Torres News_Edition 172_27 March 2025

Thursday, 27 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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Community’s say on health issues

Waiben community members happy to have their say on health issues at the Health Equity Meeting at the PKA Hall on Tuesday. Pic by Flora Warria.

BY JENNIFER ENOSA & VELMA GARA Community yarns have been hosted across Zenadth Kes by Torres & Cape Hospital and Health Services (TCHHS) staff to allow communities to have input into their 2025-2028 Health Equity Strategy (HES).

2022-2025 HES was built on input from consumers, the public, staff and health service partners – and due for a refresh.

Six key focus areas were identified to improve the health and well-being of First Nations people by the original HES. They were: • Remove racial

• •

•

•

discrimination and institutional racism.

Increase access to healthcare services.

Influence the social, cultural and economic controls of health.

Deliver sustainable, culturally safe and responsive healthcare services.

Work with Aboriginal

and Torres Strait Islander people to design, deliver, monitor and review health services.

• Strengthen the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce.

TCHHS HES Manager Eva Burns said community input was needed into HES 20252028 to ensure everyone had a fair chance.

“For our people to have the ability to live in their communities and have access to services and opportunities no matter where they live,” she said.

She said it was important to make sure community voices were heard.

“I think it’s an important communication tool, allowing community stakeholders to understand

how and when we are going to achieve [outcomes] and who will be responsible for driving improvement over the next three years,” she said. “HES also helps to build trust and transparency by making it accessible to all community members and key stakeholders.”

Continued on PAGE 3 N

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THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

Petition to close school draws more than 1400 signatures More than 1400 people have signed a petition calling for a far north Queensland school to close after chaos, including physical assaults, erupted on school grounds over the past month.

Community members allege the remote school failed its duty of care.

Queensland’s Department of Education has flown in a team to investigate an incident that became viral on social media.

A spokesperson for Queensland’s Department of Education said there were no plans to close the school.

“The [school] is attended by

more than 600 students,” the spokesperson said.

“The department has commenced a thorough investigation in response to the unacceptable incident that occurred last week.

“Concerns raised by students or families will be responded to appropriately and ongoing support is available for anyone who requires it.”

Member for Cook, David Kempton, said he had spoken to the school, local council and police during a visit last week.

“For anybody who saw that

incident, it was very disturbing and very traumatic, not only for the people involved and the families, the school and the community,” Mr Kempton said.

“I understand there’s an extensive investigation being undertaken.

“The problem I had with the closure of the school is – what are you going to do with the other students and should they suffer because of the behaviour of a few?

“I think this investigation needs to be taken through to see what the options are and what solutions are available.”

Flood payments on offer from Centrelink

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

The Australian Government has extended the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP) and the Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) to more north Queensland communities affected by recent flooding and heavy rainfall events.

Federal Emergency Management Minister Jenny McAllister said the new direct assistance measures would help more people who faced financial hardship as a

result of the events in their immediate recovery phase.

The AGDRP offered residents $1000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child for people who suffered serious damage or injury as a result of the floods, to help with the costs of recovery.

Before they claim, people can check their eligibility on the Services Australia website at: servicesaustralia.gov.au/ disastersupport.

FLY WITH A QUEENSLANDER Mixed response to federal budget The Albanese Government’s 2025 Budget was read to Parliament by Treasurer Jim Chalmers on Tuesday night to mixed reviews.

Cairns-based Senator Nita Green said the budget provided cost of living relief for people in Far North Queensland.

“We are delivering real cost of living relief now, while also investing in the future,” she said.

“We’re delivering this through tax cuts for every Australian, reducing the cost of energy bills for every household and strengthening Medicare through making medicines even cheaper and delivering 50 more Medicare Urgent Care Clinics.”

The 2025 budget also delivered an investment of $1.3 billion over six years to support “stronger outcomes for First Nations Australians”.

Some housing organisations and welfare agencies were critical of the budget and its lack of support for those on lower incomes.

Torres News will have more on what was in the budget, and community responses, in our next issue J

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Ergon invites aspiring apprentices to info sessions Aspiring electrical apprentices in the Torres Strait will have the chance to chat to the Ergon Energy Network team at a series of information sessions next month.

Far North Apprentice Program Leader Matt Spinella said the events were designed to inspire local students to consider a career in the electricity industry.

“We’re offering two apprenticeships on Thursday Island next year and this will be an opportunity to find out what you need to succeed before applications open in June,” he said.

“You’ll need strong numeracy, literacy, and communication skills, be comfortable working at heights, and be able to work well in a small team.

“An Ergon apprenticeship leads to trade qualifications that will set you up for the future – you can earn good money with great conditions, including generous allowances when you are attending training away from home.”

Second-year apprentice

2024 Far North Queensland apprentices, including Credence Moloney. Pic supplied. linesperson, Credence Moloney, who started his apprenticeship after completing Year 12 at Tagai College, said he loved his apprenticeship at the Thursday Island depot.

“You are in a different ‘office’ every day – either on TI, the eastern or western islands,” he said.

“I work with a great crew and learn heaps from my tradies.

“We supply power to the other islands – I love climbing and being in the bucket (elevated work platform).

“Ergon is great.

“They pay for all my training

and travel, as well as all my personal protection equipment (PPE).”

The Ergon Energy Network team will be hosting information sessions on Wednesday 2 April from 1011.10am at Tagai State College and the Ergon depot at 9 Aplin Road from 4-6pm.

r o f l l a c l a Fin entries GAB TITUI INDIGENOUS

Communities have a say on health issues M Continued from P1

BY JENNIFER ENOSA & VELMA GARA Community yarns have been held at Top Western Islands of Dauan, Saibai and Boigu and the NPA over the past month.

They were held at TRAWQ, Port Kennedy, Prince of Wales, Horn Island, Hammond Island and Ugar earlier this week.

Ms Burns said attendance from community members had been good so far, with lots of questions asked.

“Any concerns about patient travel or having to go to Cairns for treatment or if they have ideas on how our services can work better, we want to hear about it,” she said.

She said everyone was invited to attend and speak about what health and wellbeing needs they saw as priorities.

“Once all the Community Yarns are completed, the draft document will be distributed to everybody who has attended, primary health centres,

hospital and key stakeholders for input into draft HES before it is published in August this year,” she said.

The HES team will be on Erub today at the IKC office, TSIRC between 10am-2pm and next Monday 31

March on Iama at the Community Hall from 10am-2pm.

For more information or to have

your say, contact Ms Burns at TCHHS-HES@ health.qld.gov.au

Pics by Diat Alferink.

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THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

‘ICAN Learn’ ready to teach workforce

BY VELMA GARA Building a sustainable First Nations workforce in urban, regional and remote communities will be a key focus for the Indigenous Consumer Assistance Network (ICAN) over the next three years.

ICAN Learn will provide training and development support for their First Nations financial counselling and capability staff, with a focus on professional and personal mentorship, through four community partners across Australia.

ICAN CEO Aaron Davis said the new project would apply what they had learned over the many years that ICAN had developed its financial counselling and capability workforce, direct from community.

