Torres News_Edition 164_30 January 2025

Thursday, 30 January 2025

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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Students’ welcome return

Looking forward to a new year of learning: some of the classes of 2025 on the day they arrive at Torres Strait Kaziw Meta.

STORY & PIC BY KANTESHA TAKAI As students return to school for the new academic year, none can quite match the extraordinary back-toschool journey of the Torres

Strait Kaziw Meta boarders.

On Tuesday, 67 students from across the Zenadth Kes outer island communities flew, ferried and dinghied back to Kaziw Meta on Waiben, filled with excitement and focus for

the year ahead.

Among the arrivals were many first-time boarders, accompanied by parents and family as they transitioned into their ‘home away from home’.

Happy tears were shed

as house parents welcomed students into their dorms.

Kaziw Meta CEO Thomas Dunsmore said the new year marked significant advancements for Kaziw Meta after they received $4.7m funding to extend

the Waiwi Meta Boarding House, proudly supported by the National Indigenous Australians Agency.

Major upgrades were also underway to improve the facility’s security and safety, enhance the study

environment, construct a reception/welcome area for outer island families after a long journey and a new residence for boarding support staff.

Continued PAGE 4 N

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02 NEWS

Third year uni student Alana Nicholls. Pic supplied.

THURSDAY 30 JANUARY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Unlocking potential: Applications open for TSRA university scholarships Higher education support for students to participate, achieve and succeed in university is available to apply for now from this year’s Torres Strait Regional Authority’s (TSRA’s) tertiary assistance scheme.

Since 2005, the TSRA’s Assistance with Tertiary Education Scheme (ATES) scholarships have supported more than 130 Torres Strait Islander

and Aboriginal students with financial assistance towards relocation, rent, living and study-related expenses.

The scholarships support students completing their first undergraduate qualification, such as 21-year-old Alana Nicholls.

The former Tagai State College student and third-year University of Sydney student is excelling in her Bachelor

of Arts and Advanced Studies, double majoring in Studies in Religion and Anthropology.

Alana said the scholarship helped to ease money worries so she could focus on her studies.

“TSRA’s ATES scholarship allows me to live and study as a fulltime university student more comfortably, as it relieves some financial stress,” she said.

In addition to her

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academic excellence, with a high distinction average, Alana has experienced a study tour overseas and won numerous university awards.

In 2022 and 2023 she designed the university’s Indigenous jerseys to celebrate and stay connected with culture, which helped her to overcome homesickness.

The passionate social justice advocate was recently accepted into the university’s prestigious honours program and hoped to work as a foreign correspondent.

“After I complete my studies, I intend to pursue an academic career and

complete a PhD, focusing my studies specifically on culture and conflict from a religious history and culture perspective,” she said.

The scholarship was open to Torres Strait Islander or Aboriginal people from the Torres Strait region (including Bamaga and Seisia) studying for their first bachelor’s degree at university.

They were valued at up to $6000 per year to full-time students on university campuses, externally, or via mixed-mode.

Apply by 5pm (AEST) on 15 February 2025 or learn more at www.tsra. gov.au/scholarships

NAIDOC grants and poster comp open for 2025

Up to $3 million in grants are available to support local communities and organisations across Australia to celebrate a milestone National NAIDOC Week in 2025.

This year marks 50 years of the week-long celebrations and this year’s theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, celebrates achievements of the past and the bright future ahead.

Applications for the 2025 NAIDOC Local Grants are now open, with funding available across three streams: educational institutions ($1250–$2000), small-scale grants (up to $10,000), and large-scale grants ($10,001–$25,000).

Applications for the grants can be submitted through GrantConnect and close on 20 February.

MEANWHILE, earlier this week, the National NAIDOC Committee said they were thrilled to announce the launch of the 2025 National NAIDOC Poster competition and the opening of the 2025 National NAIDOC Award nominations.

For more information about the poster competition see https:// www.naidoc.org.au/ posters/2025-postercompetition For more information about nominations see https://www.naidoc. org.au/awards/2025national-naidoc-awardsnominations

Apology In last week’s story (issue 23 January 2025, Edition 163, page 3) Fourcroy washes up on Warraber Island, Seaswift executive chair Chris Pearce was incorrectly identified as the chair of AMSA. The Torres News would like to apologise for the error.

