Torres News_Edition 156_14 November 2024

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

Thursday, 14 November 2024 Cape York homelands of the Anggamuthi, Atambaya, Wuthathi, Yadhaykenu and Gudang Peoples.

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Leaders unite on call for services audit

Front: Torres Shire Council mayor Elsie Seriat, Torres Strait Regional Authority chair Napau Pedro Stephen, Torres Strait Island Regional Council mayor Phillemon Mosby and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council mayor Robert Poipoi backed by their Councillors and CEOs at the Joint Leaders Forum in Cairns this week. Pic supplied.

The Joint Leaders Forum in Cairns wraps up this week after calling for an independent audit and analysis of government and government-funded service delivery to the Torres Strait Region.

The call was made after Torres Shire Council CEO Dalassa Yorkston presented a new annual statistical ‘report card’ to Mayors and

Councillors, which was intended to coincide each year with the anniversary of the Masig Statement celebrations.

The report card was put together at the Council’s request by the Queensland Government Statisticians Office to compare socioeconomic data between the region and the State (full story page 7).

TSC Mayor Elsie Seriat

said the leaders’ forum was a “wonderful opportunity”.

“I look forward to meeting regularly to address our key priorities, ensuring we continue to strengthen our partnerships and achieve positive outcomes for our region,” she said.

“It was inspiring to see our shared commitment to collaborative governance, and I’m excited about what

this term holds for us.”

Mayor Seriat called for an annual Torres Strait regional summit to coincide with the release of the annual report card.

Outgoing TSRA chair The Joint Leaders also acknowledged retiring TSRA chair Napau Pedro Stephen, who was also the longest serving Mayor of the Torres Shire Council,

with the establishment of a leadership scholarship.

“A warrior for the communities of the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula region, his advocacy for regional autonomy and preservation of kinship and culture has been unwavering,” the motion read.

“Courageous, persistent and visionary, the leaders have determined that to mark Napau Pedro

Stephen’s lifelong leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, a leadership scholarship in his name is supported and each member of the Joint Leaders Forum will ensure support from their councils and entities for this initiative.

“The Joint Leaders forum places on the public record our enduring appreciation for his lifelong service and his visionary leadership.”

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THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Agnes & Jimi ready to take flight on TI Renowned Torres Strait actor Jimi Bani and his daughter Agnes Ahwang Bani co-star in the heartwarming theatre show Lucky and the Flight of the Sky Puppies set to play at the Gab Titui Outdoor Stage tomorrow and Saturday night.

Families were invited for a night of laughter as they followed the journey of Lucky, a Speckled Flying Fox lost far from home and on a whimsical adventure through strange lands.

The show blends

puppetry, animation and music to captivate audiences and explore the beauty of family and friendship.

Lucky befriends an eccentric cast of characters played by Jimi Bani, including a wise ibis, an angry cassowary and a naughty pelican who steals food from eskies.

“It’s a feel-good production for all ages, with lots of jokes for adults and kids,” Mr Bani said.

“But most importantly, it’s a sweet

story about what home means and what family means.

“I get to co-star alongside my daughter Agnes, who is 11, and she operates a couple of puppets.

“She brings a youthful and playful energy to the show.”

On the journey, Lucky tries to take a mango from an Italian puppy named Pepe, played by Jason Klarwein.

“When I first heard the story of Lucky and the Flight of the Sky Puppies I liked that it

told the story of the critically endangered Speckled Flying Fox population in Cairns,” Mr Klarwein said.

“The writers of the show are from Cairns and were concerned about the trees being chopped down in an attempt to disperse them.

“So, the show has a deeper message, delivered in a lighthearted manner through all the crazy characters that Jimi and I play.”

Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said the show was an opportunity to welcome the community back to the Gab Titui Cultural Centre space after a temporary closure for critical works.

“The TSRA and Gab Titui Cultural Centre supports performing artists and productions like Lucky and the Flight of the Sky Puppies as it showcases the diversity of artistic talent we have in our region,” Mr Stephen said.

“Critical works at Gab Titui Cultural Centre have forced partial closures of the space since August,

however, we are proud to have returned to regular off-peak trading hours and are excited to present this production for the community.

“We will see community come together in such a meaningful way to enjoy an expressive art form that engages with all ages.

“On behalf of the TSRA, I thank Jimi, Jason, young Agnes and the Grin and Tonic Theatre Troupe for bringing the show to the region.

“Families and community members are invited to come along and enjoy a pre-show sausage sizzle hosted by the Gab Titui team.”

Free ferry services were available for both show nights, making the performance accessible for Ngurupai and Kirriri families.

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Pic supplied.

The Torres and Cape Hospital Health Service is managing an outbreak of dengue fever on Masig Island in the Torres Strait.

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service Public Health Medical Officer Dr Allison Hempenstall said the health service had identified three confirmed cases and one suspected case on Masig Island so far.

She said the Masig Island outbreak follows previous dengue fever outbreaks on Mer and Warraber islands in May and June this year.

A total of 46 cases of dengue fever have already been recorded in the health service region so far this year, excluding the latest Masig cases.

Before this year, the last previous dengue fever case across the health service region was in 2019, when one case was recorded.

Dr Hempenstall said a mosquito control team arrived on Masig Island yesterday and a community meeting was held.

A public health team also arrived on the island yesterday to help oversee the mosquito control program and to deliver information to residents about mosquito-borne diseases and how to minimise risk and check for any further cases.

“They will join with Torres Strait Island Regional Council representatives on Masig Island to undertake mosquito control measures and check for further cases,’’ she said.

“All our primary health care centres in the Torres Strait outer islands have rapid dengue diagnostic tests that can diagnose dengue in 15 minutes.”

• More information about mosquito-borne diseases is available at: http://www.qld. gov.au/health/conditions/all/prevention/ mosquito-borne/index.html

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024

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David Kempton confirmed for Cook

BY CHRISTINE HOWES The Electoral Commission of Queensland declared all 93 results in the Queensland Government election, including confirmation of David Kempton’s win in the seat of Cook last last week.

Mr Kempton (pictured) said he couldn’t wait to get to work.

“The vote counting has been completed and I have been declared as the elected Member for Cook,” he said.

“I am so proud to be returned to the seat and humbled by the support I have received from right across the electorate.

“I wish the other candidates all the best for their future endeavours and I thank them all for running a clean and honest campaign.”