“We work in a community development approach, to build an organisation and workforce that reflects the communities we serve,” he said.

ICAN’s up-and-coming financial counsellors and financial capability workers: Back: Elizabeth Carr, Aimee Williams, Joel Bullio, Jay-Kaylah Grogan-Creed. Front: Sinead Singe, Carmilla Dennis. Pic supplied by ICAN. “We know from our own experience that recruiting and retaining skilled financial counselling and capability workers in regional and remote areas is an ongoing challenge.”

One of ICAN’s key findings, in its many years of delivering workforce development training through the

What’s On IN TORRES SHIRE To Lead, Provide and Facilitate a sustainable, safe and culturally vibrant community.

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Diploma of Financial Counselling CHC51122, the Certificate IV Community Services CHC42021 (Financial Capability) and a wide range of other accredited skill sets, was the need to develop both professional and soft skills to build better workforces.

“So back in 2008, we created the Indigenous

Financial Counselling Mentorship Program, a Diploma of Financial Counselling program that focused on building the capabilities and skills of people to become financial counsellors and financial capability workers within their own communities,” Mr Davis said.

ICAN Learn Executive Officer

Tracey McCurdy said the Mentorship Program had a focus on both the professional and personal development of First Nations students studying to become qualified financial counsellors.

“That’s why in our new partnership program we will be providing pathways through ICAN Learn to develop a wide range of skills and abilities for our partners,” she said.

The four organisations were South-East Community Links (SECL – southeastern Melbourne, VIC), Winun Ngari (Derby, WA), HKTC (Darwin, NT) and Anglicare NT (servicing regional and remote NT).

SECL CEO Peter McNamara said the partnership was important for his region.

“Through this partnership, we’ll be able to expand this opportunity for First Nations people located in South East Melbourne,” he said.

Positive results in diabetes study

BY VELMA GARA Significant success in the management of Type 2 diabetes under a new intervention program backed by James Cook University research in regional Queensland has led to calls for its expansion statewide.

Together Strong Connected Care (TSCC) – a year-long study of more than 115 patients from the Mackay area – found patients who were on the program enjoyed a significantly greater reduction in their average blood sugar than those in the non-TSCC group.

The multidisciplinary diabetes intervention program consisted of comprehensive lifestyle advice through a team of healthcare professionals, including a nurse practitioner, credentialled diabetes educator, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community liaison officers, dieticians, physiotherapists and virtual health support officers.

National data showed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people were three times more likely to develop diabetes compared to their non-Indigenous counterparts.

Staff Specialist

Endocrinologist at the Mackay Base Hospital and JCU A/Prof Dr Harshal Deshmukh said the results of the new study were “hugely promising”.

“The level of reduction in HbA1c (blood sugar levels) is quite remarkable because generally we really struggle to treat Type 2 diabetes for people living in remote and regional communities,” he said.

“When we are looking at First Nations’ communities there is generally a lot less awareness about diabetes management and the other complications around it. But through this multi-disciplinary approach, we proved that you can actually have good outcomes for diabetes, rather than us just seeing them in a diabetes clinic and then asking them to come back after three months.”

Participants were referred from GPs, community health workers and hospital workers.

“This was a small study in one centre but if we were to replicate these findings in multiple regional Queensland centres, I think it could really help build a national framework,” Dr

Deshmukh said.

“I also think this multi-disciplinary approach would work not just for diabetes, but for other chronic conditions affecting First Nations and people in remote communities as well.”

JCU Research paper co-author and JCU Professor Usman Malabu said government support was needed to roll out the program state-wide and across Australia’s vast rural and remote areas.

“The TSCC approach could be expanded to other rural, regional and people of First Nations’ settlements where access to diabetes specialists is limited or non-existent,” Prof Malabu said.

“Another benefit is the incorporation of general health education on top of medications as a major contributory factor to improved diabetes care, and in some cases reversal of blood sugar levels back to pre-diabetes levels.

“The paper showed the power of motivational intervention and coupled with this holistic and culturally responsive educational program, we were able to yield great results to these people managing Type 2 Diabetes.”

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025

NEWS 05

Aged Care report calls for systemic changes

BY VELMA GARA

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.

Front cover of the pictorial summary of the Interim First Nations Aged Care Commissioner Andrea Kelly’s Report to Government in an easyto-understand format. Pics supplied.

Interim First Nations Aged Care Commissioner Andrea Kelly. of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and needed urgent reform.

It also outlined a path forward for a culturally safe, community-led aged care system based on thousands of hours of conversations with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Recommendations from the report included: • committing to a transformation plan, co-designed with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and informed by the Priority Reforms under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap. • establishing a permanent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commissioner and supporting office that is independent and can hold the aged care system to account.

• an additional 27 urgent actions the Government should commit to as a priority.

Indigenous Australians Minister Malarndirri McCarthy said Ms Kelly’s commitment to making older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s voices heard was evident in the pages

of this report.

“Older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are the heart of our communities, and it is important that we treat them with the respect and dignity that they deserve as they age,” she said.

In recognition of the work to be done, and the Government’s commitment to improving aged care outcomes for older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, Aged Care Minister Anika Wells extended Ms Kelly’s role as Interim First Nations Aged Care Commissioner until June 2026.

Ms Wells said she welcomed the report and its findings.

“The Government is actively considering the recommendations and how they can be taken forward,” she said.

“I am pleased to extend Ms Kelly in the role of Interim First Nations Aged Care Commissioner until June 2026.

“Ms Kelly will continue to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices and perspectives are incorporated in the reforms currently underway.”

Ms Kelly has also released a Community Booklet of older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who met with her to share their experiences with aged care available at: https:// www.health.gov.au/ resources/publications/ transforming-agedcare-for-aboriginal-andtorres-strait-islanderpeople-communitybooklet

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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

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Interim First Nations Aged Care Commissioner Andrea Kelly has released a report to the Government, recommending a series of critical reforms to improve aged care for older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Ms Kelly’s report, called Transforming Aged Care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, outlined a range of key findings and recommendations about the barriers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people face to accessing aged care and the changes that need to be made for the system to meet their needs.

The findings were based on feedback received from older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, their families and communities, service providers and peak bodies, and would have included the results of a meeting in Waiben which were part of a series of community consultations.

Ms Kelly said the recommendations in her report were clear.

“I call on the Australian Government to accept and act on them,” she said.

“Without significant change including an equity-based approach, the aged care system will not meet the current or projected growth in demand of aged care services for older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“I have outlined a plan to achieve this, which starts with genuine partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“I am hopeful the reforms underway will incorporate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experiences and perspectives to meet their needs.”

Ms Kelly said she would use the next 18 months to establish an office for a permanent Commissioner and continue to advocate for older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The report was clear that the aged care system did not meet the needs

Have your say on the economic value of the Zenadth Kes Creative Arts Industry

06 NEWS

THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

Council honours veterans with new memorial on Badu Funds have been secured for a new Badu war memorial in what the Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) has described as a “significant win” for the community.