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Torres Shire’s best in award gala

Recipients of the 2025 Australia Day awards with special guest Emeritus Prof Roly Sussex, and the Mayor, Councillors & CEO. STORY AND PIC

BY CARLI WILLIS A peaceful ceremony to honour the quiet efforts of hard-working community members was held last Sunday to mark 26 January with special guest Professor Roly Sussex welcomed to the community.

Torres Shire Council Mayor Elsie Seriat said the event was a long-held tradition in the region.

“The nominees don’t expect to be recognised because of the work that they do in

community,” she said.

“Some do it voluntarily, some do it because they’re passionate about it, others do it because it’s their profession.

“It’s a way, that we could give back to the individuals, to recognise them for the work they do.”

Cr Seriat said the day held great significance to the First People lo ples.

“We all know the history about the date, January 26, and what it means to Australians around the country,” she said.

“We’ve heard them call for change the date, and not necessarily celebrating Australia Day. “Some celebrate Survival Day, Invasion Day – there’s a whole lot of different themes on what this day means to people.

“So, the date alone obviously holds a significant place in people’s heart, especially with the history behind why people don’t like celebrating.”

Aunty Ivy Trevallion was one of the Achievement

Award recipients, as a distinguished social worker with many achievements.

She said she did not usually attend events or celebrate the day but enjoyed acknowledging the hard work of people who worked to make life better in Zenadth Kes. “[It] is an interesting day for me; when I watched the news, I saw everybody protesting about ‘Invasion day’, and I wasn’t sure what to what to make of it,” she said.

“I realised that if this is an opportunity

for us to recognise our achievement, all the things that we’ve done in the community, then yes, this is it.

“But we also acknowledge and respect what’s happening in the in the main community.”

Ms Trevallion said she was “blown away” by the efforts of her fellow recipients.

“Particularly cultural ones, for example, Yam Island’s Mangroo Festival, cooking on Badu,” she said.

Story continued & more pics on PAGES 8 & 9 N

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Wruck wins Young Australian of the Year

BY CHRISTINE HOWES This year’s national Young Australian of the Year is Queensland scientist, Dr Katrina Wruck.

Dr Wruck said she was “incredibly honoured” to be a finalist for the awards.

“This recognition means so much to me, as it highlights not only my journey but also the importance of innovation, sustainability, and amplifying Indigenous voices in STEM,” she said, referring to her long-standing commitment to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics studies.

“Through my work, I’ve always strived to create meaningful change – whether it’s developing greener solutions for industrial challenges, mentoring the next generation of scientists or ensuring underrepresented communities have a seat at the table.”

As a proud Torres Strait Islander woman she has also long advocated for First Nations knowledge.

Dr Katrina Wruck. Pic supplied.

“Representation matters,” she said in her acceptance speech.

“When kids, especially Indigenous kids, see someone like me in this position, it tells them that they belong, that their dreams are valid and their voices are powerful.

“This award is not just for me, it’s for the young people

daring to dream big and the community fighting for justice and the elders who continue to keep the fire burning.

“Thank you for this honour, I carry it forward with pride knowing there is still so much work to do.

“Together we can build a future where culture, science and equity walk hand in hand.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese presented the award in a ceremony at the National Arboretum in Canberra on Saturday night.

Dr Wruck and the Australia Day award recipients were presented with a handcrafted trophy, a traditional Indigenous coolamon and clap sticks.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli congratulated Dr Wruck on the honour.

“Dr Wruck has long advocated for First Nations knowledge and shared her passion for science with others,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“There are many wonderful people across Queensland who demonstrate dedication and selflessness every day, and Dr Wruck is among that group of amazing Queenslanders.

“As 2025 Young Australian of the Year, I am confident she will use this platform to create more opportunities for young Australians and, through her work, advocate for greener practices.”

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04 NEWS

THURSDAY 30 JANUARY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Cowboys House ready for school year Students at NRL Cowboys House are ready, and wellprepared, to start their new year in school for 2025.

More than 100 young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island students from Years 7 to 12 arrived back at the House last week, marking the start of a massive logistical operation to get every one of them set for day one of their new academic and sporting year.

NRL Cowboys House General Manager Rochelle Jones said among those were 13 brand new Year 7s.

“Getting even one or two students back to school can be a challenge, so you can imagine the planning, coordination and effort that our staff and volunteers put into this time of year,” Rochelle said.

“Our students have the added element of being a long way from their families and homes.”

She said there were many communities in Queensland where children couldn’t access education to Year 12 and had to leave their homes as young as 11 years old to access equitable education.

