Torres News_Edition 152_17 October 2024

Thursday, 17 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.

EDITORIAL l M: 0419 656 277 l E: christine@torres.news

l Edition 152 l $2 incl. GST

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Fire warnings issued as favourable conditions prevail

Crews fight fire on Summers Street, Waiben, close to homes.

on Ngurupai, Waiben and

Rural Fire Service

which came dangerously close

“Conditions currently in

across the Northern Peninsula

Queensland (RFSQ) Chief

to homes on Monday, was first

Area (NPA) earlier this week.

Superintendent Tony Hazel

reported as a grass fire behind

Warnings have been issued by

Last weekend fires covered

warned residents to prepare

Summers Street at 6am.

emergency and health services

the region in smoke and caused

as fires blazed simultaneously

Horn Island Airport to close.

the Torres Strait are very conducive to fires,” Mr Hazel said.

Story continued & more pics on PAGE 3 N

STORY & PIC

BY CARLI WILLIS

for more.

He said crews were able to

He said a blaze on Waiben,

INSIDE Sport

keep it under control.

Malu Kiwai disqualified SEE FULL STORY ON PAGES 18 & 19 N

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02 NEWS

THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Arts and hospitality mix for a succesful NAIDOC Week

My Island Home by Peter Levi.

Peter Levi with some of his artwork. Pics supplied.

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

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Djarragun College recently celebrated their NAIDOC Week with celebrations featuring a Tribalmania Arts and Hospitality Day, transforming the school’s hub into a showcase for arts students, including Year 10 student Peter Levi.

Their work celebrated cultural creativity and raised more than $5000 through sales, the proceeds of which went directly to the students.

Peter said he was from Moa Island.

“I live in St Paul’s community,” he said. “I have lived on the Island all my life.

“My family totem is the dugong, crocodile, shark, frigate bird and the stone fish. There are eight members in my family, and I am the youngest male.

“I like to draw and paint traditional designs so I can preserve my Islander culture for future generations.”

Peter’s work sold for $400 on the day.

Well done Peter!

Jobs and economic development ideas on the table for remote trial sites More than 3100 people across 200 remote communities have had their say about the design and delivery of the Federal Government’s new Remote Jobs and Economic Development (RJED) program, which will replace the failed Community Development Program (CDP) later this year.

Consultations held between April and July this year sought perspectives from remote community members and leaders, job seekers, employers, Community Development Program participants and providers, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporations, council members and others from within the 60 current CDP regions.

Their insights were to help shape the final design of the new program.

Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy said remote communities knew what jobs they wanted and needed.

“Listening to these perspectives on the ground is vital to deliver a successful remote jobs program,” she said.

“The consultation report reiterates the importance of a jobs

program that is flexible and caters for cultural needs and the unique circumstances of remote communities.

“This program has the ability to change the narrative around remote employment and show the impact a job can have when it’s the right job, with the right purpose in the right place.”

This latest round of consultations built on lessons learned through job trials, one of which was on Palm Island, near Townsville, that were testing new approaches to remote employment.

The RJED program was expected to kickstart the creation of 3000 new jobs, with proper wages and decent conditions, over the next three years.

Grant applications to participate in the Trial are open.

Information, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, was available on GrantConnect.

Applications close on 30 October 2024, or when the Trial is fully allocated, whichever is sooner.

To read the consultation summary and full report see niaa.gov.au/rjedconsultations

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NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024

Crews struggle to contain fires M Continued from P1 STORY AND PICS

BY CARLI WILLIS “There’s a significant amount of dry fuel available, temperatures up in the 30s and the very strong wind is making an extremely challenging environment for our firefighters,” Mr Hazel said.

He said a fire started on Ngurupai, first reported last Wednesday, burned for a week.

“The crews said that the fire started somewhere near the rubbish dump and there was a significant amount of crew working on that fire,” he said.

“There was the Rural Fire Service crews from Horn Island and they were joined by the auxiliary crew from Thursday Island.”

He said another fire was reported at 2pm on Monday in the NPA. “The weather conditions are such that any fire that is set is rapidly going to escalate – we don’t want any fires lit in the open,” Mr Hazel said.

“Secondly, any fires that are set alight, for a cooking fire, it’s important that people ensure they’ve got plenty of clean space around where they’re going to do that cooking and maintain observation of that fire.

“The most important thing is at this time of year, given it so dry, for any property assets there, like houses or sheds, we need to make sure any dry vegetation is cleared back to ensure you’ve got a safe distance between the building and where a potential fire

Smoke from Ngurupai drifted over to Waiben.

A fire that started on Summers Street, spread to Loban Road (Waiben) on Monday. threat might come.”

Positions advertised Mr Hazel said he wanted to encourage residents to join their local Rural Fire Service or Queensland Fire Department (QFD – previously Queensland Fire and Emergency Service or QFES).

He said crews struggled to find volunteers to help on Ngurupai last weekend.

“They were quite challenged with the availability of firefighters because a number weren’t on the island,” he said.

“It’s always important that the community supports its local brigade.”

More than 12 months ago the Queensland

significant challenges in building the new organisational structures.

“We’ve done a complete desktop evaluation about what’s needed to have a good organisation, what structures are needed,” he said.

“We’ve acknowledged that particularly for our volunteers in our brigades, it’s more than just on the ground, delivering training and assisting the brigades operationally.

“We need to think about the management of our assets, in particular, our truck fleet and our station builds.”

Government announced 114 additional positions for the Rural Fire Service Queensland but Mr Hazel said recruitment had only begun in the past month.

“We’re opening a new office in Cooktown and we’re opening a new office in Bamaga,” he said.

“Each area will get an inspector and two other staff members.”

He said the build of a new RFSQ shed in Bamaga, which was promised over a year ago, had also recently begun.

“The contractors are hoping to get a significant amount done before the wet sets in,” he said.

Mr Hazel said QFD and RFSQ had faced

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Dr Allison Hempenstall said it was important to take the following precautions: • Close windows and doors • Use fans or air conditioning on recirculating mode to keep cool • Keep medications close by if suffering a respiratory condition • Be vigilant in taking prescribed medications for existing lung conditions.

She said smoke could make it hard to see or breathe, sting eyes and cause irritation including coughing, itchy eyes, sore throat and a runny nose.

“Special face masks, called P2 masks, filter bushfire smoke and can provide greater protection against inhaling fine particles,” she said.

“It is very important that people with pre-existing health conditions take their medication, follow their treatment plan, and seek immediate medical advice if symptoms persist.

“Anyone with a heart or lung condition should follow the treatment plan advised by their doctor and keep at least five days’ supply of medication on hand.

“People with asthma should follow their personal asthma plan.”