TSIRC successfully secured a $49,145 grant from the Department of the Premier and Cabinet through the Queensland Remembers Grants Program (Round Four), which would ensure “the sacrifices of our veterans continue to be honoured with dignity and respect”.

“This investment underscores our commitment to preserving local history and paying tribute to those who served,” they said.

New policies In their March meeting, held on Poruma, TSIRC also adopted two key policies aimed at improving governance and operational efficiency: • Entertainment and Hospitality Policy – this policy established clear guidelines to ensure all entertainment and hospitality expenditures were reasonable, appropriate and compliant with Section 196 of the Local Government Regulation 2012.

TSIRC’s March meeting was held on Poruma Island. Pic supplied.

• Records Management Policy – developed to ensure that all Council records were managed in compliance with legislative requirements.

The Records Management policy enhanced transparency, accountability and effective decision-making.

It was aligned with the

Queensland State Archives Records Governance Policy and upheld by the Human Rights Act 2019 (Qld), ensuring ethical and responsible information management.

Eyez on Ice initiative TSIRC’s Healthy Lifestyle Officers have been actively

participating in the Eyez on Ice program, working with young people impacted by substance use.

The initiative included mediation training, equipping officers with tools to provide vital support and intervention strategies to strengthen community resilience and wellbeing.

Animal Management TSIRC’s Environmental Health Workers (EHWs) have been studying for their Certificate IV in Animal Management since 2023 and recently graduated.

They travelled to Cherbourg and Bamaga to enhance their skills and gained invaluable experience

in Local vs. State Laws, Animal Welfare and Animal Behaviour.

In February, the cohort finished their final face-toface training and can now apply their skills through community initiatives such as microchipping, awareness campaigns and pet treatments.

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TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025

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08 NEWS

THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

Rangers earn national recognition for ‘right-way’ science

Virginia Harry collecting data. Pics supplied.

School Holiday APRIL 2025

PROGRAM Adult supervision required at all events.

All ages are welcome.

Monday

7

10am to 1pm

Tuesday

12:30pm to 3:30pm

Fishing Competition Turtles (Waterfront)

April

8

TSRA Rangers on Badu.

Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) rangers have wowed audiences with an award-winning presentation at the recent national Ecological Society of Australia Conference in Naarm (Melbourne).

Rangers shared their knowledge with more than 1400 domestic and international delegates at the conference, including ecologists, land managers, rangers and Traditional Owners.

Their presentation about biodiversity surveys on Badu Island – which highlighted

TSRA Rangers complete biodiversity surveys. the value of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) to guide Western science – received a Highly Commended award for ‘right-way’ science.

The rangers had combined their local, traditional knowledge along with master’s level university training in wildlife surveys to record more than 80 species.

Badu Island Ranger Supervisor Laurie Nona said the recent surveys were ‘right-way science’ in action.

“To witness

traditional knowledge and Western science collaborating for the common good, and to understand the importance and strength of these two cultures aligning to deliver outcomes for our people in biodiversity – that is what we call ‘right-way science’,” Mr Nona said.

Right-way science was often also called “two-way science” or “cross-cultural science”.

TSRA Environmental Management Program Manager Billie Roberts said right-way science recognised the deep and enduring connections

First Nations scientists had to Land and Sea Country.

“We’re focusing on empowering local communities and our staff, this starts from on-the-ground training through to universitylevel courses and valuing traditional knowledge,” Dr Roberts said.

The project also demonstrated the TSRA’s commitment to closing the gap targets for First Nations people – to maintain a distinctive cultural, spiritual, physical and economic relationship with their land.

The TSRA’s Environmental Management Program – delivered by its Land and Sea Management Unit – supported job opportunities for local people to combine traditional knowledge and western science to care for land, sea and culture, including as rangers.

The TSRA Rangers started in 2009 with one ranger group on Mabuiag and has grown to 13 Ranger groups across 14 Torres Strait communities (13 islands).

Boxing and Activities Hammond Community Hall

April

1pm to 4pm Wednesday

9

Lawn Bowls, Board Games & Bike Hospital

Bowls Club

6:30pm to 8:30pm Movie Night

April

PKA Hall

Thursday

10

12:30pm to 3:30pm AFL with Keiran AFL Cape York Horn Island Stadium

April

2pm to 4pm

QLD Touch Football Clinic (Rhys Bevan QTF

Friday

Development Officer)

11

KBO

ABOVE: TSRA Rangers Laurie Nona and Harriet Holland.

RIGHT: Award winning team – Highly commended – TSRA Rangers.

6pm to 7:30pm

Disco with Rasta Popo Under 11yrs old

April

7:30pm to 9:30pm 12-18yrs old PKA Hall

9am to 5pm Saturday

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Uncle Terrence Whap identifying a skink.

Nabako Laza holding a grasshopper.

Stephen Foster with a Burton’s legless lizard.

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TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025

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10 BIRTHDAY NEWS

THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

Annie Seriat celebrated her 60th birthday with family and friends at Brothers League Club in Cairns last Saturday night. Known as a proud mother and Grandmother, her family also wanted to thank her for her service to aged care and said they love that she is now enjoying her retirement. Pics supplied.

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THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

TAGAI STATE COLLEGE

YUMI College News Maiem: Sew Ngapa Recently, we held our quarterly meeting with the Board of the Torres Strait Islanders’ Region Education Council (TSIREC) at the Horn Island Campus of Tagai State College.

These meetings are an invaluable opportunity for the college executive and TSIREC Board to collaborate, approve key decisions, and ensure we remain focused on delivering the best educational outcomes for our students.

One of the key highlights of our discussions was the upcoming YDMS 60th Anniversary Event, which will be held on Masig 19 – 22 October 2025. This significant milestone is a

moment of reflection and celebration for the communities and campuses of Yam, Darnley, Murray, and Stephen Islands (YDMS). Planning for the event is well underway, and we are excited about the opportunities it will bring to celebrate our shared history, culture, and educational achievements. It will be a time to acknowledge the commitment of past and present educators, students, and families who have contributed to the success of education in our region.

Beyond this event, our discussions also focused on key strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing learning opportunities for our students. We explored the realignment of our college sporting programs, ensuring students across our campuses have greater access to quality competitions, and pathways to success in their chosen sports. Sport plays a vital role in fostering teamwork, discipline, and a strong

sense of identity among our students, and we are committed to strengthening these opportunities.

We also discussed the extension of hours for State Delivered Kindy (SDK) across our campuses. Early childhood education is the foundation for lifelong learning, and we are excited about the potential for our youngest learners to benefit from increased engagement, preparing them for a strong start in school.

Additionally, we explored new opportunities for students through partnerships with external organisations. These partnerships provide pathways for further education, employment, and leadership development, ensuring our students can dream big and achieve their aspirations.

At the heart of all our efforts is the unwavering

The Importance of High Expectations for Our Students One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is visiting our campuses and seeing the exceptional work happening in our classrooms. The dedication and commitment of our staff ensure the success of our students, which is something we should all be proud of.

