Torres News_Edition 159_5 December 2024

Thursday, 5 December 2024

Stories and events of the Kaurareg homeland of Kaiwalagal, the Torres Strait homeland and Cape York homelands of the Anggamuthi, Atambaya, Wuthathi, Yadhaykenu and Gudang Peoples.

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Ailan B-boys star in Sydney

Island Stars boys ready to light up the 2024 MTN Oz Jam. Pic supplied.

BY KANTESHA TAKAI Three Island Stars champions

Fujii, aka Muscle, represented

The young crew showcased

renowned First Nations B-boy

it’s only been three months of

the Torres Strait with immense

their rigorous training efforts

and Island Stars mentor Oshan

teaching them,” Oshan said.

pride when they opened

in a 3v3 battle that drew talent

Shibasaki Newman, the trio

“They’ve proved themselves

lit up the 2024 MTN Oz Jam in

the event with a traditional

from across the country.

demonstrated honed skills and

really well and they looked like

Sydney last weekend – James

performance and later battled

raw talent.

Seden, aka J-Rock, Nathan

in the contemporary art of

Seden, aka N1, and Russell

break dancing.

the future.

Story continued PAGE 2 & more pics PAGE 4 N

The Island Stars’ journey to Sydney was no small feat.

Trained and supported by

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“I was very proud of the boys and amazed, considering that

02 NEWS

THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Art shop pops up on Waiben

TSRA election results The Torres News has been advised that after polling for the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) elections closed last Saturday, the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) count (scrutiny) is being conducted this week on Thursday Island.

It will not be finalised until approximately Monday 9 December.

The Returning Officer will announce the election results for all wards once the scrutiny for all contested wards has been completed.

The AEC will publish the results after they have been announced at https://www.aec.gov.au/Elections/ tsra/index.htm

Joseph Au’s Kayin Danalaig (New Life), 2023. Pic supplied.

Christmas shoppers on Waiben will have an opportunity to buy from the renowned Badu Art Centre next week when the artists bring their work to a ‘pop-up’ shop on Douglas Street for just two days.

Manager Harriet Gaffney said it was a rare opportunity.

“Unless you get the chance to visit the art centre, it’s hard for people living in the Torres Strait to see the work in real life,” she said.

“That’s why we’ve decided to bring the artwork to Thursday Island.”

She said they would host their Christmas Pop-Up Shop at Sower Bookshop from 12 – 14 December with work from artists including Joseph Au, Aiona Tala Gaidan, Laurie Nona, Tipoti Nona, Jymahl Savage and Patimah Warria.

“Come and say hi to our Art Centre staff and immerse yourself in the culture, seasons and lifestyle of Badu

Island as revealed by our artists,” Harriet said.

“Each artwork is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, which tells the story behind the artwork, and all prints can be packed and rolled for postage interstate and overseas.”

She said they were happy to bring any work people requested from their website for the event.

See www. baduartcentre.com.au for more information, or call Flora or Harriet on 4090 0956.

Island Stars represent at the 2024 MTN Your North Queensland airline Oz Jam M Continued from P1

connecting the islands of the Torres Strait with Cairns and Bamaga

FLY WITH A QUEENSLANDER

“This was more than just a competition, it was a platform for cultural exchange and an opportunity for our boys to shine on a national stage,” Oshan said.

Still on a high from the event’s energy, Nathan said the opportunity to participate was rewarding after all the practice and fundraising.

“We did so much fundraising with community events at Island Stars; we also sold food and called for donations from our families and the B-boy community,” Nathan said.

He said the opportunity came from an act of kindness last year when Oshan gifted his B-boy mate Vinh Cao, from MTN Colours Australia, a Salty Monkeys shirt.

Vinh went on to win the Australian Redbull BCONE 2023.

“Vinh wore the shirt in the finals representing the Torres Strait and since then he has worked closely with me and was a big reason why we were able to go down to Sydney,” Oshan said.

“I would like to thank our families, community and Island Stars for supporting us, and a special shout out to Vinh, South East Sessions, Sip and Spray Sydney, Ryugi Battles,

TSRA and Torres Health.”

The boys all said they enjoyed the event and the weekend.

“I enjoyed the cypher battle and seeing others dancing too, everyone was so good!” Russell said.

The Island Stars’ presence extended beyond the dance floor as they engaged in interactive art workshops, explored Sydney’s art scene, and inspired others with their stories of culture, community and dance.

“I enjoyed seeing all of the spray paint murals and dancing in the cypher, I did the windmill,” James said.

Back on Waiben, Island Stars focused on providing authentic cultural experiences for visitors and locals.

Owners Joey and Mel actively supported and provided opportunities for young people to participate in expressive art forms and other ventures that extended beyond the region.

As the 2024 MTN Oz Jam concluded, the Island Stars left their mark, inspiring other participants with their passion, skill and the vibrant spirit of the Torres Strait.

For these three champions, they all have memories that will last a lifetime.

See more pics on P4 N

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024

Families/businesses struggle as NPA fights ongoing water issues

New Torres Strait Printz Design T-Shirts

by Shakira & Basil Sabatino

NPARC Mayor Robert Poipoi has published a short video on Facebook urging residents to follow water restrictions. Pics supplied.

Residents in the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA), frustrated by ongoing water supply issues, have been urged by Mayor Robert Poipoi to be patient and to follow water restrictions that were still in place.

The Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) Mayor said the restrictions were due to dry conditions and a mechanical fault at the Jardine River pump station and required no sprinklers, hoses or car washing, and short showers.

“We are urging everyone to follow the restrictions and we can resolve the issue by the end of this week, so we can be back to normal,” Mayor PoiPoi said.

Some residents endured up to 24 hours without water last weekend in a

series of rolling water outages across the five communities.

Businesses, such as local supermarkets, were also struggling to deal with the restrictions and outages.

NPARC and Veolia, who manage the water supply in the region, said they understood the community’s frustration and were working to rectify the issue.

“Veolia understands the impact this has on the community, and we will continue to work closely and transparently with the Council to restore normal services as soon as possible,” a Veolia spokesperson said.

They said specialist technicians were en route to the NPA with the required parts and equipment to restore the production of all pumps.

“Veolia has moved rapidly to source

A steady stream of water notices advising residents of restricted water supplies has been posted on Facebook over several months.

NEW IN STORE ONLY A photograph published by NPARC on Facebook showing levels in the Bamaga Tank were “very low”. “We all need to conserve water to refill the tanks to allow the other community tanks to be filled,” they said. parts and rebuild the faulty pumps and to get the Bamaga Water Treatment Plant back to full capacity as quickly as possible,” they said.

“We are confident that we will have the pumps repaired [this week] and the treatment plant brought back to full capacity by early next week.”

NPARC CEO Kate Gallaway said they had

obtained additional resources from the federally-funded First Nations and Remote Communities Water Infrastructure Program to improve water facilities for the region.

“Like all water service providers in Queensland, large parts of our system are aging – Veolia and NPARC are working collaboratively to source further

funding to upgrade the equipment and system,” Ms Gallaway said.

“This funding will go towards replacing aging infrastructure and increasing the water plant’s capacity for the production of safe and reliable clean water for the NPA communities.

“However, further funding is needed to also support critical repairs to the raw water supplies.”

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Our LAST TRADING DAY is Saturday, 14 December 2024 9:30am - 1:30pm Our CENTRE & SHOP will be closed to the public from Monday 16 December 2024 to Saturday 4 January 2025 and we reopen Monday 6 January 2025 Our TSRA closure is Wednesday 25 December 2024 to Wednesday 1 January 2025. We will reopen on 2 January 2025.

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04 NEWS Yorkston, Dalassa <Dalassa.Yorkston@torres.qld.gov.au>

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

Dalassa Yorkston CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER November 2024

 

THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Waiben housing help delivered A collaboration between the Queensland Government, the Uniting Church in Australia Property Trust and awardwinning Sunshine Coast-based Oly Homes has delivered more than eight affordable modular homes and Gold LHA (Livable Housing Australia) accessible units for the Waiben community.