If you or someone you know is having trouble breathing or experiencing chest pain, they should call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

For free health advice call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84).

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Entries are now open

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Entries close Tuesday April 1st 2025.

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04 NEWS

THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Bike check-ups on again this weekend Community was once again invited to bring their bikes for check-ups and repairs, to teach or learn, or to donate their unused bikes to another free Bike Hospital last Saturday.

Event organiser Sarah Tedder said they were all about sharing skills and resources.

“We brought the tools and parts, and anyone with an interest in learning or teaching joined in,” she said.

“Some people knew how to

Pic supplied.

fix a flat tyre or adjust brakes, others learned these things for the first time.”

The Bike Hospital is held on the first Saturday of every month.

The next two sessions will be on Saturday 2 November and 7 December at Ken brown Oval (beachside) from 2-5pm.

MEANWHILE, the weekly Friday Bike-to-School Bus continued to roll out to encourage families and individuals to ride to school and work.

The community convoy ran every Friday and welcomed riders of all ages and abilities to join in for a leisurely ride.

“It isn’t just for kids – anyone in the community can join,” Sarah said.

“Whether you want to ride, scoot, or even jog, it is a great way to kick-start your Friday.”

Leaving at 8am sharp the route starts from Tamwoy Basketball Court and passes key stops such as Bach Beach Playground (8.10), Ken Brown

Oval (8.15) and ANZAC Park (8.20) and ends at local schools Sacred Heart (8.25), Paru Kaziw Mudh (8.35) and Tagai Primary (8.40).

The next bike-bus was scheduled for tomorrow Friday 18 October.

For more information contact Sarah Tedder via text at +61 447 290 611 or email at mobiliseti@gmail.com or sign up for updates at www.bit.ly/ mobiliseti

House blessed with more to come HAVE YOUR SAY Cum youmi tok por shape eh youmi future Come along and have a chat with your local Council

MONDAY 21 OCTOBER 2024 WARRABER 5.00pm - 9.00pm

TUESDAY 22 OCTOBER 2024 IAMA 11.00am - 2.00pm ERUB 4.00PM - 8.00PM

WEDNESDAY 23 OCTOBER 2024 BOIGU 11.00am - 2.00pm

THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2024 MER 11.00am - 2.00pm

This is your opportunity to have your say about the future of your community

STORY AND PICS

BY CARLI WILLIS Waiben Elders and community members enjoyed the opening and blessing of a new house built by the Uniting Church last weekend.

The newly built pre-fabricated home was the first of eight to be erected on Waiben as part of an $11 million partnership with the State Government.

The first house was promised by the church to the Reverend Mosese Fangupo and his family, who came from Tonga and had been in the community for five years.

He said in February this year he signed a contract for another five years after the community asked them to stay.

“We are so blessed to have these people around me, the way they look after us, the way they support us and love us,” he said. “I’m so blessed because they are really caring people.

“When I first came here, I was focusing on building relationships and I think, at the moment, we reap what we sew.”

He described the

At the house blessing were (back) Pastor Richard Warden, Reverend Mosese Fangupo, Mele Fangupo, Reverend Sione Afu & ‘Onaita Afu and (front) Father Tom Stephen, Father Charlie Loban & Nick McGregor. church-suppled house he was living in now as “half broken” and flooded, and said he was happy to have a safe home.

Uniting Church Elder Aunty Mabel Moore said she was excited for the next seven homes to be opened in March.

“There’s so many people that are homeless and there are people here that they can’t get housing commission houses,” she said.

“There’s so many domestic violence people and so many young couples, they got no home to go [to]. So we feel really happy to have the flats here, [built on] the land that belonged to

Reverend Sione Afu from the Tongan Uniting Church community in Brisbane blessing the new house. the United Church.”

Reverend Fangupo said the new housing would be rented through an external agency to keep the process fair. “[The Uniting Church] had this block and there was nothing here,” he said. “There was a point that people

[were] asking to buy this piece of land.”

But instead, Reverend Fangupo said the church decided the land would be most valuable to housing families in need.

“We do believe that’s part of our ministry, caring for people is part of our ministry,” he said.

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NEWS 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024

Leadership called for in Montessori discussions STORY AND PICS

BY CARLI WILLIS Genuine community leadership is needed to ensure the Montessori early childhood program on Waiben continues as it is, Torres Strait Islanders’ Regional Educational Council (TSIREC) chair Ned David says.

“This is not the first time where someone or a group of families felt that that program is threatened,” he said.

“There’s no shortage of money around, no shortage of resourcing, but that’s only part of the answer. A critical piece is the bodies you meet with the expertise, that’s the other bit that’s always been an issue for us.”

Concerned parent Elsie Seriat said after hearing about the program from previous generations of her family, she couldn’t wait to have children of her own to take there.

“Down south, that program is they start from elementary and go on top middle school, and they graduate from

the program,” she said.

“And down south it’s quite an expensive program, but we have the benefit of having it delivered here in our community for free as a two-year program.

“The two-year program really works in transitioning the kids from Montessori going on to mainstream schooling with Tagai.

“It’s the program I believe in, and I’m sure all other parents believe in, and we’ve got good anecdotal stories to tell as to why we think the program should stay.”

The program was touted as being ideal for children showing signs of early developmental delays.

It was also favoured

by Indigenous people as it aligned with some cultural values.

Parents previously told the Torres News the school originally proposed to reduce the Montessori program to just one year as a result of state government funding to extend kindy hours.

At a meeting last

TSIREC Chair Ned David.

Parents Neville Johnston and Elsie Seriat.

week, Department of Education delegates flew to Waiben to reassure parents the Montessori program would continue until 2025.

However, they said they would begin consultation that would decide the future of the program and Kindy hours by 2026. They said consultation would begin on changes through a QR code (see advertisement page 6), which asked: 1. What are the positives about extending Kindy hours?

2. What are some of the challenges of extending hours at Waybeni Buway Ngurpay Mudh?

There were no questions seeking feedback on the possible loss of the program.

Parent Neville Johnston said it was possible if the community came together to have clear, solid conversations.

“If we’re all on the same page and we are clear about what we want, then the government can come to the party and also provide the resources and also the funding to ensure that we have a 10-year plan as such,” he said.

“We’ve also got to have open-minded thinking to how we can do things differently.

“Rely on our resilience – yumi Torres, Strait Islanders, Aboriginal people, we are very resilient.

“If we feel that something is not quite working, we need to change it up a little bit well, then we use our resilience and our innovation to come up with methods.”

Neville said he felt for the outer islands, who did not have access to the program.

He said he noticed the difference in his and other Montessori children.

“We’ve noticed that at home, in and around the household, their mannerisms, the way

they treat each other, and also other kids in the neighbourhood,” he said.

