Torres News_Edition 174_10 April 2025

Thursday, 10 April 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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Calls for state to support critical funding STORY BY CARLI WILLIS & CHRISTINE HOWES Zenadth Kes leaders joined forces this week to call on the Queensland government to contribute to funding for seawalls and other critical infrastructure projects announced in the federal government’s budget last month.

Representatives from the region’s Native Title body, Gur A Baradharaw Kod (GBK), the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA), Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) and Torres Shire Council (TSC) met with federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy in Gimuy (Cairns) on Monday to reaffirm their support for $77.4 million in funding for the projects, which required co-contribution from the state government to go ahead.

GBK Chair Ned David said the investment would build on earlier work done by local councils and Traditional Owners.

“While seawalls are not the only solution, they are a vital line of defence for our low-lying communities facing rising seas,” he said.

“This program is also part of the broader efforts to enhance climate resilience in the region

GBK Executive Director Keith Pabai, TSIRC Mayor Phillemon Mosby, TSC CEO Dalassa Yorkston, TSRA Member for Bamaga Ugari Nona, TSRA chair George Nona, Leichhardt candidate Matt Smith and Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndirri McCarthy. Pic supplied. by safeguarding homes, infrastructure, cultural sites, and livelihoods.”

The funds were made up of $41.2 million in funding for Stage 7 of TSRA’s Major Infrastructure Program (MIP), which supported infrastructure projects supplying fresh water supply, waste and

water management, and housing development, plus $36.2 million in funding for Stage 3 of the TSRA’s Seawalls Program, which would provide additional engineering and seawall structures on Poruma, Iama, Masig, Warraber and Badu.

TSRA Chair George Nona said their water

security infrastructure works had become urgent.

“We just had a case on Boigu where the water was very, very low,” he said.

“If another extra week or a month [had been added], then families would have been evacuated and moved down to the mainland.”

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He said they welcomed the funding.

“This critical infrastructure investment is a step towards helping protect our region and communities from the impacts of climate change and rising sea levels,” he said. “TSRA will continue to advocate for essential-to-

life infrastructure across our region.”

Maluilgal RNTBC chair and GBK executive director Keith Pabai said the funding built on strong partnerships between communities and councils.

“Stage 3 of the Seawalls Program shows the value of sustained investment that respects Traditional Owner leadership,” he said.

“This is about more than just infrastructure – it’s about protecting our homes, our cultural sites, and our connection to Country for future generations.”

TSIRC Mayor Phillemon Mosby said the funding was critical to preserving and maintaining the lives of everyday Torres Strait Islanders.

“We are steadfast in our commitment to collaborate with the State and Commonwealth Governments,” he said.

“This funding is crucial for bolstering our coastal resilience and safeguarding our Island communities against the challenges posed by climate change. We are actively engaging with the Premier of Queensland and the Member for Cook to secure a matching commitment, ensuring that our Torres Strait communities can thrive.

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THURSDAY 10 APRIL 2025 TORRES NEWS

Bero appointed to Indigenous Business Aus board Meriam man, Brian Bero, has been appointed to the Board of Indigenous Business Australia (IBA).

A co-founder, principal and director of Jaramer Legal, Brian has worked as a lawyer with the Victorian Government Solicitor’s Office and several large corporations such as QANTAS, Telstra and Oracle.

He said has always been passionate about self-empowerment and socially responsible economic development for Indigenous people.

His current

IBA board member Brian Bero. Pic supplied.

directorships included positions on the Boards of Aboriginal Community Housing Ltd, Ilbijerri Theatre Company and Original Power. He’s also a

member of the First Nations Clean Energy Network, Panel Advisory member for the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), and Panel

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Advisory member for the First Nations Trade Unit with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).

A second newly appointed director – Dr Doug McTaggart – also brought extensive experience to the IBA Board. IBA Chairperson Darren Godwell welcomed the two new appointments.

He said their expertise in economics and governance, along with their commitment to fostering economic opportunities for First Nations Australians,

would be invaluable as they continued to support Indigenous businesses and communities.

Olga Havnen – a Western Arrernte woman – was appointed Deputy Chairperson and Joshua Gilbert, a Worimi man, was reappointed as Director.

Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy congratulated the four of them on their appointments and said she looked forward to working with them to advance the economic empowerment of First Nations people.

Jardine Ferry to close for annual safety check

The Jardine River Ferry is an essential connection to Tip of Cape York. Pic supplied.

The Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) has announced safety repairs to the Jardine Ferry – under obligations set by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority – will take place this year from 23 April to 23 May. Repairs to the vehicle vessel were part of the Council’s ongoing efforts to ensure the ferry remained a safe and reliable transport link for the region.

NPARC Acting-Chief Executive Officer Lew Rojahn said the AMSAregulated closure was carefully timed to start after the Easter school holidays and during the monsoon season, to allow for increased travel in the region when it was more accessible.

“The Jardine Ferry is a vital service for our region, and safety is our number one priority,” Mr Rojahn said.

“These annual works are necessary to ensure the ferry continues to operate safely and efficiently as we enter the peak travel and tourism period.”

The scheduled repairs were focused on ferry hull

maintenance, ensuring compliance with marine safety standards and allowing contractors to complete the works in suitable weather conditions after the monsoon.

NPARC Mayor Robert Poipoi acknowledged the importance of the ferry for local families, service providers and the growing number of visitors heading into the Cape and Torres Strait region.

“The Jardine Ferry is an essential part of everyday life in our region and ensuring its safe operation is a top priority for Council,” he said.

NPARC encouraged all travellers to plan ahead and stay up to date, by visiting NPARC’s website or Facebook page.

To accommodate 2025 Easter school holiday travel and reduce disruption, ferry services will operate during the following hours, until repair closure on 23 April:

School holiday hours Open 7 days: 5-22 April 2025, 8am – 5pm.

Good Friday, 18 April 2025: Closed.