The project included three two-bedroom homes, three studio units, two Gold LHA accessible units and a residence for the local minister.

Constructed at Oly Homes’ Yandina and Cooroy factories, General Manager Steven Nousala described it as the most logistically challenging project in the company’s 50-year history.

“We are so thrilled to have delivered this project on time and within budget for the people of Thursday Island,” he said.

“We know housing supply and affordability is a major issue within the community and modular homes provide a great solution as land supply and construction costs make the delivery of new homes more challenging.

“We’ve worked closely with the Queensland Government as well as the Uniting Church and local stakeholders to design these homes with the local climate and cultural needs at the top of our priority.

“We’ve also added turfing, fencing and driveways for each home, so it’s a high-quality finish where I am sure each resident will be incredibly house proud.

“We are very proud of the way our team has completed, delivered

The homes on Waiben. Pic supplied.

and installed these homes in just eight months.

“A project of this size and scale should take up to two years, but we knew that supplying housing to the local community was a major priority, so we worked hard to meet this super-tight deadline.”

Uniting Church Australia Queensland Synod Moderator Rev Bruce Moore said it was important to provide affordable homes for families.

“The Thursday Island community is remarkable, and we give thanks to them and the Torres Strait Thursday Island Uniting Church congregation for their commitment and partnership,”

he said.

“Projects like this cannot be delivered in remote locations like Thursday Island without the collaboration between the Queensland Government, the local community including the Uniting Church and private enterprise.

“We thank all of the stakeholders who have helped bring this project to life as we work towards supporting the close-knit community of Thursday Island.

“These homes are incredible and built specifically for our community’s needs and the quality finishes provide a homely welcome for each of the tenants.”

Island Stars at the 2024 MTN Oz Jam

Off-Season Hours

Island Stars boys open the 2024 MTN Oz Jam.

M From PAGES 1 & 2.

2. ABOVE & BELOW: Vinh at

1 November 2024 – 30 April 2025

the Australian Redbull BCONE 2023 performing in the Salty Monkeys shirt. Pics supplied.

8am to 5pm

Island Stars boys with Bernat & Vinh from MTN Colours Australia.

NEWS 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024

TN0966 05/12/24

16x2 _____ Excel E DummyIPA E AdsIn E Vessel wreckage removed from Ugul Malu Kawa

Torres News

Only 2 more papers until

Christmas!

Next issue – Thursday, 12 Dec. Last issue 2024 – Thursday, 19 Dec.

Kuiku Mabaigal Rangers, Land and Sea Management staff and videographer Create on an Ugul Malu Kawal IPA vessel survey trip earlier this year. Pics supplied.

After nearly a decade of failed attempts, the wreckage of the vessel MV Reef Connection has finally been removed from Warul Kawa (Deliverance Island), a significant site within the Ugul Malu Kawa Indigenous Protected Area (IPA).

The milestone was achieved through a unique collaboration founded on respect and adherence to strict cultural protocols.

The vessel capsized in 2015 and, despite multiple removal attempts by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), its presence posed ongoing risks to local wildlife and ecosystems.

The latest attempt

was guided by the Kuiku Mabaigal (Cultural Authority) and the active involvement of Traditional Owners and Rangers from the five connected communities of Boigu, Saibai, Dauan, Badua and Mabuiag.

Before the removal, the Kuiku Mabaigal performed a traditional cultural ceremony, seeking the approval and protection of their ancestors to ensure the safety and integrity of the operation.

Removal company Carpentaria Contracting worked under the close supervision of Kuiku Mabaigal representatives and Rangers, including three original passengers from the 2015 incident.

Malu Kiai Senior Ranger Nelson Gibuma,

one of the vessel’s passengers, expressed his deep relief.

“I am very happy, I feel good,” he said.

“I’m glad they took the boat off of Warul Kawa.”

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said it was a significant collaborative effort for cultural and environmental preservation.

“The successful removal of the vessel is a testament to the strength of our cultural practices and the importance of partnerships,” he said.

“By working together and respecting cultural protocols, we’ve been able to restore Warul Kawa’s natural and cultural heritage,

ensuring it remains a place of significance for future generations.”

This operation restored Warul Kawa and served as a model for integrating cultural practices into broader environmental management efforts, demonstrating that cultural alignment can lead to successful outcomes.

The operation finished with a closing ceremony, reaffirming the cultural significance of Warul Kawa and honouring the ancestors.

Looking ahead, the Ugul Malu Kawa IPA remained committed to ongoing cultural and environmental management.

As part of this

Kuiku Mabaigal ranger Ishmael Gibuma from Boigu, Malu Kiai Senior Ranger Nelson Gibuma and Simakal Ranger Laurie Elisala, all passengers of MV Reef Connection, observe the removal of the vessel wreckage.

commitment, results from the November 2024 monitoring of invasive black rats on Warul Kawa will be shared with Traditional Owner families in early 2025, to develop an education project.

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First issue 2025 – Thursday, 16 January Ad booking & copy deadline: 4pm Mon, 13 Jan. Ready set material deadline: 12 noon Tue, 14 Jan.

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06 NEWS

THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Dengue alert for Erub (Darnley) Health authorities are warning all Torres Strait Island residents to be on alert for mosquito-borne diseases, with dengue fever virus continuing to occur across the region.

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service Public Health Medical Officer Dr Allison Hempenstall said a new, locallyacquired case of dengue fever had been identified on Erub (Darnley) Island.

Erub was the fourth island to experience dengue outbreaks so far this year, following previous outbreaks on Mer and Warraber islands in May and June, followed by Masig Island just last month.

Excluding the latest case on Erub and possible suspected cases, 53 cases of dengue fever have already been recorded in the Torres Strait region so far this year.

The last previous dengue fever case across the entire health service region, including Cape York and the Northern Peninsula Area, was in 2019 when just one case was recorded.

“It’s obvious from the number of cases that the dengue fever virus is present in mosquito populations right across the Torres Strait and residents need to be very mindful of this going forward,’’ Dr Hempenstall said.

She said a mosquito control team and public health staff went to Erub Island yesterday to help oversee mosquito control measures, identify further cases, and deliver information to residents about mosquito-borne diseases and how to minimise risk and check for any further cases.

The teams were working with Torres Strait Island Regional Council representatives on Erub and a community meeting was held.

New green fleet machinery for outer islands

Henry Dorante, Eliab Dai, Aken Baragud, Ray Nona, Lui Marama, Wilford Anau, Charlie Sagigi and Albert Mosby. Pic supplied.

Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC), working with local Kubota supplier GR8 Northern AG and Kubota representatives, has unveiled an array of newly purchased green fleet machinery, which will be utilised across the outer islands in the coming weeks and months.

The purchase of the new fleet was TSIRC’s highest-ever single spend on such a fleet and highlighted the Council’s commitment to ensuring the comfortability and quality of life of locals across its outer island communities.

TSIRC CEO James William

said Council continued to deliver on its mission to improve residents’ general liveability with this pivotal, record investment in key assets, that will hold the Council’s 15 unique, outer island communities in good stead for many years to come.

“TSIRC has made this record investment as part of the Asset Management Plan (AMP) to replace the majority of assets, as 15 of the current divisions are nearing the end of their lifecycle,” he said.

“The green fleet is considered essential for maintaining critical infrastructure, including airstrips, water supply systems,

and other key facilities that are vital for supporting the community’s well-being and operational readiness on-site.

“As part of the green fleet, the primary focus will be to support the maintenance of airstrips, waterways and water plantations, and to manage vegetation to mitigate fire risk by controlling general greenery levels.

“A total of 21 assets have been ordered, with the first asset already delivered to site.

“Several additional units are currently being constructed and established in Cairns, with plans to ship them north in the coming weeks.”