As educators, it’s essential that we understand the individual needs of our students and tailor our teaching to support their growth. Research shows that when teachers adapt their strategies to meet student needs, learning outcomes improve significantly. High expectations are vital for fostering belief in our students’ potential, helping them strive for excellence and overcome challenges.

During my visits, I’ve seen positive, supportive learning environments where students feel safe and motivated.

Dr. Chris Sarra emphasises that holding high expectations empowers students to exceed their limits

and achieve success, regardless of their background.

High expectations are not about setting unattainable goals but about believing in every student’s ability to succeed.

In addition, research shows that parents play a crucial role in their children’s education. A study from the Journal of Educational Psychology (2020) found that when parents are involved in their children’s education, students perform better academically and develop stronger social skills. By working together— educators, parents, and the community—we can create an environment where our students reach their fullest potential.

Let’s continue to set high expectations, inspire our students, and help them achieve greatness.

Yolanda McLean Head of School

commitment of our staff to the success of every student. Our teachers, support staff, and leaders are dedicated to fostering a learning environment where students feel supported, inspired, and empowered. We believe that every student, no matter where they are in the Torres Strait, deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential.

We are grateful for the passion and dedication of TSIREC members, who continue to advocate for the needs of our students and communities.

Together, we are working towards a future where Torres Strait students not only succeed but thrive in their educational journeys and beyond.

Jeff Jones Executive Principal

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TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025

Campus Update Literacy During weeks 5 and 6, Ms. Karen Browne visited Erub Erwer Uteb to enhance the literacy skills of our teaching and nonteaching staff.

Erub Erwer Uteb Head of Campus: Kym Kocsis Term 1 Attendance - 51 Students enrolled

Current

87% (44 students)

Target Goal

90% (45 students)

Karen’s focus was on the PLD Literacy Program, which is implemented consistently across all of Tagai State College’s Primary Campuses. Ms. Browne’s visit aimed to coach staff and share her extensive knowledge and expertise in literacy education.

Erub Garden Grows Our school garden is thriving with capsicum, tomato, pumpkin, watermelon, rockmelon, papaya, and sweet potato. Students are actively involved in gardening, reaping the rewards of their hard work.

This project involves the entire school and includes a mini papaya plantation. Visitors and Special Guests to our school have been inspired by the Erub Erwer Uteb Garden.

Tracking Our Data Erub Erwer Uteb has made both math and English data accessible. At a glance, we can assess our Learning Oriented Assessment in relation to our A-C data. This highlights our current position and outlines the steps we are implementing to reach our targets.

In our weekly ‘Sync-up’ Meetings, Pes P-2 and Kus Yrs 3-6 gather in their teams to discuss progress, celebrate achievements, and ensure everyone is aligned with the curriculum.

Transition to Boarding and Sports and Recreation Visit The Transition to Boarding team, led by Taylah, held an information evening for families with children transitioning to Year 7 in 2026.

Over a two-day visit, the team, along with Kate Wilkes and Year 12 Sports and Recreation students, engaged our students with a variety of games and activities, ensuring a fun and informative experience.

UPCOMING EVENTS

These Sync-up Meetings foster a deeper understanding of students and their learning styles, enhance knowledge of the content and teaching methods, and promote professional engagement among colleagues.

Family Evening - Thursday 27 March 6pm Working Bee - Saturday 29 March 9am

Tagai Senior Students inspire Erub Community through sport Five Year 12 students from Tagai State College recently embarked on a unique work experience trip, traveling to an outer island for the first time. These Certificate II in Sport and Recreation students led a dynamic day of sporting activities for primary school children on Darnley Island.

organised a dynamic sports program for the primary students including volleyball, soccer, tennis, football and rounders.

The senior students exhibited outstanding leadership and teamwork, inspiring a passion for sports and physical activity among the younger students. The day was filled with smiles and laughter, highlighting the initiative’s positive impact on all participants.

Waybeni Koey

This pilot program, in collaboration with the College’s Transition Support Team, aims to assist families in guiding students through the boarding school application process for Year 7s.

The initiative is designed to foster stronger connections between our Secondary Campus on Thursday Island and all the Primary Campuses on the outer islands.

Vocational Education & Digital Technologies Teacher: Kate Wilkes

Accompanied by their teacher, Mrs. Wilkes, students Olita, Asai, Robert, William, and Nikita

Waybeni Koey Ngurpay Mudh extends gratitude to Torres Shire Council and the Torres Strait Community Sports and Recreation Program – Capacity Building Initiative, whose funding made this trip possible. Special thanks also go to Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) for their generous $200 food voucher donation.

contact@tagaisc.eq.edu.au

tagaisc.eq.edu.au

Ngurpay Mudh

FOR MORE INFORMATION (07) 4030 6333

The success of this initiative paves the way for future work experience opportunities within the Certificate II in Sport and Recreation program and other VET courses at Tagai State College, by fostering hands-on learning experiences that connect students with the community. The school continues to empower young leaders and promote positive pathways for success.

This pioneering trip demonstrates that when students are given the chance to lead, learn, and contribute, the entire community benefits. Our senior students remain dedicated to expanding opportunities that nurture skills, confidence, and community spirit.

Tagai State College Navigating YUMI to a successful future

14 ART NEWS

THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

Empowering the next generation: NAISDA has long been the national leader in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander performing arts education as a dynamic training organisation where emerging First Nations artists gain the skills, confidence and inspiration to forge successful careers in the performing arts.

At the heart of NAISDA’s successful learning model is a passionate team of staff and trainers, including Katina Olsen – a celebrated Wakka Wakka and Kombumerri dancer and choreographer with a distinguished arts career spanning nearly two decades.

Now stepping into a new role as Dance Practice Lead and Senior Contemporary Dance Trainer, Katina has brought NAISDA her experience, knowledge and creativity to guide the next generation of First Nations dancers.

Connection

For Katina, joining NAISDA felt like the natural evolution of her professional journey.

Her connection with the organisation stretched back over 14 years, during which time she visited the college as guest teacher, artist-in-residence and key collaborator on projects such as NAISDA’s annual creative partnership with the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA).

Her dance career has been expansive, encompassing four years as a company dancer with the legendary Bangarra Dance Theatre and 14 as an independent artist.

When the opportunity arose to step into the NAISDA role, she knew the time was right to dedicate her focus and energy to NAISDA full-time.

“As a freelancer, you’re

often touring and sharing knowledge in different places,” Katina said.

“I was excited about the idea of staying in one space, building upon what I teach and seeing it grow over time.”

As leader, trainer and mentor, Katina has already created space for young artists to learn, collaborate and develop their creative styles, perspectives and cultural narratives.

Passion and dedication Born in Rockhampton on Darumbal Country, Katina’s passion for dance began early.

She grew up immersed in ballet, tap, and jazz, performing in school eisteddfods, which would set the stage for her future career.

At 14, she was accepted into the Queensland Dance School of Excellence,

balancing full-time dance training with her final years in high school.