For updates, visit: www.nparc.qld.gov.au

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 10 APRIL 2025

Climate resilience funds welcome

BY VELMA GARA & JENNIFER ENOSA Local organisations have welcomed more than $10 million from the government’s Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area Climate Resilience Grant Program to undertake climate adaptation projects in the region over the next three years.

The program was a component of achieving the goals of the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area Climate Resilience Centre.

Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Josh Wilson said the grants, which were announced last week, were to lift capacity on the ground so communities could better understand, better prepare and better adapt to the kinds of impacts communities were already seeing as a result of climate change.

“It’s the kinds of impacts that we know will become more frequent and more intense in the time ahead,” he said.

Torres Shire Council (TSC), Gur A Baradharaw Kod (GBK) Torres Strait Sea and Land Council Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal Corporation, and the Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) were the recipients of the funds.

Torres Shire Mayor Elsie Seriat welcomed the announcement and said island homes were affected everywhere.

“If not seasonally, every day we’re facing climate change that is happening in and around our community.

“Our houses are going underwater.

“Our wharves are going underwater from king tides.

“Our international airport, which is situated in the jurisdiction of

Senator Nita Green and Mayor Elsie Seriat OAM (Torres Strait Shire) in the front. Labor candidate for Leichhardt Matt Smith and Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Josh Wilson in Gimuy (Cairns) last week. Pic supplied.

Torres Shire Council, is at risk of closing down.

“So having this, we welcome this funding and this announcement because it will allow us to create jobs in community [and] to raise awareness for people in community around

climate resilience [and] climate change.

“We’re really excited moving forward in this space, to have this funding – to be hopefully sustainable and moving forward for us.”

Through the Climate Resilient Steering

Group process, Mr Wilson said, they had listened and arrived at an outcome that would see the creation of the Climate Resilient Centre to support a range of efforts, ideas and initiatives.

He said it would fund climate resilience officers that were on the ground in the Torres Strait and the NPA to help with education, community engagement, project identification and prioritisation, and coordinating things that had already been happening and would need to happen in future, “To answer the needs in the islands and the NPA in a way that best suits those communities in response to the knowledge which is local knowledge, it’s First Nations knowledge and of course its scientific expertise and inputs as well,” he said.

Values shared in communty collaboration Torres Health and the Office of the Commissioner (Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa OCMOKK) came together for a morning of connection, resource sharing and cultural purpose in what was dubbed a powerful show of community collaboration at the Island Stars Café last week.

The two organisation’s Waiben-based teams met for coffee with a purpose, deepening ties across organisations, and committing to supporting Torres Strait Islander families through culturally informed health, wellbeing and family services.

With a strong focus on stakeholder engagement and holistic care, the meeting created space for open conversations, practical insights and a shared vision for better outcomes in the region.

The intent was clear: to understand services and

Torres Health and OCMOKK Connect – Thomas Fujii, Rashae King, Nancy Hooper, Charleeja Viti, Shanice Havili, Karen Keane, Natasha Fujii & Tai Nona. Pic supplied. strengthen pathways for referral, support and advocacy through mutual understanding and respect.

Torres Health Chief Executive Officer Renee Williams said the meeting brought the organisations closer and was another step toward more community-led health outcomes.

“By sharing what we do and

why we do it, we empower each other to serve our communities better,” Ms Williams said.

“When services are informed and aligned, families benefit, and that starts with conversations like these.”

Commissioner C’Zarke Maza congratulated his Waiben-based team for taking the initiative to connect with the community-controlled

health organisation, recognising the importance of stakeholder collaboration.

“We appreciate Torres Health taking the time to connect with us to exchange information and strengthen our relationship,” he said.

“Our Cultural Support Officers are out there across Queensland, working with Torres Strait Islander families to support Cultural Recognition Order applications.

“That work is only strengthened when we have the support and advocacy of organisations like Torres Health.

“Opening communication lines like this is essential to better outcomes for Yumi people.”

With a strong relationship, information can now flow between these two major services that support families across the Torres Strait.

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04 NEWS

THURSDAY 10 APRIL 2025 TORRES NEWS

Calls for State to help pay for seawall/infrastructure deal M Continued from P1 STORY BY CARLI WILLIS & CHRISTINE HOWES

“This initiative represents a long-term investment that demands our unwavering determination and focus,” TSIRC Mayor

Phillemon Mosby said.

“Moreover, our ageing infrastructure requires immediate attention, and I am confident that together, we can build a

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TSC CEO Dalassa Yorkston, TSRA Member for Bamaga Ugari Nona, TSRA chair George Nona, TSIRC Mayor Phillemon Mosby, GBK Executive Director Keith Pabai, Leichhardt candidate Matt Smith and Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndirri McCarthy. Pic supplied. brighter, more resilient future for our people.

“Climate change is real in the Torres Strait.

“There needs to be a whole of government approach for investment into the Torres Strait, its people

and the strategically important role that it plays to Australia.”

Minister McCarthy said the federal government did not expect the Queensland government to match the huge investment of $77.4 million.

However, she said her government was calling on the Crisafulli government to cocontribute.

“I have been writing to the new Queensland [Water] Minister in terms of wanting to see their decision to go in partnership with us on this,” she said.

“We obviously don’t expect [a match in funding] from the Queensland Government, but we do want to do

this in partnership, as we have done with stages 1 and 2.”

She said since the budget announcement in March, she had not heard from the state’s water minister to confirm their support.

A spokesperson for Queensland Minister for Water Ann Leahy did not respond directly to the question of whether they would support the projects.

“The Crisafulli Government is committed to delivering generational water infrastructure throughout Queensland, including providing safe, reliable, water infrastructure for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities,” the

spokesperson said in a statement to Torres News.

“We are engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to help address their key needs, deliver tangible projects and programs to help reduce disadvantage.”

Labour Candidate Matt Smith said the Torres Strait needed action urgently.

“The Torres Strait Islands do not have 20 more years to wait … they need action right now,” he said.

“Climate change needs to be addressed in two ways – with remediation and resilience and with action on reducing the impacts of the climate change itself.”

