Torres News_Edition 171_20 March 2025

Thursday, 20 March 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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A gift of reading on the streets of Waiben

STORY & PIC THANKS TO CHRISTINA TULLY Thursday Island has a new street library.

Residents Remy and Theo Tully built

the library in their home garage out of scrap materials with the help of their family.

Remy and Theo said they wanted to share their love of reading with their friends and the community.

“We saw some street libraries when we were travelling and thought it would be a good idea for TI too,” Remy said.

“Everyone can come and take a book if they want to.”

Keeping your community connected for more than 35 years Sea Swift provides regular, weekly essential services up and down the east coast of Australia, through the Torres Strait, into Weipa, and throughout the Northern Territory. We’re proud to supply fresh food and other essentials to enhance the health and wellbeing of your community.

Sea Swift is the lifeblood of many remote communities across the Torres Strait and Cape York.

Check our website for the latest news and updates for your community.

Live schedules at www.seaswift.com.au | Connect with us on social media!

seaswift.com.au 1800 424 422

You can find the street library on the fence of Paru Kaziw Mudh kindy on Milman Street.

Pictured are teacher Michelle Martin with Remy Tully, Theo Tully and Matt Tully.

02 NEWS

THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

Supporting safe communities grants open to the public Torres Strait Regional Authority’s (TSRA) Safe Communities Grants are open, with funding from $10,000 available to support safe and connected communities.

TSRA Chairperson George Nona said the grants would go towards local activities that supported safe, accessible and quality social support services in communities across the Torres Strait region, including Bamaga and Seisia in the Northern Peninsula Area.

“This is the first

time TSRA has opened its Safe Communities Grants to the public in many years,” Mr Nona said.

“We hope to receive plenty of applications with ideas, initiatives and projects to support safe homes and communities, including quality services for young people and families across the region.

“I encourage individuals, groups and organisations to bring your ideas to the table and apply now.”

Example activities included: • Initiatives targeting safe, healthy and progressive homes and communities.

• Programs designed to build culturally safe, strong and healthy relationships.

• Mental health and social, emotional and well-being education, awareness and information workshops/programs particularly for youth/ young people, people with a disability

and the LGBTIQ+ community.

• Community-based activities and projects designed and led by youth and young people to strengthen culture, identity and well-being.

• Online education products and services.

• Appropriate research targeting local and regional data gaps, to empower and build strong and resilient communities.

• Place-based approaches that directly support improving outcomes under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap. TSRA’s Safe Communities Program is aimed to support safe, healthy, respectful and progressive communities, based on cultural, Ailan Kastom and Aboriginal traditions.

Your North Queensland airline connecting the islands of the Maritime Museaum Torres Strait with grants on offer Cairns and Bamaga

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The Maritime Museums of Australia Project Support Scheme (MMAPSS) has grants of up to $15,000 to museums and other not-for-profit organisations to help preserve or display objects of national and historical maritime significance.

The grants also supported staff or volunteers, including from remote or regional organisations across Australia, to spend time learning specific skills and making valuable connections.

The MMAPSS grants were for projects in one or more of the following categories: • Collection management (registration, documentation and storage) • Conservation (preservation, vessel restoration, conservation work/treatments and professional assessments) • Presentation (research, development of exhibitions,

Apply or learn more at www.tsra.gov.au/grants or contact TSRA’s Safe Communities Program on 4069 0700.

Applications close Sunday 20 April 2025.

establishing interpretative displays and workshops) • Development of relevant education or public programs that make collections more accessible to audiences Director and CEO of the Museum Daryl Karp said many cultural institutions around the country cared for maritime items of historical and national significance.

“The Australian National Maritime Museum is proud to support and encourage efforts to conserve and display unique local objects for today’s audiences and future generations,” he said.

The 2025 MMAPSS application round is open until 25 March.

Visit the website www. sea.museum/grants for details on how to apply.

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025

Council, police, families and school community working together on NPA college assault STORY AND PICS

BY CARLI WILLIS Four teenagers have been charged following a disturbance at the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) College that led to a student being taken to hospital for treatment Queensland Police Service (QPS) say.

They said four girls, aged 15 to 16 years, were each charged with two counts of assaults

occasioning bodily harm.

It was alleged that on Thursday, 13 March at 1.30pm a group of teenagers became involved in an altercation.

Videos and photos emerged on social media and went viral, sparking a call for action to address ongoing bullying concerns at the school.

On Monday this week, NPA State College released a public statement that said

Department of Education staff would be onsite this week to undertake a review of the incident.

to commit additional support to the College in the coming weeks to enhance the wellbeing and safety of students and staff.

“Additional guidance officer support from the Department of Education is available at the College for any students who may require it,” she said.

“On-site professional counselling support for all staff will also be provided over the next week.

In the statement, College Principal Andrea Killen said the Department was

Health complaints to be taken further STORY AND PICS

BY CARLI WILLIS Community members have shared their stories about declining health in the region with legal professionals at a community meeting on Waiben.

JGA Saddler Lawyers and Indigenous Barrister Joshua Creamer visited the community to hear about their experiences with health services in the region.

The team was understood to be coordinating a Racial Discrimination complaint with the Australian Human Rights Commission over the matter.

They told the community they would be looking into the government’s failure to provide care in the Torres Strait, Gulf and Cape regions and said they would be looking at cases dating back to 1992.

Elders, community members and Torres Shire Council Mayor Elsie Seriat were at the meeting.

Mabuyag and Murray Island Elder Tassi McDonald said she once worked in health, and the system had changed for the worse.

“To me now, I see the health system has gone down,” she said. “It’s gone – the health system has gone flat – I see it in front of my eyes because I’m an old health worker. There are more white nurses and white doctors.”

Ms McDonald said she believed the Torres Model of Care, which she worked under, employed more Indigenous Health Workers who were able to work out in the community and worked better.

“When I first started working, we were all about prevention and it’s all curative now,” she said. “Curative is different, when you’re sick, you go down to hospital.

“I know that my people out there I see every day, they still need help. I feel for my people that they still have more people dying.”

“We will continue to collaborate closely with the College Council, Traditional Owners, the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council and the broader community to address any concerns.”

Police said investigations were ongoing and urged community members to come forward with

any relevant vision or information.

A QPS spokesperson said local police attended a meeting on Monday with the school, local council and parents.

“Police are continuing to work with school staff, local council and parents as investigations continue into others involved,” they said.

Enter the

GAB TITUI INDIGENOUS

2025 Open to all Torres Strait Islander & Aboriginal artists living in the Torres Strait or Northern Peninsula Area.

Barrister Joshua Creamer (left) and Yam Island Elder Abigail Harry.

Masig man Percy Missi said patients on outer islands were suffering from late detection of diseases such as cancer.

Tassi McDonald wants other community members to speak up about their experiences with health in the region.

Wakaid Tribal Council of Elders invited the lawyers to the community and said they were happy to work with the team to interpret language.

Wakaid Elder Robert ‘Bongo’ Sagigi, who has studied the Human Rights of Indigenous Peoples, said islanders had a right to ‘free and prior, informed consent’.

He asked the legal team to visit the outer islands where health issues were exacerbated by remoteness.

“The lawyers have to go around to every island – [I told them], they got to do it because we’re talking about consent,” he said. “Don’t create things without consent and use data belong individual to get money come through.

“Don’t manage your administration, your jobs, on our care and not get our consent. Free, prior and informed consent – everybody should be consulted.”