Her initial dreams of becoming a ballerina, shifted when she discovered contemporary dance and her true artistic calling.

After graduating from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance, Katina joined Bangarra Dance Theatre at just 19, working alongside the renowned Frances Rings – also a NAISDA graduate – and Bangarra’s Artistic Director and Co-CEO. Over four whirlwind years, Katina toured, performed and immersed herself in Indigenous contemporary dance as a company dancer, before continuing her career as an independent dance artist.

In 2011 she was awarded the prestigious danceWEB

scholarship in Vienna, one of only two Australians selected. This reinforced a long-held passion for choreography.

In high demand, Katina was commissioned by leading dance companies as well as co-founding the Dance Makers Collective.

Leading the way As NAISDA’s Dance Practice Lead, the gap between real world industry experience and training was there to be bridged, ensuring NAISDA students were fully equipped for careers in the sector.

“I’ve learned so much, both in refining my own skills and understanding how to use this knowledge to best upskill students,” she said.

“NAISDA encourages staff to stay active in the industry, benefiting students by keeping training relevant

RIGHT: Katina Olsen. Pic by Katie Holmes.

BELOW: Katina Olsen and NAISDA students. Pic by Lisa Haymes.

NAISDA 2024 Performance. Pic by Anthony Edgar.

and aligned with industry standards.”

Katina shared the Dance Practice Lead role with Jasmin Sheppard, a Tagalaka Aboriginal woman with Irish, Chinese and Hungarian ancestry.

Jasmin was also a highly acclaimed contemporary dancer, choreographer and director.

The dual role reflected NAISDA’s commitment to flexible employment and valuing of industryexperienced mentorship.

For staff and students alike, hours of intensive studio training culminated each year in NAISDA’s performance seasons, which offered students an opportunity to showcase talent, culture and storytelling, and gain valuable industry exposure.

Continued Page 15 N

ART NEWS 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025

Katina’s journey with NAISDA M Continued from PAGE 14 “I feel a responsibility as an artist to highlight and share our First Nations’ stories that have been silenced over the years,” Jasmin said.

“I want to encourage young artists to find their voice, embrace their uniqueness and use dance as a means of storytelling and self-expression.”

NAISDA’s curriculum was the only one of its kind in Australia.

Deeply connected to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander lands, culture and people, it embedded the richness and complexity of Indigenous knowledge within a Western framework of excellence.

At the heart of this approach was NAISDA’s annual Cultural Residency Program where students travelled to experience cultural learning on Country with Cultural Tutors, Knowledge Holders and

communities on the lands where songs, stories and dances originated.

It’s an immersive learning experience that stays with the students forever.

Looking ahead Katina said she was excited about the future – both for herself and NAISDA. With NAISDA’s 50th anniversary fast approaching next year, she was eager to contribute to the milestone celebrations, as well as the organisation’s focus for the next 50 years.

“NAISDA’s vision is inspiring,” she said.

“We’re always dreaming big and striving to provide the best training for our students, bringing in leading industry artists for residencies allows students to work with potential future employers while still in training.”

For Katina, NAISDA was more than a job, it was a dream role where she played

a key part in the personal and professional success of graduates and students.

Their exceptional achievements and high completion rates were well above national averages and reflected NAISDA’s elite training and support programs, guided by a First Nations approach to social and emotional well-being.

“I feel incredibly lucky to be in this position, to be inspired daily by students and to be part of an institution that truly values its artists, staff and their development,” Katina said.

“Together we’re contributing to shaping and creating the next generation of First Nations artists, and the future of the sector itself.”

Leading the way NAISDA has a strong foundation for long-term sustainability.

Last year’s funding uplift by the Federal Government addressed historic underfunding and backed

a commitment to equitable access to creative and cultural arts education.

NAISDA’s future-focused strategy was well underway, including an expanded curriculum to meet sector needs, an increased cohort and a redefined campus and staffing structure.

Reflecting on her own experience, and with further recruitment opportunities available, Katina has a message for others who might consider NAISDA as their next workplace.

“NAISDA is growing, and so is our national and international impact,” she said.

“It’s an exciting time.

“We’re looking for professionals, educators, mentors and trainers who are passionate about the future of First Nations art, culture and learning.

“Come on board on be part of the change.

“We can’t wait for you to be part of the NAISDA family!”

NAISDA 2024 Performances. Above: Pic by Anthony Edgar. Below: Pic by Lisa Haymes. Bottom right: Pic by Anthony Edgar.

Bottom left: Katina Olsen. Pic by Lisa Haymes.

16 NEWS

THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

Ready for Gussore at international comedy festival

BY SYLVIA TABUA Leon Filewood was the first Torres Strait Islander comedian to be invited to perform at the Oxfam Comedy Gala – part of this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival, amongst a rich mix of stand-up comedy, cabaret, theatre and street performances over the month-long festival.

“I know the Oxfam Comedy Gala is one of

the main comedy stages or shows in Australia,” Leon said.

“So to be the first Torres Strait Islander, it’s bittersweet and obviously deadly that I was a part of it.

“I called my show Which Way because of our greeting for one another.

“It was authentic to who I am and where I grew up.

“So the story is about the community and talking about the different

struggles I’ve had.

“I grew up on Thursday Island, I went to law school and now working on the mainland.”

His performance at the Gala was aired this week on ABC iView.

The first of his 10 shows for Festival start tonight at the Chinese Museum in front of what is expected to be a large and enthusiastic audience.

He said it was about many of the different

TN0461 • 28-11-24

sabe mipla, they nor sabe community blo mipla.

“All wasse gud nugud way for only see our communities.”

He said he was in the business of educating anyone who came to watch his show – good ways.

“Whoever comes to watch my show, I’m educating them about wis kine mipla, way blo mipla, there the saying, ‘which way’, wanem which way mean, it’s a whole story and a

things in his life, but also about tackling racism.

“Really my show is about tackling racism head on,” he said.

“Six out of 10 Australians have never had an interaction with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person.

“So when it comes to election time when you hear people like Peter Dutton saying, ‘oh we’re causing racial division’ and those sorts of things’, a lot of people fall for it because all nor

ONLINE: WWW.REBELTOURS.COM.AU BOOKBOOK ONLINE: EFFECTIVE DATE 28/10/2024 WWW.REBELTOURS.COM.AU P: 07 4069 1586

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narrative,” he said.

“I’m taking my listeners, my white audience, through things like I expose the way we communicate and then put funny story there.

“That’s what it’s about, it’s about making white people understand whoda mipla.”

He said the audience was nearly always on-side.

“The thing is, when you’re an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander comedian, you’ll have certain people that come, they’re open to it,” he said. “So you’ve got people that are already allies. They’ve already got good pasin towards mipla community. So they come because they want to enjoy that love.

“Then there are really racist people that have really strong views about us – they wouldn’t typically come to my show or the Gala but it’s at the stage where it’s in their face because it’s going to be on TV and it’s one of the biggest shows in Australia.