Postal voters may miss out if they don’t act now The AEC is urging people who cannot make it to vote in-person, and need to cast a postal vote in the 2025 federal election, to apply early or risk missing out.

They said every effort was made for applications lodged late in the election period, including the use of priority and express mail services but, depending on a voter’s circumstances, there may be a chance it was not received in time.

Acting Electoral Commissioner Jeff Pope said there was no time to waste.

“You should only apply for a postal vote if you cannot make it to a voting centre, either on election day or in the two-week early voting period,” he said.

“If you need a postal vote, there’s no time to waste.

“The best time to apply was yesterday.

“The second-best time to apply is right now.

“You can apply online, including

via your mobile, and it only takes a few minutes.

“We can’t print or send postal vote packs until after the candidates are announced at the end of next week and ballot papers are printed, but we want to be in the position at that point to send as many as we can.”

A list of early voting centres was expected to be available on the AEC website soon.

Early voting starts on Tuesday 22 April.

The legislated deadline to apply for a postal vote is 6pm local time on Wednesday 30 April.

Any application after Thursday 24 April risked the postal vote pack not arriving in time, depending on circumstances.

Postal votes must be completed on or before election day, Saturday 3 May 2025 and returned to the AEC before Friday 16 May 2025, or the vote would not be included in the count.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 10 APRIL 2025

The Western Cape Turtle Threat Abatement Alliance (WCTTAA) annual meeting participants. Pic by Christine Howes.

Rangers celebrate a year of successes

Key achievements celebrated at the Western Cape Turtle Threat Abatement Alliance’s (WCTTAA) annual post-nesting season meeting in Cairns last month included a postaward celebration for the program winning the inaugural First Nations Award for Excellence in Biosecurity at the 2024 Australian Biosecurity Awards late last year.

The award highlighted their outstanding contribution to Australian biosecurity and their exceptional commitment to improving the protection of Country and people from pests, weeds and diseases.

The WCTTAA consisted of Indigenous land and sea owners and managers from Apudthama Land Trust and the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC), Napranum Aboriginal Shire Council, Mapoon, Pormpuraaw, Aak Puul Ngantam (APN) Aurukun and Kowanyama supported by Cape York Natural Resource Management (NRM).

“It was good to receive the award for just doing what we do and it’s built up our confidence, at that national level,” Bamaga-based Apudthama Land & Sea Ranger Christopher Lifu said.

Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) Biosecurity Engagement Officer Gayai Uiduldam said they engaged the rangers to carry out biosecurity services on their behalf.

“Our program is called the Indigenous Ranger Biosecurity Program (IRBP),” he said. “DAFF engages Indigenous rangers via fee-for-service contracts to carry out biosecurity activities on its behalf.

“Using a similar model, the IRBP has partnered with Parks Australia to deliver the Indigenous Rangers Coastal Clean-up Project (IRCCP).

“One of the activities of the IRCCP is the collection of ghost nets [and] one of the Indigenous ranger groups that we work with delivered a presentation on the impacts of ghost nets. They spoke about how aquatic pests and diseases can come from overseas onto our shores and can have significant impacts on our marine and wildlife.

“The IRBP is part of the Australian Government’s Northern Australia Quarantine Strategy, which is also responsible for biosecurity regulation in Torres Strait applicable to the Biosecurity Act 2015.

“The NAQS operates across the north of Australia from Queensland, including Torres Strait, Darwin, and

Broome in Western Australia.

“As well as regulation and compliance in Torres Strait, the NAQS also undertakes early detection surveillance for exotic pests, diseases and weeds due to the proximity of countries to our north including Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste.

“There are numerous pathways for exotic pests, diseases and weeds in the north which are not regulated.

“The rangers can help, working on their Country – so what better way to invest in their communities because they know their Country better than anyone. Rangers have pride in what they’re doing, looking after their own Country and helping to monitor for anything unusual through the Top Watch Ranger App. “Every year we come to the WCTTAA meeting, to show our support because the work of the rangers and biosecurity go hand in hand. We are all working to look after Country.”

The WCTTAA rangers have monitored nearly 4000 turtle nests, which have helped keep nest predation rates below sustainable levels and increased turtle hatching success.

They have also removed more than 4500 feral pigs.

The annual meeting, which was hosted by Cape York NRM, brought together the rangers and state and federal government agencies, along with other organisations, stakeholders and contractors committed to turtle conservation and feral pest management.

Cape York NRM’s WCTTAA coordinator Dr Manuela Fischer, who spent much of her time working in the field with the ranger groups, said it was important. “[This meeting is] an opportunity to report findings, discuss challenges and solutions of each ranger group individually, and plan for the next season and future opportunities as an Alliance,” she said.

“Our strong partnerships and shared commitment to conservation are making a real difference in protecting marine turtles.”

Cape York NRM CEO Pip Schroor said they had supported the WCTTAA since 2013.

“We are enormously proud of the work we do with this program,” she said. “The rangers’ dedication to turtle conservation and biosecurity is inspiring and we’re honoured to support their efforts.”

NEWS 05

Young leaders go to Canberra

Three young people from Thursday Island and Seisia travelled to Canberra for the first time to attend the National Youth Forum 2025, hosted by the Office for Youth, in early February.

The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) funded Rubyann Sailor, Maine Gibuma and Wrench Larry to attend alongside around 100 others, to widen their perspectives on education, agriculture and national emergency management.

Minister for Youth Dr Anne Aly and the Office for Youth hosted the forum to give young Australians a direct voice in policy discussion, particularly on issues affecting rural, regional and remote communities.

20-year-old Rubyann Sailor said the experience provided insight and experience.

“The forum was an important opportunity to connect with other youth from across Australia and hear the different challenges they face in their communities,” Rubyann said.

“As well as shedding a light and perspective on youth in remote Queensland, we shared our unique experiences from the Torres Strait.”

The youth forum was an opportunity for young people and the government to come together and discuss policy solutions

Powerful presentations: Rubyann Sailor (middle) presents on natural disasters planning from remote communities.