“We feel that it’s come directly from the assistance and the support and the guidance the Montessori system has provided them.

“Some of the key ways is probably the way that they handle certain situations, a lot more calmer.

“Kids can sometimes be quick to react to stuff, particularly when they don’t get their own way or when there’s a conflict.”

Neville and Elsie have two boys with a lot of energy – both born in the same year.

“It’s enabled them to become closer as brothers, and it’s allowed us, as parents, to help them to identify and work through an issue that they might have,” Elsie said.

“Those are the kinds of things which have helped us as parents to parent them at home and that’s come from what they’ve been taught at school.”

At the meeting last

week, parents and community members called for the program to be more accessible.

Ms Seriat said she was happy to help family members in the community be vocal about what they need to access the program.

“When we go have a consultation, we want to encourage everybody for come, especially all our First Nations people in the community,” she said.

“I am going to be the biggest advocate for this program, for helping them pamleh for find out, what are the challenges for you trying to get your children to school.

“If transport is an issue, where there’s a will, there’s a way, and that’s where I want to be, personally, more vocal in that space.”

A petition started by the Parents of Thursday Island Montessori Program calling for the continuation of the program has reached almost 540 signatures.

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: •

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•

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•

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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)

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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/

06 NEWS

THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Reflections on a referendum – one year on from defeat The 12-month anniversary of the referendum for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament is this week.

Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy said the one-year milestone was a time

for reflection.

“I certainly reflect on the six million Australians who supported it and the incredible work of those who lobbied for the Yes vote in the affirmative,” she said.

“But of course, you

know, we didn’t win and one of the things that I’ve certainly been focused on is how we move forward, always knowing that we respected the outcome of the referendum, but still conscious that there has been deep hurt over the

Indigenous Business Month October 2024

Since 2000

Since 1986

Since 1979 helping Dad (situated Cnr Douglas & Blackall Sts)

Since 1986

last twelve months.”

She said every Australian had their story about the referendum.

“Everyone still had to vote and write Yes or No,” she said.

“For those in the leadership who really fought hard for the Yes, I know that for many of them, they will speak in their own terms about the way they saw it and the way that perhaps they lament it could have gone.

“I certainly, for my part as Minister for Indigenous Australians, acknowledge the incredible amount of work that took place in it but know that we have to keep going.

“And one of the things I’ve seen over history, and many of our First Nations leaders have seen over history, is that we’ve had disappointments along the way, but we keep going and we will certainly keep going in this instance.”

The Uluru Dialogue – architects of the Uluru Statement – gathered online to mark one year since the 2023 Voice Referendum, reflecting on the moments that mattered through powerful imagery

Participants in the webinar on Sunday night included Pat Anderson, Professor Megan Davis, Sally Scales, Jill Gallagher, Geoff Scott, Bridget Davis & Allira Davis. Pic supplied. from the campaign last Sunday evening.

The Uluru Dialogue represented the cultural authority of the Uluru Statement from the Heart and led community education on the Uluru Statement’s reforms of Voice, Treaty and Truth.

Uluru Dialogue CoChair Pat Anderson AO said the gathering was essential for the group to celebrate the efforts of communities in what was – and remained – the largest social justice movement in Australia’s history.

“We can’t overlook what our people achieved last year,” she said.

“We have 6.2 million new friends who are ready to join us in the work that needs to be done to seek substantive change.

“We know lies plagued the Referendum campaign, with the aspirations of our people turned into the latest political football game with no rules.

“But the Uluru Statement was never issued to the politicians, it was issued to the people and we can never lose sight of that.

“Our community is at the heart of everything we do.

“We strive forward for them and that is what we will continue to do

now and always”.

The panel offered personal reflections from some of the most powerful moments of the campaign and a look at what was next.

Uluru Dialogue Co-Chair Professor Megan Davis said the webinar allowed Australians to reflect on the hard work and emotion of the campaign that was unexpectedly hijacked by a divisive “No” campaign.

“We choose to focus on the unity of those Australians who supported the Yes,” she said.

For more information on the Uluru Dialogue see ulurustatement.org/

Dreaming and believing in their own future

The Importance of Economic Prosperity for everyone!

BY ALF WILSON A new program that will enable job seekers to start on their journeys to create new careers and successful futures is being led by

As part of the ‘Putting Queensland Kids First Strategy’ Tagai State College has the opportunity to extend the hours of State Delivered Kindy. Currently State delivered Kindy offers up to 15 hours of free Kindy and through this strategy communities in conjunction with the department and the college may opt to extend these hours by as much as an extra 15 hours maximising at 30 hours.

Badu Islander Albey Reuben in Townsville.

Albey was the mentor for the Queensland Toyota Cowboys’ Dream, Believe, Achieve Hospitality training and employment program and said the group was already showing great potential at week one.

“I’m very impressed with the enthusiasm and commitment our participants have brought to the course so far,” he said. “It’s not easy going from being unemployed to having

to turn up on time and in the right mindset every day, so I’m excited to see them progress through graduation.”

Age and background have proved to be no barrier for the participants who have overcome many obstacles to take part in the final intense 10-week program.

After losing her mother, 20-year-old Kay-cee Anderson said it was a chance to make her and her younger family members proud.

“I need a job, but I also

need to challenge myself and to get out of my comfort zone,” she said.

Gael Godou was a chef in a leading Airlie Beach restaurant when COVID struck. He lost his job and many family members leaving him battling lifestyle and mental health challenges.

He said Dream, Believe, Achieve was helping him to regain his confidence and he wanted to use his experience to help fellow participants with their learning journeys.

Whilst some communities of Tagai State College have already decided to increase their hours in 2025, the college is currently seeking feedback for the 3 services at Thursday Island Primary Campus with a view to making a decision for implementation in 2026.

You can provide feedback either by scanning the QR code or by emailing principal@thurislass.eq.edu.au. Join us for a public meeting at the Thursday Island Primary Campus Library at 5 PM on Thursday 31 October 2024.

We will review the feedback and start discussing options for State Delivered Kindy programs. We eagerly anticipate hearing your thoughts.

Contact Us (07) 4030 6333

contact@tagaisc.eq.edu.au

tagaisc.eq.edu.au

Kay-cee Anderson, Albey Reuben & Gael Godau. Pic supplied.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS MONTH 07

Mills takes business networking to new levels NBA champion, Olympic flag bearer and bronze medallist Patty Mills and his wife Alyssa have partnered with The Akana Group to launch an innovative venture that aims to revolutionise equipment solutions, supply chain management and logistics within Australia and beyond.

Mr Mills said their new venture – Akana Mills – was the embodiment of a shared passion for uplifting Indigenous peoples around the globe, dedicated to economically empowering Indigenous communities worldwide.