“Which can be quite

William Moreko, Sarah Potts & Jacob Moreko ready for school. Pic supplied. daunting for them,” she said.

Boarders at NRL Cowboys House attended 11 partner schools across Townsville.

The House was managed by the Cowboys Community Foundation as a joint initiative between the NRL, North

Queensland Toyota Cowboys and the Queensland and Australian Governments.

Cowboys Community Foundation CEO Fiona Pelling said the ground-breaking model would not be possible without ongoing support from their

communities and partners.

She said their contributions included the students’ stationery, school shoes, laptops, haircuts, uniforms and even transport to and from school, all made possible by their support.

Students welcomed back to Kaziw Meta We are thrilled to announce that something exciting is on the horizon

OUR NEW WEBSITE IS LAUNCHING THIS MONTH!

ABOVE: Year 7 Boarder, Pele Mene with mum Christal Ware.

Pic by Kantesha Takai.

LEFT: Boarder Marie Ahmat with her Buddy Bag and CEQ pack, photographed by fellow boarder Valarie Asse.

M Continued from P1

With a fresh look, improved features and easier access to everything you need, we’re making online connection simpler than ever. www.tsirc.qld.gov.au

Mr Dunsmore was enthusiastic about the improvements, which meant six more beds for students.

“We aim to provide safe and culturally centred boarding for as many students as possible to access secondary education at Tagai State College,” he said.

“We can’t wait to unveil the new look for Kaziw Meta, featuring stunning artwork by renowned Torres Strait Islander artist George Gabey.”

Management Committee President Carol David said Kaziw Meta was committed to fostering a positive and culturally connected boarding experience.

“We are committed to growing culturally connected Torres Strait Islander leaders of the future,” Mrs David said.

“Our unique, on-country boarding experience is designed to nurture pride, confidence, and aspiration in every student.” Mrs David added.

Mr Dunsmore said

they were focused on their mission to create opportunities for boarders that extended beyond the classroom.

Each boarder has received a Buddy Bag, kindly donated by the Alannah and Madeline Foundation, to help with school readiness.

CEQ also donated a personal hygiene/care pack to each boarder.

“These thoughtful

preparations align with Kaziw Meta’s strategic goal of ensuring boarders are happy, healthy, and safe,” Mr Dunsmore said.

“With a line-up of extracurricular and cultural programs in store, the journey of yumi young leaders begins now, and Kaziw Meta will encourage them to excel in 2025.”

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 JANUARY 2025

NEWS 05

Yawo R & F Takeaway: end of a Kai Kai era

R & F Takeaway. Courtesy of R & F Takeaway Facebook page.

Hearts and stomachs dropped last Tuesday, as staple food service R & F Takeaway announced its closure, after decades of feeding our community.

For years, the aroma of Chinese roast duck and Vietnamese crispy pork drew locals and visitors alike to 52 Douglas Street, where R & F Takeaway provided not just delicious food, but warmth and a sense of home.

In a heartfelt Facebook post, the See Kee family expressed their gratitude to loyal patrons who supported them through the years.

“It has truly been a privilege to serve you, and we are incredibly thankful for the trust you’ve placed in us,” they wrote.

R & F Takeaway was a cornerstone of the Waiben community, providing local employment and a familiar meeting place.

Established in 1967 by Richard and Aka Fay See Kee, the R & F SelfService Store grew to encompass a laundromat, car rentals, and a takeaway shop under the care of their son, Silva,

and his wife Sook Hahn Soo. While the laundromat, car rentals, and store were to continue, the takeaway shop’s closure marked the end of an era.

An outpouring of love and memories on Facebook followed the announcement with comments from the community sharing their sadness and gratitude.

“Your shop was a staple for us.

Outer island customers will miss your lovely service and hot meals,” one customer wrote.

Another said, “Thank you for your lovely food and service. I’m glad I got to work with you…”

The closure leaves a void in the hearts of the community, but its community contributions will not be forgotten.

Their dedication, kindness and delicious cuisine have left a legacy that will be cherished for years to come.

As Waiben bids farewell to R & F Takeaway, it does so with immense gratitude.

Koeyma Eso, Au Esoau for feeding our stomachs, and our souls.

Yagar, you will be missed.

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This is the first stage in replacing the Community Development Program (CDP).