Outgoing MP Cynthia Lui said it had been the “greatest honour” of her life to serve as the Member for Cook.

“Nothing was more important to me than to see our communities succeed, and I fought hard for everything we achieved together,” she said.

“I have always believed that our communities deserved the best, no matter where we live.

“The results are in and Cook has spoken.

“I would like to congratulate David Kempton as the new Member for Cook and extend

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my best wishes to him for the term ahead.”

Ms Lui thanked her team of volunteers, family and supporters.

“While it is not the result we had hoped for, we can certainly feel proud of the extraordinary fight to win Cook,” she said.

“To everyone who helped out in my campaign, from Mareeba to the Douglas Shire, Cape York to the Torres Strait, I appreciate each and every one of you – I

cannot thank you enough.”

Mr Kempton said there were still several steps to go before he officially took office.

“The formal swearing-in as a Member of Parliament doesn’t take place until 26 November 2024 and Parliament is officially opened on 27 November 2024,” he said.

“I am unable to make preparations to reopen the Mareeba office or recruit staff until the poll is declared

and arrangements made by Parliamentary Services.

“In the meantime, I am trying to deal with phone calls, messages and emails and respond to people as quickly as I can.

“I ask that you be patient and I will get back to you.

“I thank everyone for your ongoing support and well wishes.”

Pic supplied.

Marita takes up permanent GM position Acting Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service Executive General Manager North Marita Sagigi (pictured) has been appointed to her position permanently.

Torres and Cape HHS Chief Executive Rex O’Rourke said Ms Sagigi was a proud Dauareb descendant from the Eastern Islands of the Torres Strait and a dedicated advocate for the region and its communities.

“She is a passionate leader with a proven track record of uniting teams to achieve better outcomes for the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area,” he said.

“Driven by her commitment to health equity, Marita is focused on improving access to high-quality, culturally appropriate services.

“Marita has acted in the Executive General Manager North role since December 2023.

“She joined the Torres and Cape HHS in 2020 as the Northern Operations Manager for Primary Health Care, later advancing to the role of Northern Manager of Corporate Services in 2021.

“Before joining the health service, Marita served as a Medical Scientist at the Thursday Island Pathology laboratory for 15 years.

“I am honoured to work alongside Marita as we strive to empower community, promote health equity, support our staff, and advance health sovereignty.

“Marita is deeply committed to fostering health as a career pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and I am confident in her continued leadership in serving the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area.”

Pic supplied.

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THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL

‘Come party,’ DJ Bala Will says

To lead, provide & facilitate a sustainable, safe and culturally vibrant community

STORY AND PIC BY CHRISTINE HOWES

PUBLIC NOTICE

Cairns fans of north Queensland music, especially the Torres Strait kind, are in for a treat this weekend as Pacific Nights presents 11 acts on Saturday night at the Jack – eight of them from the Torres Strait.

DJ Bala Will, aka William Tim, said a lot of people were excited.

“We’ve got a big line-up happening,” he said.

He said included in the ‘mix’ were TSI Legacy – Cousin Brothers!, Bala Trell from Saibai, and X-Baw, AG, Bala Robbie and Bala Yaku Productions from Boigu, supported by himself (Erub/PNG) and MC Joel, who was also from Boigu.

PNG acts included Kania Royalty Saii Kay and Uralom from Kokopo and Ragga Siai (WNB, POM).

“Something bigger is going on,” Bala Will said.

“You’ve got a whole generation of kids in their rooms on their laptops, so there’s going to be a lot of opportunities, a lot of events, and different combinations of people to put on the stage.

“I’m speaking from my perspective as someone who’s organising events.

“What I find is that I’ll engage an artist or two, and then after word gets out that we’re about to do a show, you’ll get a lot of people’s friends or cousins saying,

COMMUNITY CONSULTATION MEETINGS Torres Shire Council Mayor and Councillors would like to advise our local constituents that Council will be hosting a round of community consultation meetings.

These are opportune times for community members to engage with your Councillors and for Council to hear any concerns and/ or issues first hand.

Council looks forward to meeting with the residents and encourages all community members to attend.

TRAWQ 6pm – Monday (Tamwoy, Aplin & 2 December Quarantine) 6pm – Tuesday Horn Island 3 December TRAWQ (Rosehill 6pm – Wednesday & Waiben) 4 December 6pm – Monday Port Kennedy 9 December 4pm – Tuesday Prince of Wales 10 December

TRAWQ Community Hall Horn Island Sports Complex Rosehill Zar-Zar Loban Road Hall Muralag Beach

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DJ Bala Will, aka William Tim. “Hey, can this guy join us on stage? Can this guy?”

“And through that process, I’m getting to meet new people and new possibilities and new talent that I never knew before.

“I’m lucky in that sense and [that’s] what makes preparing for the event a fun, unpredictable journey.”

He said he still considered himself to be “new to this” even after six successful events over the past year.

“This is the third one in Cairns this Saturday, I’ve had Brisbane and Townsville events, and we did go up to Badu Island for the Island of Origin after party and that was really fun,” he said.

“This is my first year collaborating with artists and

doing live performances as a DJ. “Before that, I’ve just been a DJ, just networking to DJs at all these different other events, so this is my first year collaborating with artists.”

He said he felt the Torres Strait definitely had its own sound.

“What I feel is with modern reggae, modern island music, the Torres Straits have got their own sound and it’s the sound you won’t hear anywhere else in the world, and it really caught my attention,” he said.

“Throughout the year, the Torres Strait Island artists have been sharing the stage with Papua New Guinean artists, and we’ve been working that way.

“I’m working on a hunch that those cultures, that style of music, they work hand in hand, like concrete and steel, so that’s my journey of discovery, going in that direction.”

He said tickets were available online.

“If you find our social media, buy your early bird tickets online,” he said.

“Tickets are going to be cheaper, but otherwise, hey, come rock up at the door, come party, and we’ll put on a good show for you.”

Pacific Nights, 8.30pm Saturday 16 November at the Jack.

For more information see: INSTA & TIK TOK | @pacificnightsnq FACEBOOK | Pacific Nights

Food security on national agenda

BY CHRISTINE HOWES Food security for First Nations people in remote communities has been on the federal agenda over the past week in the wake of a Food Security Industry Roundtable to discuss remote supply chains and the role industry can play in reducing prices.

The government said they had worked with state and territory governments to identify the remote community stores most in need of immediate support ahead of the upcoming emergency season, with projects to be tailored to local needs under a new $9.6m investment.

Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said the Roundtable was about having an open discussion between the government, major food manufacturers and remote stores “to explore options”.

She said a recent investigation by the

CEQ Board Member Leah Cameron with Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndiri McCarthy. Pic supplied. consumer advocacy group CHOICE found groceries in some remote First Nations communities cost more than double that in capital cities. “[The] Food Security Industry Roundtable was the first-time stakeholders in the remote supply chain, from manufacturers through to retailers, have come together to identify food security solutions for remote communities,” she said.

“Industry participants heard from the National Aboriginal Community Controlled

Health Organisation on the health impact of food insecurity and acknowledged the health crisis facing remote Australia.

“Remote retailers highlighted the cost of doing business as an issue impacting their purchasing power, affecting volume and ultimately the cost and availability of food and essentials for residents in remote communities.”

She said key outcomes of the Roundtable included an agreed focus on freight as a way of improving reliability and reducing

costs, including the impact of variables like weather and lack of competition.

The new package would support increased storage capacity for dry and refrigerated stock, help stores install backup power systems to save perishable stock and allow continued trading when power supplies failed.

Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ), who were represented at the Roundtable by Board member Leah Cameron, said they looked forward to more work with the government.

“We applaud Senator McCarthy and Minister King for their attention and dedication to addressing food security and affordability concerns for remote communities,” CEQ CEO Michael Dykes said. “We look forward to ongoing collaboration and will continue advocating for solutions that support the people we serve in Far North Queensland and on Palm Island.”

NEWS 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024

Protective Service officers appointed to NPA

BY CARLI WILLIS Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) community assets such as government buildings will be better protected thanks to a new Queensland Police Service (QPS) program, which establishes five new First Nations Protective Services Officers based out of the Bamaga Police Station.

The Protective Services arm of the QPS was launched on Palm Island in 2020 and has since been rolled out in Yarrabah, Woorabinda, Mornington Island and Lockhart River.

Torres Strait Patrol Group Inspector Nick O’Brien said the program was funded on an ongoing basis with the view that more communities would come on board over time.

“Over the four years [the program has recruited] 47 officers across the state and we have a 90 per cent retention rate,” he said.

“It’s exciting that 42 per cent of those people that have joined the team are women.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to have fulltime employment and work in your community, and look after buildings in community.”

The officers were un-sworn, which meant they would not carry firearms or have the power to arrest.

Inspector O’Brien said the program had been modelled from security-type officers who had success in larger regional centres.

“If you go to Cairns, Townsville in Brisbane, and you go to the courthouse, you’ll see Protective Services group members looking after the government buildings,” he said. “[The First Nations Protective Services Officers in Bamaga will] be looking after the schools and also some of the teachers’ residences.

“They’ll do patrols of a night time to check in on government buildings.”

He said the QPS was happy to support positions elsewhere in the Torres Strait, but under the current pilot program, only the eight communities were funded.

“It’s a five-week program coordinated at the Queensland Police Service Academy in Townsville,” he said.

The Torres News has reported previously that the TI Community Justice Group and community leaders in the region would like to establish a locally-run security function independent of the QPS. Inspector O’Brien said he had also taken part in those discussions and QPS were in support of the idea.

Waiben facility Inspector O’Brien also said the Thursday Island Police Station had become a training station 12 months ago, but nobody had been trained there yet.

He said before then officers had to travel south to become Police Officers.

New police sought

BY CARLI WILLIS Seven Torres Strait Islander Police Liaison Officer (TSIPLO) positions will soon be advertised, as existing staff have retired or resigned, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) says.

The positions were available on Saibai, Boigu, St Pauls, Kubin, Kirriri (Hammond), Masig and Badu island communities.

Torres Strait Region Police Inspector Nick O’Brien said the positions would be advertised on the government platform, Smart Jobs.

“We’d be looking at to encourage people in their communities, to come on board and join our team and be members of the Queensland Police Service,” he said.

In a statement to Torres News, QPS said there were usually 32 full-time TSIPLOs working from 14 different islands across Zenadth Kes. Inspector O’Brien said TSIPLOs were also the first in the state to receive body-worn cameras in what he said was a win for community safety and the safety of officers.

“If people are doing the wrong thing, or if it’s going to escalate the violence, or something like that, they know that that’s going to be recorded,” he said.

“That ends up being a very good tool for people to take a step back, take a deep breath and understand that, ‘okay, I don’t want to commit any further offences because obviously it’s going to be recorded’.”

TSIPLOs were unsworn officers, who were unarmed and unable to make arrests.

Inspector O’Brien said the bodyworn cameras would help QPS sworn officers based on Thursday Island gather intelligence and decide whether to attend an incident.

“If they go to an incident and observe it, it’s been recorded, they make a phone call back to Thursday Island station, they advise us that they have attended an incident,” he said.

“I will then make avenues to push staff from Thursday Island in the community to support them, whether that’s by boat, plane or helicopter.”

Inspector O’Brien acknowledged community leaders and community members had long called for police on the outer islands to have greater powers and be properly resourced.

“You’ll have some communities will want to see powers, and some communities who don’t,” he said.

“It’s all about finding that balance that’s best for our unique environment.

“It’s not something that we want to rush into, it’s a case of listening to all the different stakeholders, listening to our staff members, our TSIPLO’s, to see what they want.”

He said the program was being reviewed from Brisbane and, if deemed successful, could be rolled out across the state.

“We’re hopeful that that will soon be a part of their uniform going forward,” he said.

Inspector O’Brien said some of their TSIPLOs were up for awards for their outstanding work.

“Hopefully we’ll have some good news shortly for some of our TSIPLOs, to acknowledge the fantastic work they do,” he said.

“Members of the community – and especially targeting our First Nations community members – can join the Queensland Police Service, do their training in Townsville or Brisbane and come back and work with us from day one at the Thursday

Island police station,” he said.

“We put up a strong argument that we were hearing from our local community that they would like to join our organisation but they don’t want to be separated from their community.”

Inspector O’Brien said any inquiries would be welcomed.

He said people were eligible to apply at the age of 18 and the most important pre-requisite to joining was a passion to serve their community.

“Education is

obviously ideal, but we’re certainly looking at that life experience,” he said.

“We just want to see people that actually are community-minded and want to support the community.”

Pic supplied by QPS.

TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL To lead, provide and facilitate a sustainable, safe and culturally vibrant community

PUBLIC NOTICE WATER SUPPLY RESTRICTION – LEVEL 2 Water Restriction Level 2 is in force until further notice.

PRIVATE GARDENS AND LAWN WATERING Watering not permitted on Mondays Odd numbered houses – Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday Even numbered houses – Wednesday, Friday and Sunday

Level 2 Restrictions Micro sprays and drip systems – between 6am and 8am Sprinklers – 6am to 8am and 6pm to 8pm Watering cans and buckets can be used at any time on permitted days.

• No hosing of paved areas unless it is as a result of an accident, fire, health hazard or other emergency otherwise written permission from Council must be obtained.

• Water must not be used to clean windows except by means of a bucket or watering can filled directly from the tap.

• Hoses must not be used for washing cars and other vehicles unless on permitted days.

This notice applies to all homeowners, tenants, shop and business owners, occupiers of Government residences and buildings located on Horn Island and Thursday Island.

Dalassa Yorkston CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER November 2024

06 NEWS

THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

RAP Conference wraps up in wake of Truth-telling news STORY BY CHRISTINE HOWES PICS BY LEWIS BIN DORAHO

Familiar faces at the RAP conference.

The new State Government’s decision to repeal the Path to Treaty Act 2023 and end the Truthtelling and Healing Inquiry continued to draw criticism as Reconciliation Australia’s (RA’s) Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) conference wrapped up late last week in Brisbane.

RA CEO Karen Mundine said their program for the

week highlighted truth-telling and the groundbreaking work that was being done in the state to highlight it.

“Joshua Creamer, Inquiry Chair, was due to speak to this,” she said. “However, the Inquiry has been notified by the Crisafulli Government of its intention to cease the Truth-telling and Healing Inquiry and repeal the Path to Treaty Act 2023.

“Yesterday the Queensland Government informed the Inquiry that Chairman Joshua Creamer would not be permitted to speak.”

Mr Creamer was also due to meet with the new Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson last week, but that meeting was postponed as the Minister said she needed further advice to inform their discussions.

No alternative date was advised.

A spokesperson for the Minister said Mr Creamer had been formally notified of the Government’s intention to repeal the Path to Treaty Act and cease the Truth-telling Inquiry.

“The Government signalled its intentions to discontinue the Inquiry prior to the election, indicating it would instead focus on home ownership, improving health services and boosting education to support Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders,” they said.

A petition to support the reinstatement of the State Government’s Truth-telling and Healing Inquiry and Path to Treaty legislation has been signed by nearly 8000 people.

See https://bit.ly/ QldTreatyPetition for more.

Pictured here and below left: Wagga TSI Dance Company.

Official Torres Health

COMMUNITY LAUNCH Join us as we bless our new office location and officially launch Torres Health; our community controlled health organisation.

Wednesday 20 November 2024 9am - 12pm TORRES HEALTH PROGRAMS OFFICE 57 Douglas St, Thursday Island (old Rainbow’s Motel) Refreshments Provided For more information 07 4090 3380 info@torreshealth.com

NEWS 07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024

Report card shows there is still work to be done Torres Shire Council has released their first report card compiled by the Queensland Government Statisticians Office to compare socioeconomic data between the region and the State.

Mayor Elsie Seriat said the release of the data was intended to coincide annually with the August 23 Masig Statement celebrations.

“Council called on the Queensland Government Statistician’s Office to prepare a report card comparing socioeconomic data from the region with that of the State of Queensland to track our region’s progress in Closing the Gap,” she said.

“Our proposition was simple and straightforward: if the gap is reduced between the region and the State, then the task is to reduce the gap throughout the federation.”

The targets covered

areas including birth weight, child development, education, employment, housing and justice.

CEO Dalassa Yorkston said targets in juvenile justice, family violence and out-ofhome care rates were the subject of ongoing dialogue with the Statistician’s Office.

“Council has requested ongoing dialogue with the Office regarding these latter targets, with a view to greater information for the 2025 Report Card,” she said.

“It is very pleasing they are keen to progress our relationship and this initiative moving forward.

“This data is important because if we don’t track and measure, we cannot possibly know what progress we are making in closing the gap of Indigenous disadvantage.”

Mayor Seriat said the work was in line with

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the Masig Statement aspirations.

“This demand for a Report Card stays true to what our forebears sought 87 years ago,

THE TARGETS • Target 2: By 2031 increase the • Target 8: By 2031 increase the proportion of Aboriginal and proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people Torres Strait Islander babies aged 25-64 who are employed with a healthy birthweight to to 62 per cent (at 56.7 per 94 per cent (at 92.9 per cent cent in the Torres region in the up to 2022) 2021 census) • Target 4: By 2031 increase the proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children assessed as developmentally on track in all five domains of the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) to 55 per cent (at 40.8 per cent in the Torres region up to 2021)

• Target 9: By 2031 increase the proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in appropriately sized (not overcrowded) housing to 88 per cent (at 68 per cent in the Torres region in the 2021 census)

• Target 10: By 2031 reduce the rate of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults held in incarceration by at least 15 per cent.

• Target 5: By 2031 increase the proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people (age 20-24) attaining year 12 or equivalent qualification to • Target 11: By 2031 reduce the 96 per cent (at 76.4 per cent in rate of Aboriginal and Torres the Torres region in the 2021 Strait Islander young people census) (10–17 years) in detention by at least 30 per cent.

• Target 6: By 2031 increase

the proportion of Aboriginal • Target 12: By 2031 reduce the and Torres Strait Islander rate of overrepresentation of people aged 25–34 years who Aboriginal and Torres Strait have completed a tertiary Islander children (0–17 years qualification (Certificate III and old) in out-of-home care by above) to 70 per cent (at 39.6 45 per cent. * A proxy used for per cent in the Torres region in reporting. the 2021 census) • Target 13: By 2031 the rate of • Target 7: By 2031 increase all forms of family violence and the proportion of Aboriginal abuse against Aboriginal and and Torres Strait Islander Torres Strait Islander women youth (15-24 years) who are and children is reduced at least in employment, education or by 50 per cent, as progress training to 67 per cent (at 41.3 towards zero. *Data not per cent in the Torres region in available – a proxy measure is used. the 2021 census)

who, through the effort of their own intellects and wills, designed the pillars upon which the Masig Statement is celebrated today,” she said.