The lawyers told the community they had a litigation funder who would help with the costs throughout the process, including travel.

Masig Island man Percy Missi said he was worried about the number of people missing early detection on the outer islands.

“We do not have the capacity of service on Thursday Island or on the outer islands to detect cancer in the early stages,” he said.

“When you talk about racial discrimination, it is a question

that needs to be answered by all the islands.

“We need to bring this out to the islands and hear what families have gone through.”

Mr Missi said his island lacked community-controlled health.

“We need to close the gap and get the knowledge of health to them right now on the islands so they live longer,” he said.

“Don’t wait for an operation, we want early detection “English is probably one of the barrier problems – we need more consultation on this.”

Mayor Seriat said she wanted the community to know leadership in the region was pressuring governments to provide better health care.

She said leaders had not stopped pushing for an Independent Coronial Investigation into preventable deaths in the region.

“When [the Premier] was in the opposition, he made a promise to us that he will still investigate this through a Coronial Investigation,” she said. “As leaders, we are still fighting the fight.”

Queensland Health and Minister Tim Nicholls were contacted for comment but did not respond before Torres News deadlines.

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04 NEWS

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THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

New tone set for new TSRA Board Connecting with local leaders was identified as a priority at the Torres Strait Regional Authority’s (TSRA) first general board meeting of newly elected members last week.

TSRA Chairperson and member for Port Kennedy George Nona said the meeting was an opportunity for the 20-member board and CEO Charlie Kaddy to officially meet with the Torres Shire Council (TSC) and Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC), and native title body, Gur A Baradharaw Kod Torres Strait Sea and Land Council (GBK).

“Seasons of change calls for a new era of partnerships for the benefit of our

region, families and communities,” Mr Nona said.

“TSRA’s first general board sitting this month was the perfect opportunity to officially bring together lead decision-makers in the region to recommit to strong partnerships and shared priorities.”

The Torres Strait Regional Adaptation and Resilience Plan 20252030 – Yumi Create our future: Stronger Together, which outlined climate change risks, realities and action needed in the region, was launched at the same meeting.

The next TSRA Board meeting is scheduled for 10 – 12 June 2025.

Learn more at www. tsra.gov.au or follow TSRA on Facebook.

TSRA Board launches new climate plan: Alternate Deputy Chairperson and Portfolio Member for Environmental Management Patrick Mooka, Deputy Chairperson Elthies Kris and Chairperson George Nona. Pics supplied.

LEFT – Women in leadership: TSRA Deputy Chairperson Elthies Kris and Torres Shire Council Mayor Elsie Seriat OAM. RIGHT – GBK Chairperson Lui Ned David and TSRA Chairperson George Nona.

Have your say on the economic value of the Zenadth Kes Creative Arts Industry Short survey available online and at local Art Centres TSRA invites First Nations artists, businesses, and creative practitioners in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) to take part in a landmark survey to help measure the economic value of the region’s Creative Arts Industry. The information you share will identify how the TSRA can continue to ensure arts businesses - including sole traders and artisans - receive better funding, stronger support programs, and greater national and international opportunities.

Strong partnerships: GBK Chairperson Lui Ned David, TSRA Chairperson George Nona, GBK Board Executive Elizah Wasaga, TSRA Deputy Chairperson Elthies Kris, GBK Board Executive Iona Manas, GBK General Manager – Strategic Projects Bernard Keenan, TSRA CEO Charlie Kaddy and TSRA Alternate Deputy Chairperson Patrick Mooka.

Survey closes Sunday 20 April 2025 Scan with your phone to complete the survey and go in the draw to

WIN one of 10 $50 CEQ Vouchers!

For more information, contact: T: 1800 079 093 | E: info@gabtitui.gov.au Level 1 Torres Haus 46 Victoria Parade, Thursday Island, Queensland, Australia Artwork by: Paula Savage, Moa Arts

New era of unity: TSRA Alternate Deputy Chairperson Patrick Mooka, TSC CEO Dalassa Yorkston, TSIRC Deputy Mayor Ranetta Wosomo, TSRA Chairperson George Nona, TSC Mayor Elsie Seriat OAM, TSRA Deputy Chairperson Elthies Kris, TSIRC CEO James William and TSRA CEO Charlie Kaddy.

NEWS 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025

Community keen to see youth strategy working

BY VELMA GARA A small group of concerned community members met last weekend at the Baha’i Centre on Waiben to look at ways of empowering young people.

Facilitator Joshua Toloui-Wallace said he called the meeting because he wanted to meet like-minded people who cared about youth to collaborate or support each other with any program aimed at empowering young people.

He said he was motivated by his belief the young people on Waiben were a “reservoir of capacity to transform society waiting to be tapped”.

“They need to be empowered, to be the spearhead of any change or improvement in our community, with the rest of the community’s full support,” he said.

Joshua said he felt the meeting was a productive, positive and fruitful discussion, where everyone had the opportunity to share their ideas.

He said they looked at the Torres Strait Regional Authority’s (TSRA’s) Zenadth Kes Inner Island Youth

Strategy framework and how it specifically broke down age groups between 12-25 into four separate groups to better understand each of their different needs and opportunities.

“We used [their] concept of body/mind/ spirit as a framework for thinking about the whole young person and how there can be different programs or activities that target the development of these different areas of a person,” Joshua said.

He said the group also did a whiteboard activity that mapped out all the programs currently running, which aspect of wellbeing they were connected to – body, mind or spirit – and which of the age groups they served.

He said they briefly discussed the role of human resources and volunteering, and talked about not waiting for

‘funding’ or ‘facilities’ to be granted.

“But how we can take action right now to organise ourselves in support of youth on Thursday Island,” he said.

Actions to come out of the meeting included: • Communicating the outcomes of the discussion to the Torres Shire Council and TSRA. • Compiling a list of current activities for youth as a resource to distribute in the community, so families knew what was available and what part of their young people’s development it would focus on.

A follow-up meeting was planned for next month with the hope more families would participate.

Anyone interested can contact Joshua on 0431 711 697 or email josh@ zkphysio.com

MARCH COMMUNITY VISITS

A granted Cultural Recognition Order can help to: Eliminate legal obstacles for cultural families.

Meet with mepla team to learn more about how to apply for a Cultural Recognition Order.

Ugar Community

Dauan Community

Poruma Community

24

25 - 27

Wednesday

Monday

Non-voters offered a chance to explain The Electoral Commission of Queensland will be writing to approximately 350,000 Queenslanders who appear to have not voted in the 2024 State election.

Electoral Commissioner of Queensland Pat Vidgen said writing to those who didn’t vote, emphasised that voting was compulsory in Australia.

“Voting is a democratic right that comes with responsibility,” Mr Vidgen said.

“Queenslanders have a responsibility to vote for their government representative as part of our democracy.”

However, he said, the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) acknowledged life could be complex and unpredictable, and voters may have a genuinely valid reason for not casting their vote.

“We recognise that there might be circumstances where someone hasn’t been able to vote, so we want to give people an opportunity to share their reason for not voting with us,” he said.

Some of the community members who attended the Youth Meeting held at Baha’i Centre on Thursday Island. Pics supplied by Joshua Toloui-Wallace.

“After an election, records are checked to find those who have not voted.

“We want to know the reason why people didn’t vote, so we’re sending 350,000 people an ’Apparent failure to vote notice’.”

Voters who receive a notice can provide a valid reason for not voting, provide details if they did vote and weren’t marked off, or pay half the full penalty of $80 before the due date.