Pic supplied. to issues that matter to young Australians.

It focused on three different rural and regional development streams: • Department of Education: Supporting rural, regional and remote young people in accessing and aspiring to tertiary education.

• Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries: Building community social to support young people during droughts.

• National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA): Enhancing youth involvement in disaster resilience and recovery efforts.

Rubyann chose to work on

the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) stream.

“There was a lot of talk about bushfires droughts and recent flooding across Australia,” she said.

“I was fortunate enough to shed a light on challenges we face up north about climate change impacts here, such as rising sea levels and how natural disasters on the mainland have an impact on us, for example through food shortages.”

Visit www.youth.gov. au/news/announcements/ office-youth-celebratesnational-youth-week for more

information.

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.

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

06 NEWS

THURSDAY 10 APRIL 2025 TORRES NEWS

PDR scholarships paving the way to education The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has announced the 2025 recipients of its Peninsula Developmental Road Indigenous Scholarship Program with one tertiary and four secondary scholarships being awarded.

The scholarships were part of the Cape York Region Package (CYRP) Stage 2 and open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with a traditional or historical connection to the Peninsula Developmental Road (PDR).

The CYRP Stage 2 was a $323.12 million program of works to upgrade critical infrastructure on the Cape York Peninsula including the PDR and several community access roads, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments on an 80:20 basis.

Five young inspiring people from Year 10 to tertiary were awarded scholarships to support

them in achieving their educational aspirations.

The tertiary scholarship was worth $40,000 with four secondary scholarships worth $2250.

Since the scholarship program’s inception in 2017, there have been 43 scholarships awarded.

The tertiary scholarship was awarded to NPA’s Ngailu Thompson, who was studying for his Bachelor of Construction Management and Quantity Surveying at the Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane.

Ngailu said he planned to return to his community and open a construction company incorporating traditional knowledge into the construction environment.

“Education is important to me, it’s been embedded in me since I was young,” he said.

“I grew up with a single Mum and I have watched her do a full uni degree while she was

Scholarship winners Chelsea, Kelsey, Ngailu, Jahzara and Janice.

Pic supplied. doing full-time work.

“I’ve seen my grandmother go through and be the first person in our family to complete uni and become a teacher.

“Education is absolutely important to me because it teaches you how to lead.

“When I finish uni, I eventually want to start my own business and go

back to the Torres Strait and NPA area and supply jobs and cater for those people up there.

“The scholarship will help me immensely, I’m living away from home.

“It will definitely help with my HECS debt, it will help with me getting a job, saving and getting my life rolling after uni.

“We need more educated Indigenous

leaders in the communities, so we can ultimately help our people and help ourselves because if we don’t do it, no one’s going to do it for us.

“Be fierce, go and do what you want to do, don’t let anything hold you back, and most definitely learn from your mistakes.”

Ngailu’s proud mum,

Kaylene Ball, said knowledge was power and understanding.

“Ngailu is my eldest child, he has three younger brothers at home,” she said.

“He is such a role model to them, he’s an inspiration to us at home and I don’t think he realises how much of an impact he plays in his own family.

“Education has played a very central core for us and we have lived a very disciplined life, a very structured life, a very routine life and I’ve done that in the sense that my boys are skilled enough.

“Having knowledge means power for them and they can understand and better do things and they know what they want in life and with that having Ngailu leading the way for them.

“We’ve seen many setbacks from him (Ngailu) along the way and with that having education as the driving force for us it’s been a matter of how he decides to let fallbacks play out.

“Instead of using them as falls, he’s

used them as learning curves and it’s built his character and we’ve seen him get up time and time again.

“First Nations families should consider applying because we need more of our younger ones in leadership roles.

“For us, it means Ngailu can go back and give back to the community.

“When it comes to future engineering designs or constructions designs, Ngailu’s able to keep in mind his people and our culture, our land, our waters and our elders and bring that all together.”

Applications for the 2026 PDR Scholarships program are open.

For more information email pdrscholarships@ tmr.qld.gov.au or visit: https://www.

tmr.qld.gov.au/ about-us/employmentand-careers/ entry-pathways-program/ aboriginal-and-torresstrait-islander-earlycareer-programs/

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08 NEWS

THURSDAY 10 APRIL 2025 TORRES NEWS

Council history acknowledged in four decades of work PLEASE BE ADVISED the photos on this page contain images of people who have passed away.

The former Torres Strait Island Community Councils turned 40 late last month, alongside nine of the former Aboriginal Community Councils.

Queensland Minister for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson commended the Councils for their roles.

“These councils are the backbones of their communities and I’d like to congratulate them on their drive and self-determination to improve the lives of their residents,” she said.

“I’ve met with many Mayors and Council members, either in person, on Country or remotely, since the LNP formed government, and I was inspired by the pride they have in their communities.

“I commend them on the important role they play in facilitating the self-determination of their people for 40 years.

“The Government is looking forward to working closely with these elected leaders to develop long-term solutions to some of the complex issues they face around health, housing, education and employment.”

Palm Island Mayor Alf Lacey said they had come a long way.

“A lot has changed for the discrete communities in 40 years, from humble beginnings to more freedom, democracy, and systems like other

parts of the country,” he said.

“These changes have come about because of those former leaders who paved the way to give us the freedom and self-determination we have today.

“As a long-serving mayor, I want to commend the leaders, and the elders of that time so future generations can reap the benefits.”

In 1985, each of the 15 outer island communities established Councils under the Community Services (Torres Strait) Act 1984.

In 2007, the Local Government Reform Commission recommended that the 15 Torres Strait Island Councils be abolished, and the Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) be established in their place.

In elections conducted under the Local Government Act 1993 on 15 March 2008, members of the 15 communities comprising the TSIRC local government area each voted for a local councillor and a mayor to constitute a Council consisting of 15 councillors plus a mayor.

Palm Island, Cherbourg, Doomadgee, Hope Vale, Kowanyama, Lockhart River, Napranum, Pormpuraaw and Woorabinda were the nine Aboriginal Councils who elected their autonomous councils for the first time on 30 March 1985.