“In 1937, the Councillors called for a new code of local representation, systems of wage regulation, taxation, social wage, the right to work, to own and crew boats, for the removal of unpopular bylaws (including the evening curfews).

“In 2024, Councillors are calling for not just Closing the Gap but for self-determination.

“Council will be utilising this data in its ongoing advocacy on behalf of our communities in the region.”

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

08 NEWS

THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Fun for families at annual beach clean MAIN PIC: Families made the day an outing, joining forces to have fun while they helped.

INSET: Plastic bottles and washed up styrofoam materials were culprits among the waste.

STORY AND PICS

BY CARLI WILLIS

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

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

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

This week’s pic, taken on Thursday Island, was submitted by Emerson Warden.

“A picture from my drone of the Coral Discoverer cruise ship anchored at Thursday Island.

Enjoying a few days in the Torres Strait,” Emerson said.

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

Good luck!

Multiple entries may be submitted, but every entry (or entrant) may not be published. All pics submitted will be considered in the draw for the monthly gift voucher. Winners of the CEQ Ailan Life competition are determined by CEQ. Entries to the Ailan Life photo competition may be used by the CEQ marketing/promotions team as background images for store promotions such as posters, digital noticeboard specials, counter-facing displays (POS) screens, and/or on their website and social media. Entries may also be used in-store to promote the ‘Ailan Life’ competition.

Waiben’s Island Stars teamed up with Salty Monkeys for the second annual community beach clean-up on Friday Island last Saturday.

About 100 community volunteers arrived on the island by boat to assist in the clean-up of mostly marine debris.

Armed with gloves, buckets, bags, hats and sunscreen, the debris taskforce collected several massive green waste bags full, weighing 411 kilograms.

Island Stars owner Joey Laifoo said the goal of the event was to teach our young people to care for country.

“Our future is our young ones, so we’ve got to invest our time into them, to help them out,” he said.

“If they need help, jump in and help them – don’t hold back.”

He said many of the young people at the event were there after a positive experience last year.

“To see them back here and cleaning up, that shows that they are interested in keeping country clean, they learning, and they seeing

the changes as they’re cleaning up,” he said.

“They’re helping the environment, ‘e ‘notherkind important that we’re turning up and making it exciting for [young people and] welcoming to them this area here.”

Mr Laifoo said the event was entirely run on donations and volunteers.

“We didn’t need thousands of dollars to run an event like this, it’s just a community all chipping in and helping out,” he said.

“You just need to come together, pull community together, and you can make things happen by believing in yourself.

“That makes it easier when you have a community behind you.”

Salty Monkeys founder Dennis Faye helped organise activities for whole families on the day, which included flying drones, flare training, raffles and giveaways.

He said Salty Monkeys had operated a marine debris task force in partnership with TSIRC for some time and the drones made the work more efficient.

“We’ve got one specialised drone that’s going to map out this

whole area, take a whole heap of images that we can feed into an AI model,” he said.

“That can help us count all of the debris and we can look at hot spots in the area.

“We can have a look at where all the debris is washing onto.”

Mr Faye said flying the drone again when the task was finished showed the impact they made.

He said they split the group into teams to search for specific items such as plastic bottles, fishing ropes, glass bottles and miscellaneous rubbish.

“We’re all going to do one big sweep of the area, bring it back and compare what we’ve collected off the shores from last year,” he said.

Mr Faye said the debris would be counted and monitored from year to year from now on.

“Doing these cleanups is like a treasure hunt but unfortunately for us, a lot of it is foreign debris – we could say at least 90%,” he said.

“We’ll be proving that today, when everyone sees that there’s all of these different types of language and writing on the bottles and all of the debris.”

Young volunteer Zion Guligo said everybody

had fun working together to collect the rubbish.

“If we didn’t make this happen, we wouldn’t be caring about all this plastic and [protecting] all the turtles in the sea – all them sea animals.

“If the plastic is gonna get to them, they’re gonna eat it and they’re gonna die and culturally that is bad.

“We have to pick up the rubbish and pass the knowledge down to the next generation and show them how it’s done.”

Another young volunteer, Sammie Zitha said it was important – Torres Strait Islanders hunted to survive and he said he didn’t want to see rubbish harming the environment.

“We can find food anywhere in the islands – as simple as a pipi shell on the beach or you can climb up a coconut tree and eat coconut or drink coconut water,” he said.

“You don’t want to go to the beautiful beaches of the Torres Strait and see all the rubbish just lying around, it really makes it not beautiful.

“If I could do something to make the world a better place, I would start by picking every rubbish I see, really.”

NEWS 09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024 Samlico Zitha & Edward Nona had fun cleaning up with their community.

Pic by Kaziw Meta students.

Salty Monkeys and Island Stars give a safety brief.

Salty Monkeys volunteers Geoff Pauling & Kantesha Daniel.

Young people were excited to be back for another clean up.

Volunteers Elsie Seriat, Oshan Shibasaki, Marita Sagigi and Rohani Nona help prepare the kai kai.

A sausage sizzle and fresh fruit were donated for kai kai.

Clothing the GAPS donated shirts to the event, with the message to Protect Our Island Homes!

Aaron Bell from KJR shows how to fly drones.

Flare training at sunset was enjoyed by all ages.

TSC Corporate Plan Community Consultation The Corporate Plan is Torres Shire Council’s roadmap for the next five years and we are working on developing our new plan. This plan will set out Council's goals, priorities, and the key projects and services we aim to deliver for our community. This plan helps guide all Council decisions to make sure that our work benefits the people of Torres Shire in meaningful ways. By planning ahead, we can manage resources wisely, focus on the things that matter most, and make sure we’re moving toward a strong, vibrant future for everyone.

Your input is vital to shaping the future of our Shire so please complete this survey to help guide our future.

The Torres Shire Council is committed to managing public funds responsibly to benefit our community. As a local government, we work hard to ensure that all spending is done wisely, with every dollar going towards improving the quality of life and services for our residents. Because we rely heavily on grants and other limited sources of funding, we must carefully prioritise our projects and initiatives. As you respond to this survey, please keep in mind the need for responsible financial management so that we can direct resources to where they are most needed and impactful.