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BY KANTESHA TAKAI

06 NEWS

THURSDAY 30 JANUARY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Waiben pool and park reopened over long weekend STORY AND PIC BY CARLI WILLIS Torrential rain didn’t stop droves of children turning up for the long-awaited pool re-opening on Waiben last Sunday.

After months of being closed due to major repair works, the family-favourite splash park was a hit.

LEFT: Excitement as splash park reopens.

Help from RAATSIC at hand for families escaping violence

BY SYLVIA TABUA A new program has been put in place to support Indigenous families who have experienced domestic and family violence.

The Remote Area Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Care Advisory Association (RAATSICC) can offer those in need the Escaping Violence Payment (EVP) to provide financial assistance of up to $1500 in cash or vouchers, along with up to $3500 in goods and

services such as removalists, bond payments, or essential household items for a new home.

EVP Community Well Being Officer Pam Wasaga said the EVP also included confidential support and referrals for up to 12 weeks.

“This program is designed to empower individuals and families to leave unsafe situations and begin rebuilding their lives in safety,” she said.

RAATSICC has grown significantly since its

inception in 1990, when it was originally focused on early childhood education.

They now offered a wide range of place-based human services programs across the region.

The EVP Program was a Cairns-based trial covering the Cairns Region, Atherton Tablelands, Cassowary Coast, Cape York, and the Torres Strait Islands.

Mrs Wasaga said the program offered vital support to Aboriginal and Torres

Strait Islander people who have experienced Intimate Partner Violence, helping them access financial assistance, goods, and services to meet immediate needs and live safely.

She pointed out that the program was not a crisis service and urged anyone in danger to contact 000 for immediate crisis support.

“It’s here to help people who have left or are planning to leave a violent relationship and need financial support to transition to a safer

environment,” she said.

Eligibility criteria included being over the age of 18 and living in Australia.

Mrs Wasaga said living arrangements must have changed within the last 12 weeks, or a safe plan in place to leave due to intimate partner violence.

“Additionally, you must be experiencing financial stress and not have accessed the EVP in the past 12 months,” she said.

She said her message to

the community was, “you are not alone”.

“Our approach is strengths-based, clientcentred, trauma-informed, and culturally appropriate, ensuring we meet the unique needs of our communities,” she said, For more information, Pam can be contacted on 0456 749 768 or at evpti@ raatsicc.org.au.

She was also available at the RAATSICC Office located at 156 Douglas Street, Thursday Island.

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THURSDAY 30 JANUARY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Torres Shire’s finest recognised at 2025 awards M Continued from P3 STORY BY CARLI WILLIS PICS SUPPLIED

“It’s good that we as a community, as Torres Strait Islanders, recognise our community and what people do in

our community,” Ms Trevallion, who has been a social worker for 40 years, said.

“I had not realised people were watching

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what I was doing,” she said.

“It took us 40 years to get the Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa Act 2020 through.

“Families were hiding birth certificates and we needed a secure place for [them].”

Late last year Ms Trevallion was awarded an honorary Doctorate from the University of Queensland for her work, leadership and dedication to advocating for Indigenous rights and wellbeing.

“Being there for them, supporting them, encouraging them, gives them the strength to move on to make changes in their life,” she said.

“My biggest achievement is that people in the community can feel safe talking to me.”

Citizen of the Year Pastor Pedro Stephen OAM said it was a surreal feeling receiving the Australia Day award

when it was his council that established the ceremony in 1991.

“We had a great discussion [at the time] about the impact on how we should celebrate, especially from a community perspective, Australia Day,” he said.

“Being mindful, I was the first Indigenous Mayor, leading that discussion.

“It was important for me to be more practical of my current environment we were discussing, but also the past environment leading up to the establishment of this unique Shire.”

Mr Stephen said there were, as there was now, conflicting views about what the day should look like.

“They’ve always said Australia is a lucky country,” he said.

“As an indigenous person, I always say it depends on who will be the lucky winner of the lucky country.

“Would it be a lucky

country for the first Australian?

“Or is it a lucky country for the Australians – we call them the boat people – that have actually come into our country.”

Mr Stephen started work in non-government organisations (NGOs), before moving into local and state government and finishing in Commonwealth Government.

“They always have one thing in common, and it’s the community,” he said.

He encouraged families who did not want to celebrate on 26 January to choose a day they preferred.

“I think the greatest thing that we have is that you don’t lose our identity, our purpose, the place that we belong,” he said.