By providing equitable access to opportunities and resources, the company aimed to create generational impact and redefine international trade.

Akana Mills would serve as a capability integrator, connecting businesses with domestic and global opportunities, networks, and capital.

“Akana Mills is more than a business venture – it’s a mission close to my family’s heart,” Mr Mills said.

How it works

Patty Mills with the traditional Aztec group Miktlanzihuatl at the Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake. Pic supplied.

“We are aiming to create a generational impact through economic empowerment.

“Our vision is to provide equitable access to opportunities, unifying groups across Australia and redefining international trade.

“We aspire to be a capability integrator, connecting businesses with global opportunities, networks, and resources.”

A leader in providing innovative equipment

solutions and supply chain management services, Akana Mills partners The Akana Group was committed to fostering sustainable partnerships and empowering Indigenous communities.

By prioritising economic empowerment and community development The Akana Group worked to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Indigenous people globally, impacting the next seven generations.

CEO Chad Johnson said trade was something that had been a part of Indigenous communities since time immemorial.

“We are only continuing carrying the torch and walking the pathways that our ancestors built before us,” he said.

“Partnering with Patty and the Mills Family allows us to combine our expertise in program management, supply chain solutions,

and logistics with his dedication to community development.

“Together, we’re driving domestic and global trade opportunities, fostering economic growth and self-sufficiency within Indigenous communities through strategic partnerships and innovative initiatives.”

For more information see: https://www. akanamills.com.au/

● Discounted Equipment Sales: Through exclusive contracts with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Akana Mills will provide Indigenous businesses with access to essential equipment at reduced costs. This initiative levels the playing field, enabling these enterprises to compete effectively across various industries. ● Global Trade Facilitation: Leveraging a robust network and logistics expertise, the company simplifies cross-border transactions by offering comprehensive, end-to-end supply chain solutions. Akana Mills will help businesses expand their local and international footprint, removing complexities associated with international trade. ● Strategic Partnerships and Networks: Collaborating with philanthropic organisations, venture capitalists, and private equity firms, Akana Mills connects businesses with crucial funding and resources. The company also opens doors to government opportunities, tribal networks, and community connections, fostering a supportive ecosystem for Indigenous entrepreneurs. ● Capability Integration: By embedding Indigenous suppliers into upcoming projects and providing market intelligence, the company will accelerate business growth and redefine international trade dynamics.

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Dr Warland travelled to Bamaga to meet with community in July this year. Pic supplied.

BY CHRISTINE HOWES & JENNIFER ENOSA A ground-breaking project aimed at addressing rates of stillbirth marks a significant effort to co-design culturally relevant resources to improve awareness and reduce rates, not-forprofit organisation Still Aware says.

The launch of Safe Bubba was in response to statistics that showed Aboriginal women experienced stillbirth at two to three times the rate of non-Aboriginal women.

Associate Professor Jane Warland said their team had travelled widely across Australia, including to Bamaga, in a collaborative effort that led to the creation of a suite of resources designed with, for and by ‘mob’ to provide vital

information and practical steps to keep babies safe and strong.

“We went up to Bamaga towards the end of the project, so we had already developed the resources that you see on the website, but that group actually confirmed the applicability of the work that we’d done with Torres Strait Islanders as well,” she said.

She said Still Aware was a national organisation established more than 10 years ago to raise awareness in the wider community.

“Two years ago we had the opportunity to apply for some funding from the federal government to work directly with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to produce resources around stillbirth awareness to prevention, with and for them,” she said.

“And now we’re

towards the end of the project and we’ve got these wonderful new resources that we are very proud of that we’ve produced with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Australia.”

She said the resources included a website, fridge magnet and animated video.

“The language in all of the material is straightforward language,” she said. “It’s not difficult. We also talk in terms that the women themselves talk in, so we are talking in terms of months of pregnancy and not weeks of gestation, those kind of things.

“So every word, everything within everything that we’ve produced has come from the women themselves, and that’s why we know that it’s culturally safe.”

She said much of it

was about learning to trust their ‘mum’ feelings.

“If we’re talking about preventing stillbirth in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, it is really important to trust those mum feelings and you trust your gut or trust your instincts,” she said.

“Whatever way you want to describe it, that is really important for any woman who’s pregnant to do because we’re all becoming mums when we are pregnant, and as soon as we have that little one in our arms, we are responsible for them.

“We believe that that responsibility really extends into pregnancy and that women can learn to trust those mum feelings even when they’re pregnant.”

See www.safebubba. com.au for more information or to access the resources.

LEARNING BUBBA’S MOVEMENTS It’s important to remember every bubba is different.

Learn your own bubba’s movements, how strongly they move, how often they move and when they usually move.

There are no set number of times a bubba will move. Get to know your bubba’s personality, if they are an early bird or a night owl, if they kick when someone touches your belly or if that’s when they stay quiet.

If you feel something is not right, then get help straight away from your midwife or doctor.

GOING TO SLEEP ON YOUR SIDE After 6 months of your pregnancy you can reduce your chances of stillbirth if you lie down to sleep on your side. It doesn’t matter which side you choose.

If you happen to wake up on your back don’t worry, just turn over onto your side again.

TRUST YOUR MUM FEELINGS Even if you have had a bubba before it’s important to know that each pregnancy is special and different. You and bubba have a strong bond that lasts a lifetime.

If something feels no good, it’s okay to listen to your mum feelings and see your midwife or doctor straight away. Don’t wait. You know your body and your bubba best!

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024

ABN 67 075 711 198

NOTICE OF AUTHORISATION MEETING WUTHATHI CAPTAIN BILLY LANDING LAND TRANSFER INDIGENOUS LAND USE AGREEMENT 15 November 2024, Cairns

TO ALL THOSE PEOPLE WHO HOLD OR MAY HOLD NATIVE TITLE OVER THE FOLLOWING LANDS: On Friday, 15 November 2024, a meeting will be held in Cairns to authorise the making of the Wuthathi Captain Billy Landing Land Transfer Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) with the State of Queensland.

The ILUA area (shown left) covers part of Captain Billy Landing on the north east coast of Cape York.

The ILUA Area is specifically described by the following lot on plan references: • Lot 19 on SP269684 • Lot 20 on SP349311 • Lot 21 on SP349311 • Lot 23 on SP349311 • Lot 24 on SP269684 • Lot 25 on SP269684 • Lot 28 on SP269684 • Lot 35 on SP269684 • Lot 350 on SP349311 Note: Lots 20, 21 and 23 on SP349311 are currently described as being parts of Lot SP269684. When the new survey plan SP349311 is registered it will include an adjacent area of esplanade that is in the process of being closed. Lot 350 on SP349311 will be subdivided from part of existing lot 23 on SP269684.