Surveys can be accessed Council Facebook Page

Online through QR Code

Council Office Thursday Island

Airport Office Horn Island

Survey Opens Monday 11th Nov Survey Closes Friday 22nd Nov

Dalassa Yorkston CHEIF EXECUTIVE OFFICER November 2024

10

THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Time to check your corporation’s

MONEY STORY If you are a director of a not-for-profit corporation, like a PBC, you have an important role in keeping the organisation financially healthy. It’s your responsibility to make sure there is enough money to pay bills and continue serving the community.

Directors are responsible for the corporation’s finances and must make key financial decisions. Even if day-to-day finances are managed by staff, directors are accountable if anything goes wrong. It’s crucial for directors to ensure the corporation always has enough money to pay its bills on time. If the corporation can’t pay its debts when due (becomes “insolvent”), directors could be held responsible for failing in their duty.

What is Solvency?

A corporation is “solvent” when it can pay its debts as they come due. “Solvency” means the corporation has enough money and financial resources to cover expenses and bills on time.

What is Insolvency?

Insolvency occurs when the corporation can no longer pay its bills on time. This isn’t just a one-time cash shortage—ongoing difficulty paying debts can signal insolvency.

11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024

Proactive Steps!

To help avoid insolvency, directors should: • Avoid taking on debt that can’t be easily repaid • Keep expenses reasonable • Diversify funding sources • Maintain up-to-date financial records • Review financial reports at every board meeting • Ensure transparency in financial decisions

Warning signs!

Be alert for these signs of possible insolvency: • Struggles to pay bills, wages, or taxes on time • Recurring financial losses • Declined payments or restricted credit from suppliers • Loss of major income sources • Threats or legal actions from creditors • Concerns raised by board members or staff about finances

GBK is here to help NEED HELP? GBK’s team can help corporations and small business manage their money story.

Contract us today at BUSINESSHUB@GBK.ORG.AU

5 Questions You Need to Ask

A simple way to fulfill your financial duties as a director is to regularly ask key solvency questions to your CFO or accountant.

Ensure that both questions and answers are recorded in the meeting minutes. This shows you are actively monitoring finances and making informed decisions.

Here are five essential questions to assess the corporation’s financial stability.

• Is the corporation currently able to pay its outstanding debts? In other words, is it solvent?

• Are there any upcoming large payments that could risk the corporation’s solvency?

• Since our last financial statement or meeting, have there been any significant events that could affect the corporation’s ability to remain solvent?

• Is a cash flow forecast available to help predict future financial health?

• If there’s a cash shortage, are there ways to access funds, such as a bank overdraft, loan, or asset sale?

www.gbk.org.au 07 4083 1000 admin@gbk.org.au

12 NEWS

THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Putting the spotlight on ‘sugar’ for World Diabetes Day Today is World Diabetes Day and local health authorities are encouraging Torres Strait, Cape York, and Northern Peninsula Area residents to maintain healthy eating, drinking and lifestyle behaviours to avoid or manage chronic conditions such as diabetes.

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service Senior Medical Officer GP Rural Generalist Dr Ineke Wever said the day

offered an opportunity for people to consider their risk factors.

“Diabetes currently is the world’s fastest-growing chronic condition but is preventable if risk factors are addressed early,’’ she said.

Dr Wever said this year’s World Diabetes Day theme aimed to focus on wellbeing for diabetes.

“As health professionals, we work in partnership

with patients and their communities,” she said.

“We really need individual and community support to spread awareness of diabetes and work together to improve lifestyle behaviours and improve health outcomes for all.”

Dr Wever said Type 2 diabetes was the most prevalent form of diabetes where the body became resistant to insulin.

“Type 2 Diabetes can

TN0461 • 11-04-24

be managed well with a combination of healthy dietary choices, effective medications and maintaining a healthy weight particularly around the belly,’’ she said.

“There are many new medications that can help with keeping sugars well-controlled and protecting kidneys.

“Type 1 diabetes is less common, generally about 10 per cent of all diabetes cases, and must be managed with regular doses of insulin.’’

Dr Wever said diabetes was the name given to a group of different conditions in which the body cannot maintain healthy levels of a type of sugar called glucose in the blood.

“When your body cannot make enough insulin, or if the insulin is not working properly in the body, it cannot break down glucose into energy,’’ she said.

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are particularly at risk of developing

BOOK ONLINE: WWW.REBELTOURS.COM.AU

diabetes with a strong family history of diabetes contributing to increasing risk, particularly with gestational diabetes in pregnancy increasing the risk of diabetes in the baby.”

Dr Wever said other factors that could contribute to diabetes included disadvantage, poor nutrition and dietary choices, obesity, and lack of exercise.

“Across the health service, we currently have about 2769 active

diabetes clients on our medical records system with either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes,” she said.

“Of these, about 55.7 per cent are in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area region, including Thursday Island, and about 44.3 per cent on Cape York, excluding the NPA. “Of the overall 2769 clients, 2427 are Indigenous and 342 are non-Indigenous.”

Symptoms for Type 1 can be remembered by the 4Ts:

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

• Toilet – are you going to the toilet a lot?

• Thirsty – do you have an unquenchable thirst?

• Tired – are you more tired than usual?

• Thinner – have you recently lost a lot of weight?

Symptoms of Type 2 diabetes can include: • Frequent urination • Increased thirst • Always feeling hungry • Feeling very tired • Blurry vision • Slow healing of cuts and wounds • Numbness or pain in hands or feet • But there are often no symptoms at all in the early stages • Getting a Health Check at your local Primary Health Care Centre can diagnosed prediabetes or diabetes with a simple blood test called a HbA1c.

Some ways of managing diabetes if you have it, or to help you avoid getting it:

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.

• Switch from drinking soft drinks such as Coke, lemonade and sugary energy drinks to water. Soft drinks often contain fourteen to sixteen spoons of sugar in each bottle and is not healthy for the body.

Giving up soft drinks is often the hardest but most rewarding change a person can make in reducing their risk of diabetes.

• Eat less of white foods such as rice, pasta, cereals and breads and change this to green foods such as salad or veggies along with a good source of protein such as meat, fish or legumes at every meal.

• Managing weight – If you are overweight losing weight is one of the best ways to improve your blood sugars and health and reduce your risk of complications.

Maintaining good portion control and limiting high sugar and high fat foods is the best way to keep your weight in check. There are newer medications that can help someone to make healthy eating and exercise choices. See your doctor to discuss whether these are right for you.

• Avoid saturated fats – Foods high in saturated fats include butter, coconut milk and cream, fatty meats, cream, cakes and biscuits and pastries like pies and sausage rolls.