“Those three things are guiding posts when we, as navigators and descendants of navigators, that you must

be able to navigate your way.

“If you navigate your way through, others will follow.

“We know because we come from a great line of navigators.”

Congratulations to all Torres Shire Council Award Recipients: • Citizen of the Year – Napau Pedro Stephen • Young Citizen of the Year – Relna HoseaWuruki • Event of the Year – Mangroo Festival Yam Island • Cultural Recognition Award – Barry Nona • Participation Awards – Sonya Stephen, Horace Baira and Joey Laifoo • Appreciation Awards – Carli Willis, Jennifer Enosa, Kailu Luffman, Sarah Tedder, Talei Elu and Richard Smith Nona • Achievement Award – Ivy Trevallion

Talei Elu with Emeritus Professor Roly Sussex and Mayor Elsie Seriat.

Kailu Luffman and his Appreciation Award with Torres Shire Mayor, Councillors and Emeritus Professor Roly Sussex.

Cultural Recognition Award winner Barry Nona with Torres Shire Mayor, Councillors and Emeritus Professor Roly Sussex.

26 JANUARY NEWS 09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 JANUARY 2025

Ivy Trevallion with her Achievement Award.

Award winners Pastor Pedro Stephen and Sonya Stephen with Mayor Elsie Seriat. Pics supplied.

Appreciation Award winner Carli Willis.

ABOVE: Sarah Tedder and her family with her Appreciation Award.

TOP LEFT: The award for the Yam Island Mangroo Festival.

BOTTOM LEFT: Certificate of Participation awardee Horace Baira with Mayor Elsie Seriat.

Accepting Joey Laifoo’s Participation Award was his mum, Yancy.

The winner of the 2024 Ailan Life Grand Final photo competition is our July 2024 entry submitted

by OLSH Kirriri Island P-2 Teacher Michelle Nolan on behalf of her student’s families – Congratulations!

“Welcome to our Ailan Life! School and education can be both challenging and rewarding.

These are some of our favourite photos from our 2024 journey on OLSH Kirriri Island. Au Esoau, Koeyma Eso and thank you,” Michelle said.

CEQ Enterprise & Engagement Support Officer Sharon Osborne said the pic was a great snap shot of ‘Ailan Life’.

Winner

Our winner’s will be accepting their voucher at CEQ’s Kirriri Express store when they get back to school. Torres News will publish their photo in next week’s 6 February edition!

Our Ailan Life Photo Competition is back for 2025, courtesy of our sponsors CEQ.

From February through to December, CEQ will have a voucher to give away each month. For your chance to win, email us your pic showing your Ailan Life along with your name, phone number, your local IBIS store and a 25-word description to ads@torres.news

10 NEWS 26 JANUARY

THURSDAY 30 JANUARY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Townsville Survival Day performances

Wag Wadth Dance Team.

STORY AND PICS

BY VELMA GARA

Abagail & Henrietta Mabo-Brown were part of the Wulgurukaba Walkabouts dancers.

Townsville turns out for march

Despite the rainy weather, many community members stayed and were entertained by the different performances at the Kunbul Festival held at Strand Park.

As part of the Survival Day event, musicians and dancers who performed included the Big Eye Theatre Dancers, Dubbzone, Shalom Students, Trevor Prior and Sons, Komet Dancers and Wag Wadth Dance Team.

It was the first time Wag Wadth performed at a community event.

STORY AND PICS

BY ALF WILSON

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Five-year-olds Abagail Mabo-Brown and Henrietta MaboBrown, who are great-granddaughters of the late and great Eddie Mabo, were popular at Survival Day in Townsville on Sunday.

Abagail and Henrietta were members of the Wulgurukaba Walkabouts dance group who performed on the day with their father William Mabo on the didgeridoo.

William was a grandson of Eddie Mabo and the girls were two of his triplets.

“It is so hot today and I will be going for a swim in the ocean,” William told the Torres News.

The event was a great success and commenced at 5.30am when men and women gathered at Picnic Bay Surf Lifesaving Club headland on the Strand for the dawn event.

Then at 9.30am the march started from

Gabriel Oth & Eddie Savage holding the Torres Strait flag during the march. the Gregory Street Amphitheatre and ended about 500m away at Strand Park.

More than 300 men, women and children marched, and whilst the majority were either Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, some were non-Indigenous.

The Torres Strait Island flag was prominent near the front during the walk.