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08 NEWS

THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Heads of Agreement signed to help ‘Close the Gap’ in Torres Strait and NPA communities Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) and the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) have signed a Heads of Agreement (HoA) to reaffirm their shared commitment to improving social (including nutritional health), economic and environmental outcomes for Torres Strait Islander and Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) people.

The historic four-year agreement outlined a collaborative framework for addressing key challenges, including employment opportunities, renewable energy transitions and the promotion of healthy lifestyles. It also prioritised the cultural protection and preservation essential to these special places.

The agreement underscored a joint obligation to Close the Gap through innovative strategies, engagement with First Nations

peoples, and sustainable community development initiatives.

Key objectives of the HoA include: • Strategic collaboration: Jointly addressing challenges across cultural, environmental, social, economic and governance guidelines to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.

• Employment and career opportunities: Developing pathways to create sustainable careers for local people, supported by strategic investments and partnerships.

• Renewable energy and sustainability: Reducing reliance on diesel power, improving water use efficiency, and supporting the transition to renewable energy.

• Healthy lifestyle promotion: Leveraging combined resources to deliver

CEQ and TSRA Chairs Napau Pedro Stephen and Joann Schmider (seated) with their respective board members at the signing of the Heads of Agreement. Pic supplied. equitable access to nutritious food, community health education and preventive health initiatives.

CEQ Chair Joann Schmider said the agreement was a significant milestone for the organisation’s vision

of Caring, Every Day, Always.

“This new partnership reflects a Board to Board strategic commitment for the organisations to collaborate on the matters that matter most to the people who live here,” Ms Schmider said.

“Sharing our effort

on where we align on cultural preservation, economic development and sustainable practices enables us to together better deliver impactful outcomes that benefit communities now and into the future.

“Together, we can take bolder steps to

ensure equitable access to opportunities and resources for all.”

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen said the HoA held the potential to better foster long-term community benefits.

“This partnership is a vital step towards closing

the gap in outcomes for Torres Strait and NPA communities,” Mr Stephen said.

“TSRA aims to ensure our communities thrive by creating new economic opportunities, promoting healthier living, and preserving our cultural heritage.

“CEQ shares this vision, and by working together in partnership where our goals align, we are building even stronger foundations for our Torres Strait and children, families, and Elders.”

The agreement complemented key strategic plans, including the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Plan (2009– 2029), TSRA’s Torres Strait Development Plan (2023–2028) and the CEQ Strategic Plan 2023-2027.

The initial term of the HoA runs until 30 June 2027, with provisions for review and extension.

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NEWS 09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024

First Nations Media converges in Canberra Amplifying the voices, stories and cultural narratives, First Nations Media Australia’s (FNMA’s) annual 2024 CONVERGE media summit was held in Canberra last month.

Torres Strait Islander Media Association (TSIMA) CEO Diat Alferink said the First Nations Media industry played an essential role in communities across Australia.

“CONVERGE is a worthwhile opportunity annually to meet with media industry peers, supporters and key stakeholders towards strengthening our Indigenous media sector, in particular representing Torres Strait Media voices at the table,” she said. “A highlight was focusing on digital inclusion in our remote regional communities which is vital to our media work here in the Torres Strait.”

TSIMA Senior Content Producer Sylvia Tabua said it was an opportunity.

“We had the opportunity to showcase some of the media work we have been doing,” she said.

“We presented a coproduced film End of the Line featuring the Royal

Melbourne Insitute of Technology (RMIT) and local co-researchers Lala Gutchen and Nixon Mye.” The First Nations Media Awards were presented at the summit’s Gala Dinner where Ngarralinyi Radio won the Outstanding Contributor Award for making a significant impact through its contributions to community development, leadership, and technical innovation.

Dre Ngatokorua won the Community Leadership Award for being an active media practitioner whose dedication and work strengthened their organisation and community.

The Lifetime Achievement Award, which acknowledged decades of dedication to the advancement of Indigenous media, went to Umeewarra Aboriginal Media CEO Vince Coulthard for playing a pivotal role in shaping the national First Nations media landscape and leaving an indelible legacy of leadership, advocacy, and cultural preservation.

Orlando Rubuntja received the Young Leaders Award in recognition of his hard work, creativity, and dedication.

Karen Paterson, Danielle Ahboo, Diat Alferink, Miriam Corowa & Sylvia Tabua. Pics supplied.

ABOVE LEFT: TSIMA’s Diat Alferink speaking at the summit. ABOVE RIGHT: The Koori Mail team at CONVERGE.

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10 NEWS HAVE YOUR SAY Cum youmi tok por shape eh youmi future

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

Path to Treaty repeal brings disappointment The Queensland government’s decision to repeal the Path to Treaty Act 2023 and terminate the Truth-Telling and Healing Inquiry has drawn widespread condemnation from Indigenous leaders, advocacy groups, unions, and federal representatives.

The repeal was passed late at night as part of an amendment to Olympic legislation and marked the Crisafulli government’s first major legislative action.

It has been described as ‘disrespectful’ and ‘damaging’.

National Criticism

XTREMECARE AUSTRALIA ‘THE FNQ’S LEADING NDIS PROVIDER’ Xtremecare Australia offers NDIS Support Coordination and Plan Management services in the Torres Straits (including Outer Islands) and NPA communities.

Do you live in the NPA or Torres Strait Region and want Xtremecare to be your Support Coordinator or Plan Manager?

Visit our Thursday Island office or phone us on 07 5514 6500.

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The Board, CEO and Staff of Mura Kosker Sorority wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

MURA KOSKER SORORITY CHRISTMAS CLOSURE Date Wednesday, 25th December 2024 until Wednesday, 1st January 2025

Office Hours

On call emergency numbers: 0472 747 347 or 0474 028 348 All Offices & Outreach Centres: Closed

If you are experiencing an emergency or any life-threatening situation, please contact “000” as well as the useful numbers below: DV Connect Womensline

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THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndirri McCarthy joined a chorus of disapproval which highlighted a missed opportunity for truth-telling.

“The Inquiry, led by Commissioner Joshua Creamer, was giving First Nations people an important opportunity to tell their stories and their truth to their fellow Queenslanders,” she said.

“The Queensland LNP Government’s decision to repeal legislation to shut down the state’s Truth-telling and Healing Inquiry – which was decades in the making – is deeply disappointing.”

She said she was heartened to see the Cherbourg community and Elders, who had already started the process of preparing for the Inquiry, hold their own truth-telling event.

“The ceasing of the Truth-telling and Healing Inquiry has caused uncertainty and fear in Cherbourg, and our community is going to do something about it,” the Cherbourg Council said.

Minister McCarthy said she was moved to see what Cherbourg had done.

“While I am disappointed by this week’s developments, I have been moved to see elders in Cherbourg sharing their confronting testimonies, supported by their wider local community,” she said.

“This is the power

Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndirri McCarthy. Pics supplied.

Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council (QAIHC) chair Matthew Cooke. of truth-telling – it unites communities and brings us closer to reconciliation.

“I commend Cherbourg elders for their courage and determination as they reclaim the truth-telling process for their community’s healing, and I hope it gives strength to other communities to follow.”

Local and Community Reactions Truth-telling and Healing Inquiry Chair Joshua Creamer said he was frustrated by the government’s approach.

He said the repeal was “an extraordinary act in Parliament” and criticised the lack of consultation – neither the Premier David Crisafulli nor the Minister Fiona Simpson had engaged with the Inquiry before repealing the legislation.

“This government has lost trust in the

community,” he said.

“There’s been a lot of support and the government certainly has no interest in listening.

“I think the ability of this inquiry to exert our independence, to do the work that we thought was in the public interest and prioritising the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, was perceived by them to be a threat.”

The Independent Education Union (IEU-QNT) and The Healing Foundation also condemned the repeal.

IEU-QNT Branch Secretary Terry Burke labelled the decision “a shameful day” for Queensland and accused the government of undermining reconciliation efforts.

“The Crisafulli government has continued to show its absolute disrespect to Queensland’s First

Nations Peoples and communities in using the first day in Parliament to repeal this important process,” he said.