The Aboriginal Advisory Council in 1974 was a precursor to the elected local councils and many of those Chairmen went on to be the elected mayors of their communities. Pic supplied.

Source: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community histories | Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples | Queensland Government: https://www.qld.gov.au/firstnations/ cultural-awareness-heritage-arts/ community-histories

   

The Jardine River Ferry will be removed from the Jardine River for essential repairs to the ferry hull to ensure ongoing safe operations.

Just before the end of what was known as the transition period, between the Community Services Act and the Local Government Act, the Local Government Association of Queensland facilitated several meetings which became the Indigenous Leaders’ Forum (ILF). The photograph above was taken in 2006 in Cairns, just before the Aboriginal Coordinating Council and the Island Coordinating Councils were disbanded. Pic by Christine Howes.

Closure Dates: Wednesday, 23 April to Friday, 23 May 2025.

Annual safety repairs to the Jardine Ferry are under compliance regulations set by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).

Council apologises for the inconvenience caused and thanks you for your patience during this essential repair period.

Tickets purchased for travel during closure period, remain valid when ferry is open.

For further information contact NPARC T: (07) 4090 4100 or (07) 4090 4120 W: www.nparc.qld.gov.au Lew Rojahn ACTING CEO

Indigenous Council leaders at the Community Cabinet Meeting in Cairns in March 2025. Pic supplied.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 10 APRIL 2025

09

10 ART NEWS

THURSDAY 10 APRIL 2025 TORRES NEWS

Screen Qld meeting boost for far northern storytellers

At the Screen Queensland Forum in Cairns.

Marion Finch, Shontell Ketchell, Screen Qld CEO Jacqui Feeney, Barbara Ibuai & Danielle Ah Boo.

ABOVE: The Screen Queensland Panel connecting with the audience.

RIGHT: Screen Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Unit Head Danielle Ah Boo. BELOW: Dennis Fay from Salty Monkeys.

BELOW RIGHT: No Coincidence Media CEO Mitchell Stanley and Lone Star Entertainment CEO Aaron Fa’Aoso.

Pics supplied by Danielle Ah Boo.

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

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

Just email us your pic of Ailan Life along with your name, phone number and a 25-word description to ads@torres.news This week’s pic, was submitted by Nithisha Goud.

BY FLORA WARRIA

“My daughter enjoys and play along the shore as Thursday Island’s sunset bathes the sky in color, their silhouettes dancing in the golden light, carefree and joyful” Nithisha said.

“Golden hues melt into the sea as the sun sets over Thursday Island, painting the sky with soft purples and

fiery oranges, casting a tranquil, tropical glow.”

Nithisha is now in

the draw to win this month’s $150 gift card! Good luck!

Multiple entries may be submitted, but every entry (or entrant) may not be published.

All pics submitted will be considered in the draw for the monthly gift voucher. Winners of the CEQ Ailan Life competition are determined by CEQ. Entries to the Ailan Life photo competition may be used by the CEQ marketing/promotions team as background images for store promotions such as posters, digital noticeboard specials, counter-facing displays (POS) screens, and/or on their website and social media. Entries may also be used in-store to promote the ‘Ailan Life’ competition.

Screen Queensland’s inaugural In the Frame Far North Queensland event lit up the screen industry last week as creatives, commissioners and producers from across the country came together at Screen Queensland studios in Cairns for a powerful day of connection, collaboration and storytelling earlier this month.

The event was hosted by proud Torres Strait Islander woman and Head of the Screen Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Unit Danielle Ah Boo. “In the Frame was about creating a bridge between local

storytellers and the broader industry,” she said.

“It’s about making sure our stories are not only told but are celebrated, funded and seen – on screens here and around the world.”

A strong lineup of industry experts and screen commissioners from around Australia shared insights, opportunities and upcoming trends with a packed room of local storytellers, producers and emerging talent.

In the Frame was well-attended by Torres Strait Islander creatives who were making waves both locally and nationally.

They included Screen Queensland board member and Lone Star Entertainment CEO

Aaron Fa’Aoso who was well-known for championing Torres Strait Islander stories on screen.

Also in attendance was Barbara Ibuai of Strait Arrow Films, an emerging filmmaker and advocate for grassroots storytelling, and Shontell Ketchell of Pandemonium Films, whose work continued to push boundaries and spotlight Indigenous excellence across genres.

With panels, one-onone pitch meetings and informal networking In the Frame created space for emerging screen practitioners to connect directly with key industry players and decision-makers.

Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney praised the turnout and

impact of the event.

“It was a testament to the growing strength and influence of Far North Queensland’s screen community,” she said.

“The energy and passion in the room was undeniable.

“Events like this are an important part of our commitment to building a thriving, inclusive industry across all corners of Queensland.”

As the curtains closed on a successful day, it was clear In the Frame had achieved more than just industry connection, it had sparked a renewed sense of pride and possibility for Torres Strait Islander storytellers and the entire Far North Queensland screen sector.

ART NEWS 11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 10 APRIL 2025

A conversation with artist and entrepreneur Rosie Ware

Well-known artist Rosie Ware is sharing her knowledge of operating an art business – a lot of hard work, passion and opportunity – while remaining true to the work she loves doing.

Experienced in lino artwork, textile design and working on handpainted fabric, Ms Ware was willing to share knowledge of starting her business from scratch and building a reputation over the years.

Her tips for emerging artists who wanted to set up their businesses were to stay focused on keeping the passion alive and to continue, thick and thin, through hard times for your dreams and vision.

Ms Ware said these challenges that came to you made you stronger as an individual and as a businessperson and entrepreneur.

Her first tip was to have pride not just for your business but first to have pride for yourself.

“Whatever you put your hand to, have pride in that and maintain that respect for yourself and others,” Ms Ware said.

Her second tip was to be true to yourself and be a positive person as that was what would build your business to success.

And the third tip was to stay informed and committed to your beliefs.