After the march, Strand Park was the venue for the Kunbul Festival which began at 11.30am and featured traditional dancing,

markets, live music, a kid’s corner and a variety of traditional food.

There were performances by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dance groups under a big tent which was vital because rain fell about 1pm.

Guests were welcomed to Country by Aunty Dorothy Savage for the Bindal people and

by Virginia Wyles for the Wulgurukaba mob.

“Survival Day is special for our people and we are still here after 60,000 years,” Aunty Dorothy said.

It is also good for our younger ones as us older people won’t be around forever.

“This is a happy day because we are alive as First Nations People.”

A food stall run by Naianga Tamwoy was busy selling traditional Kai Kai. There was also a weaving demonstration

by Mer Islander Douglas Kaigey.

Big Eye Theatre organised the day, led by Ros Sailor, who spent several months getting it all together.

Lindy Gizar, right, with family members walked.

Shaquillah Tapim & family members.

Douglas Kaigey does some weaving.

Professor Gracelyn Smallwood & Fay Gee-Hoy.

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26 JANUARY NEWS 11

Human rights under discussion on Waiben STORY AND PICS

BY CARLI WILLIS Plans to unify for common causes across Zenadth Kes, and ways to exercise authority, were the focus of discussions

by Elders and community members who came together in ANZAC Park on Sunday 26 January.

Wakaid tribal Elder Robert ‘Bongo’ Sagigi called for the gathering.

Gazetted by the government as a public holiday, Australia Day was known to many First Nations Peoples as ‘Survival Day’ or ‘Invasion Day’– the day colonisers landed the First Fleet on the shore of Sydney Cove.

Mr Sagigi said he wanted to use the day to reinforce that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples had always been here.

“We get together as people blo place and we got to look reflect where we going with this,” he said.

“We must teach yumi kids to reinforce themselves culturally [and] learn language. “[That’s] the main thing,

it’s identity blo yumi.”

The Elders also discussed the Human Rights of Indigenous people, as set out by the United Nations.

Mr Sagigi said there was more institutionalised racism these days.

“Systematic racism in policies [keeps] our people suppressed,” he said.

“Visual racism is where you can see black and white, that one embedded in a system that’s invisible racism, the systematic racism is invented in policies and [administration] where middle management control those policies.”

The group also discussed calling a date – not a new date for all Australians – but a date specific to Zenadth Kes, to celebrate and unify under our sovereignty.

They talked about meeting again in the future to progress their discussions.

“We [are] sovereign people in the nation,” Mr Sagigi said.

“We’ve been here all the time before any white fellas come into our Country.”

Elders gather in ANZAC Park.

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THURSDAY 30 JANUARY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Cairns backs ‘Our Truth Matters’ at Invasion Day event

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LEFT: Nerelle Nichol speaking.

RIGHT: Speaker Talicia Minniecon on stage at Fogarty Park with family and friends.

Pics thanks to David Anthony.

BY CHRISTINE HOWES Cairns Invasion Day Rally, under the banner of Our Truth Matters, was organised as a ‘peaceful protest and truth-telling’ event held in Fogarty Park last Sunday.

Organisers were Manny Williams and Wollie Gela, with strong local support, especially from young people.

Speaker Nerelle Nichol said they did a fantastic job.

“I acknowledged the young people for leading the event, organising the event, and I really wanted to honour that because they did a fantastic job,” she said.

She said while it was a good crowd, many people weren’t there.

“That got me thinking,” she said.

“I think over the past couple of years, and particularly since COVID and for ourselves as First Nations people, the rate of people passing in our communities has had a significant impact on our mental health and our spirit.

“In a world now that is changing so rapidly, I think all of the uncertainty and the fear that goes with that is just piled onto people feeling anxious and sad and constantly in trauma, or constantly in sadness.

“So I think that was coming through.”

She also said it was time for young people’s voices to be heard.

“It’s time for young people’s voices to be heard and acted upon rather than only the rich and the powerful, and so a world can be built in what they would like to

see rather than it being exploitative and one that only benefits a small few,” she said.

“I think younger people are much more intelligent and attuned to their environment, the physical as well as the natural environment.

“I think they’re more attuned to humanity and acceptance of each other’s differences and diversity, and I don’t think we invest enough in that.”

She said in her speech she hadn’t mentioned the date but said she felt it shouldn’t be a day of celebration.

“I think it’s more important that we all come together on a date – not that date – to celebrate everything that makes us unique as a nation and as a country that has the oldest continuous living culture on Earth,” she said.