The Healing Foundation said the shutdown would have a devastating impact on Stolen Generations survivors and described the move as an “affront to their healing and dignity”.

“Denying survivors the opportunity to share their stories as part of their individual and community healing is hurtful and divisive,” The Healing Foundation chair Professor Steve Larkin said.

“For true understanding and action to address the needs of survivors all Australians need to know the truth of our history, which includes the ongoing impacts of colonisation on our people.”

Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council (QAIHC) chair Matthew Cooke said they also recognised the deep hurt and disappointment Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people felt.

“On the back of the failed Voice referendum, the decision to repeal the Path to Treaty Act will be a bitter pill to swallow for our people,” he said.

“But let’s be clear: successive governments have failed to engage effectively with issues of constitutional and legal recognition.

“Had the Palaszczuk and Miles Labor Governments been serious about the Path to Treaty, the now-repealed Act would have been enacted as a priority early in their term of office.

“We can’t now rage at Premier Crisafulli for honouring an election commitment. We will be pragmatic.

“QAIHC is prepared to work with Minister Simpson, Minister [Tim] Nicholls and, indeed, the Premier, to identify and implement practical local reforms that will improve the health and well-being of Indigenous Queenslanders.”

Continued P11 N

TN0859. Trinity Monuments - FN EGN:

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024

NEWS 11

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Jack Wilke-Jans. Pics supplied.

Thursday Island Neighbourhood Community Centre Truth-Telling and Healing Inquiry Commissioner Joshua Creamer.

M Continued from P10 Government Justification and Criticism The Crisafulli government defended the repeal and said funds previously allocated to the Inquiry would be redirected toward practical outcomes in housing, health, and education for Indigenous communities.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Minister Fiona Simpson said their position was clear.

“Our commitment to delivering better health, housing and education outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders has been clear and our Government looks forward to working in partnership with local communities to redirect funding into projects and programs that will be measurable and align with improving the lives of Indigenous Queenslanders,” she said.

“Indigenous

Queenslanders have been failed over a long period of time and we must take tangible steps now to improve that situation.”

She said the Inquiry had become a costly legal exercise, with nearly half its budget spent on legal fees.

“The Truth-telling and Healing Inquiry was never supposed to be a legalistic venture, yet in just four months, $1.45 million was spent on Member remuneration, legal counsel, legal staff, and other legal costs,” Minister Simpson said.

“Forty-eight per cent of the total expenditure from its establishment to date was spent on legal costs, which is money that should be invested in local communities, not lawyers in Brisbane.”

Critics also said the repeal had bypassed standard parliamentary scrutiny after it was passed without committee review.

Historical and Broader Implications The repeal rekindled

calls for Queensland to confront its historical injustices.

“In 1963, the Nicklin Government forced my people from our homes in the dead of night, at gunpoint and loaded us onto waiting barges while the loathsome Pat Killoran watched on aboard a yacht as the police set fire to our homes,” Jack Wilke-Jans said.

“We have never received a formal Parliamentary Apology for that atrocity, which happened so recently – within living memory.”

He said the truth-telling inquiry would have unearthed “hundreds of years of violence and terror”.

A Resilient Response Despite the setback, leaders remained hopeful.

“This is a setback, but it won’t define us,” Mr Creamer said.

“The truth of our history and the strength of our communities will endure.”

SEEKING EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING SERVICES Mura Kosker Sorority (MKS) invites suitably qualified Cleaners to submit their Expression of Interest (EOI) to maintain the building and surrounding areas of Buai Mudh, the Thursday Island Neighbourhood Community Centre.

MKS is responsible for the care of the facility, located at 156 Douglas Street, Thursday Island, and is seeking a reliable and efficient Cleaner to manage the daily and weekly cleaning and maintenance of both internal and external areas.

Eligibility requirements* Must be legally able to operate and work in Australia Must provide and use their own cleaning equipment and supplies *First Nations Cleaners highly favourable

Applications Close: 4pm, Thursday 19th Dec 2024

For more information and to submit an Expression of Interest Feel free to contact our office 07 4069 1663 Lisa.Eaton@murakosker.org.au and ask to speak to Lisa Eaton for a yarn about the opportunity @MuraKosker 99 Douglas Street Thursday Island QLD 4875 or to receive an EOI Form.

12 NEWS

THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Celebrations of leadership and legacy: TSRA farewells board members and chair, Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM A special farewell reception at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre on Thursday Island has honoured outgoing TSRA Board Members and Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM, celebrating their remarkable contributions to advancing the economic development, cultural heritage, and well-being of the Torres Strait region.

TSRA Acting CEO Charlie Kaddy reflected on the significance of the occasion and said Mr Stephen’s unwavering commitment to the Torres Strait’s economic, cultural, and social advancement was an inspiration not just to TSRA, but the entire region.

“His ability to lead with integrity, vision, and humility has been a guiding light and we will carry forward the values he has instilled in us as we continue our work to empower communities and preserve our rich cultural heritage,” he said.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Key to the City by Mayor Elsie Seriat, on behalf of the Torres Shire Council to Mr Stephen.

It was the first honour of its kind to be presented by the Council in recognition of Mr Stephen’s extraordinary dedication to the region over four decades.

In further recognition of his

TSRA’s outgoing Board Members and Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM with the Keys to the City gifted by the Torres Shire Council.

Pic supplied. lifelong commitment to nurturing leadership within Torres Strait and Aboriginal communities, the Torres Shire Council also announced the establishment of the Napau Pedro Stephen Leadership Scholarship.

The initiative reflected Mr Stephen’s belief in the importance of empowering young leaders to shape a vibrant future for the region.

In his farewell remarks, Mr Stephen said, “as I reflect on my

journey, I am filled with gratitude for the trust and support of our communities”.

“The strength of our people and our enduring culture will always guide our path forward,” he said.

“To the next generation of leaders, I encourage you to hold fast to your faith in times of doubt and darkness.

“It is in these moments that we find our greatest strength. Together,

we can continue building a future that honours yumi people.”

The farewell reception marked the conclusion of the TSRA Board’s four-year term.

TSRA acknowledged the Board Members’ dedication to driving meaningful change, empowering communities, and fostering sustainable economic growth.

Their collective efforts were vital in preserving the region’s rich

cultural identity and ensuring its resilience.

As TSRA prepared for the next chapter, staff extended their deepest gratitude to Mr Stephen and the outgoing Board Members for their leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to the Torres Strait.

They said their legacies would continue to guide TSRA’s mission to achieve a thriving, sustainable future for the region.

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

NEWS 13

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024

Under 16s to be banned from social media sites Legislation that sets a minimum age of 16 years for social media websites was passed by the Federal Government into law last Friday.

The Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Bill 2024 was described as a landmark measure that would deliver greater protections for young Australians during critical stages of their development.

The minimum age applied to ‘age-restricted social media platforms’ as defined in the bill, which included Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, X and others.

The bill ensured the law was responsive to the ever-evolving nature of technology while enabling continued access to messaging, online gaming, and services and apps that were primarily for education and health support, such as Headspace, Kids Helpline, Google Classroom and YouTube.

The laws also placed

the onus on social media platforms – not young people or their parents – to take reasonable steps to prevent Australians under 16 years of age from having those accounts and ensured systemic breaches would see platforms face fines of up to $49.5 million.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said they had passed the legislation “to keep our kids safe online”.

“Social media is doing social harm to our kids,” he said.

“We’ve called time on it.

“We want our kids to have a childhood and parents to know we have their backs.”

Latrobe University IT and education specialist Professor Therese Keane said the new law was ‘encouraging’.

“Social media is affecting our children in so many ways, from self-esteem issues to an inability to interact in person, through to misinformation, harmful content and dangerous TikTok challenges,”

Photo by Viktor Hanacek from picjumbo. com

she said.

“Social media companies cannot and will not self-regulate their platforms.