The ILUA Area is within the Cape York Land Council’s Representative Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander Body Areas and includes land and waters within part of the Cape York United #1 Claim area (Michael Ross & Ors on behalf of the Cape York United #1 Claim Group v State of Queensland & Ors (QUD673/2014)) (Cape York United Number 1 Claim).

The ILUA will provide for: (a) making any of the land within the ILUA Area Transferable Land under the Aboriginal Land Act 1991 (ALA); (b) the grant or grants of part or all of the Proposed ALA Areas as Aboriginal Land to the Wuthathi Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC (the Corporation) under the ALA, to be held in accordance with the ALA; (c) the State and the Corporation entering into, being bound by and complying with the Deed of Variation for the Indigenous Management Agreement (IMA); (d) the State and Corporation being bound by and complying with the IMA; (e) the dedication, use and management of the Proposed National Park (CYPAL) Area as national park (Cape York Peninsula Aboriginal land); (f) the doing of all acts in the Proposed National Park (CYPAL) Area that are covered by the IMA in accordance with the procedures set out in the IMA; (g) any variation or assignment of the IMA in accordance with the terms of the IMA and the ALA; (h) the making, approval, giving effect to, amendment or revocation of, and the making of any regulation giving effect to, any Management Instrument in relation to the Proposed National Park (CYPAL) Area; (i) the Corporation granting the Southern Foreshore Licence to the State for pedestrian access to the Southern Foreshore Licence Area; (j) the Corporation granting the Lookout Licence to the State for vehicular and pedestrian access to the Lookout Area; (k) the State and the Corporation entering into, being bound by and complying with the Gravel Storage Lease; (l) the Corporation constructing and maintaining access tracks on the Proposed ALA Areas after they become Aboriginal Land held by the Corporation; (m) the registration and grant of a Carbon Abatement Interest, including any interest granting the right to deal with Carbon Abatement Products, or the declaration of an Eligible Offsets Project over any or all Proposed ALA Areas, after they become Aboriginal Land held by the Corporation, in favour of the Corporation; (n) the making, approval, giving effect to, amendment or revocation of, and the making of any regulation giving effect to, any Management Instrument in relation to the Proposed National Park (CYPAL) Area; (o) issuing further interests (such as leases or licences) over the ILUA Area.

Who should attend the ILUA Authorisation Meeting?

All those who hold or may hold native title in the ILUA Area including: • Wuthathi People.

• Members of the native title claim group for the Cape York United Number 1 Claim.

Meeting attendees will be asked to make decisions about the ILUA at the meeting. It is therefore important that you attend the meeting as decisions may be made even if you are not present at the ILUA Authorisation meeting.

Meeting Date and time: Friday, 15 November 2024 at 9:30 am – 5:00pm (lunch included) Meeting Venue: Rydges Esplanade Resort, 209-217 Abbott Street, Cairns A land hand-back ceremony is planned to be at a location and on a date to be notified.

If you need assistance with transport to the meeting, please call Nadiah Seden at Balkanu Cape York Development Corporation on (07) 4019 6200 or email nadiah. seden@balkanu.com.au. Please also contact Balkanu if you would like more information about the ILUA or the meeting.

09

10

THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

MGNM Team Strengthens Job Support

New Job Coaching Certifications to Support Local Job Seekers

GBK’s Meriba Ged Ngalpun Mab (MGNM) team has successfully completed the Bounce Job Coach Certification, empowering them to guide and mentor local job seekers in the Torres Strait region through the Community Development Program (CDP).

As part of their commitment to securing real jobs and fair wages for First Nations peoples, MGNM has invested in building the skills of its staff to better support local job seekers. The Bounce training equips MGNM staff with essential mentorship skills.

Fellow participant Reena Pilot agreed, noting how the program has equipped her to better assist clients in moving forward in their job search.

GBK Chairperson Lui Ned David congratulated the newly certified coaches and commended MGNM for its continued dedication to employment services in the region. “We’re incredibly proud of our team’s commitment to making a positive impact on our community,” Mr. David said.

With their new certifications, MGNM’s job coaches are Newly certified job coach, Solanima Mareko, ready to play a crucial role in supporting community emphasised the value of this training. “Every client’s members, providing personalized guidance and situation is different, and it is important to understand mentorship to help individuals achieve meaningful what is important to them.”,” she shared. employment.

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

11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024

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12 NEWS

THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Primary kids show leadership in Mer Ailan style STORY BY FLORA WARRIA PICS SUPPLIED BY LESLEIGH DWYER (MER ERUER UTEB – TAGAI CAMPUS) Mer Eruer Uteb (Mer Island Tagai Campus) celebrated their senior Leadership Camp, which was held over two days and one night during the September school holidays.

After setting camp, discussions were held about what it meant to be a leader.

The students then completed tasks around leadership skills and brainstormed information for Year 5 Senior leadership speeches and Year 6 graduation speeches.

During the middle session, students worked in pairs to participate in a scavenger hunt for items found within their environment.

One of the activities involved a blindfolded person guided through a maze by their team without touching ropes on either side – reported to be challenging and fun.

Afternoons were spent at the beach for swimming and some fishing, sandcastle-building and shell-collecting competitions.

Judges Mrs Marou and Miss Mosby said the winners were: • Fishing Comp – Lui Day- Bon and Tango Dick.

• Shell Collection – Lawrence Day - Bon and Osier Tabo.

• Biggest Sandcastle Competition – Tango Dick and Lui DayBon. • Most creative Sandcastle Competition – Osier Tabo and Lawrence Day-Bon. Students also learned how to cook under the guidance of Leah Mosby and Philip Passi and joined Miss Hasler and Miss Ghee for interactive information and team-building activities.

Miss Wylie also joined students online for a leadership discussion focussed on what leadership means to them and answered questions students had about attending high school next year.

With guidance and support from Miss Mabo, the students also designed their senior shirts for next year.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024

NEWS 13

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

14 DANCE RITES NEWS

THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Ailan dancers on show this weekend at DanceRites

TN0461 • 11-04-24

Judge Berthalia Selina Reuben. Pic supplied.

DanceRites 2023 Winners: Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam. Pic Wayne Quilliam.

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

Sydney Opera Housebased DanceRites returns to the Sydney Opera House Forecourt this weekend.

Nearly 20 groups – five of them Torres Strait Islanders – will take to the Sand Circle to perform at Tubowgule in a celebration of First Nations dance, song, and culture.

Each group will showcase their local storytelling and language in the Cultural Dance and Song cycle, competing in heats on Saturday and finals on Sunday, with many groups also performing an optional ‘Wild Card’ dance to demonstrate their unique style.