Ms Ware said to stay informed with the news of your community and what was happening and involve yourself and your business with that.

“Give yourself room to grow and be flexible but

then be rigid,” she said.

She recalled getting great advice from the late Ephraim Bani about speaking in public.

“He gave me advice back in the day when media came and interviewed me – to know how to speak and speak correctly, so it’s not wrong from the start,” she said.

Those tips were the foundations of how Ms Ware, a successful businesswoman and artist, began her career and has successfully navigated the arts and business worlds.

The opportunity to build her career presented itself many years ago when a disillusioned Ms Ware was working as an office clerk.

After attending business college in the late 1970s, she worked as a public servant for many years.

Ms Ware said she was working at the legal service and “it just hit me – that I’m sick and tired of shuffling and filing paper, so I thought I’d try something else”.

She left to visit her sister, Isabel, who had Wug Fabrics business.

“She had a group of young people out there and I was just so blown away when I saw what they were doing – lino block style on cotton fabric. Wow,” she said.

“I always had that creative spirit in me that I did not know I had.”

When her late father, Elia Ware, wanted to go to St Paul’s to retire and build Ware’s Corner (which was still there) she bought the second-

hand dealership shop from him, which he had for a long time.

In those days, it was pretty special to have a Torres Strait Island woman running a business.

The shop and its space were an opportunity to be creative and show the world her style of artwork.

Ms Ware reflected on growing up in the late 1950s and 60s and as kids playing, drawing and making sandcastles and believes her creativity started back then.

She changed the name of the shop to ‘Rosie’s Shop’, bought wholesale products, painted on t-shirts and displayed them.

“They were selling and that started those creative juices,” she said.

“I rearranged my shop and that helped the creativity as well and designing, changing [the layout] every Saturday afternoon.”

Once tourists started coming to visit Thursday Island, Ms Ware said she knew things would change.

She did some lino fabrics for an exhibition and they were bought by the Queensland Art Gallery.

Since then, Ms Ware’s artworks have been displayed at national and international exhibitions and commissions, showing her distinct style and the identity she has expressed through her art.

She said as a Torres Strait Islander woman entrepreneur, she expressed her art “as

myself, my home, my garden through my lino prints, my screen print”.

Ms Ware said she was happy for established and emerging artists and the works they were creating.

“There’s a lot more artists and art centres that never was there back in the day,” she said.

“We never had grants, no support.”

Her works were on display at her home and visitors were welcome to see them at the Green Hill studio.

“Well, as I was developing from Rosie’s Shop and then selling my works here, there and everywhere,” she said.

“So good pasin you open the front door, back door open for visitors, and so I welcome them to 87 Hargrave Street.

“Because they just wanted to see where the artists live and how she lives; and I don’t mind because the bottom line is selling my fabrics and my merchandise.”

However, not everything is for sale as Ms Ware puts aside some of her work for her two daughters and six grandchildren.

Ms Ware said she believed business success ultimately required discipline.

“Your business has to have that because that’s going to bring in the money to pay your bills at the end of the day,” she said.

And, she said, because the customers were always right no matter what – then they come back again, and bring their family – everyone comes back.

ABOVE LEFT: Rosie at home.

ABOVE RIGHT: Sea Creatures – gold on blue silk blend fabric.

RIGHT: Another of Rosie’s Sea Creatures artworks.

Pics supplied.

­

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

• See our website for Torres Strait Schedule www.hinterlandaviation.com.au

For LFS bookings J E H LFS@flyhav.com J P H 1300 FLY HAV

12 BIRTHDAY NEWS

THURSDAY 10 APRIL 2025 TORRES NEWS

ABOVE: Fancy dress male winner Aicey Day, carer Rachael Schulz, birthday girl Bai and a brother Tagie Tapau.

LEFT: Bai Tapau, right front, with sister Dawn from Hammond Island next to her and family members behind. Pics supplied.

TN0461 • 28-11-24

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

THURSDAY ISLAND/HORN ISLAND FERRY TIMETABLE (28/10/2024) &ZKD

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Fun and joy marks Bai’s 50th birthday

BY ALF WILSON Bai Wareed Tapau, disabled, was never expected to live to the age of 50 and was overjoyed and emotional when she celebrated her milestone last Friday night.

About 200 people turned up for Bai’s birthday party at Townsville’s Brother’s League’s Club.

Many of those in attendance surprised her, including a sister, Dawn Bin Doraho who travelled from Hammond Island.

“Then I received a call on loudspeaker from my elderly mother Margaret, who lives on Mer, is in her 70s and was ill and could not travel – I had tears running down my face,” Bai said.

Guests travelled from as far away as Brisbane, Cairns, Sarina and some Torres Strait Islands for the special occasion.

“I had loving sisters, brothers, aunties, cousins, nieces, nephews and others, I can’t tell you how happy I was,” Bai said.

Bai was one of many men and women from around the country who were born with disabilities because their mothers were prescribed thalidomide.

Despite being born with two shortened arms, Bai has retained a positive outlook even after she was given medical advice she would never reach 50.

Bai grew up on Mer and suffers from a range of chronic medical conditions that have impacted her life.

“Doctors told me that there was no way I would live to age 50 and I must admit in the week before the party l had butterflies and hoped I would,” she said.

“But when I arrived at my party and saw everybody I was just so happy and overcome with joy.”

Bai said there was a fancy dress theme for her party and that added to the atmosphere.

Aicey Day won the best dressed male award and Bai said a loving auntie took out the women’s prize.

“This was one of the best nights of my life,” Bai 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

Depart Hammond Island • Monday – Friday

members can travel if space

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

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

queries. This service does not

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AVOID THE QUEUE!

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

Babina Kaigey with Aicey Day.

21-02-11 Lena Passi

TN1070

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THURSDAY 10 APRIL 2025 ADVERTISING J M: 0419 828 639 J E: ads@torres.news 10x1 FOC Tom Hearn -- Tom Hearn <marketing@wakai-waian.com.au> Accounts/Invoices: Julie Mosby <juliemosby@wakai-waian.com.au>

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P +61 7 4069 0713 | M +61 4 0831 4992--- Kristina Ward <Kristina.WARD@tsra.gov.au>

News 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.

EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF – DIAT ALFERINK E editor@torres.news NEWS & CHIEF SUB EDITOR – CHRISTINE HOWES M 0419 656 277 E christine@torres.news NEWS DIRECTOR – VELMA GARA E velma@torres.news TSIMA JOURNALIST – CARLI WILLIS M 0415 705 160 E carli@tsima4mw.org.au TSIMA CORRESPONDENTS Jennifer Enosa & Sylvia Tabua.

CADET JOURNALIST – FLORA WARRIA M 0473 231 367 E flora@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.

Register of Pre-Qualified Suppliers Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) is inviting tender submissions from businesses and individuals seeking to be placed on Council’s Register of Pre-Qualified Suppliers for:

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 • •

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 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.

Supply of Trade Services – Contract No. 2025-03-01 and

Plant Machinery Hire (Civil & Building Works) – Contract No. 2025-03-02 Interested companies, individuals, and existing Pre-Qualified Suppliers are invited to complete a Schedule for one, multiple, or all of the listed categories in the supplier registers and return it with the completed Tender Response. Existing suppliers must re-tender to be considered for inclusion in the 2025 registers.

Tenderers shall submit their Tender Response via email to tenders@nparc.qld.gov.au by close of business, 5pm Tuesday 29 April 2025.

Tender documents are available to download via Council’s website: www.nparc.qld.gov.au/tenders-expressionsinterest-1.

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14 SPORT VELMA

THURSDAY 10 APRIL 2025 TORRES NEWS

GARA’S

OUT! IN THIS WEEK’S ‘HOOPS’ NEWS...

U18 Nationals Mixed results to games played earlier this week at the championships held in southeast Queensland.

There were more games played during the week, followed by crossover games and playoffs held on Friday and grand finals on the weekend.

We’ll have all the scores in next week’s column as well as the national champions.

North Men – vs ACT 86-53, VIC Country 56-62, NT 122-48 North Women – vs NSW Country 86-51, SA Metro 85-89 OT South Men – vs SA Country 97-82, NSW Country 76-82

South Women – vs WA Metro 63-87, VIC Country 63-68 OT As for the statistics for individual players with their averages for points/rebounds so far: North Men – Keenan Williams 10/2 and Marley Solomona 5/2 North Women – Cheyenne Bobongie 8/7 and Taryn Bond 14/3 South Men – Noah Kirk 13.5p and Lennon Bann 11/4 South Women – Mya Moke 19/9 and Jema Sebasio 6/5 It’s been great to see a majority of the First Nations players as starters for their teams, as well as, the bench players getting on the floor and playing well too.

NBL1 North Exciting news for the Southern Districts Spartans with guards Jess McDowell-White, Hayley McDowellWhite and Tamuri Wigness suiting up this season.

Jess and Hayley played with Northside Wizards last season and were grand finalists but lost to Rockhampton Cyclones.

Tamuri has been away from high-level competition for about three years. He last played NBL1 with the Gold Coast Seahawks in 2022.

It will be good to see him play again and the Spartans will travel to Townsville and Cairns in June.

NBL1 North starts on 1 May 2025.

Preseason on hold Due to the school holidays, the Wongai Basketball Association preseason is on hold and will return on Wednesday 23 April.

There are still basketball games on Monday and Wednesday from 6pm onwards.

Pics supplied by Basketball Queensland Queensland players in action at the U18 Nationals.

Lennon Bann.

Waiben Gala Day and Outer Islands programs are go

BY AFL CAPE YORK DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR KIERAN SCIBERRAS

The inaugural Thursday Island AFL Cape York Gala Day was a huge success on Thursday Island late last month.

Students from Tagai Primary and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School took to the field to show off their football skills.

It was the first year we ran an all-girls event in the morning, followed by an all-boys event in the afternoon.

The buy-in from young people on Thursday Island has been fantastic with more than 70 students taking to the field throughout the day.

Between this and the Crusader Cup carnival, we have had more than 150 students involved in inter-school sports within seven days, something that we have been unable to do in the past.

The interest in AFL is growing year-on-year.

Award Winners

Girls – Gala Day Medalists • Taye Sagigi (Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School).

• Frances Mosby (Tagai Primary – Waibene Campus).

Boys – Gala Day Medalists • Owen (Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School).

• Josh (Tagai Primary).

After the Gala Day, AFL Cape York staff teamed up with Torres Health and Tagai State College to run in-school and after-school sports sessions on Warraber Island.

We’ve been able to visit Warraber every year for the past several years consistently, so it’s been great to see the students grow and develop their AFL skills.

Warraber.

On Wednesday night, we were fortunate to engage in a transitions program hosted by Tagai State College and Kaziw Meta where we were able to provide the broader community with information about AFL Cape York House for Boys and AFL Cape York House for Girls

as boarding options for Torres Strait students.

This week AFL Cape York has run school holiday programs on Badu Island before working on Horn Island today with the Torres Health team for more school holiday fun!

Owen & Josh.

Pics supplied.

Frances Mosby.

Taye Sagigi.

Runs (+ wickets) on the board for Cody

BY ALF WILSON

Noah Kirk.

Mya Moke.

Taryn Bond.

Talented allrounder Cody Filewood starred for the winning Queensland team in the grand final of the National Indigenous Cricket Championships in Mackay on Monday.

The five-day tournament in men’s and women’s divisions brought together Australia’s most talented Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cricketers.

It started last Wednesday through to Monday this week when the men’s and women’s finals were played.

After watching second-place getters, the Queensland Women, join the likes of the Queensland Bulls, Queensland Fire and WBBL Brisbane Heat, all of whom finished as runners-up in their finals, the Queensland men have finally come first for the Maroons – by seven wickets, with a score of 3/126 against New

The winning Queensland side. Image courtesy of Queensland Cricket.