“It is a very encouraging and brave step the government has made to take control.

“Social media companies have been given ample opportunities to address these issues, but it is not in their best interests to do so.

“These companies need to face the reality that their products have a negative impact on children.”

Minister for Communications

X

Michelle Rowland said they were committed.

“We’ve listened to young people, parents and carers, experts and industry in developing these landmark laws to ensure they are centred on protecting young people – not isolating them,” she said.

“Good government is about facing up to difficult reform – we know these laws are novel, but to do nothing is simply not an option.

“Over the next 12 months, we’ll work closely with industry and experts to ensure the minimum age is effectively implemented,

informed by the findings of the Age Assurance Technology Trial currently underway.”

Digital Education director and Pedagogy & Education Futures lecturer Dr Alexia Maddox said the research community was divided on the issue.

“While protecting young people online is crucial, recent evidence suggests the relationship between social media use and youth mental health is more complex than public discourse suggests,” she said.

“The research community is divided on this issue. Some experts

advocate for access restrictions, while others emphasise digital rights and the importance of developing online resilience.

“What’s clear is that blanket bans may create unintended consequences, potentially driving young people to less regulated spaces or cutting them off from valuable support networks.

“Rather than rushed legislation, we need evidence-based policy that addresses platform design, improves digital literacy and creates safer online environments for all users.”

The government said the bill contained strong privacy provisions, with platforms required to ring-fence and destroy any data collected once it has been used for age assurance purposes.

Failure to destroy data would be a breach of the Privacy Act, with penalties of up to $49.5 million.

No Australian would be compelled to use government identification (including

Digital ID) for age assurance on social media.

Platforms were obliged to offer reasonable alternatives to users.

The bill was designed after extensive consultation with young Australians, parents, experts, industry, community organisations and the National Cabinet and built on broader efforts by the Government to hold platforms to account for ensuring the safety of their users.

It was also expected to assist in accelerating action to end genderbased violence in a generation and in the implementation of the National Plan to End Violence against Women & Children 2022-2032.

The new laws will come into effect no later than 12 months from the passage of the bill, allowing the necessary time for social media platforms to develop and implement the required systems.

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14

THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

YUMI College News

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

Executive Message Jeff Jones, Executive Principal

Right across our 17 campuses we have had celebrations of student achievement as we finalised our school year for 2024. End of the year celebrations are a wonderful mixture of joy and trepidation.

The joy of recognition of student efforts and success mixed with knowledge that from our primary campuses, a journey has come to an end and a new one begins next year.

Yolanda McLean, Head of School Maths Champions Lead the Way in 2025 The Tagai Maths Champions recently attended a dynamic 3-day Professional Development session in Brisbane, focusing on multi-level planning, assessment strategies, and hands-on approaches to teaching mathematics. We had the privilege of attending presentations by Dr. Jodie Miller and Dr Eva Da Vries, whose passion for mathematics education shone through in their engaging and insightful sessions.

A highlight of the visit was a visit to Durack State School, where our staff had the opportunity to observe engaging mathematics rotations across four classrooms. A huge thank you to the Durack staff for their warm welcome and for hosting such an inspiring day. It is fair to say the Maths Champions left feeling energized and equipped with new ideas to bring back to our college! In 2025 your campus Maths Champion will be able to support you in transitioning to version 9 of the math curriculum. This support will include, setting up your numeracy block, support in implementing the unit plans, helping with hands on teaching activities, and being the SEESAW guru at your school.

The Maths Champions are eager to share their insights and foster a culture of excellence in mathematics across our college. A big shout-out to Kate Leggo for coordinating this valuable training, which will play a key role in supporting the 2025 implementation of Version 9 of the maths curriculum. This initiative will enhance how we teach, assess, and report on student performance in mathematics, ensuring a stronger future for maths education at Tagai.

A huge congratulations to our Year 6 students who have now completed their primary education and over the summer, move onto preparing for the transition from being the ‘big kids’ on campus to becoming the youngest members of their high schools next year. For our students who are moving off their islands to either board or stay with family in order to access secondary school, the college staff are united in our delight and best wishes for each of our 2024 graduates in the next step of their formal education.

At the awards and graduation events, community pride and connection are more than evident.

Our Heads of Campus really rely on their P&C, TSIREC member and parents to get behind these celebratory events and from all reports each school site was beautifully decorated and all the students were fabulously dressed. The cakes were a huge focus of everyone’s attention too!

I had the privilege of attending a couple of these events and the positive community spirit at each of these was obvious. None of these occasions occur without the time and energy given by the volunteers from across each community and it’s great when we can recognise them too.

Erub’s recognition of their supporters was a great testament to the many people who work tirelessly to support their school and this is no doubt reflected across all of our campuses.

YDMS October 2025 Recently the first official meeting of the YDMS 60th Anniversary committee was held to begin planning for the historic event in October of next year.

Rejuvenating a much valued and fondly remembered multiple island competition that began in 1965, the proposed event next year is being strongly support by the four island campuses of Masig Muysaw Ngurpay Lag (Yorke), Erub Erwer Uteb (Darnley), Mer Eruer Uteb (Murray) and Ugar Eruer Uteb (Stephen). There will be a great deal more information about tis during the course of next year.

Finally, I would like to wish all of our communities, staff and students a safe and holy festive season and I look forward to continuing to connect with everyone during 2025.

15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024

Warraber

Celebrating Our Graduates!

Congratulations to our amazing 2024 Warraber Ngurpay Lag Kindergarten students!

Head of Campus Natalie Van Vyl

Today, we celebrated a significant milestone at their graduation ceremony, marking the end of a wonderful journey and the beginning of new adventures. We are so proud of each and every one of you!

Ngurpay Lag

Term 3 Attendance - 57 Students Enrolled Current

78% (43 students)

Target Goal

90% (52 students daily)

As our students step into this exciting new chapter, we wish them all the success and joy that comes with learning and growing. Here’s to new adventures ahead!

Academic Awards Ceremony Tuesday 26 November, Warraber Ngurpay Lag proudly hosted its Academic Awards Ceremony, a significant event aimed at celebrating the remarkable achievements of our students. This ceremony served as a platform to highlight the hard work, dedication, and progress made by students across various academic disciplines, fostering a strong sense of pride and accomplishment within our school community.

The event saw families, teachers, and community members come together to applaud the successes of our students.

Their presence created an atmosphere of joy and celebration, making the occasion truly memorable for everyone involved. We are immensely proud of our students and their accomplishments, and we look forward to continuing to support their academic journeys in the future. Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to this special event!

cultivate our green oasis!

Erub Ngurpay Mudh

Kindy News We are excited to share that our Kindy Open Day on Friday 22 November, was a tremendous success! Our new kindy kids were warmly welcomed and supported by our dedicated staff, families, and the older kindy kids.

Head of Campus Kym Kocsis Term 3 Attendance - 54 Students Enrolled Current

72% (39 students)

Target Goal

90% (48 students daily)

Literacy & Maths We are thrilled to share some exciting updates regarding our students’ progress! Our data indicates a significant improvement in literacy, particularly in spelling, for our upper-grade students. This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of both our educators and students.

Exciting updates from Erub Garden!

Tuesday 26 November, we celebrated a momentous occasion with our Graduation Class of 2024 for Kindergarten! It was a joyful day as we honoured seven remarkable students who have completed this important milestone in their educational journey.

In addition to our literacy advancements, we have been implementing the ‘Minds on – Hands on’ approach to mathematics.

This innovative method encourages students to engage deeply with mathematical concepts, fostering a better understanding of the material.

We recently observed this in action with Mrs. Ketchell and our PES class, where students were actively participating and learning in a dynamic environment.

A special shoutout goes to Mrs. Sabrina Tylor, Ms. Kathleen Ketchell, and Mrs. Lucy Ketchell for their outstanding efforts in making the day memorable for everyone involved. Thank you all for your participation and support!