The Torres Strait groups are: • Boigu Island Kayn Kuap Dance Team (Queensland: Boigu Islands, Torres Strait Shark/Egret) • Kebi Ngagalyg Kab Le Buway (Queensland: Bamaga) • Koey Poeypiyam Dance Group (Queensland: Boigu Islands, Torres Strait Moegi Buay, Koedal) • Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural Group (Queensland: Torres Strait Meriam) • Last year’s winners Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam will also perform (not compete).

The MIPLA AFL Cape York Aboriginal Dance (Queensland: Cairns & Cape York) will include Ailan performers and Torres Strait Islander judges

Berthalia Reuben and Sani Townson will also be on board.

Boigu Island’s Koey Poeypiyam Dance group were competing for the first time and Arthur Gibuma said they couldn’t be more excited.

“Dance is an important way for us to connect and revive our culture,” he said.

“Our connection to the land is intertwined within our cultural practices and we feel that DanceRites is a perfect opportunity for us to showcase our traditional knowledge to the wider world.

“It’s our first time competing in DanceRites this year and we couldn’t be more excited.

“Our kinship structure is really strong and the practices set in place by our forefathers remain with us today.

“We plant the seeds of our culture into the hearts and minds of the younger generation who are very willing to learn.”

Prizes worth a total of $41,000 will be awarded to the overall winner, runner-up group and the best Wild Card dance.

Two Rites of Passage awards will also acknowledge outstanding contributions to revitalising cultural knowledge and practices.

There are free live streams of the event on Sydney Opera House and NITV’s channels, for more information see: https://stream. sydneyoperahouse.com/ dancerites-2024

For more see PAGE 15 N

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• 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.

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Koey Poeypiyam Dance Group. Pic by Arthur Gibuma.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024

DANCE RITES NEWS 15

Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam keeping traditions alive STORY BY CHRISTINE HOWES & JENNIFER ENOSA One of the many DanceRites traditions to be revived this weekend will be a return performance by last year’s overall winners, Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam, led by Toby Cedar.

The group was originally formed near Newcastle, on Wonnarua land, to connect children living away from their homeland with the traditions of Zenadth Kes. This year, he said, the group he had on board were from Newcastle, Sydney and “a few” coming from Cairns.

Toby has a long history with DanceRites, originally performing in another family group before entering Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam for the first time in 2023.

He said he was motivated by his children.

“That name is deep sounds from home, so it’s all kids and children, we grew up on the mainland due to our parents moving,” he said.

“My family went to Western Australia, I didn’t grow up down top, but the community we had, we’re bringing the culture.

“My children grew up here down south, but I went and chased the learnings of my elders.

“I’m still guided by my elders.

“And then I’ve always had that thing, making songs, and

then I created my own songs and dance with the guidance of my elders, and I do it for my children.”

He said they were keen to show the wider community, outside of Queensland, who they were.

“We here to represent,” he said.

“We represent Zenadth Kes. “And it’s a learning curve, they’re really interested and they didn’t know before, who we are.

“But it has to be done right, that’s what we try to guide our performances and our teachings, I’m guided by my elders and what’s been passed down to me.”

He said it was a “world of unknown” for the wider community.

“Whenever we perform, we explain the storyline, where the dancing comes from,” he said.

“And that’s the biggest thing that’s always on my mind is doing it properly and trying to represent, whenever we perform.”

Toby said this year would be a repeat of their winning performance, as well as some new dances.

“We’re going to have some new ones that I’ve composed and choreographed on the two days we can perform there,” he said.

That’s what we’re going to bring this year, and we’re excited to showcase the new dances.

“All those stories

belong in dance belong to my father, the stories he told me, and my guardians and my other fathers from there, they put it into perspective.

“When we perform those dances, even though it’s on a different country, different land, the story’s still there, and the language.

“That’s the main thing to try and preserve the language.

“We’ve got a four-year-old boy and he sings, and that’s the purpose of what we’re doing, because all those kids have grown up here on the mainland. “[When we are] explaining the type of story line, and the meaning of the language, we’re preparing the kids, and when you see the pride when they song and dance, there’s that meaning behind there when they all dance, and pride.”

He said they were very excited.

“Everyone’s excited to go back to go perform again,” he said.

“Plus, it’s also meeting other tribes around Australia.

“It’s just networking, sharing, it’s a great opportunity for the kids and myself.

“And I’m excited because we have I think five from Zenadh Kes, which is a great representation.

“It will be a sense of pride for all of us, from my dad’s team, to go and support other people from Zenadth Kes.”

ABOVE & RIGHT: Koey Poeypiyam Dance Group. Pics by Arthur Gibuma.

ABOVE: Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam. Pics by Wayne Quilliam & Daniel Boud.

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SPORT 17

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024

Naraira on her way to playing out her dreams

BY CHRISTINE HOWES Rugby league U14 rep Naraira Bann played for the North Queensland Schoolgirls in a statewide competition held in Brisbane over the September holidays.

Proud parents Nellie and Billy Bann said they were very happy to see their daughter setting up her career pathways while she was still in school.

“She’s been playing lots of sports and rugby league is one of the highlights for her, she wants to become a professional,” Nellie said.

“We’ve been supporting her, getting her into clubs that are suitable for her career and building her up from now until she is out of school.”

Naraira played regularly in Townsville for the Upper Ross Rams.

She said her best game

in the state competition was against another of the northern teams.

“I remembered some of the girls I went to school with when I was up on the island,” she said. “I play halfback. I was just sharing the ball around with my other teammates. I love seeing girls from other schools and competing against them.”

She said she was looking forward to the next school holidays at home on Yam Island.

“Dad is a tough coach,” she said of her father Billy, who coached the island’s Magun Warriors side.

Billy said he was keen to support her ongoing development.

“I’ve also trained her when she comes to Yam on holiday,” he said.

“She stays at NRL Cowboys House in Townsville when she’s at school, so she sees the

likes of Sareka Mooka and Tallulah Tillet, who have really inspired her.

“Myself and Nellie both talk strongly in regards to academic side as well as the sporting side – what can you do after sport if you made it to the big stage? You need to have an A-B-C plan in life.

“If one fails, you’ve got another one that you know that you can pick up and go forward.”

They said they wanted to thank those who had supported their daughter along her way, including Torres Shire Council Sports & Recreation, local MP Cynthia Lui, Cr Aggie Hankin, William Kelly, Darryl Lui, Nancy Mari, Serai Bann, Bethalia Lui, Ranietta, Ashley and Louisa Kebisu, Satrick Baluz, Gladys Kelly, Mr & Mrs Getano Bann and other family and friends who supported their fundraising.

Billy Bann (Dad), Kesia Bob (older sister), Simone (younger sister), Billy - jnr (baby brother), Naraira and Nellie Lui (Mum) in Brisbane. Pic supplied.