If the ECQ did not hear from the apparent non-voter, or if a reason provided was not considered valid or sufficient, a penalty infringement notice would be sent and a full penalty of one unit or $161 would apply.

For those who chose to ignore the infringement notice, the matter was then referred to the State Penalties Enforcement Registry (SPER), where extra charges may be applied.

“Don’t delay acting on the ‘apparent failure to vote notice’ if you receive one,” Mr Vidgen said.

For more information, visit www.ecq.qld.gov.au

March 2025

Tuesday

Thursday

March 2025

26

March 2025

10am - 2pm

9am - 4pm

9am - 4pm

Community Hall Stephen Island

Community Hall Dauan Island

Community Hall Coconut Island

Secure parental rights and responsibilities as cultural parents raising children.

Legally register cultural children in the name of their cultural parents.

Reduce generational trauma through inappropriate revelations of the practice.

For more info, contact our Cultural Support Officers

1800 571 102

office@ocmokk.qld.gov.au

06 NEWS

THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

Cultural Support Officer Kiri Harris, Kupai Omasker Working Party Member Uncle Belza Lowah, Cultural Support Officer Karen Keane, Seria Watson, Cultural Support Officer Godfrey Bero, Barry Watson, Commissioner C’Zarke Maza LL.M and Executive Assistant Taryan Kepa in Woodridge, Brisbane. Pics supplied.

Families take up opportunities to hear about cultural recognition order applications Families across needed support. predates colonisation, several Queensland so we are respectful Since celebrating communities have and mindful that it is 70 granted Cultural taken the chance to practised differently Recognition Orders discuss the Cultural from island to island, in 2024, the Program Recognition Order and family to family,” Support Office application process Mr Maza said. recommitted to ongoing with Cultural Support engagement sessions “Therefore, being Officers from the Office and visits to Torres Strait available in communities of the Commissioner Islander communities in to support families in Meriba Omasker 2025 to ensure families their application process Kaziw Kazipa understood the process is crucial, as it can (OCMOKK) already and could apply for often be challenging to this year.

Cultural Recognition navigate the legalities Mackay, Woodridge, Orders as they needed and requirements of Saibai, Boigu, Erub, and to.

Western law. the Northern Peninsula Meriba Omasker “Fortunately, our Area (NPA) were among Kaziw Kazipa dedicated Cultural the first communities on Commissioner C’Zarke Support Officers take the team’s travel diary.

Maza LLM said that the great pride in being able Upcoming visits were visits were instrumental to help our families, GORI MARBLE & GRANITE 11x3 [new] 18/7/24 19/6/25 also scheduled in March in guiding families and protect the sensitive for Poruma, Ugar and through the application of the (1): TN0851 18/7/24 *2024 44yrs - AdsF nature T Dummy T practice.”

Excel T Dauan, which meant process.

The Meriba more families would be (2): toTN0851 16/1/25 *2025 45yrs T DummyKaziw T Excel T able access much“This ailan kastom- AdsF Omasker Kazipa

(Torres Strait Islander Traditional Child Rearing Practice) Act 2020, the first of its kind in Australia and Queensland, was a journey of 30-plus years and bore testament to what was possible when persons from distinct cultural societies operated in unison to pursue remedies to redress structural injustice and social inequity.

“Together with our Cultural Support Officers, we further the vision of the Kupai Omasker Working Party and are securing a future For Our Children’s Children,” Mr Maza said.

A Cultural Recognition Order removed barriers for cultural families and secured legal parental rights by ensuring a child’s identity aligned with that of their cultural family.

Families seeking more information, or unavailable to meet our team at community visits, could reach out via 1800 571 102 or email office@ocmokk. qld.gov.au March visits: • 24 March – Ugar Community • 25-27 March – Dauan Community • 26 March – Poruma Community

Cultural Support Officers Amanda Lui, Kiri Harris and Shanice Havili with Karen Keane on Boigu.

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Cultural Support Officers Karen Keane, Godfrey Bero and Shanice Havili on Saibai.

Cultural Support Officers Godfrey Bero and Shanice Havili walking in community on Saibai.

07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025

ADVERTISEMENT

Warren ENTSCH MP Federal Member for Leichhardt Dear Leichhardt Community, For over 26 years, it has been the greatest privilege of my life to serve as your Federal Member for Leichhardt. From Cairns to the Cape and across the Torres Strait, I have dedicated myself to fighting for our region, securing record levels of investment, and delivering real results for our communities.

Throughout my tenure, I have worked tirelessly to ensure Far North Queensland receives the funding and infrastructure it deserves. I am proud to say that over my career, through persistence and strong advocacy, I have directly helped secure over $15.8 billion in funding for our region, including: •

$535 million for road projects across Leichhardt, ensuring safer and more efficient transport links for locals and visitors alike.

•

$1.7 billion for major highways, including the Bruce Highway, Captain Cook Highway, and the Peninsula Development Road, opening up opportunities for economic growth, tourism, and better connectivity for remote communities.

•

$10 billion for the Northern Australia Cyclone Reinsurance Pool, ensuring that families and businesses in cycloneprone areas are no longer crippled by skyrocketing insurance premiums.

•

$3.6 billion in funding for vital local projects, from health and education to tourism, community infrastructure, and economic development.

These investments have been transformational, and they have only been possible because of a strong, committed Coalition government that understands and delivers for regional Queensland.

However, I am deeply concerned about the direction our country is heading under the current Labor government. Economic conditions have deteriorated, cost-of-living pressures are soaring, and businesses are struggling to survive. Northern Australia, in particular, has been neglected—Labor simply does not understand or prioritise our region’s needs.

Jeremy Neal, the LNP’s candidate for Leichhardt will continue to fight for our community. Jeremy is a hardworking, dedicated local, a paramedic by trade who has a passion for our region and will stand up for Far North Queensland and ensure we has a strong voice in Canberra.

With a Peter Dutton-led Coalition government, we can get Australia back on track—restoring economic stability, easing cost-of-living pressures, and delivering the policies that our country needs now more than ever.

As I prepare to step away from public life, I want to express my deepest gratitude to you—the people of Leichhardt. Your support, trust, and friendship have meant everything to me. Together, we have achieved so much, and I will always be proud of what we have built.

Thank you to my family, my incredible staff, and every single person who has been part of this journey. It has been the honour of a lifetime to serve you.

I can’t wait to see what is next in store for the future of our region, and with Jeremy Neal and the LNP, I’m sure we can continue the great work we’ve started.

Best regards,

Jeremy Neal LNP Candidate for Leichhardt

The Hon Warren Entsch MP Federal Member for Leichhardt

Cairns Electorate Office: 200 Mulgrave Road, Westcourt, QLD 4870

07 4051 2220

Thursday Island Electorate: Douglas Street, Thursday Island, QLD 4875

07 4069 1393

warren.entsch.mp@aph.gov.au

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WarrenEntschMP

Authorised by W. Entsch, Liberal National Party of Queensland, 200 Mulgrave Road, Westcourt QLD 4870

08 CLOSING THE GAP DAY NEWS

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THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

Challenges remain in Closing the Gap indicators

The Productivity Commission’s Closing the Gap Dashboard, which measures progress towards the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, posted a new year of data for eight of the 19 targets and 15 of the supporting indicators

earlier this month.

The update showed encouraging progress in several key areas across all states and territories, particularly in land and sea rights and internet access.