Gardening activities are in full swing as we prepare for next year’s bounty. Our dedicated students and Rangers have successfully planted sweet potatoes, while our talented Groundsman, Mr. Pau, has nurtured a variety of seedlings, including our adorable papaya babies. Stay tuned for more progress as we

16 ART & NEWS

THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Dare to Dream set to tour again in 2025

Actor Shahnee Hunter playing Djirra in I Gut This Feeling. Pic supplied.

JUTE Theatre Company’s awardstudents,” she said. winning First Nations residency “Dare to Dream’s short plays program, Dare to Dream, will hit the all feature topical themes, both road again in 2025, bound for five challenging and light-hearted, to remote communities across Cape deliver powerful messages in dynamic York with its two-hander touring and ingenious ways. show, I Gut This Feeling.

“The rapport in the theatre The 2025 Dare to Dream tour of I workshops is genuine and Gut This Feeling will deliver a fourtransformative for young people day, in-school workshop residency for who may never have had this type Year 4 to Year 9 students at each stop of experience in remote and isolated along the way. communities.

Addressing the sensitive issue of “JUTE is incredibly proud of Dare childhood trauma, the cultural and to Dream for the way it uses a creative age-appropriate program has been platform of theatre to propel powerful designed to promote early intervention and support networks for at-risk young messages that culturally resonate with First Nations communities. people.

“It starts with engagement, then Through theatre-based activities, comes the enlightenment and finally, young people learn various skills to empowerment. benefit their personal and community “To witness this learning transition health and well-being. experienced by children across our JUTE Theatre Company’s First region is truly humbling.”

Nations Creative Producer Monica Stevens said Dare to Dream broke Dare to Dream will visit five from the convention of passive social regional and remote communities teaching methods to thoroughly engage during May and June in 2025.

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TN0755

Bai Wareed Tapau with her carer - bound to stay in Townsville instead of heading home for Xmas.

Disabled passengers still grounded from outer islands STORY AND PICS

BY ALF WILSON Disabled Torres Strait Islanders living around North Queensland confined to wheelchairs are unable to visit their home islands over Christmas due to the unavailability of suitable air transport.

They could travel from Townsville or Cairns to Horn Island on Qantas flights but have found they can’t get to islands other than Waiben because there were no flights to cater for wheelchairs.

Two in this category were Townsville residents Walter Nai from Masig and Bai Wareed

Tapau, who grew up on Mer. Quadriplegic Walter has lived in Townsville since 2012 after a car accident on Masig confined him to a wheelchair and changed his life dramatically.

Walter said he had relatives on Warraber and Waiben and would have dearly loved to visit family on Masig over the festive season.

“But there are no suitable flights which can take my wheelchair,” he said.

Proud of her Torres Strait heritage, Townsville-based Bai was raised on Mer Island where she learnt to be a talented artist.

Bai, 49, was a thalidomide baby born with two short arms and would have loved to travel to Mer for the Christmas period to

be with family and friends.

“There are no suitable flights with wheelchair access to get from Horn Island to Mer or any of the other islands,” she said.

“It is too dangerous to be picked up with your wheelchair in a dinghy at Horn and taken to those islands.

“You can get a charter flight, but the cost is out of range as most disabled people are on pensions.”

She said another option, for those who could afford it, was to charter a helicopter.

Bai said she was concerned there may be other disabled Torres Strait people living on the mainland in similar circumstances.

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Disappointed: disabled Walter Nai is also unable to return to his ailan home.

NEWS 17

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024

‘Devine’ Xmas performance excites kindy and prep kids Kindy and Prep Montessori children performed Wombat Devine in an evening performance last week, with several special Christmas guests in attendance.

The nights performance began with Strait Start 0-3 years and songs.

The community shared kai kai and some Christmas spirit as Santa joined the event, riding in on a Dinghy and giving out presents.

Pics by Diat Alferink.

Monthly Winner November 2024

The winner of the November 2024 Ailan Life photo competition is Emerson Warden – Congratulations Emerson.

“A pic taken using my drone of the cruise ship Le Soleal with Thursday Island in the background – Enjoying a morning on the calm water,” Emerson said.

Photo Competition

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

IBIS Store Manager Colinda Perry, left, with Emerson Warden with his $150 gift voucher. Pic Leilani Lewin.

18 NEWS

THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

Lilly enjoys Cardwell servo promotion STORY & PIC ALF WILSON Waiben-born and proud Moa Islander Lilly Bosen (pictured) has been promoted from kitchen hand and cook to assistant manager at one of North Queensland’s busiest roadhouses in Cardwell, south of Cairns.

Three weeks ago, Lilly took on her new role at the busy Choice Puma Roadhouse.

“I started here as a kitchen hand and later a cook after moving to Cardwell nine years ago and love it,’ Lilly said.

The roadhouse employed

15 staff and Lilly was a ‘Jill of all trades’ there doing various duties.

She said she has a large number of family and friends

at Kubin, on Moa, as well as many other islands.

“I am from a very big Torres Strait family with relatives on most islands and keep in touch with a lot of them,” she said.

She said there was also a small community of Torres Strait Islanders living in Cardwell.

“They are mainly from Dauan and Boigu, and some work at the sea farm,’ she said.

She said a lot of people stopped there as well.

“They travel between Townsville and Cairns by road, some come down from

TN0461 • 28-11-24

the islands for events and stop here,” she said.

“It is always good to see them.”

That was especially the case during the NRL football season when many football fans travelled to Townsville for Cowboys and NRLW home games.

“I also try and get down to Townsville for Cowboys matches,” she said.

With Cardwell being next to the sea, Lilly also enjoyed a spot of fishing when she could.

“I also go to Mission Beach fishing at times,” she said.

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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

members can travel if space

ĞƉĂƌƚ dŚƵƌƐĚĂLJ /ƐůĂŶĚ ĞƉĂƌƚ ,ĂŵŵŽŶĚ /ƐůĂŶĚ 6.40am (Departs Rebel Wharf) ***Bookings essential 7.05am (Arrives Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY permits.

DŽŶĚĂLJͲ&ƌŝĚĂLJ DŽŶĚĂLJͲ&ƌŝĚĂLJ 7.25am (Departs Engineers Wharf) 7.45am (Arrives Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY Please call or email for any

queries. This service does not

ϲ͘ϰϬĂŵ ; ĞƉĂƌƚ Z > tŚĂƌĨͿΎΎΎ ŽŽŬŝŶŐƐ ^^ Ed/ >ΎΎΎ ϳ͘ϬϱĂŵ ; ƌƌŝǀĞ ŶŐŝŶĞĞƌƐ tŚĂƌĨͿ ^ ,KK> & ZZz 3.20pm (Departs Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY 3.35pm (Arrives Engineers Wharf) operate on public holidays, ϳ͘ϮϱĂŵ ; ĞƉƚ ŶŐŝŶĞĞƌƐ tŚĂƌĨͿ ϳ͘ϰϱĂŵ ; ƌƌŝǀĞ ŶŐŝŶĞĞƌƐ tŚĂƌĨͿ ^ ,KK> & ZZz 3.55pm (Departs Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY school holidays or weekends.

ϯ͘ϮϬƉŵ ; ĞƉĂƌƚ ŶŐŝŶĞĞƌƐ tŚĂƌĨͿ ^ ,KK> & ZZz ϯ͘ϯϱƉŵ ; ƌƌŝǀĞƐ ŶŐŝŶĞĞƌƐ tŚĂƌĨͿ P J 07 4069 1586 • F J 07 4069 1408 • E J info@rebeltours.com.au • W J www.rebeltours.com.au ϯ͘ϱϱƉŵ ; ĞƉĂƌƚ ŶŐŝŶĞĞƌƐ tŚĂƌĨͿ ^ ,KK> & ZZz

• 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.

TSIRC Annual Report published Torres Strait Island Regional Council adopted its Annual Report for the 2023/24 financial year last month, highlighting the organisation’s steadfast, ongoing commitment to continuing to deliver for its 15 outer island communities.