• Exercise helps to manage blood sugars and weight as well as general health.

• Alcohol should be limited to no more than 2 standard drinks per day and everyone should have regular alcohol-free days.

• Attend regular check-ups, take your medications, and monitor your blood sugars as advised by your health care teams. If you are experiencing any side effects with your medications tell your healthcare team so they can see if another option would be better for you.

• See a dietitian for individualised dietary advice for healthy weight and managing and preventing diabetes.

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CLASSIFIEDS 13

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024

Buai Mudh Thursday Island Neighbourhood and Community Centre

DONATION DRIVE Open 9am to 4:30pm Lunch time closure 12:30pm to 1:30pm Mura Kosker is accepting donations of:

Clothes Non-perishables Dry goods Toiletries Diaper and wipes Toys

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

@TSIMAtorresnews

HOW YOU CAN HELP FAMILIES IN NEED

Torres News

J M: 0419 828 639 J E: ads@torres.news

On behalf of the Akee and Mapa Families, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all families, friends and colleagues who supported us during the recent funeral for the late Mr. William Robert (Bull) Akee.

Au Esoau to all families who travelled near and far, provided support and assistance on Mer and blessed us with financial and in-kind contributions.

A special thank you to...  

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JJOIN OUR TEAM

Broadcaster Broadca Erub

Job Description: PUBLISHED EVERY THURSDAY

APPLICATIONS FOR FIRST NATIONS MARINE TACTICAL OFFICERS (MTO) ARE NOW OPEN! The Australian Border Force are seeking applications from First Nations People who are interested in securing Australia’s maritime borders.

Including many other benefits, enjoy a competitive salary including a 63% commuted sea-going allowance on successful completion of training.

You will be deployed to parts of Australia most people never see. Plus a fly in fly out, month on month off roster.

This gives you time to reconnect with Country and community while contributing to the protection of our borders.

Applications close Sunday 05 January 2025.

Learn more or apply now: https://jobs.homeaffairs.gov.au/job-invite/135316/

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 24 Hour Service for DV CONNECT Ph: 1800 811 811 Lena Passi Women's Shelter ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

NPA WOMENS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HELP 24 hr Crisis Shelter – Ph: 4212 2200

Available at various outlets in the Torres Strait and NPA and also at these newsagencies and stores

CAIRNS Earlville Newsagency Stockland Cairns Shopping Centre, Earlville Enmore News 5 Reservoir Rd, Manoora

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

Marketplace Newsagency 2/96 McLaughlan Rd, Bentley Park NewsXpressCairns Central Cairns Central Shopping Centre, 126 McLeod Street Railway Newsagency 48 McLeod Street, Cairns Raintrees Newsagency Raintrees Shopping Centre Alfred Street, Manunda Tobacco Stop Woree Southside Shopping Village, Woree

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ADVERTISE HERE Get your Business Noticed

For more information • Call 0419 828 639 • Email ads@torres.news

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PUBLISHERS Published every Thursday E editor@torres.news TORRES NEWS PTY LTD Diat Alferink – Chief Executive Officer E editor@torres.news 69 Douglas Street, Thursday Island Q 4875

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14 ART & SPORT

THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Iama and Kirriri host AFL Cape York programs

BY AFL CAPE YORK DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR KIERAN SCIBERRAS

AFL Cape York’s Game Development program continued across the Torres Strait, with inschool sports education programs delivered at Tagai State College

Campus on Iama and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School on Kirriri.

As part of AFL Cape York’s Outer Islands Program, we will visit every school in the Torres Strait – make sure you’re at school to play AFL! Next up, the Game Development team travels to Mabuiag, Masig & Mer, thanks to the support of Tagai State College & the TSRA

Mrs Flora Mosby talks to the crowd about her granddaughter Maisie, a Year 12 student who graduated Woree SHS Achool Tech Program. Pics supplied.

Iama.

AFL Cape York House hosts second annual Me. exhibition

BY JILLIAN BOWIE AFL Cape York House (AFLCYH) hosted their second Me. exhibition at Pullman International Cairns last weekend.

The showcase of 74 student self-portraits delved into themes of culture and identity and left students feeling proud and confident about their individual journeys living away from home to attend high school in Cairns.

Education Queensland Transition Support Teacher, and founder of the Me. exhibition concept, Amanda Black said the Exhibition was a new favourite on the AFLCYH calendar.

“It is an opportunity to have intentional strength-based conversations around concepts that challenge yet allows each young person to have a point in

time look at themselves,” Amanda said.

“It is an event that welcomes school communities, peers, teachers and support staff. It is an opportunity to see just how strong these young people are, living off country, away from family, community and culture so they can access secondary education.

“I am so proud of these young people.”

ALFCY Boys House Manager Kane Richter said it was a fantastic event, which showcased young people being proud of who they were and where they were from.

“The exhibition enables our young people to investigate and strengthen their connection to culture while living away from home,” Kane said.

“The 350 guests [at] the official

Iama.

opening became the learner, while our young people became the holder of knowledge.

“To see our young people smiling, standing tall and connected makes us proud.”

Parents and viewers alike were just as proud and impressed with the displays and what they stood for.

Parent Ivy Minniecon said she was also grateful.

“As a parent, it gives you so much gratitude that places like AFLCYH exist and they can celebrate their cultural identity daily,” she said.

“I feel so honoured that my son can be here, safe to be self.”

The exhibition was put together by the AFLCY House cultural team, supported by education and boarding staff and produced by Adlin’s Media.

Kirriri.

Iama.

Kirriri.

LEFT: Jillian Bowie and her son Iothamo Boyd. RIGHT: AFLCY Marine Program Coordinator Michael Reisener with student Redlynch State College student Francis Williams (Bamaga).

Iama.

Kirriri.

Kirriri.

SPORT 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024

Australia beats Tonga in Pacific Cup finals

Hammer & Xavier celebrate. Pic supplied by NRL.

BY ALF WILSON Excitement machine Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow scored a try and set up another to be one of the Australian Kangaroos best in their 20-14 win over Tonga in Sunday’s Pacific Cup final at Commbank Stadium in Sydney.

Hammer scored out wide in the 15th minute to level the scores at 4-all after Tongan winger Sione Katoa crossed for the first four-pointer nine minutes earlier.

Ten minutes later Hammer fired out a miracle pass to PNG international Xavier Coates who scored.

Commentators rated this display of magic as

the “play of the game”.