School AFL back again Hammer & Reuben on for ‘Roos RUGBY LEAGUE NEWS in the Torres Strait M From P20

Sabai Island.

Sabai Island.

Horn Island.

making many runs.

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Reuben Cotter are members of the 21-man Australia Kangaroos squad for the Pacific Championships and should play in tomorrow’s (Friday, October 18) match against against Tonga.

The man known as the Hammer will play in the centres whilst Reuben will be a forward.

The Australian squad is: Pat Carrigan, Matt Burton, Reuben Cotter, Tom Dearden, Reece Robson, Hamiso TabuaiFidow, Ben Hunt, Zac Lomax, Mitch Moses, Bradman Best, Dylan Edwards, Lindsay Smith, Isaah Yeo (capt.), Cam Murray, Hudson Young, Lindsay Collins, Angus Crichton, Tom Trbojevic, Harry Grant and Xavier Coates.

Fifita shines off bench in World Cup

Horn Island.

Sabai Island.

Sabai Island.

In the last seconds of the game Essay made a hard tackle on an opponent and just before made a long kick in general play.

BY ALF WILSON

David Fifita came off the interchange bench for Tonga who went down 20-18 to Samoa in a World Cup quarter final at Warrington in England last week.

David, who also has Tongan descent, made several strong runs in a nail-biting and entertaining match.

Samoa now advance to semi-finals.

Xavier Savage & Deadly Dudley Speedy players

One of the Fox Sport commentators who broadcast the game live praised the performance

by Sareka.

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow when he played for the Kangaroos last year with TS supporters. Pic supplied.

Xavier Savage and “Deadly” Dudley Dotoi competed against each other when Australian PM’s XIII beat a comparable PNG side 42-20 on Sunday.

Xavier was the leading try scorer for NRL club Canberra Raiders in 2024 and Deadly Dudley shone for the Townsville Blackhawks in the Statewide Hostplus men’s premiership.

PNG had led 12-0 after 10 minutes and included many QRL Hunters players.

Winger Xavier was deceptive when he received the ball and Dudley gained valuable experience.

The PNG PM’s XIII included four players with Test experience in Dan Russell, Judah Rimbu, Sylvester Namo and Benji Kot.

Sareka & Essay star in loss Tough forwards Essay Banu and Sareka Mooka were solid for the PNG women’s Orchids side who were outclassed 50-nil by the Australian Prime Minister’s XIII in Port Moresby on Sunday.

The much more experienced Aussie side had the game safely in their keeping at halftime when they led 44-nil.

To their credit the Orchids had a much better second half letting in only one try and threatening to score themselves several times.

Sareka (Mabuiag) and Essay (Boigu) both also have PNG descent and were amongst their team’s best.

Lock Sareka made some crushing early tackles and front rower Essay was one of the best PNG forwards

“She had a great game and her Aunty Stephanie Mooka who played State of Origin for Queensland would be watching and proud of her,” she said.

Stephanie, who still plays at selected Allblacks carnivals, was named best forward at last week’s Women’s Allstars event in Cairns.

The game was played in hot conditions with the temperature reaching 30 degrees and extra drinks breaks were taken mid way through each half.

Both lined up for the Cowboys NRLW team in 2024 and were members of the Mackay Cutters who took out the BMD Statewide women’s premiership.

Sareka and Essay look set to play for the PNG ladies side against the Australian Jillaroos in the Pacific Championships on Friday night in Brisbane.

18 SPORT

THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Bamaga’s Steel Fitness keeps eyes on the prize Steel Fitness Bamaga hosted its 8th Annual Fitness Challenge in the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) last August, as a showcase for a new sport called Hyrox after seven previous years of doing annual Crossfit challenges.

Hyrox was the sport of fitness racing, Steel Fitness Bamaga founder Leandra Newman said.

“So what do you get when you bring the fittest people in our community together and have them challenge each other?” Leandra said.

“A sport of uncertainty, nervewracking, adrenaline-pumping challenge!”

She said the event was a success.

“Athletes came together to try their fitness against each other,” she said.

“Hyrox combines both running and functional workout stations where participants run one kilometre, followed by one functional workout station, repeated eight times.

“This sport is hosted indoors but guess what?

“These athletes battled this outdoors in the heat.”

She said there were three categories

of competition – open, scaled and masters.

“We’d like to thank our sponsors who included Bamaga Enterprise Ltd (BEL), Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council, Bamaga Tavern, CEQ IBIS Bamaga, Australian Sports Nutrition Cairns(ASN), Bamaga Primary Health Centre (PHC), Peddells Ferry Service (TI), Punsand Bay, Bamaga Pharmacy, BAM BAM Bakery, Wendy Phineasa (MC), Esme Newman and her team and all our volunteers who helped behind the scenes,” she said.

“Steel Fitness is about staying active and healthy by sustaining lifestyle changes, as opposed to a ‘quick fix’.

“My goal is simple: to get individuals off the couch, get active, and give them the adrenaline rush of their lives by entering in fitness challenges.

“As we are aware, a high percentage of chronic diseases is with us as Indigenous people.

“I feel working together can help increase health and fitness in the NPA community.”

Pics supplied.

M Continued from PAGE 19 – PICS BY ALF WILSON

Former NRL players Bernard Lewis & Gideon Gela-Mosby played for Malu Kiwai.

Player of the carnival Shaun Nona left with carnival MC Jeremy.

Masig Thurdwap and Fantome Hunters players after the final.

Gibson Billy from Masig and Evelyn Billy.

Ana Ahmat and Poi Tamwoy from Badu.

Elsie Thompson Memorial side after the win.

SPORT 19

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024

Nona stars for top Bindal Carnival teams STORY AND PICS

BY ALF WILSON Champion five eighth Shaun Nona led the Elsie Thompson Memorial side to defeat Doogsie Doolan Raiders 33-22 in the hard-fought grand final of the Bindal Sharks Allblacks carnival in Townsville last weekend at the Townsville Sports Reserve.

Badu Islander Shaun Nona was the star of

the carnival playing at number six for Elsie Thompson Memorial.

Shaun took out the player of the carnival and highest points scorer in the individual awards.

Another Badu Islander, Marcus Nona, won best forward and Kieren Mundine best back.

After the win former champion boxer Junior Thompson told the Torres News the side was named in honour of his late mother.

“This is so good,

I am here with my grandchildren,” he said.

The Doogsie Doolan Raiders included former Cowboy Obe Geia jnr and also the oldest player, 46-year-old Clifton Tildora.

Other sides included last year’s winners Thugerr Warriors from Saibai, Dauai and Masig Thurdwap.