But the Coalition of Peaks said critical

challenges remained and required urgent government action, particularly in incarceration, child removal and suicide prevention.

Coalition of Peaks Lead Convenor Pat Turner said there was

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

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

Just email us your pic of Ailan Life along with your name, phone number and a 25-word description to ads@torres.news This week we have four pics entered into the competition.

The first pic (above), taken at Prince Of Wales Island, was submitted by Leesa Boyd.

“My favourite sunrise photo (from a few years ago)! Early morning sunrise with Koey Daudai (mainland Australia) in the distance – reef walking with my father to catch seafood,” Leesa said.

The other three pics, taken on Thursday Island, were submitted by Quy Truong.

“Each passing moment holds a strange and captivating beauty, like a fleeting glimpse of something profound that lingers just beyond our grasp, reminding us of the quiet wonder woven into the fabric of existence,” Quy said.

real progress in some areas.

“We know that when governments genuinely partner with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, we see positive outcomes,” she said.

“The growing recognition of our land and sea rights and increased digital access show what is possible when the right policies and investments are made.

“But in critical areas like incarceration, child protection, and suicide prevention, we are seeing setbacks.

“Governments must step up and fully implement the Priority Reforms of the Closing the Gap Agreement.

“Too often, we see delay, half-measures, and a failure to empower our communities with real decision-making power.

“If we are to achieve lasting change, the solutions must be led by us, not imposed upon us.”

She said genuine partnership was needed.

“Genuine partnership requires deep understanding – where different perspectives and ways of knowing come together to create solutions that are truly effective,” she said.

“The more united we

are, the more we can navigate challenges with a shared vision.

“If we fail to work in an interconnected way, policies risk sounding good in theory but failing in practice.

“Collaboration and a genuine commitment to real partnerships aren’t just ideals – they are essential to Closing the Gap. “This is a lifelong journey that requires mature leadership from all of us, particularly from governments.”

Review underway Ms Turner said the current three-year review of the progress towards the National Agreement on Closing the Gap was a critical opportunity to offer feedback.

The Closing the Gap Agreement required an independent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led review every three years (clause 125).

She said as part of the process, the Coalition of Peaks would host a face-toface gathering of people with lived experience of the Closing the Gap Agreement, bringing together key Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives from across Australia to provide real-time feedback.

“This isn’t politics – it’s about accountability,” Ms Turner said.

“Every level of government agreed to this process to create a space for genuine input and meaningful change.

“The Agreement, including this Review and Assembly, was designed to extend beyond the typical election cycle to drive long-term impact and accountability.

“We need as many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as possible to take part.

“This isn’t just about measuring progress – it’s about shaping the future and making sure governments stay accountable.”

The independent review will be led by the Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research at UTS. Jumbunna will gather feedback through: • A short survey (https://www. coalitionofpeaks. org.au/independentreview-of-closingthe-gap-survey)

• Written submissions • Interviews • In-person yarning circles, forums and interviews in six place-based locations More Closing the Gap information on PAGE 9 N

About the Coalition of Peaks

Leesa and Quy are now in the draw to win this month’s $150 gift card! Good luck!

Coalition of Peaks Lead Convenor Pat Turner. Pic supplied.

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

The Coalition of Peaks is a representative body of over 80 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled peak bodies, collectively representing around 800 organisations.

The Coalition came together

as an act of self-determination to formalise partnerships with Australian governments in the effort to close the gap.

For more information on the Coalition of Peaks and to sign up for updates, visit: www. coalitionofpeaks.org.au

NEWS 09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025

Fundraising helps to detect heart problems

BY CARLI WILLIS New cardiac equipment donated by the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation will mean the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service (CHHHS) cardiac outreach team can increase and improve the work of their clinics in the Cape and Torres Strait.

They said their annual Cardiac Challenge raised $147,342.16 this year, which went to muchneeded equipment used to detect heart problems, including Rheumatic Heart Disease and other critical diagnoses.

CHHHS clinical outreach nurse consultant Meghan Draper said her team also looked after islands in the Torres Strait, Bamaga and other Cape York communities.

“With the donations, the Hospital Foundation has purchased four echo cardiogram carts and four sonography beds for Thursday Island, Bamaga, Weipa and Cooktown,” she said.

“They’ve also supplied an ECG machine for Weipa outpatients so that can be used in our cardiology clinic when we attend.

“The carts are specifically made to fit the cardiac ultrasound machine that the cardiac sonographers take to the clinics. These can be used not only by the adult cardiology team but also by the paediatric cardiology and general medicine who perform echocardiograms.

“They provide a bigger, better ergonomic for the operator, which decreases the risk of muscle injury.”

Ms Draper said the echo cardio beds helped enhance the imaging and patient comfort.

“They allow the sonographer to position

patients with ease, so they can access a patient easier and capture more precise images,” she said.

“Providing this test on sites allows quick and accurate diagnosis, and it also means that the rural communities receive the same level of care as urban centres.

“The ECG machine [helps diagnose cardiac arrhythmias [and] having this machine at Weipa allows us to see patients and do those tests.”

Ms Draper said the Hospital Foundation also donated a car to the outreach service, which would be based in Cairns and travel as far as Cooktown.

She said the outreach clinic was a joint effort between the CHHHS and Torres & Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) and the donated equipment would stay in those communities it was gifted to and would not be moved.

“Anything that’s done in community gets sent back to Cairns, they provide the results and then that gets sent back to the TCHHS,” she said.

Hospital Foundation CEO Gina Hogan said results such as these were proof that fundraising through the event was still powerful, worthwhile and made a difference.

“People in remote parts of Cape York and the Torres Strait might not be as visible to us in the cities, but their health concerns are just as valid, they have many more logistical challenges to overcome in gaining health care,” she said.

“For us, being able to provide equipment to take the health care to the patient, we think that’s a great outcome and we know the clinicians are doing an amazing job in caring for people in our region, no matter how far away.”

M Continued from PAGE 8

Key areas of CLOSING THE GAP progress ● Land and Sea Rights (Targets 15A & 15B): The recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rights and interests over land and sea continues to grow, remaining on track. ● Internet access (Target 17): Data shows that 88.3 per cent of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 15 and over have used the internet in the past three months, reflecting increasing digital access. ● Health and wellbeing: Some states and territories have reported gains in key

ABOVE: Torres and Cape outreach clinical nurse Meghan Draper, Cairns & Hinterland Hospital and Health Service outreach clinical nurse Karyn Greensill, cardiologist Dr Steve Sutcliffe and Foundation CEO Gina Hogan with the new car.

BELOW & RIGHT: A new ECG machine at Weipa to help bring detection closert to home for Cape residents.

Pics supplied.

health indicators, which highlight where genuine partnership and shared-decision making have occurred.

Critical areas requiring urgent change

● Incarceration (Target 10): The number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in prisons increased by 15 per cent between 2023 and 2024 – a 30 per cent increase since 2019 (the baseline year). ● Child protection (Target 12): The rate of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in out-of-home care has risen from 47.3 per 1,000 in 2019 to 50.3 per 1,000 in 2024. ● Suicide (Target 14): The rate of suicide among Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander people reached 30.8 per 100,000 in 2023, the highest recorded since 2018. However, changes in data collection methods require caution in interpretation.