“A wonderful piece of skill from Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow to offload in traffic and send Xavier Coates over for the second Australian try of the game. It marked a turning point in the match, with Australia going on to score another couple without reply and wrestle control of the contest,” the NRL website reported.

The Kangaroos led 14-4 at half time and more than half the crowd of 28,700 were Tongan supporters dressed in red.

The Kangaroos scored four tries to three in a clash which featured many brutal tackles.

TN0230 8x2 local sports

A flying effort by the Hammer seals the game for Australia.

Reuben Cotter came off the interchange bench midway through the first half at the 22nd minute and had an impact.

Reuben went to the bench at the 59th minute and then returned to the field with seven minutes remaining as Tonga reduced the margin to six points.

One of the best for the Kangaroos was Cowboys back Tom Dearden who made several telling line breaks.

Kangaroos back Tom Trbojevic scored tries at the 35th and 42nd minutes and was held up over the line on another occasion.

For Tonga Cowboys rampaging forward Jason Taumalolo was

amongst the best.

Kiwis beat PNG Meanwhile New Zealand have demolished PNG 54-12 in the promotionrelegation clash after the final.

The Kiwis had lost the chance to defend the title they won last season by falling to Tonga in round two a week before and faced being replaced by the Kumuls in the Cup division for 2025.

Jillaroos win Cup final The Australian Jillaroos scored a 24-4 victory over the Kiwi Ferns in Sunday’s women’s Pacific Cup

final at CommBank Stadium.

Essay strong up front for Orchids Front row forward Essay Banu was one of the PNG Orchids best when they lost 34-12 to ForFetu Samoa in Sunday’s Pacific Cup at CommBank Stadium.

Sareka Mooka was placed on report in the 11th minute for an alleged hair pull. Sareka and Fetu Samoa hooker Sienna Lofipo both left the field for HIAs in the 57th minute after a head clash.

This is the official end of the rugby season although Palm Island will host a Christmas Cup in December.

Strong Ailan turnout at beach rugby LEFT: Maria Namok (St Pauls), Narly Doolah (Saibai) & Dakota Namok (St Pauls).

RIGHT: Shane Collett was there to support his son.

LEFT: Kallin, Nelson, Romell, Lascolm & Naldo (Waiben).

RIGHT: Angelo & Moana.

LEFT: Erub’s Samuel Sipi & Nabil Sipi.

RIGHT: Maryella Hosea & Akara Gizu.

PICS BY ALF WILSON

Looking for more local sport?

We’re happy to run it if we have it!

Darts, ballgames, water sports, athletics ... whatever your game is, we’re keen!

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

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.

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.

16

THURSDAY 14 NOVEMBER 2024

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

Strong Ailan turnout in beach rugby 5s

Future Stars’ Jordon John fending off a defender.

Castle Jings ball carrier Kalifa Faifai Loa tackled by defenders.

Pics supplied.

PNG Future Stars after the final.

Beach 5s is a contact sport Park and there were plenty of Boyzals 9-7, U17/18 Girls: The Torres News was Ray played 111 A grade of tackle, modified rules of there and spoke to players stalls to check out. matches for the Cowboys Beached Whales def. Salty rugby league and rugby union and spectators from Waiben, between 2009 and 2017, one Beaches 6-3, U/16 Boys: Hundreds of Torres Results of Grand Finals: with no scrums or line outs.

Injinoo, Saibai, Erub, St for the Indigenous Allstars Beach Bandits d Beach Boys Strait Islanders were at All Star Legends Celebrity Pauls on Moa, Mabuiag, Games were played on and four Tests for PNG. 6-5, U15/16 Girls: Stingrays Match: PNG Future Stars d the OSMAC Northern Badu, Cairns, and as far away beach courts that measure The Castle Kings 6-5 (extra d Grimace 8-4.

Australia Beach Rugby Samuel Sipi who was as Doomadgee and Hope 31m x 25m and teams have time), 5s Championship held wearing an Erub United shirt U/15 Boys: Brack’s Vale. five players on the field of Men’s: Paddle Co d J-Lec Furious 5s d Barbarians 5-4, on Townsville Strand last and Nabil Sipi said they play and up to seven reserves A Castle Kings side which Beeramundi RUFC 7-5, enjoyed the atmosphere. week.

U13/14 Boys: Seaside Bulls with unlimited interchange. included former NRL star Women’s: Natz Ratz d.

Boys d NQ Balas Beach 5s Spectator Shane Collett They were either players Divisions were held in Ray Thompson of Saibai We Don’t Give A Ruck 6-4.

6-4, U13/14 Girls: Seaside said it was a great weekend in one of the 50 teams or Premier 5s and Social from E excel doc E dummy E descent lost ____ 6-5 in14/11 extra time XMAS x 5 ads - 07/11 ____ 21/11 ____ 28/11 ____ & 5/12/24 ____ Ads folder Stallions d. Bowen Mudcrabs of entertainment.

Men’s Social: Pinnacle supporters who enjoyed junior under 12s to men’s and to PNG Stars in the TI CAR HIRE. 16x4 colour ad @ disc. localsFuture rate $6.70incl. $428.60incl per ad x 5 $2144.

10-8.

Pirates d North Beach Devils the action on two courts “I am here to watch my women’s seniors. finalad of Back the blue ribbon ACCEPTED OFFER -- 10x7grand banner page.

Special discounted Xmas rate $450incl per ad x 5 $2250. (advised normally includes 35% loading for 5-3. with Magnetic Island in the son play and this is a perfect All Star Legends Celebrity Teams set up numerous More pics on PAGE 15 N back page - @6.70 plus loading $633.15incl. per ad. background. location” Shane said. shady tents in nearby Strand U17/18 Boys: Kings d.

Match.

BY ALF WILSON

TN0946

EMAIL LISA: info@ticarhire.com.au <info@ticarhire.com.au>

TI CAR HIRE

Christmas Holiday Deal Hire from Friday 20 December to Monday 6 January (17 days hire) and pay for 10 days 7 – 8 Seater $1,400  5 Seater/Utes $1,200  Non air con $800 Limited vehicles available, and only if payment is made by Thursday 19 December

Phone or text

0400 409 572

to reserve NOT IN CONJUNCTION a car now! WITH ANY OTHER DEAL.

TI Car Hire will be closed from 4pm Friday 20 December 2024, reopening Monday 6 January 2025.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!