“Us as physicists and scientists and naturopaths and pharmacists and biochemists and astronomers, all of those skills that we have, the intellect our people have – they’re things that we can celebrate, and why wouldn’t we celebrate that with pride and dignity rather than apathy, disdain and disgust and hate.

“I think if there was going to be anything done on the 26 January, it should be a day of solemn remembrance and reflection and truth-telling about our country’s history.

“It should be, I think, a day of reaffirmation and commitment to truth-telling and a commitment to creating a cohesive and vibrant rich nation that’s built on trust and hope, humanity and justice.”

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THURSDAY 30 JANUARY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Footy wins at Indigenous Survival Day Reconciliation Knockout

ABOVE: Grand finalists Coastline Connexions and Western Bears. BELOW: The organising team. Pics by Vili Baleilevuka.

M Continued from P16 Men’s Grand Final

Colts Grand Final: Kulpiyam & Erub United Black.

Colts Grand Final: Kulpiyam & Erub United Black.

Thirteen teams battled it out in the Men’s competition and, after the qualifying matches on day one, the points scored for and against and position on the ladder were: • East Coast Connection 2p (28) 1 • Surumau Gladiators 2p (18) 2 • Coastline Connexions 16 (2) 3 • Western Bears 2p (16) 4 • William Dodd Memorial 2p (12) 5 • Magun Warriors 2p (2) 6 • Oombunghi Bulldogs 0p (2) 7 • Nugu (bye) 8 • Kaaantju Mitpi 0p (-2) 9

• Palm Island Barracudas U 0p (-16) 10 • Gawathaw Kaagul 0p (-16) 11 • Palm Island Barracudas 0p (-12) 12 • Rocky Raiders 0p (-8) 13 The top eight sides advanced to quarter finals in what was division one and those placed ninth to 12th competed in division two.

In division one semi-finals Western Bears 18 d East Coast Connection 12 and Coastal Connections 14 d Surumau Gladiators 4.

Men’s 1st div quarterfinal results were: • Western Bears 32 d William “Willy” Dodd Memorial 0

• Coastline Connexions 24 d Magun Warriors 0 • Surumau Gladiators 10 d Oombunghi Bulldogs 4 • Bukki Buna 16 d Erub Yellow 6

Palm win The division two grand final saw Palm Island Barracudas 18 d Gawathaw Kaagul 12 clinching the victory with a last minute try in a corner.

Men’s 2nd div semi-finals: Gawathaw Kaagul 12 d Palm Island Barracudas United 10, Palm Island Barracudas 34 d Kaantju Mitpi 6.

Games were livestreamed on Triple S and an estimated 150,000 viewers enjoyed the action.

Colts Grand Final: Kulpiyam & Erub United Black.

Colts Grand Final: Kulpiyam & Erub United Black.

Men’s Grand Final: Coastline Connexions & Western Bears.

Men’s Grand Final: Coastline Connexions & Western Bears.

Men’s Grand Final: Coastline Connexions & Western Bears.

SPORT 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 30 JANUARY 2025

VELMA

GARA’S

OUT! IN THIS WEEK’S ‘HOOPS’ NEWS...

Appreciation Congratulations to Kailu Luffman on receiving an Appreciation Award as part of the Torres Shire Council’s Australia Day Awards.

Since becoming a basketball referee and taking it more seriously, Kailu has excelled and been given – and has taken – some great opportunities.

Two years ago, he was selected to attend a camp in Las Vegas and has been an official at many grand finals on Thursday Island and at Indigenous Basketball Australia tournaments.

U20 Nationals Chris Cedar is the head coach for the U20

men’s team competing at the National Championships held in Ballarat this week and Simon Taylor is one of his assistants.

Chris is an experienced National League player and will have great knowledge to guide his team.

In the women’s team is Teyahna Bond and this will be her last tournament at U20 level.

Congratulations and best wishes to both teams.

WNBL What a week it has been in the Women’s National Basketball League – Shaneice Swain shot the lights out with 40 points against Townsville and that included seven threepointers.

Other highlights

from Round 13 for our First Nations players were Ally Wilson (Perth Lynx), Monique Bobongie and Indi Bowyer (both from Canberra Capitals) having stand-out games.

Bobongie also collected an Australia Day award from the Mackay Shire Council.

Because of their stand-out performances, Swain and Wilson made the WNBL team of the week.