State and territory trends: Each jurisdiction has seen some improvements, but major challenges persist

● NSW: Positive trends in multiple targets, though challenges remain in child development and imprisonment. ● Victoria: Steady progress in many areas, with child removal rates still requiring urgent attention. ● Queensland: Improvements in several targets, despite concerns in

incarceration, youth detention, and child removal rates. ● Western Australia: Gains in some areas, though birthweight, child development, and incarceration require further focus. ● South Australia: Encouraging trends in key areas, while youth engagement, imprisonment, and child removal remain concerns. ● Tasmania: Broad improvements, but housing, imprisonment, and child removal rates need addressing. ● ACT: Some gains recorded, with housing and youth detention remaining priorities. ● Northern Territory: Progress in half of the targets, but setbacks in areas such as life expectancy, birthweight, and child development.

10 SCHOOL NEWS

THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

STEM partnership builds future through connection An innovative citycountry partnership enhancing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education has been forged between Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School on Waiben and two Catholic schools in Brisbane.

As part of the program, students and staff from the three schools will connect in person and online throughout 2025 to gain valuable insights and inspiration, fostering their learning and career aspirations in STEM fields.

The partnership was shaped by the First Nations’ perspectives and the guidance of Kaurareg Nation and Zenadth Kes Elders.

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Principal David Graham said the partnership was a brilliant opportunity to share the rich cultural knowledge of the students at Waiben with their city peers.

“As the northernmost school in the Diocese of Cairns, our location offers unique opportunities to connect beyond the classroom,” Mr Graham said.

“Our students are eager to collaborate with their peers at St Finbarr’s School at

Ashgrove, uniting as partners throughout Terms 2 and 3 on STEM projects aimed at making a tangible impact.

“There is great excitement within our community about the potential of supporting our students in being change agents and using STEM as a way to make a difference within the Torres Strait.

“This opportunity inspires our students to dream big about their careers while empowering them to use their talents for the benefit of the Torres Strait community.

“The innovative solutions they develop will be showcased at Brisbane Catholic Education’s STEM MAD Showcase in Brisbane later this year.”

St Finbarr’s School Principal Catherine Connors said the partnership would allow students to develop a deeper understanding of First Nations perspectives in STEM and across the curriculum.

“This partnership will allow our students to develop authentic relationships with peers who can share about Country and culture with them in a meaningful way,” she said.

“It will help city students develop a

‘heart’ understanding of the importance of this learning, rather than just a ‘head’ understanding.”

St Thomas More College at Sunnybank – the third partner – Principal Les Conroy believed education was about more than just knowledge, he said it was about empowering students to use what they had learned to make a meaningful impact in the world.

“For our students, the opportunity to learn from Elders and take part in community cultural celebrations is truly invaluable,” he said.

School exchange As part of the partnership, students from the two southern schools would embark on a special journey to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, where they would learn from Elders, connect with local students and immerse themselves in the Waiben community.

The unique experience was to offer city-based students a deeper understanding of First Nations perspectives while working together on hands-on, student-led STEM projects that bridge knowledge and culture.

St Thomas More students would also mentor the students

Delegates from St Finbarr’s & St Thomas More exploring Hammond Island Campus & St Joseph’s Catholic Church with Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Principal David Graham. Pics supplied. from both primary schools, offering insights and practical tips for a smooth transition to secondary education.

The secondary students would provide regular presentations about career options, inspiring students to pursue STEM careers and make an impact in their communities.

Students at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School said they were excited about the opportunity to learn and work with the Brisbane students.

Scott Pearson (Year 6) said he was excited.

“Learning from each other will help us see new possibilities for the future – maybe

even careers we haven’t thought about yet,” he said.

Year 6 student Periota Warria-Pearson agreed.

“We’ll be learning how technology like drones and robotics can help our communities in the Torres Strait,” she said.

“One day, I’d love to design a drone that could help track turtles or monitor our reefs.”

Ryanjade Pedro (Year 6) was also excited.

“This program helps us see ourselves as future scientists, engineers, and innovators,” he said.

“It’s exciting to know that the things we learn now could shape the future of our islands

and beyond.”

The partnership was supported by the Yadha Muru Foundation and aligned with the Mpartnwe (Alice Springs) Education

Declaration, which envisioned a world-class education system to support every student, regardless of their location or learning challenges.

Students Meleisha Gela & Walter See Kee.

Assistant Principal Hannah Coburn with students Walter See Kee & Taye Sagigi.

Students Meleisha Gela & Taye Sagigi with Assistant Principal Coburn.

FEATURE 11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025

Flashback to 2008 Zenadth Kes carnival on Waiben

Arkai Brothers from Kubin.

Winning team Kaiwalagal Stingers. Pics supplied.

This week Torres News footy correspondent Alf Wilson takes us on a flashback to the Zenadth Kes rugby league carnival in 2008, won by the Kaiwalagal Stingers. *PLEASE note there are mentions of people who may be deceased in this story.

A powerful Kaiwalagal Stingers easily beat Arkai Brothers from Kubin in the grand final of the 2008 Zenadth Kes Cup rugby league carnival held at Ken Brown Memorial Oval on Waiben.

Six teams competed at the carnival in early November and it attracted players and their families from as far away as Boigu Island and most of the other Torres Strait islands, the NPA, Cape York, Cairns and Townsville.

It was considered one of the premier sporting events on the Ailan calendar, along with the Island of Origin held in August that year on Badu.

Kaiwalagal Stingers consisted of players mainly from Waiben and never looked likely to lose the final against Arkai Brothers and was the only side to remain undefeated.

Other sides were Wagadagam Storm from Mabuiag, WS Brothers from Kubin which some players from Bamaga, Mulga Tigers from Badu and Goodline Centrals Cape Suns from Weipa, Napranum, Mapoon, Aurukun and Coen.

Arkai Brothers were helped greatly in the lead up to the carnival

by Melbourne Storm player Sam Joe who was had before been ruled ineligible to play for PNG in the World Cup. “I went back to Kubin

before the carnival and helped the lads with some moves around the ruck and I really was itching to play beside them but settled for running the water,” he said.

The surprise packet of the carnival was Wagadagam Storm who had only one notable southern ring-in with classy Bruce Joseph.

To reach the final Arkai Brothers beat Wagadagam Storm 3330 after Townsville star Billo Mosby snapped a field goal in the last minutes with the score at 30-all and golden point looking certain.

Billo also booted a penalty after the siren to give the Arkai Brothers the three point margin.

To qualify for the final, Stingers thrashed Mulga Tigers 40-14 and bolted out of the boxes in the decider with a first minute try.

The Mulga side included champion forward George Nona who is the current TSRA Chairman.

Inspirational Stingers captain the late Danny Mosby was named player of the final and Goodline Centrals Cape Suns enforcer Garreth Smith was the player of the carnival.

Garreth has since become the CEO of Cairns-based Northern Pride who contest the Queensland Cup competitions.

“The player of the carnival was voted

on by referees in the round robin series and finals were not taken into account to give everybody a go,” said carnival MC the late Wayne Guivarra.

At the time Danny Mosby praised his entire side but singled out forward Wrench Mau for a special effort.

“We thank the Lord and the Holy Spirit for this carnival and it was very competitive,” Danny said.

Pre-final entertainment included a women’s game won 2018 by Pioneer Knights Maidens over Panthers.

The fastest Man in the Torres Strait Sprint run up the length of the oval was won by John Bosun (Kubin) and the women’s by St Paul’s teenager Shaqualle Yiduldam.

The crowd was estimated to be more than 1000 for the final and loved the entertainment was provided by dancers Ailan Dreaming consisting of Phillip Geia of Horn island, Dion Drummond and the Eipe Karem Beizam Dancers from Mer.