“So I get to reach them that way, and it’s been good because everybody, the white brothers and

sisters that come to the show, they get it and that’s why they come.”

Leon said he was stoked to get the call to be part of the Festival.

“The Gala was something that caught me off guard because I didn’t even think I was good enough to be on the gala,” he said.

“So to get a call was a great surprise, and then to do my first solo show in Adelaide, now I will be in Melbourne.

“The show will evolve over those 10 shows as well, I can change this, add this, so that’s going to be exciting. And then I do the Melbourne Comedy road show and I’ll be going to Cairns, Innisfail, Townsville, Barcaldine, Rocky, Gladstone to reach the audience – that’s what I love.”

Leon has been performing comedy for the last seven years and said he’d love to see more Ailan input.

“E gud plenty more funny people than me, and I’d love for more families from Torres Strait to get involved and get in, give comedy a go,” he said.

TIMETABLE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE DUE TO QANTAS SCHEDULING, SOME FERRIES MAY NOT OPERATE. School children have HAMMOND ISLAND SCHOOL FERRY TIMETABLE •priority – Community

Depart Thursday Island • Monday – Friday

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members can travel if space

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

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• Important: Horn Island Bus Pickups must be requested the day before.

• Please note: Please be aware that we will have ferries to meet every Qantas and Skytrans flight from Cairns. If you can not see a ferry that suits your flight please call the office on 4069 1586.

• Bookings are essential for 18:00/18:10 ferry Mon-Fri, and Saturday 06:15/06:20.

• Sunday ferry 13:45/14:00 ONLY operates when Qantas operates that flight.

Office hours are Monday to Friday – 08:00 – 17:00 – Please consider these hours to make bookings – our office is not manned outside of these hours and we can not look up bookings or emails. We answer the phone whilst the ferry is running, but please try to book during office hours. Schedule may change without notice.

AVOID THE QUEUE!

SCAN ME and Book your ferry now using this QR code, pay online.

Leon Filewood at the Oxfam Comedy Gala Palais. Pic by Ian Laidlaw.

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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!

Born 06 Nov 1948.

Passed 18 Mar 2025.

Late of Cairns, formerly from Weipa and his hometown Thursday Island.

Beloved husband of Cathrina.

Loving Dad to Sonia, Elizabeth, Edwin, Francis and Nicholas.

Wonderful Grandfather and Great Grandfather, Brother, Brother-in-Law, Uncle, Cousin and Friend to many.

He had a big heart and a welcoming smile for all who knew him.

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

Funeral details will be published at a later date.

CLASSIFIED ADS E: ads@torres.news

TORRES STRAIT REGIONAL AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR TENDER TSRA Yard Maintenance & Service The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) invites, and will receive up to 4pm 5th May 2025 tenders/quotations from suitably qualified and experienced Yard Maintenance and Service Providers to undertake the following works: Delivery of Services – 2 services during the wet season, varying from December through to May and the 1 service during the dry season varying from June through to November.

Thursday Island • • • • • • • • • •

Green Hill Fort 22 Victoria Parade, Gab Titui Cultural Centre Saila Terrace/Clark Street 56 Douglas Street – Powuppoon Haus (LSMU Building) 71 Waiben Esplanade 7 Chester Street – Common Area 38 Hargrave Street – Common Area Quetta Lane (right hand side of Driveway) 6 Moa Lane 5 Chester Street

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

• •

35 Nawie Street – Common Area 14 Nawie Street – Driveway

If required, Inspections of the premises can be arranged by emailing assets@tsra.gov.au Tender documentation can be obtained by sending an email to tender@tsra.gov.au with ‘TENDER REQUEST – TSRA Yard Maintenance & Services CA-2025-00042’ in the subject line or on www.tsra.gov.au – under tenders.

All responses to this tender are to be clearly marked as CONFIDENTIAL “TENDER RESPONSE – TSRA Yard Maintenance & Services CA-2025-0042” by email to tender@tsra.gov.au

NAISDA is Australia’s leading arts training organisation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth, offering accredited qualifications and world-class training in dance, culture, and performance. Since 1976, we have nurtured the next generation of First Nations artists by combining technical excellence with deep cultural learning from Elders and remote communities.

Alternatively tenders may be delivered to TSRA Reception (Tender Box) CONFIDENTIAL “TENDER RESPONSE – TSRA Yard Maintenance “Level 1, 46 Victoria Parade, Thursday Island, Qld 4875 The last date for the request of tender documentation, seeking clarification or additional information is 4pm 24th April 2025.

Tenders must be received by 4pm AEST 5th May 2025.

CAIRNS

Located on Darkinjung Land on the NSW Central Coast, we are recruiting for the following key, full-time positions:

Earlville Newsagency Stockland Cairns Shopping Centre, Earlville

PUBLISHED

This role will lead NAISDA’s training team to develop and drive the strategic vision of our existing, and future, accredited education offering.

THURSDAY

Key requirements: • • •

Significant experience leading a training team Degree in Education with a focus on teaching and learning Expertise in higher education curriculum development and design

This role will establish the cultural framework for the NAISDA curriculum to enhance the cultural practices of NAISDA, with additional responsibility of managing the learning progression and achievement of NAISDA’s Certificate III students.

Key requirements: • • •

Experience of providing cultural leadership and guidance Demonstrated experience and sensitivity in engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities Established connections with remote cultural communities and understanding and ability to implement cultural protocols

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18 SPORT

THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025 TORRES NEWS

2009 national basketball competition re-visited This week Torres News correspondent Alf Wilson takes us on a flashback to the 2009 National Basketball championships, held in Cairns. *PLEASE note there are mentions of people who may be deceased in this story.

Former stars recognised: Priscilla West, Debbie Lui, Aaron Sebasio, Dixon Patten, Velma Gara, Ken Jose (dec), Assan Bin Tahal.

TSI ladies.

Mothers, Aunties and Daughters MAD team.

Wagadagam Chiefs from TSI.

Ephraim Bani (dec), Wagadagam Chiefs.

Torres Strait Islanders performed well against basketballers from around the country at the fourth Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders National Championships held in Cairns from 21 to 25 September in 2009.

There were some well-known players and basketball identities there who are still involved with the sport today.

A total of 43 teams competed in the A-grade men’s and ladies’ divisions, under 16 boys and girls, and under 18 boys and girls grades, with all matches played on four courts at the Cairns Basketball Association Stadium at Aumuller Street.

The TSI Storm ladies’ team performed well after drawing what was arguably the toughest pool.

Storm won the final of the loser’s competition in the 15-team strong ladies’ A grade section.

In the loser’s comp finals series, Storm defeated Flames from WA in their first match.

TSI Storm was in Pool D which had five teams.

By comparison, Pool A had four teams and Pools B and C had just three sides competing in the qualifying rounds.

This was caused by some nominated sides in the other pools withdrawing.

At the end of the qualifying games, Storm was fourth placed on six points equal with third team Newcastle Eagles and Rockhampton Allblacks.