They said the report revealed a host of achievements and activities aligned with Council’s vision of autonomy, prosperity and sustainability for Council and communities across the region.

“This annual report highlights our progress in implementing the corporate and operational plans and showcases the dedication of everyone involved in delivering positive outcomes for our communities,” TSIRC CEO James William said.

“Our Mayor, Councillors, Executive Directors and Council staff have played a critical role in advancing the region’s development.

“Their contributions have improved the lives of our communities and I sincerely thank them for their vision and commitment.”

TSIRC Mayor Phillemon Mosby said Council would continue to advocate the State and Federal Governments for funding for improved healthcare and increased Government investment to make housing, education, employment, transportation, digital connectivity and local industries more accessible, affordable and sustainable across the region.

Key outcomes noted over the past 12 months included:  The success of the

Badu Safe and Healthy Housing Program, which centred on key communication and collaboration to educate local families on the importance of home maintenance and its direct link to health;  Attaining a $40M funding boost, which will assist in marine infrastructure upgrades by replacing three aging jetties with new, modern, fit-for-purpose facilities;  The ongoing dissemination of close to $400,000 of community grants monies to assist with social, cultural, sporting and recreational activities within communities;  Key advancements in infrastructure include the completion of coastal inundation mitigation projects, works under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) Program and upgrades to the Warraber Island sewer pump station and Badu and Mabuiag water network.  Crucial improvements in technology with Council successfully rolling out community Wi-Fi on Kirirri, Masig, Erub and Kubin. Council also worked with Telstra to address 4G blackspots, which improved connectivity across the region; The report included a Community Financial Report which reflected Council’s financial performance during the 2023/24 and highlighted its commitment to enhancing financial sustainability.

The annual 2023/24 annual report can be accessed here: https://

www.tsirc.qld.gov. au/your-council/ publications/annualreports.

NEWS 19

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024

Racing against time for the ‘endangered’ sawfish

Forty years ago, sawfish were regularly spotted in Australia’s tropical and subtropical waters, as far south as Sydney Harbour.

However, in December last year, four out of the five sawfish species – Freshwater sawfish, Narrow sawfish, Dwarf sawfish and Green sawfish – were listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN’s) Red List as ‘critically endangered’.

These days the shark-like rays, easily distinguished by their saw-like snouts which could extend up to two metres (about the length of a Queen-size bed), were rarely seen outside the Gulf of Carpentaria, Northern Territory and the Kimberley.

“With sawfish habitats disappearing globally, we’re in a race against time to find out where these magnificent creatures still exist, and in what numbers,” zoologist and sawfish expert Dr Barbara Wueringer said.

“For four out of five sawfish species, north Australian waters may contain their last populations and we can’t let them quietly disappear.

“What’s really encouraging is we’ve received recent sighting submissions from areas on Queensland’s east coast where we previously thought sawfish populations had completely disappeared.

“There’s no question community involvement is taking sawfish

Sawfish are stealth predators and use their saw-like snout to detect and kill prey, delivering fast swipes that can split a fish in half.

A collaborative study between SARA and scientists from Murdoch University and Newcastle University found that the shape of the saw is so streamlined that prey may not even detect when a sawfish swipes at them.

Sawfish species: • Freshwater sawfish (Pristis pristis) grow to a length of about six metres and can be found in northern Australia from the Kimberley to Cape York Peninsula. They are counted among the 100 most threatened species in the world.

• Dwarf sawfish (Pristis clavata) reach about three metres in length and are found within sand and mud flats near

conservation to the next level.”

Dr Weueringer founded Sharks And Rays Australia (SARA), a nonprofit research organisation headquartered in Cairns, which has called for citizen scientists across Australia’s north to register sawfish sightings via SARA’s website (see below).

She also launched National Sawfish Sighting Week last year in a bid to supersize public sighting data submitted to SARA since 2017 – to date, totalling 1500 reports from Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

The data helped guide SARA’s research in partnership with First

mangroves in the shallow coastal and estuarine waters of Northern Territory, Queensland and Western Australia.

• Green sawfish (Pristis zijsron) can grow to seven metres in length, possibly the largest species of sawfish. They used to be found as far south as Sydney.

• Narrow sawfish (Anoxypristis cuspidata) are the species of sawfish most likely to be found offshore, in clearer waters.

Narrow sawfish are the fastest reproducing species of sawfish, and consequently are the most common species of sawfish in Australia. They are sighted on the coastlines of Queensland, Northern Territory, the Gulf of Carpentaria and Western Australia.

For more information see https:// www.sharksandraysaustralia.com/

Nations land and sea rangers and scientists from around the world.

“If people are not sure what they’re looking at, they should still take a photo or video as we can quickly identify sawfish from other sharks and rays by their fins,” she said.

Sawfish were protected in Australian waters under Commonwealth legislation (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act) and various state legislation.

Dr Wueringer said they were most active early morning and late afternoon and lived in shallow, coastal waters, estuaries, rivers and creeks, in tropical and subtropical regions, mainly using mudflats and mangroves as their habitats.

“But some species have been spotted by people walking close to the shoreline on long, sandy beaches,” she said.

“One lucky person submitted a video diving with a sawfish

ABOVE LEFT: SARA team with Lama Lama land and sea rangers and SCF Australia. Catch tag and release of a Green sawfish at Princess Charlotte Bay, Far North Queensland. All pics courtesy of Sharks And Rays Australia (SARA). Pic by Kieran Tunbridge.

ABOVE: Dr Barbara Wueringer of SARA and Dr Haemish Campbell of Charles Darwin University with a juvenile Narrow sawfish at Mapoon, Far North Queensland. Pic by Stuart Argent. off Exmouth in Western Australia and someone else sent in a photo of a sawfish pup spotted in Albatross Bay in Weipa.

“It would have been less than three weeks old, based on its size – measuring under

60cm – and the fact its teeth hadn’t yet poked out from its saw-like snout.”

She said Cape York was the region most likely to still hold the highest densities of sawfish population.

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20 CLIMATE CHANGE NEWS

THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

LEFT: Our Island Our Home protestors outside of Chris Bowen’s office in Fairfield, New South Wales, in May this year. Pic Facebook.

ABOVE: Minister for Climate Change & Energy Chris Bowen meets New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters at last month’s COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Pic supplied.

Each day in this Parliament, we acknowledge that we meet on the lands of the Ngunnawal and Ngambri peoples, Minister Bowen said.

While acknowledgement and celebration are right and proper, they’re not sufficient.

As custodians of the lands and waters for many thousands of years, our First Nations people have a unique insight as we watch our climate change right across Australia.

Human-induced climate change affects people everywhere, but there is no inequality that climate change doesn’t make worse, including Indigenous inequality.

More positively, acting on climate change can and should provide opportunities for First Nations people to share in ownership and dividends from new renewable energy; from carbon abatement programs; and from work we do to increase climate resilience around Australia.

As with everything, there is more to do.

But I, and the Government, are determined to ensure that whatever work happens to reduce emissions and build Australia into a renewable energy superpower happens in partnership with First Nations Peoples.

We’ve already launched the First Nations Clean Energy and Climate Change Advisory Committee,

2024 Annual Climate Change Statement to Parliament from Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen (edited) and I’m looking forward to announcing our First Nations Clean Energy Strategy very soon.

Mr Speaker, this week has been a reminder of why decarbonising matters.

Not just the unseasonably hot weather, but the increasing unreliability of coal.

Renewables address both.

Solar, wind and other renewable energy sources are available right now to help tackle the worst of climate change.

Crucially they make our energy system more reliable and resilient than a system dominated by aging coal generators.

The importance of transforming to a renewable electricity system underpins the Annual Climate Change Statement, which is the third I have delivered to Parliament.

The Annual Statement reports progress on our climate change and energy initiatives in 2024 and is an account of our commitment to transparency regarding our climate actions.