Results Round One: Arkai Brothers 16 d Wagadagam Storm 14, Goodline Central Cape Suns 28 d WS Brothers 6, Kaiwalagal Stingers 16 d Mulga Tigers 14, WS Brothers 16 d Arkai Brothers 14, Stingers 18 d Wagadagam Storm 10, Goodline Central Cape Suns 18 d Mulga Tigers 12.

Round 2: Stingers 14 d WS Brothers 4, Arkai Brothers 20 d Central Cape Suns 14, Mulga Tigers 14 d Wagadagam Storm 10, Stingers 20 d Arkai Brothers 12, Wagadagam Storm 32 d

Central Cape Suns 10, Mulga Tigers 30 d WS Brothers 6, Stingers 20 d Central Cape Suns 16, Arkai Brothers 13 d Mulga Tigers 12, Wagadagam Storm 18 d WS Brothers 12.

Grand Final: Stingers 36 (Aaron Binawel, Edgar Daniels, Terence Yusia, Thomas Loban, Shem Binawel, Stanley Dai, Wrench Mau 1 tries, Sam Wasaga 4 goals) d Arkai Brothers 6 (Peter Baira 1 try, Billo Mosby goal).

Semi-Finals: Stingers 40 (Egdar Daniels, Aaron Binawel, Terence Yusia, Morrison Mosby, Jahmen Gela, Damien Binawel, Solly Bowie tries, Sam Wasaga 4, Danny Mosby 2 goals) d Mulga Tigers 14 (Brian Murgha 2, Ted Mosby 1 tries, Lui Marama 1 goal).

Arkai Brothers 33 (James Misick 2, Peter Baira, Anzac McDonald, Fred Joe 1 tries, Billo Mosby 6 goals, Billo Mosby 1 field goal) d Wagadagam Storm 30 (Assan Nona, Denson Misi, Allan Repu, Mark Garama, Gabriel Dau 1 tries, Patrick Ropeyarn 3, Bruce Joseph 2 goals).

Mulga team from Badu which included current TSRA Chairperson George Nona.

Action between Kaiwalagal Stingers and WS Brothers.

­

Carnival awards Player of the Grand Final: Danny Mosby (Stingers).

Player of the Carnival: Garreth Smith (Central Cape Suns).

Women’s Games Pioneer Knights Maidens 20 (Kristy Wilson 2, Toya Nona 1, Tegan Aniba 1 tries, Elsie Seriat 1, Ella-Fay Hosea 1 goals) d Panthers 18 (Angelo Bero, Lilian Mau, Lency Misick, Okepa Mene 1 tries, Lency Misick 1 goals), Players of the Game trophies: Florrie KingSmith (Panthers) and Elsie Seriat (Maidens).

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

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12 SPORT NEWS

THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

Tahlulah on the road to remote communities

Tahlulah Tillett with students at Normanton State Primary School. Pic supplied.

BY ALF WILSON

Star Cowboys NRLW player Tahlulah Tillett has been helping young students in remote communities to realise the importance of school attendance.

The 26-year-old Tahlulah has played 15 matches for the Cowboys NRLW side since 2023, four for

TN0461 • 28-11-24

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the Newcastle Knights in 2021, as well as three appearances for the ladies Indigenous Allstars.

With Moa Island connections, her father Stephen Tillett was a member of the inaugural North Queensland Cowboys squad in 1995 and played reserve grade for the club.

Cairns-born Tahlulah has a genuine passion for helping youngsters to have an education so they can gain careers.

Outside of football, Tahlulah was the Cowboys Community Engagement Officer and travelled to communities to advise students on the importance of gaining a good education.

This year she has already travelled to Normanton Primary School and Gulf Christian College where students gained access to the highly successful North Queensland Toyota Cowboys Try for 5! program which encouraged and supported schools, students and families to help boost attendance rates.

“Since visiting in late 2024 to introduce the program, staff at both schools have done an amazing job promoting and driving the Try for 5! message,” she said.

“The students were all aware of the program and have had an awesome start to the year in terms of their attendance.”

Tahlulah said during the visit she attended each class, shared conversations about why it was important to come to school, set some goals for the year and met with students who received additional one-on-one support throughout Term 1.

“To see the young people excited about Try for 5! and to hear that some who had previously been disengaged with school were now attending more frequently demonstrated the power of this program,” she said.

Part of funding from the Youth Development Partnership Fund, a joint initiative between the Department of Tourist and Sport and

the Queensland Police Service, she said the school communities were off to an impressive start.

During the recent three-day visit, the Cowboys crew engaged about 40 students in some fun, physical activities at the Normanton Sports Centre, enjoyed a touch football game with young people at the Normanton Stingers Rugby League Club, followed by skills and drills with players from their men’s and women’s teams, before finishing the visit with a morning tea with members of Gidgee Healing and local Elders at the Normanton Library.

As well as Try for 5!, the Cowboys Community Team were working with local authorities and organisations including Queensland Police and Carpentaria Shire Council to deliver a suite of initiatives including the Tackle Together program, where the Cowboys would facilitate a two-day rugby league clinic culminating in some fun games for the community during the April school holidays.

Cowboys Community Foundation CEO Fiona Pelling said having the support and involvement of the community was a huge indicator of future success.

“The most recent NAPLAN results reaffirmed what we have known for many years – the education gap between remote v urban and Indigenous v non-Indigenous students is large and spans all year levels,” she said.

“Schools are doing wonderful things in the classroom, but if the children aren’t there they can’t benefit, so Try for 5! is all about rewarding and supporting them to come to school so they form positive education habits early in life.

“We also know utilising the Cowboys brand to connect through the game of rugby league is a powerful platform for meaningful engagement.”

TN1057 20/3/25. _____ TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025

Career Opportunities We're hiring! Torres Strait Regional Council (TSIRC) is offering multiple career opportunities across our 15 unique island communities. Join our values-driven team, where we work as One with respect for Ailan Kastom. Explore your future with us!

Coordinator Safety and Wellbeing • Based in the Torres Strait region • Full time position • Salary $82,992 to $85,800 per annum • 6 weeks annual leave Finance Officer • Based in the Torres Strait Region or Cairns • $60,424.00 - $62,036.00 per annum • Full time permanent (Torres Strait region) or Full time fixed term, Cairns (2 years) • 6 weeks annual leave Governance, Legal and Insurance Officer • Based in the Torres Strait Region or Cairns • Full time, permanent based in Torres Strait region • Full time, fixed term 2 years Cairns • Six weeks annual leave • Salary $73,268 to $76,128

To download the PD, and to apply for this role go to go to: torstrarc.recruitmenthub.com.au or scan the QR code.

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Booking approval: 9.45am Tue. 4/3/25. Purchase Order (if needed): 12 noon Tue. 4/3.

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The Australian Education Research Organisation has an exciting opportunity within the First Nations team!

Coordinator, Expert Reference Group (First Nations)  Full time until 30 June 2026, starting salary of $90,561 per annum plus super.  Flexible location – remote work from home - Australia wide.  This is an identified position.

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14 SPORT

THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

Seb best in Raiders win over Broncos

BY ALF WILSON Sebastian Kris and Gehamat Shibasaki were direct opponents when the Canberra Raiders beat the Brisbane Broncos 32-22 last Saturday night.

Gehamat, who has many relatives on Waiben, and Seb, who has Mabuiag connections, had solid matches.

