscapes.

She studied zoology at university.

“I aim to quiet my busy mind and create work I am truly proud of,” she said.

“My current series features serene, flowing works that capture beach life, playing in the shallows and exploring rock pools.

“These pieces are characterised by soft, calming colours, from delicate peaches to deep blues, evoking the tranquillity of perfect beach days.

“The process is methodical, often involving numerous sketches and trials before completing a final piece, which can take up to three months depending on the medium.

“I found that naming my work is a challenge because I prefer not to overshadow the viewers’ personal interpretation.

“Many of my artworks draw

inspiration from artists from the Torres Strait Islands, my experiences of young adulthood, where I spent many hours working with wildlife and, even today, working in Indigenous communities.

“I find beauty and inspiration in diverse places.

“These pieces will resonate to many, but those who love the ocean will find a special connection.”

Through Cecelia’s participation in UMI Arts exhibitions and workshops, Cecelia has developed new skills in printmaking while creating new works and exploring various mediums.

Artworks on show until 7 November: Four acrylic on stretched canvas, 11 linocut print on 350gsm paper and 14 mixed colours of polymer clay, jewellery.

Artist Cecelia Slade. Pic by Lovegreen Photography.

Under 19 state players take on Hawaiian internationals

BY VELMA GARA Queensland U19 First Nations girls’ basketball team hosted the Hawaiian Kingdom in an exhibition game last weekend, with the visitors winning – 102 to 61.

It was a fast and physical game – Kingdom started well and was up 12 nil in no time.

By half time, the score was 51 to 24.

Hawaiian Kingdom national team are on an international tour in Southeast Queensland from 4 – 11 October to engage in cultural exchanges.

They competed against the First Nations Team, Gold Coast based Māori Team and U18 teams from Bayside Jets and Southern District Spartans.

The squad of 10 from O’ahu and Hawai’i islands, represented schools such as Campbel, ‘Iolani, Kamehameha, Kapalama, Konawaena, Nanakuli and Punahou.

Basketball Queensland Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Simon Taylor, was approached to organise the game with the state’s First Nations girls, as the level of competition and potential exposure was a great experience for the team.

He said it was an opportunity too good to pass up and for the girls to play on an international level, adding the connections they all made off the court and after the game was definitely something to remember.

An invitation was extended to Maletta See Kee of Townsville to be part of the First Nations team after Mr Taylor saw her play at the Zenadth Kes Basketball Carnival held recently on Thursday Island.

Despite the lopsided score, family and friends were treated to a great game of basketball at the Logan Metro Sports and Events Centre.

It was the third game played that Saturday night for a majority of the Indigenous girls who were competing in the U18 South Qld Junior Basketball Competition for their respective clubs – Logan, South West Metro Pirates and Gold Coast Seahawks.

Qld First Nations U19 Team – Back Row: Hayley McDowell-White, Jema Sebasio, Madeline Holmes, Vitalia Buteux, Maletta See Kee & Mia Nakata. Kneeling: Siale Lolohea, Mya Moke & Jay Sebasio. Pic by Lavinia Taylor.

Top scorers: First Nations U19: Jay Sebasio 24p, Mya Moke 8p and Mia Nakata 7p.

Kingdom U18: Nihoa Dunn 34p, Joey Hiraisha 28p and Makenzie Alapai 10p.

LEFT: Game Tip Off between First Nations and Hawaiian Kingdom. Pics supplied.

ABOVE: Players and coaching staff of the First Nations and Hawaiian Kingdom teams.

18 SPORT

THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Ailan support for Māori league Panthers win fourth straight NRL grand final

BY VELMA GARA

The annual tournament of the Queensland Māori Rugby League community was held over the King’s Birthday long weekend.

Many families participated including Sawee Bero from the eastern islands of the Torres Strait.

Sawee and his partner Sara Spindler live in the Brisbane region and attended the tournament with their children.

Their three eldest played for the West Māori U12 team competing against South, East and North Māoris.

The annual event was held at the Bill Norris Oval, Beenleigh and, after it was completed, the state’s Māori representative teams were selected for the U12, U14, U16, U18 and seniors.

ROUND UP

BY ALF WILSON

TOP: Family Time – Sawee Bero, Boston Bero, Lyric Bero, Lennox Bero & Sara Spindler.

RIGHT: HAKA Winners – Lennox Bero and Sawee Bero with the trophy.

Pics supplied.

Walgett wins Koori Knockout

BY ALF WILSON A Walgett Aboriginal Connection (WAC) side, which included Ben Barba, Windsor Bowie, Samukie Gaidan and Matthew Gibuma, has defeated Nanima Common Connection 46-12 in the grand final of Monday’s Koori Knockout rugby league carnival in Bathurst, New South Wales.

Other Queenslanders who shone for WAC were Noel Underwood and Amaziah Murgha (Yarrabah), and Joel Thompson and Latrell Siegwalt who played with the Dolphins in the Queensland Cup in 2024.

Amaziah has signed a contract with NRL Club Melbourne Storm for next season.

The Brisbane Broncos have signed Latrell for their 30 NRL player squad for season 2025.