Five players from across the league are selected as the best from each round.

NBL Cairns Taipans may be at the bottom of the ladder of the National Basketball League but they are finding ways to defeat top teams.

In Round 18, the Taipans got the win against Illawarra Hawks, 100-94 and then travelled to Perth to play the Wildcats.

In that game, it went into double overtime, 125-116.

Top teams will be looking over their shoulders when they play Cairns, as they are capable of causing major upsets.

Home visit I saw via social media Alana Fraser has visited Thursday Island

Kailu Luffman with his Appreciation Award at Australia Day Awards celebrations. Pic courtesy of Torres Shire Council.

and spent time with family – how lovely to spend time at home.

Alana has already committed to playing this NBL1 North season with South West Metro Pirates.

Emerging athletes U15 players were selected in Emerging Teams and travelled to Melbourne to play in the Southern Cross Challenge recently.

Six teams from Queensland played against teams from Victoria and South Australia.

It was a good hit-out to get them prepared to play at representative level. First Nations athletes included were Nancy George (Cairns), Nahla Moke and Leilani

Lolohea (SE Qld).

National training camp Athletes also attended the national program and it was great to see U18 players Taryn Bond (Cairns), Cheyenne Bobongie (Mackay) and Mya Moke (Southern Districts) in Canberra for the camp.

When I was checking Basketball Australia’s social media, it was deadly to see Nate Jawai there too.

When I had a chat with Nate, he told me that he’s an ambassador and spent a day at the camp and trained with the centres and forwards.

He didn’t comment on what his plans are for the NBL1 North this season.

NQ Cowboys host some of our best and brightest in testing holiday clinic Some of our best and brightest future rugby league players took the opportunity to have a taste of what it might be like to be a North Queensland Cowboy over the holidays.

About 180 students were at the three-day Ringers Clinic for girls and boys aged from seven to 12.

The Cowboys Game Participation Team hosted the event and conducted skills, drills and game play on the same training field and visited the Hutchinson Builders Centre.

The clinic was led by former player, Ray Thompson, who said it would be more than ball skills the youngsters would take away.

“It’s always very rewarding to meet and engage with young footy players and fans,” he said.

Cowboys CEO Jeff Reibel said the school holiday clinics

Shaneice Swain (Sydney Flames) drives past TN0230 Abby Ellis (Townsville Fire). Pic courtesy of Sydney Flames.

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Student Harvey Tim So, Cowboys Community Engagement Officer & NRLW player Krystal Blackwell, student Indi Williams, Cowboys Program Manager and former Cowboys player Ray Thompson & student Oliver Tim. Pic supplied. were part of the club’s ongoing commitment to fostering strong youth involvement in

rugby league.

“Our NRL team is currently in pre-season, so it was a chance for

these young people to spend a few hours in the shoes of their Cowboys heroes, and it’s always

great for us to have their enthusiasm and energy around the club as well,” he said.

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16

THURSDAY 30 JANUARY 2025

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

Ailan teams shine in Colts showdown

Kulpiyam player Lewin Pearson is crash tackled by opponents, Erub United Black, as the ball flies from his possession in the Colts grade grand final. Pic by Vili Baleilevuka.

BY ALF WILSON Future stars were on show in the Colts’ grand final in what was a Torres Strait derby between Badu side Kulpiyam and Erub United Black at the Indigenous

Survival Day Reconciliation knockout rugby league carnival in Cairns over the long weekend.

A star-studded Coastal Connexions defeated Western Bears 46-10 in the Men’s grand final.

Kulpiyam won their final

62-nil and had many great players including three who took out individual carnival awards.

Skilful five-eighth Gausa Dau was the player of the carnival, his cousin and winger Riley Dau was best in the final and crafty halfback

Tristan Reuben was overall best back.

The well-drilled Kulpiyam was coached by Neville Nakata from Cairns and team organiser, respected rugby league identity Jermaine Reuben.

“There were eight sides in

TN0529 10x7 – 7/3/24

the under 19 Colts division and we played five times and won them all,” Jermaine said.

“The boys clicked in the final.”

Players in the Kulpiyam team were from Badu and some from Cairns and they were all mates.

“It was one of the best carnivals I have been at,” Jermaine said.

In the Colts semi finals Erub Black 24 d Kazil Kulka 16, and Kulpiyam 32 d Bukki Buna 16.

Story continued & pics P14 N

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