Seb was amongst the Raiders’ best, especially in the first half, and in the 17th minute tapped a bomb kick back which resulted in a Canberra try.

On another occasion, Seb went close to scoring himself when tackled just short of the line.

Gehamat who is nicknamed “Gem” by teammates was strong in defence.

Another Raiders’ star, winger Xavier Savage, missed the game due to being suspended for one round.

Bragging rights Veteran centre Dane Gagai earned bragging rights over another much younger star Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow when his Newcastle Knights beat the Dolphins 26-12, last Thursday night.

Aged 34, Dane, who has Badu and Iama connections, scored a try in the 28th minute after champion Knights fullback Kalyn Ponga was elusive and that saw Newcastle lead 20-nil.

Dane has played 293

Seb Kris in action.

Pic NRL.

NRL matches for four clubs, represented the Queensland Maroons State of Origin team on 23 occasions, and also lined up for Australia in seven tests.

At the 13th minute the 23-year-old Hammer crossed after great lead-up work by Kodi Nikorima, but the try was disallowed by the bunker for an obstruction.

In front of a parochial local crowd at Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium, the home side led 20-6 at halftime.

Meanwhile, Dane’s younger brother Jacob Gagai has left the South Sydney Rabbitohs and joined English Super League club the Huddersfield Giants.

Sharks bite Forward Reuben Cotter was well down on his normal form, running just 60 metres when the Cowboys lost 36-12 to the Cronulla Sharks in Townsville on Saturday.

The giant Sharks pack was dominant and not one Cowboys forward ran for 100m.

Next weekend the Cowboys face another daunting challenge against the Broncos in Brisbane

whilst the Sharks host the unbeaten Rabbitohs.

A Gold Coast Titans team for which forward David Fifita came off the interchange lost 40-24 to the Sydney Bulldogs on Sunday.

Other game upsets Underdogs the Sydney Roosters upset four times reigning premiers Penrith Panthers 38-32 on Friday night.

After a heavy loss in round one, the Roosters scored one of the biggest upsets in NRL history and were rated $7 to win by Sportsbet.

By comparison, the Panthers were rated at just $1.10, one of the shortest-priced favourites in years.

The New Zealand Warriors also scored an upset 36-16 win over Manly Sea Eagles across the ditch.

Close result South Sydney Rabbitohs made it two wins in a row with a nail-biting 25-24 victory over the St George Dragons.

In the other match last year’s wooden spooners the West Tigers beat the Parramatta Eels 32-6.

First round win for Blackhawks

BY ALF WILSON A Townsville Blackhawks side, which included Dudley Dotoi and Jayden Hodges, started the 2025 Hostplus Queensland Cup Statewide competition in style with a 27-20 win over the Mackay Cutters on Sunday.

Mackay Cutters outside back Brenton Baira also scored a try in a game that was one of two genuine North Queensland derbies.

Brenton is a son of former Canberra Raiders player Royston Lightning and was a prolific scorer for the Dolphins last season.

A large crowd watched the game at Townsville Brother’s Jack Manski Oval.

The Cutters side also included Cowboys forward Jason Taumalolo.

Ironically a Cowboys teammate of Taumalolo in the Cowboys 2015 NRL premiership team, James Tamau, was in the Blackhawks forward pack.

Deadly Dudley lined up on a wing for the Blackhawks whilst former NRL player Jayden was the hooker and was elusive.

Blackhawks led 10-6 at halftime and their try scorers were Thomas Nisbet, Jack Campagnolo, Luke Webley and McKenzie Baker.

It was a late start to the new

Dantoray Lui in Dolphins colours. Pic supplied. season after round one games scheduled the previous week were cancelled due to Cyclone Alfred and associated rain. They will be played soon.

Pride down Northern Pride played in front of a big home crowd at Barlow Park in Cairns but lost 20-16 to a strong Tweed Seagulls.

The powerful Pride forward pack included Jamal Shibasaki and dropped Cowboys enforcer Jeremiah Nanai.

Last season Pride finished the qualifying rounds as minor premiers but was narrowly eliminated in a preliminary final.

The Seagulls led 12-nil and halftime, and the Pride outscored them after the break.

Pride’s try scorers were Marly Bitungane, Esom Ioka and Robert Derby. Jake Clifford kicked two goals.

Former Northern Pride youngster Dantoray Lui was a member of the Dolphins team which defeated the Magpies 36-22 in Brisbane.

Speedy five-eighth Dantoray Lui will train at times with Dolphins NRL champion Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.

Hunted The PNG Hunters travelled to the Sunshine Coast and went down 28-6 to the Falcons.

Elijah Roltinga scored the only try for the Hunters in the 26th minute and Jamie Mavoko booted the goal.

The Hunters will improve in coming rounds, especially at home games in Port Moresby where they will be supporters by a large parochial crowd.

Meanwhile, in the 15-club competition the Ipswich Jets, who signed fliers Julian Christian and Jon Reuben, had a bye.

The Jets will meet the Tigers in Brisbane on Sunday.

The Drum Collective walk from the Cowboys League’s Club to the ground.

Footy fever hits T’ville STORY & PICS BY ALF WILSON Footy fever is here and Torres Strait Islanders from around the far north converged on Townsville last Saturday to see the Cowboy’s first home game of the NRL season.

The Torres News spoke to some of the families on their way to the match at Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

In the hours before kick-off, hundreds gathered in the CBD near the Cowboys League’s Club to do the walk from there to the stadium known as the ‘Drum Collective’.

Drums of many types were beaten as the crowd took off.

Enthusiastic Cowboys supporters included Saibai-connected Lilah Yoelu, Kozzani Zaro, 10 and Kevin Zaro (from Mer) going to cheer their team on.

From Cardwell, which is 160km north of Townsville, were Todd Holford, Alannah Bosen, eight, and Lilly Bosen, who said they enjoyed the atmosphere.

Waiben-born Lilly has a lot of family on Moa Island’s Kubin Village and relatives who were passionate

about rugby league on many of the other islands.

“I come to many Cowboys games and it is good the new season has started,” Lilly said.

Ayr, 90km south of Townsville, residents Chris Kusu, Naomi Mills, Kenia Mills, seven, and Titoma Mills were going to the game.

Local First Nations man Anthony Stout was there with his wife Kylie and sons Milton, eight, and Lane, four.

Standing knee-high to a grasshopper, Lane said he just loved the atmosphere.

“I started to dance during the walk and it was an epic time,” young Lane said.

Anthony said there were more than 18,000 spectators at the game.

“My brother Bradley and his family were all there,” he said.

Local Cowboys supporter Dwayne Butler was enthusiastic about the game.

Andrew Stevenson from far off Maryborough was also ready to walk to the stadium.

The Cowboys lost 36-12 but everybody was happy top-quality footy was back in play.

FOOTNOTE: In a clash that

will tantalize the rugby league buds of passionate fans, the Blackhawks will meet the Northern Pride on Saturday at Townsville’s Jack Manski starting at 5pm.

During 18 previous matches between the Townsville and Cairns rivals, the Blackhawks have won 10 matches to eight.

TOP LEFT: Alannah & Lilly Bosen.

TOP RIGHT: Lilah Yoelu, Kozzani Zaro & Kevin Zaro.

CENTRE LEFT: Lane Stout & family take part in the Drum Collective.

CENTRE RIGHT: Chris Kusu, Naomi Mills, Kenia Mills & Titoma Mills.