Coach Velma Gara said she was happy with the performance of her girls and added that everyone contributed.

“All of them were rotated a lot and it was a good team effort against tough opposition,” she said at the time.

Reluctant to single out any players for special mention, Velma was pushed and mentioned centre Kali McKeown.

“Kali was a good force inside,” she said.

Velma herself showed she still had a lot to offer the sport and in her late 40s was one of the oldest competitors in the ladies

division.

In one game she showed all of her experience by shooting a three-pointer followed by a two-pointer.

The Storm players listed in the official championships program were: Meletta Seriat, Annette Fell, Francesca Sagigi, Matilda Loban, Elsie Seriat, Josephine Sagigi, Tanya Loban, Joy Callope, Velma Gara, Kali McKeown and Joy Bon.

Mad for basketball Another participating team of Torres Strait Island ladies freely admitted they were MAD but it has nothing to do with their mental health.

So how did they get to have the name MAD was the obvious question?

I soon discovered that the letters stand for Mothers, Aunties, and Daughters.

One team member said they also liked to be called MADS with sisters added to the title.

“Most of us live in Brisbane and we are all of TSI descent with many from Murray Island,” one said during a team photo shoot.

MAD had arguably the oldest player in the 15-team strong ladies comp in Annai Ghee who lined up beside her 27-year-old daughter Krystal Ghee.

But Annai showed she still has the ability to match it with players half her age and she calmly fired in several longrange three-pointers.

Other names in the MAD side listed in the official carnival program included Kareen Ghee, Ladonna Fairburn, Francesca Adams, Bernice Peevakeau, Raylene Laifoo, Voilet Geesu, Angela Resiner, Kaylia Beezleu, Laurel Ware and Lavi Taylor.

In the qualifying games, MAD competed in Pool B and finished on five points, behind Karratha from WA on seven, and Hoops 4 Health on nine.

WA Team Blue Jayz won the grand final from Cairns Dream 66-58.

“We got to catch up with lots of people here

from our home islands in the Torres Strait,” Annai said.

Sharpshooter Waiben basketballer the late Ephraim Bani ran a great second in the three-point shootout contest which was a highlight of the event.

Ephraim lined up for Wagadagam Chiefs in the strong A grade men’s section, and entered the individual contest against 10 others.

Each contestant had to shoot five basketballs from four different locations outside the ring and the top three qualified for the final.

Ephraim shot 10 three-pointers to lead the tally and then finished a gallant second in the final to Randy Ware of WA. Ware shot 11 threepointers to eight by Ephraim who said it had been a great experience.

“I was a bit nervous at first in the final and there were about 1500 people watching me,” he said.

Wagadagam Chiefs were the surprise packets of the carnival.

There were four pools in the qualifying rounds and the Chiefs, consisting of players all with Torres Strait connections, many from Mabuiag, finished second on seven points to Brisbane Hunters.

In their semi-final the Chiefs were up against the hotshot Dream team from Cairns which had a star-studded lineup.

“It is do or die in this game,” he said.

Dream team won that match 81-53 but it was a wonderful effort from a side which included seven Bani family members on its roster.

“I think we will do very well next year,” Ephraim said.

Reunion of stars Former basketball stars Letticia Clarke, Debbie Lui (nee Jose), Assan Bin Tahal, Dixon Patten, Kaylene Zaro (nee Savage), Priscilla West, Velma Gara, Ken Jose, Aaron Sebasio and Cecilia Preec (dec) celebrated their 21st celebrations in style during the championships even though they were all much older than the traditional age from when they received the key to the door.

This group were

members of the first Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander National basketball team to tour Canada and west coast of the USA 21 years earlier.

Velma said it had been an emotional but very happy time when the group reunited.

“Both sides played 10 games back in 1988 against college teams and we all had a good time and remain friends,” she said.

“Back then we also had a traditional dance group from Arnhem Land travel with us, led by Galawuruy Yunipingu.”

Whilst they had all expected to see a few of their former team mates at the championships, nobody expected so many.

“They now live in many parts of Australia and it was just wonderful so catch up with them,” Velma said.

Slam dunk Slam dunk mania erupted during the championships and local followers reckon the packed house of 1500 made more noise than what is heard at an NBL game in Cairns when the Taipans play.

Six competitors battled it out for honours in a men’s slam dunk contest and the cheering from the crowd was deafening such was its popularity.

Four judges awarded points for each slam dunk from one to 10 and the three finalists were Brisbane Hunters player Simon Taylor, local Dream Team star Deba George and 17-year-old Freemantle WA youth Isiah Stevens.

That trio made some spectacular slam dunks and it came down to a playoff between Simon and Deba.

Simon ended up winning by the narrowest of margins and was surprised to be collecting the big trophy.

“I thought Deba would win it for sure and it great to get past him, and it was such a big crowd,” he said.

Deba said he enjoyed the contest and Stevens was delighted to finish third in such hot company.

“I am younger than them and was so happy to even get a placing.

The crowd was so loud and it was a good experience,” Stevens said.

SPORT 19

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025

Shibasaki’s crucial run pulls Broncos over line A 50-metre run after a line break by Brisbane Broncos centre Gehamat Shibasaki was crucial during his side’s 26-16 win over the North Queensland Cowboys on Friday night.

Cowboys forward Reuben Cotter completed 37 tackles and also made lots of ground up the middle of the ruck in attack.

Winger Robert Derby who has PNG descent also shone for the Cowboys.

A crowd of more than 45,000 watched the game at Brisbane’s

Suncorp Stadium in what was dubbed the “Original Queensland Derby”.

The Broncos led 12-nil at halftime but the Cowboys levelled the scores in the 54th minute in what was their best game of the season after three losses.

Gehamat, known by his teammates as “Gem” made his line break in the 35th minute and soon after Broncos halfback Adam Reynolds scored.

In career-best form, it was by far Gehamat’s best game for the Broncos and he ran for more than 140m.

Broncos forwards Payne Haas (23 runs for

VELMA

GARA’S

BY ALF WILSON

210m) and Pat Carrigan (21 runs for 198m) were amongst the best on the ground.

The Cowboys have equalled their worst defensive points against statistic after three rounds, having conceded 104 points and scoring 40 to sit 16th on the ladder.

David stars Impact forward David Fifita scored a try for the Gold Coast Titans in their 26-6 win over the Newcastle Knights on Saturday.

Despite being dynamic in attack, the hard-running second rower was a prime

mover in the Titans’ win with his bone-jarring defence.

David came off the interchange bench for the Titans and played for 53 minutes.

He scored his four-pointer in the 67th minute after the Titans led 12-nil at the break in the clash at Cbus stadium.

After David came on in the 24th minute he was a target forward his backs passed to.

Knights centre Dane Gagai played well in a losing team.

Hammer shines Hamiso “Hammer” Tabuai-Fidow had a

solid game when his Dolphins lost 30-18 to a rejuvenated Wests Tigers at Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium on Saturday.

Fullback Hammer was strong in attack and was forced to defend regularly after his side led 18-12 at halftime.