Cronulla Sharks fullback William Kennedy lined up at number one for WAC and starred.

The carnival, Australia’s biggest, had 60 sides competing.

The men’s draw was split into four pools with winners playing off in quarter-finals followed by semi-finals.

In Saturday’s quarter-final, Marmin Barba, a younger brother of Ben, was injured for WAC. To win the coveted final, which they also won last year, WAC had to play five gruelling matches over three days.

Qualifying rounds were played over two 20-minute halves, the quarter and semifinals over two of 30, and the decider two 40-minute halves.

In the quarter-final, it was a genuine battle of stars when WAC beat Moree Boomerangs 22-4.

The Penrith Panthers won their fourth NRL premiership in a row when they beat the Melbourne Storm 14-6 in last Sunday’s grand final.

A crowd of 80,156 packed Accor Stadium in Sydney as the Panthers defeated the minor premiers the Storm.

They were the first team since the St George Dragons of the 1950s and 60s to achieve four premierships in a row, as the Dragons famously won 11 straight from 1956 to 1966.

It was a brilliant performance by champion Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary, who was the difference.

Nathan had a better game than the Storm’s number seven Jahrome Hughes who took out the prestigious Dally M award last week.

One of the best for the Storm was PNG international Xavier Coates.

NRLW Grand Final

Grand final winners Walgett Aboriginal Connection Pic supplied.

Included in the Boomerangs team were NRL brothers Jacob (South Sydney) and Dane Gagai (Newcastle Knights).

The combination of halfback Latrell and five-eighth Ben was pivotal in the WAC win.

They created many scoring opportunities and got amongst the individual tries.

The final started at a furious pace, and in the third minute NRL player Tyrone Peachey scored a try which was converted to give Nanima a 6-nil lead.

In windy conditions, William Kennedy backed up soon after and crossed for WAC to equal at 6-all.

In the 15th and 17th minutes, WAC scored twice making it 16-6.

Ben Barba mesmerised the opposition in the 27th minute and the accurate conversion blew the

score out to 22-6 at halftime.

Latrell scored early after the break and when Tyrone Peacey registered his second in the 64th minute WAC led 28-12.

In the 50th minute, Dillon Walford scored, followed by a Trotden Dixon four-pointer and it was 40-12.

The final was broadcast on NITV, no doubt drawing cheers when Samukie Gaidan scored just before full-time.

WAC supporters were over the moon with the victory.

In the women’s grand final Redfern All Blacks beat Bourke Warriors 22-4.

FOOTNOTE: WAC will now meet the winner of the Queensland Murri Carnival, Urapun Thayak, in the Interstate Challenge to decide the best Allblacks side in the country.

The Sydney Roosters defeated the Cronulla Sharks 32-28 in Sunday’s decider.

Having led 24-nil at halftime, the Roosters were in danger after the Sharks fought back to trail 24-22 late in the game.

In the final analysis, the Roosters scored six tries to five.

Club awards Talented player Relna Wuruki-Hosea has been named as the Canberra Raiders NRLW Rookie of the Year.

Relna was amongst the NRL club award winners announced last week.

Star back Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow was named the Dolphins Club Adventure Kings Fan Voted MVP. Quality centre Dane Gagai won three of the six Newcastle Knights

ABOVE: Relna Wuruki-Hosea who won the Raiders Rookie of the Year award. BELOW: Badu family show their support for Relna.

Pics supplied.

awards: Player of the Year (Danny Buderus Medal), the Players’ Player and Gladiator of the Year.

Cowboys women relocation The decision by the Cowboys to relocate their NRLW side from Townsville to Cairns is a good one both for the business aspect and also for Torres Strait Islanders.

The relocation will occur from the 2027 season and the side will be based at Barlow Park, the home of the Queensland Cup side the Northern Pride.

Whilst the Cowboys men’s NRL side has played in front of large crowds at most home matches at Townsville’s Queensland Cup Stadium that is not the case with the women.

Since joining the NRLW comp from last season the side has played before small crowds.

I can recall being in the Townsville CBD outside the Cowboys League’s Club several times before NRLW games.

An official from the League’s Club handed out free tickets to one game because of low

ticket sales.

I covered a couple of NRLW matches in Townsville and the crowds were low with only one side of the ground with spectators.

So where will the Torres Strait benefit from the move?

At this time there are five Torres Strait players in the Cowboys team.

They are co-captain Tallisha Harden, Jasmine Peters (both Badu), Sareka Mooka (Mabuiag), Essay Banu (Boigu/PNG) and Tahlulah Tillett (Moa).

They have great family support on the islands where they have descendants and some of these travel to Townsville for their games.

The relocation to Cairns will make the trip less costly.

Of course, by 2027 nobody knows if all five will still be with the club.

However, with so many talented young Torres Strait women competing in Cairns, Townsville and Mackay ladies comps, there are sure to be some.

On the business side, the club is sure to benefit from Cairns having a home team in a national comp.

SPORT 19

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024

First ever Women’s All-Stars carnival a winner

M Continued from PAGE 20. ABOVE & RIGHT: Organisers including ball crew, security, food, managers, scorers, timers who helped make the inaugural 2024 Women’s All-Stars a successful carnival.