We are doing well, but there is more to be done – for emissions, for affordability and for reliability I can say this because a key part of the Annual Climate Change Statement is

consideration of the independent advice of the Climate Change Authority.

Its Annual Progress Report which focuses eight of its ten recommendations on renewable energy, is made public today, along with our response to it.

We’ve also published the latest emissions projections, and quarterly results from the National Greenhouse Gas Inventory.

The Annual Statement this year reflects how far we’ve come over the past two and a half years to get Australia back on track after a decade of delay and climate denial.

We’ve reduced sovereign risk and rebuilt confidence in Australia as an investment destination.

This translates to better economic activity and more long-term jobs around the country.

We’ve now put the systems and processes in place to set us up for a prosperous future; To make the most of our country having the best resources in the world for what everyone wants next - sun and wind, and critical minerals; To benefit from being a significant player in delivering the global shift to net zero; And to do it simultaneously with bringing emissions down.

We’ve built a lot of momentum. But the job is far from done.

The key is to build on this momentum, and build more.

Because there is no achievable alternative that doesn’t see otherwise avoidable harm done to our environment, our planet and our future generations.

Net zero by 2050 is not optional.

Which means the critical decade is now.

Not some hypothetical time in the distant future.

ON TRACK FOR 2030 And so, Mr Speaker, I’m pleased to note that the Climate Change Authority recognises the significant progress we’ve made so far.

Its view now is that Australia has the policies in place to meet its 2030 targets.

We’re bringing emissions down in the electricity and land sectors and that means emissions have fallen to 28.2 per cent below 2005 levels.

Annual emissions are still lower now than they were at any point during the economy-wide COVID shutdowns, when heavy industry and transport was in hiatus.

Carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel and industry, when

measured on a per capita basis, are the lowest they’ve been in Australia since the late eighties.

But, they need to fall faster in future.

The Authority has emphasised it will be important to hold course; to deliver the outcomes envisaged by the policies now in place.

We agree.

The annual emissions projections confirm our policies are working, and Australia is on track to deliver on our legislated targets.

Climate inactivists and net zero opponents will find ways to say white is black by cherry picking data points.

But the baseline projections now show emissions falling by 42.6% below 2005 levels over the next six years.

It’s a substantially greater reduction than projected for Australia even a few years ago.

In 2021, emissions were expected to fall just 30 per cent below 2005 levels in 2030.

We are almost at that point now, in 2024.

This jump reflects the strong design - and implementation progress - of significant policies the Albanese Government has introduced in the past 30 months.

And, we are now outperforming previous projections for Australia’s legislated

10-year total emissions budget.

Last year, we were expected to come in 1 per cent below budget by 2030.

Today, we expect to be 3 per cent under budget, meaning Australia will have emitted about 152 million tonnes less than budgeted for this decade – cutting the equivalent of an entire year of electricity sector emissions.

Better still, none of these projections account for other policies that are yet to be fully developed and implemented by States and Territories, and the Commonwealth.

LOOKING FORWARD TO A CLEANER, BETTER FUTURE I’m happy to admit I believe there is cause for quiet optimism.

We hear a lot from some in the media about how hard this transformation is.

So hard, in fact, that we should give up.

They don’t back a Future Made in Australia.

They – including some in this Parliament - advocate for failure because failure keeps Australia stuck in the past.

It is increasingly obvious that to hope for failure is a ruse to protect the status quo.

We want more for Australia.

And we are putting everything in place to make it happen.

That’s not to say there aren’t challenges.

I am acutely aware of them all.

But the numbers now show our plan is working.

Mr Speaker, there are those who always call on the Government to do more.

Getting this right – and we’re on the right track already – ensures the flow on effect for households and workers in the coming years will be significant.

Because we are starting to see a shift in what our trading partners want to buy.

We are seeing opportunities that we need to capitalise on, as countries around us race to capitalise on those very same opportunities.

As the Climate Change Authority recognises it is a global contest to dominate green technologies; to access green resources, including critical minerals.

This is a race we want to win, because we are seeing the benefit of building capabilities at home in new industries.

Not just because it’s good for the climate.

But because it’s also good for our national interest.

Good for our security - economic and international.

And most of all, good for Australians.

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EDITORIAL News and events of the Kaurareg homeland of Kaiwalagal, the Torres Strait homeland & Cape York homelands of the Anggamuthi, Atambaya, Wuthathi, Yadhaykenu & Gudang Peoples.

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22 SPORT

THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024 TORRES NEWS

BADU.

ST. PAUL’S.

ST. PAUL’S.

BADU.

KUBIN.

ST. PAUL’S.

ST. PAUL’S.

KUBIN.

BADU.

ST. PAUL’S.

SPORT 23

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024

AFL ongoing

AFL Cape York’s Outer Islands programs continued last week with visits to Kubin, St Paul’s and Badu.

This week the Gane Development team heads to Warraber, thanks to the support from Tagai State College and the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA).

More pics on PAGE 22 N KUBIN.

TN0230 8x2 local sports

BADU.

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!

ST. PAUL’S.

 EMAIL: editor@torres.news

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

FERRY SCHEDULE OCT – DEC 2024

KUBIN.

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”

ST. PAUL’S.

Boarding strictly 15 mins prior to departure

PHONE 07 4069 1551 BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL – TICKET ONLINE

ST. PAUL’S.

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.

24

THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2024

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

Big year in footy for Mara sisters

BY ALF WILSON Sisters Lyrech and Jahntae Mara achieved a unique rugby league sporting treble when they played for the winning ladies’ sides at the Mackay, Cairns and Townsville Allblacks carnivals this year.

Firstly, they lined up for GH United Memorial side, who defeated the Sarina Crocodiles in the final of the Mackay Indigenous carnival held on 27 September.

Soon after, on 6 October, the 23-year-old Lyrech and 19-year-old Jahntae were members of the Coastal Neurs team who won the decider of the Cairns Women’s Indigenous Allstars carnival defeating Original Dobbs.

A week later they were stars for the Unity team who rolled Burdekin Delta in the final of the Bindal Sharks All blacks carnival in Townsville.

Lyrech played mainly at lock in the carnivals and Jahntae lined up in the second or front rows.

“It was good playing with Jahntae on the same sides, and our younger sister Kiarah was also on the Mackay side, but not the others,” Lyrech said.

Lyrech was asked how the carnivals compared and she thought hard before answering.

“They were completely different teams, but I would say Mackay was the hardest,” she said.

Their mother, Rothana Baira, watched the girls at each carnival Jahntae, Kiarah and Lyrech Mara at the Mackay carnival. Pic supplied. and was one of their biggest role models, as was their grandmother in the Mackay Cutters side, who Lyrech has played beside Based in Brisbane, Roy coached Meanwhile, the future looked Maria Baira. her now-retired mum, Rothana, the Blackhawks Colts side to a bright for Lyrech, who was tipped to won the 2023 BMD Statewide at several Allblacks carnivals, Statewide premiership two years win a contract with an NRLW team Rothana coached the Townsville premiership.

XMAS xfinal 5 ads - 07/11 ____ 14/11 ____ 21/11 ____ 28/11 ____Zenadth & 5/12/24 ____ Ads folder E excel doc E dummy E including Kes on Waiben. ago. ladies’ side to a win in the of in the not-too-distant future.

TI CAR HIRE. 16x4 colour ad @ disc. locals rate $6.70incl. per ad x 5 $2144.

“I hope to get $428.60incl another contract the 2023 Foley Shield.

They are from a genuine sporting Roy has also coached Badu was alsofor a rising star ACCEPTED OFFER -- 10x7 banner ad Back page. Special discounted Xmas rate $450incl per ad x 5 $2250. (advised normally includesJahntae 35% loading with the Cutters for next season,” Lyrech was one of the most family with elder brothers Roy and side Kulpiyam at several Allblacks who was bound to be around back page - @6.70 plus loading $633.15incl. per ad. talented female players and was Lyrech said.

Jimmy, both former top players. carnivals in the past. football for many years.

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

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

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