In men’s qualifying rounds on Saturday, Malu Kiwai 28 defeated another Daudai United 12 and Malu Kiwai 28 def Wayne Emmanuel

Prior Memorial 16.

Daudai United 33 def Charters Towers Trackers 18.

Masig Thurdwap 28 def Charters Towers Trackers 24 and Elsie Thompson Memorial 34 def Masig Thurdwap 6.

Defending champions Thugerr Warriors lost both their games on Saturday going down 32-10 to the Kevin Aldridge-coached Doogsie Doolan Raiders and 30-24 to Townsville Walkabouts.

Mali Kiwai supporters

were upset and angry after the side won their quarter-final and were ready to compete in a semi final when they were told the side had been disqualified because one of their players was under suspension.

In the plate section Fantome Hunters from Palm Island beat Masig Thurdwap in the final.

The ladies final was won by Unity which also included a lot of Torres Strait players.

More pics PAGE 18 N

TN0230 Action in the Doogsie Doolan Raiders versus Saibai sidelocal Thugerr Warriors.

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Action between Malu Kiwai (red) and Daudai United.

A Malu Kiwai ball carrier on the burst against Daudai United.

Malu Kiwai disqualified on second day STORY AND PIC

BY ALF WILSON Emotions ran high when Torres Strait side Malu Kiwai was disqualified at the Bindal Sharks Allblacks carnival in Townsville on Sunday after winning a quarter final.

It was the first time Malu Kiwai had competed in the competition.

The Boigu Island team won their two qualifying round games the day before the quarter-final and were one of the favourites to take out the competition.

However after Malu Kiwai had beaten the Doogsie Doolan Raiders 20-10 in a quarter final, officials disqualified them from the carnival when they learned they had fielded a player who was under suspension by the QRL. Bindal Sharks Jenny Pryor said that there was no other option.

“This is a QRL-sanctioned carnival and it was discovered that the player was under suspension,” she said.

“We have to abide by QRL rules. Rules are rules.”

In a statement released on Monday night, Ms Pryor said

she was informed by a QRL representative of the inclusion at about 1.30pm on Sunday.

“Under the Bindal Sharks Carnival rule and the QRL sanctioning, suspended players are not allowed to participate in any carnival until they have completed their suspension in local league,” she said.

“This rule was communicated to all teams, coaches and managers before the All Blacks Carnival to ensure they were all aware of the regulation.

“Each player has a responsibility to adhere to this rule.”

Ms Pryor said that the issue was appropriately addressed.

“This issue was addressed appropriately by the Malu Kiwai team, Bindal Sharks and QRL representatives,” she said.

“These sanction rules are enforced by the QRL to ensure that Bindal Sharks implements fairness for all participating teams with no choice but to abide by them.”

The Torres News has decided not to name the player but it was understood he lined up at the Queensland Murri Carnival in southern Queensland a few weeks ago for the losing grand final team.

Fred Pabai at the carnival.

Players and officials were devastated when told of the disqualification.

One official said the side was assured the player was clear to play after playing for the Murri Carnival.

“We were ready for a semifinal after winning and were told we had been disqualified,” he said.

“People were crying and were sad and devastated.

“We thought we would win the carnival.”

QRL Northern Division’s Region Manager Northern Community Rugby League Renae Kunst said the decision on the disqualification was not made by the QRL. “I can confirm that the player in particular was communicated

to about being unable to play at the carnival prior to the commencement of the carnival,” Renae said.

Fred Victor Pabai Snr, a founding member of Malu Kiwai dating back to the 1980s and a Boigu Traditional Owner, said the community was upset and angry over the disqualification.

“It’s now come to my attention as an elder, that my community/supporters were very upset on Sunday 13 October quarter finals round,” he said.

“I have contacted the leaders and Elders of Boigu Island, as well as the Malu Kiwai football team officials and coaching staff, regarding this issue to gather statements to compile a formal complaint about the incident.”

At the carnival, Malu Kiwai had one of the biggest numbers of supporters and the club spent a huge amount of money to attend.

Players and officials came from the Torres Strait including Boigu, other Torres Strait islands, Cairns, Brisbane, Sydney and other places.

Malu Kiwai will contest the Gordonvale Indigenous Carnival this weekend.

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

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.

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

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THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER 2024

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

Saibai kicks off AFL term in Zenadth Kes

AFL fun on Sabai.

Pic supplied.

BY AFL CAPE YORK DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR KIERAN SCIBERRAS

Horn, Saibai and Dauan hosted the AFL Cape York Game Development team over the past two weeks as AFL returned to the islands.

As part of the Torres Strait AFL programs AFL Cape York will work with the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA), Nautilus

Aviation, Hinterland Aviation and local communities and councils to engage as many young people across the region as possible.

After each visit, AFL Cape York will donate sporting equipment that can be used by schools to encourage students to stay physically active and AFL prizes that may be used to encourage positive behaviours and school attendance.

AFL Cape York also hosted free community

AFL afternoons for high school students on Thursday Island at Tagai Secondary Campus and the Ken Brown Oval.

Next week our Game Development team heads to Darnley so make sure you’re at school to play AFL!

U11s & U18s Girls take to the big stage in Cairns The Hawthorn Football Club hosts the Melbourne Football club in Cairns next Thursday (24 October) in an AFL

Women’s blockbuster.

At half time, 18 girls from across Cape York, Gulf Savannah and Torres Strait will show off their skills under lights as part of the U11s AFL Cape York Development Camp.

As a pre-game curtain raiser, the Indigenous South Pacific U18s will take on the AFL Cairns All Stars, with several students from Tagai State College selected into the side.

Our Tagai girls will also play for the Cairns

Eagles when they hit the road to Townsville to take on the Garbutt Magpies (Saturday, October 26) Both the U11s and U18s Girls will have the opportunity to meet top level AFL talent and watch the game live in Cairns.

Hawks set to fly to the Straits Following the AFLW match in Cairns, representatives from the Hawthorn Football Club will make he trip up to

TN0529 10x7 – 7/3/24

the Torres Strait thanks to Torres Health.

They’ll be visiting Thursday and Horn Islands to run free footy clinics.

Keep your eyes on AFL Cape York & Torres Health social media pages for more details.

U11s NPA & Torres Strait Girls selected: • Leandra Elu – NPA • Makayla Mudu – NPA • Ella-Rose Mooka – NPA • Laila Volavola – NPA

• Lucinda Kris – St Paul’s • Frances Mosby – Thursday Island • May-Esther Nona – Thursday Island • Selina Newman – Thursday Island • Taye Sagigi – Thursday Island

U18s Girls selected (all from Tagai Secondary) • • • •

Parimah Daniel Sonrae Lui Mistee Sagigi Pele Lui More pics PAGE 17 N

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