BELOW – TOP LEFT: 2024 Indigenous Employment Player of the Carnival Latisha Kaitap. TOP RIGHT: 2024 Petrina Neller Best Forward Stephanie Mooka with Debra Toby. BOTTOM LEFT: 2024 Gillian Bann Best Back Jairel MartinSavage. BOTTOM RIGHT: Coastal Neur vs OG DOOBS (Captains and Co-captains). Pics supplied.

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THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

Strong Ailan teams to play Gordonvale

BY ALF WILSON Six quality Torres Strait Islander sides are amongst 24 teams who will compete at the QRL-sanctioned Gordonvale Indigenous Rugby League Carnival on 18-20 October.

They are Urapun Thayak, Malu Kiwai, Goemu Bau Raiders, Aragun Warriors, Erub Yellow and Erub Black.

Urapun Thayak won the

Arthur Beetson Foundation Murri Carnival late last month, Malu Kiwai took out the most recent Dan Ropeyarn Cup at Bamaga, Goemu Bau Raiders won the 2023 Island of Origin on Badu and the Erub United and Aragun Warriors teams have many carnival trophies between them.

In the 2023 Dan Ropeyarn Cup final Malu Kiwai 28 defeated Erub United (1) 14.

Erub won the carnival a few years ago in a nail-biting grand final 18-14 win over Yarrabah Dirringhi to achieve a unique double.

An Erub side has also won the grand final of Murri Knockout at Redcliffe.

Other teams were BarbaOdo Descendants, United Warriors, Garnet Eagles, Coastal Balas, Pormpuraaw Crocs, Burdekin Delta Dolphins, Mixed Relations, Hopevale United, Northern

Chiefs, Papuan Blacks, Cairns United, Black Cockatoos, East Coast Wandi, Guyu Colts, Guyula, Tagalaka Waangu and Dirringhi Thaddeus Johnson Memorial.

The Barba Descendants were sure to be star-studded.

This carnival has attracted some NRL players now the season was over.

Organisers are seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help make the carnival a success.

Bindal comp ready to kick off tomorrow

BY ALF WILSON This year’s Dan Ropeyarn Cup, which was to be held at Bamaga has been cancelled and there will be no Zenadth Kes carnival on Waiben this year, so the focus is now on the huge Bindal Sharks carnival to be held in Townsville this weekend, starting from tomorrow.

The competition between 24 men’s and

eight women’s teams with players from Townsville, Cairns, the Torres Strait, NPA, Palm Island, Normanton, Yarrabah, Charters Towers, Cloncurry, the Burdekin, Mackay and many other places was bound to be fierce.

Torres Strait Islander teams include last year’s winner Thugerr Warriors, with many Saibai Islanders on board, Boigu team Malu Kiwai for the first time,

and Masig team Thurud Wap. Thurud Wap was organised by Gibson Billy and his wife Evelyn.

“We have six players coming down from Masig and they arrived a couple of days before the first games,” Evelyn said.

“We also have a women’s team Thupmuls.”

Veteran Allblacks carnival star Billo

Mosby will line up for Thurud Wap and it was understood a former NRL back who was in the 2024 Queensland Cup side Townsville Blackhawks was also part of the team.

It was also expected many current NRL players would play in the carnival.

In last year’s exciting final Thugerr Warriors beat Burdekin Delta Dolphins 20-19 with a late try and conversion.

Thugerr Warriors were behind 19-14 as the game entered its last minute when second rower Jordan Remfrey scored a try to narrow the margin to 19-18 and then Addo Waianga lined from the right hand side of the post on an angle and the fate of the decider was on his boot.

There will also be a Reconciliation game between an Indigenous Allstars side and Police.

FERRY SCHEDULE OCT – DEC 2024

MONDAY / WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY DEPARTURES

3 days/week FROM OCTOBER TO 20 DECEMBER 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.

NO GLASS BOTTLES ALLOWED ONBOARD as Luggage or Freight The Jetty Shop & Office, Engineers Jetty, Thursday Is.

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

20

J EMAIL: chris@torres.news J MOBILE: 0419 656 277

THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024

Coastal Neur are All-Stars champs 2024 Women’s All-Stars Carnival winners Coastal Neurs. Pic supplied.

A star-studded Coastal Neur took out the first Women’s All-Stars Carnival played in Cairns last weekend, over strong rivals OG DOOBS.

The carnival was a success.

Some quality players took out individual awards.

Stephanie has been one of the most

Organisers Elia and Kristen Ware

gifted, long-term players from the Torres

thanked everyone who helped make it a

Strait.

TN0529 10x7 – 7/3/24 Player of the carnival was Latisha

Jairel Martin-Savage is a rising star and

The team was made up of players from across the region from Mackay to

Kaitap, best forward Stephanie Mooka and

also won a major individual award at the

Townsville to Cairns and beyond.

the best back Jairel Martin-Savage.

2023 Bindal Sharks carnival in Townsville.

successful carnival including the ball crew, security, food providers, managers, scorers and timers.

See more pics on PAGE 19 N

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