LEFT: Dwayne Butler.

SPORT 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025

Mistee steps up to national level for Suns M Continued from P16

BY ALF WILSON “Mistee’s rise to such a high level of representative football shows that there is a genuine pathway for young people from remote Far North Queensland to reach elite AFL levels,” Mr Sciberras said.

“She has made incredible progress

VELMA

in such a short time, and with no regular competitions on Thursday Island, her success makes us even prouder. There is no AFL field on the island.

“The closest is in Cairns, which requires a ferry ride, bus journey and plane trip to get to.”

Gold Coast Suns Academy Manager Kath Newman emphasised the academy’s commitment

GARA’S

OUT! IN THIS WEEK’S ‘HOOPS’ NEWS...

Tall talent Debbie Lui (nee Jose) has been a teammate of mine on different teams at state league and national levels since we first played together in the late 1980s.

At that time we were selected to represent Indigenous Australia to tour Canada and West Coast USA, playing against college teams.

Debbie was only a teenager but had already made the Queensland U16 team and was selected to attend the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) on a basketball scholarship in Canberra.

Standing at 190cm, she played the centre position and for many years was unstoppable.

Debbie played representative basketball for Cairns Dolphins, Townsville Sunbirds, Mackay Meteorettes and Kuiyam Pride.

She even represented the Torres Strait at the Arafura Games.

Because she was so tall, many people and players would always ask to take their photo with her; they couldn’t believe a lady could be that tall.

Debbie’s career is in education – she works at Tagai Secondary Campus as a Community Education Counsellor (almost eight

Talented centre Debbie Lui. Pic supplied.

to providing opportunities for talent regardless of location.

“No matter where you live across our vast Gold Coast Suns zone, if you have the talent and the desire to reach the highest level, we’ll support you,” she said.

“We hope Mistee’s success will pave the way for more Torres Strait Islanders to represent the Suns.”

years) and was a primary school Teachers’ Aide in Cairns for 19 years.

Her advice to young basketball players is ‘don’t let others tell you that you’re no good, always try your best and remember to always dream big. Anything is possible.’

Debbie’s mother, the late Alvira Corrie, was from Hammond Island and her father, the late Neville Jose, was from Wujal Wujal Daintree.

Her only child, daughter Rachel Jose, also works with children.

She was married to the late Jacob Walter Lui and since moving to the Torres Strait is living happily with her partner, Patrick Nai. United takes lead Melbourne United is leading 2-1 in the National Basketball League grand finals series after defeating the Illawarra Hawks, 83-77, in Wollongong.

Game 2 was played in Melbourne and the Hawks won 102-100 with a buzzer-beater from shooting guard

Mistee Sagigi when attending a Suns training program in Townsville last weekend. Pic supplied

by AFL.

TN0230 8x2 local sports

Flashback to 2007 Island of Origin when Mistee’s dad Jack Sagigi starred for winning Island of Origin side Kulpiyam. Pic Alf Wilson.

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Giants U12 player Cooper Edoni-Cantrell got his basketball signed by Fire guard Jessica McDowell-White at Townsville Basketball Stadium. Pic supplied.

Tyler Harvey.

Game 4 was played last night and if required, Game 5 will be on this Sunday.

Games so far have all been won by less than 10 points.

Fire’s last appearance Although the Women’s National Basketball League

Debbie Lui (nee Jose) second last on bench watches the jump ball to start game against University of British Columbia in 1988. Pic supplied by Morris Cloudy.

season has finished, the Townsville Fire players attended the local junior semifinals for a meet and greet and their last signing session.

Members of the Fire team members will probably have a short break and then prepare for the NBL1 season, Women’s National Basketball Association or European team.

NBL1 The North competition will tip off in early May, so there are about six weeks for clubs to add players to their rosters.

Sunshine Coast Phoenix announced that Deshawn Ross-Paiwan has signed with the club.

The guard played with Northside Wizards for three years and started his NBL1 career with Ipswich Force in 2021.

Two clubs will not be participating in this year’s NBL1 North competition – Darwin Salties and Gold Coast Seahawks.

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PHONE 07 4069 1551 BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL – TICKET ONLINE www.peddellsferry.com.au • Passengers please pre-ticket – online, agents or phone (By phone: booking fee and change of booking fees now apply) Concession fares available, conditions apply OFFICE HOURS – MON–FRI, 9am–12noon & 12.30–2.30pm LUGGAGE – Per passenger (excl. infants) 1 piece up to 15kg, excess charges otherwise apply) FREIGHT – PRE PAID – Items up to 15kg carried, conditions apply.

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

16

THURSDAY 20 MARCH 2025

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

Mistee steps up to national level

BY ALF WILSON Waiben-born rising AFL star Mistee Sagigi will represent the Gold Coast Suns under-17 women’s team in a national development squad match against the Sydney Swans on Saturday.

Mistee, who turns 16 next month, attended the StreetSmarts Suns Academy Program in Townsville last weekend in preparation.

Speedy Mistee lines up as a centre which is a key position from where she can dictate play including defending, and also send the ball into the forward line.

“I am really looking forward to playing in these games which will be a real highlight for me,” Mistee told the Torres News.

A gifted sportswoman, Mistee’s parents were former quality Torres Strait and Cape York rugby league players Jack and Tari Sagigi.

Jack was a key member of the Kulpiyam side who won the 2007 Island of Origin carnival on Badu and also represented the Torres/Cape in the 2010 Foley Shield comp at Townsville, amongst many other achievements.

Tari scored the

first try for Waiben’s Sundown Sirens in their 32-22 win over Barbarians in the 2008 grand final of the KRL ladies rugby league competition at Ken Brown Oval.

Mistee, also the goddaughter of Cairns Pride CEO Garreth Smith, keeps in daily contact with her proud parents, who live on Waiben, by text or social media.

“Dad and mum are really great supporters,” she said.

In the coming Cairns and District AFL season Mistee was set to play for AFL House affiliate team Eagles in the under 17 girls division and North Cairns Tigers in the open junior girls.

Mistee’s journey into Australian rules football began through the AFL Cape York development program at Tagai State College on Waiben.

Possessing a natural talent in the code, in 2023 Mistee played her first competitive game at the StreetSmarts AFLQ Schools Cup gala day in Cairns, representing her college.

Her performance there led to an invitation to attend the Gold Coast Suns Emerging Talent Carnival in Maroochydore later that year.

Her impressive form did not go unnoticed,

and she was selected for the StreetSmarts Gold Coast Suns Academy squad for the 2024 Under-16 Marsh AFL National Development Championships.

At the championships, Mistee competed against teams from the Sydney Swans Academy, the Brisbane Lions Academy, and Western Australia.

In August 2024, Mistee’s consistent excellence earned her Queensland honours when she was chosen to represent the state at the National School Sport Australia Championships. She was also one of 38 Indigenous players selected to participate in the AFL’s 2024 Woomeras Program and represents the Cape York Crusaders.

Additionally, Mistee was selected for the Peninsula regional team for Under 17 girls and played in the Under 18 Indigenous South Pacific All Stars match versus Cairns All Stars.

AFL Cape York Development Coordinator Kieran Sciberras praised Mistee’s remarkable progress, highlighting the significance of her achievement.

“Mistee’s rise to

TN0529 10x7 – 7/3/24 Story continued & pics on PAGE 15 N

Mistee Sagigi in action for the Gold Coast Suns in 2024. Pic supplied.

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