The Dolphins have lost their first three games and last year’s wooden spooners the Tigers have won two.

After wins in their first two games, the Raiders bubble burst but centre Seb could hold his head high.

Seb also had a try disallowed earlier in the game.

Raiders winger Xavier Savage had a quiet game but to be fair had few scoring opportunities at Manly’s home ground.

Seb scores

Grand finalists clash

Sebastian Kris scored a try for the Canberra Raiders in the 67th minute which was to no avail as his side was thrashed 40-12 by the Manly Sea Eagles on Sunday.

The Melbourne Storm beat the premiers of

the past four years the Penrith Panthers 30-24 at AAMI Park in the Victorian capital on Thursday.

PNG international Xavier Coates scored a Storm try in the 47th minute.

Other games The Warriors defeated the Sydney Roosters 14-6 in Auckland, the Cronulla Sharks d South Sydney Rabbitohs 27-12, Sydney Bulldogs d Parramatta Eels 16-8.

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OUT! IN THIS WEEK’S ‘HOOPS’ NEWS...

Wongai pre-season Wongai Basketball Association (WBA) Preseason started this week on Monday and Wednesday night, with 14 teams in the mix.

They are: • Five men’s teams in Division 1 – Crocs, Kings, Outsiders, Raptors and Muddies.

• Five men’s teams in Division 2 – TT Boys, Us Guys, Segur Squad, Raptors and Crocs.

• Four women’s teams in Division 1 – Vixens, Wildcats, Muddies and Phoenix.

More games will be played next week but the pre-season will be interrupted with the WBA Annual General Meeting on Friday 4 April at the TSYRSA office at 6pm.

Also, during school holidays, mixed social games will be held on 7, 9, 14 and 16 April.

The last round of pre-season games will be played on 23 and 28 April.

National grand finals The Illawarra Hawks are flying high after winning the National Basketball League (NBL) grand finals after defeating Melbourne United, 114-104.

The series went to the decider, Game 5, after the Hawks defeated United in Melbourne last Wednesday night, 80-71.

In front of more than 5000 people and a soldout WIN Entertainment Centre in Illawarra; the Hawks won their second title since 2001.

Hawks guard, Will Davo Hickey was outstanding and received Player of the Game for the last two games.

He was indirectly selected as the Championship Series Most Valuable Player when United guard, Matthew Dellavedova, handed Hickey the award.

Although Dellavedova showed great sportsmanship, officially he’s still the Series MVP. The Hawks had many Queenslanders on the team – Kobe McDowell-White, Luca Yates, Todd Blanchfield and Sam Froling, as well

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

FERRY SCHEDULE

Torres Strait represents in the U18 Qld North and South women’s teams and proudly holding up the flag is Cheyenne Bobongie, Jema Sebasio, Leah Pearson-Pitt, Mya Moke and Taryn Bond.

Pic supplied by Basketball Queensland.

as, assistant coach Joel Khalu.

Koori attendance Founder of Koori Academy Basketball, Ricky Baldwin, had been in attendance at the NBL grand finals series to watch Ambassador Will Davo Hickey and coach Mason Peatling play.

He’s very proud of them and for their support with the Academy which is based in Melbourne.

Queensland U18s All teams are preparing for the Nationals to be held in South East Queensland in a couple of weeks on 6-13 April 2025.

I did mention previously in the column of the nine First Nations players in the North and

MONDAY / WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY DEPARTURES THURSDAY ISLAND to SEISIA Depart 6.30AM & 2.30PM SEISIA to THURSDAY ISLAND Depart 8AM & 3.50PM “Linking the Cape with the Torres Strait”

Boarding strictly 15 mins prior to departure

PHONE 07 4069 1551 BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL – TICKET ONLINE Illawarra Hawks guard Will Davo Hickey and forward Mason Peatling show off their championship rings to Koori Academy Basketball founder Ricky Baldwin.

Pic supplied by Koori Academy Basketball.

South teams which is awesome.

Qld South Men are in Pool A and Qld North Men are in Pool B. 13 teams are competing.

In the Women’s teams, Qld North are in Pool A and Qld South are in Pool B. Only 12 teams are competing.

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.

20

THURSDAY 27 MARCH 2025

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Pic supplied by Michael Loban.

Wongai pre-season to tip off until April

Wongai Basketball Association (WBA) pre-season has started with TT Boys taking on Raptors in the Men’s Division 2 of the 14-team competition earlier this week. See Velma Gara’s Time Out column on PAGE 19 for more!

Hodges shares the limelight as he plays his 100th game

BY ALF WILSON Two tries by flying winger Dudley Dotoi and the 100th Queensland Cup match by Jayden Hodges were highlights of the 28-14 win by the Townsville Blackhawks over the Cairns Northern Pride on Saturday.

The Northern Derby clash at Townsville’s Jack Manski Oval was played in hot conditions and the Blackhawks led 12-8 at halftime.

Dudley scored his tries at the 50th and 77th minutes for the Blackhawks.

It was a milestone for

Blackhawks hooker Jayden who has played his 100 matches between three northern clubs.

The 31-year-old Jayden played 43 games for the Mackay Cutters (2018 to 20), 25 for the Northern Pride 2021, 22) and this was his 32nd for the Blackhawks which he joined in 2023.

Jayden also played 11 NRL matches for the Manly Sea Eagles and three for the Cowboys during a celebrated career.

Speaking to the Torres News, Jayden said Blackhawks made a presentation to him and Kalifa Faifai Loa, who played his 100th

game for the club.

“It was a good day to have the win and also have the presentation afterwards,” Jayden said.

“We have been training hard and the team is going well.”

Jayden said Dudley was a classy player with the ability to soon be in the NRL. Proud of his heritage, Jayden said he last visited Erub in December last year and caught up with family and extended family.

“I have family amongst the Sam, Kiwat and Savage families and didn’t realise how many relatives many I have on Darnley,” he said.

Quietly spoken off the field, Jayden has also lined up numerous times for Erub United at Allblacks carnivals.

Dantoray flies

Young back Dantoray Lui scored a try in the 51st minute for his new club the Dolphins in their 36-16 win over the Wynnum Manly Seagulls.

Former Northern Pride player Dantoray lined at five-eighth for the Dolphins who led 18-4 at halftime at Kayo Stadium in Redcliffe.

TN0529 10x7 – 7/3/24

Jon and Julian on cloud 9

Two tries by flying winger Jon Reuben was a prime reason his new club the Ipswich Jets beat the Tigers

30-24 on Sunday.

Jon scored in the 15th and 42nd minutes and was the matchwinner in what ended up a tight finish.

Five-eighth Julian Christian was also making his debut for the Jets, who have recruited well.

Last season the Jets finished 14th of 14 sides in the statewide comp.

Both Jon and Julian were on “cloud nine” as the Jets raced to a 24-10 halftime lead at Brisbane’s Totally Workwear Stadium.

At Rockhampton, the CQ Capras beat a Mackay Cutters side which included quality back Brenton Baira 36-16.

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