South Wales’ 6/122.

Cody struck a well-made 27 before retiring hurt with a quadriceps injury in the final overs that forced him from the field. Cody, who played for Pioneer Valley club in the Mackay and District comp, also snared 1/22 bowling his

deceptive right arm off-spinners.

A total of 11 teams were in the scheduled T20 tournament that had seven men’s sides and four women’s sides vying for the national titles. Players were keen to impress with a spot on each of the national sides to be selected for a tour of Vanuatu next month.

SPORT 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 10 APRIL 2025

TN0230 8x2 local sports

Culture on show in multi-culture round Looking for more local sport?

M Continued from P16

BY ALF WILSON It was a courageous performance by the Cowboys who were without their star forward and co-captain Reuben Cotter, who was ill.

The Panthers led 18-12 at halftime and the strong Cowboys defence kept them scoreless in the final 40 minutes.

Cowboys scored four tries to three and it was their second win in a row after three defeats.

On Friday the Cowboys will meet the Wayne Bennett-coached South Sydney Rabbitohs at Sydney’s Accor Stadium.

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Gehamat again Rising star Gehamat Shibasaki scored a try for the Brisbane Broncos when they thrashed the West Tigers 46-24 on Saturday night.

Gehamat crossed in the 70th minute to again be one of the Broncos’ best.

It was a second-half scoring blitz by the Broncos who had led 14-12 at halftime.

The Broncos have charged to second on the ladder.

Other games South Sydney Rabbitohs defeated arch-rivals the Roosters

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THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

Hammer on the way to scoring his try for the Dolphins. Pic courtesy of NRL. 20-14 on Friday night.

Parramatta Eels scored their first win of the season with a 23-22

victory over St George Dragons in extra golden point time courtesy of a Zac Lomax field goal.

Third-placed Melbourne Storm defeated Manly Sea Eagles 48-24 and

Sydney Bulldogs beat Newcastle Knights, who included centre Dane Gagai, 20-nil.

Sam’s the man for Blackhawks

BY ALF WILSON The Torres Strait trio of Dudley Dotoi, Jayden Hodges and youngster Assariah Lenoy-Sam shone for the Blackhawks, who beat the CQ Capras, 20-18, in Townsville on Saturday.

Centre Assariah who has Darnley and Palm Island connections, was named man of the match for his all-round performance in defence and attack.

Flying winger “Deadly” Dudley Dotoi, with Boigu connections, continued his try-scoring efforts when he played a vital role and crossed in the first minute.

Veteran Jayden lined up at hooker and played all but one minute of the match.

Jayden told the Torres News it was a great effort that had the scores deadlocked 10-all by halftime at Townsville’s Jack Manski Oval cliffhanger.

“We have been training really hard and doing the right

things when matches like Saturday’s are tight,” Jayden said.

He said Dudley got the side off to a great start after 90 seconds when he fired a quick cut-out pass to score.

“That was a good passage of play and I was impressed with Assariah, who was solid defensively when he marked a good opponent and showed good speed,” Jayden said.

The Terry Campese-coached Blackhawks now sit third on the ladder of the 15-club competition.

In what looms as a muchanticipated clash, next Saturday in Townsville, the Blackhawks meet second-placed Dolphins.

Mackay cuts Pride The Mackay Cutters scored a 16-12 win over the Cairns Northern Pride in an entertaining match.

Scores were deadlocked 12-all at halftime and the Cutters winning try came in the 75th minute.

Speedy centre Brenton Baira

lined up for the Cutters in the Mackay game.

In round six the Pride takes on the Wynnum Manly Seagulls at Barlow Park in Cairns and the Cutters travel to Toowoomba to meet the Clydesdales.

Dolphins swim to win A Dolphins side which included star back Dantoray Lui beat the Clydesdales 34-10 at Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium on Saturday.

Dantoray lined up at five-eighth as the Dolphins led 12-10 at halftime and scored six tries to two.

Julian scores but Jets short Classy five-eighth Julian Christian scored a try for the Ipswich Jets which lost 36-16 to the Bears.

The match was held at Ipswich before a parochial home crowd and Jets trailed 22-0 at halftime.

Julian sparked a short second-half comeback bid by the Jets when he crossed in the 43rd minute.

Jets’ winger Jon Reuben didn’t score a try and was well held by the Bears’ defence.

Hunters snare victory The PNG Hunters proved they could win away from home when they travelled to the Gold Coast on Saturday to defeat the Tweed Seagulls, 26-20.

Star for the Hunters was Sanny Wabo, who scored three tries with singles to Solo Wane and Murray Connors.

It was a top effort by fullback Sanny who scored in the 18th, 47th and 68 minutes and the Hunters withstood a comeback by the Seagulls.

Hunters had led 16-4 at halftime.

Jamie Mavoko landed three goals for the high-rolling Hunters which sit sixth on the ladder.

In round six the Hunters play the Jets at Ipswich.

Other games The Tigers d the Falcons 26-18, Wynnum Manly Seagulls d Magpies 54-20.

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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 10 APRIL 2025

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Culture on show in multi-culture round

BY ALF WILSON Last week’s NRL was the multi-cultural round and proud Torres Strait Islander stars showcased their ‘multi-culture’ in front of millions of viewers over the four days of footy.

Proud Saibai Islander Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow performed his Shark totem after scoring a try, which was acknowledged by commentators, one of whom mentioned the significance to Torres Strait Islanders.

As the Canberra Raiders players ran onto the field Seb Kris and Xavier Savage had Torres Strait flags wrapped around their shoulders.

Hammer nails Titans Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow returned to his brilliant best when the Dolphins thrashed the Gold Coast Titans 36-10 at Cbus Super Stadium on Saturday night.

For the Titans forward David Fifita also performed well.

Hammer played by far his best game of the season and the Dolphins registered their first win after losses in the first four rounds.

By halftime fullback Hammer had run for 139 metres and scored the first try of the match in the 10th minute.

It was a trademark long-range Hammer try when he charged for 60 metres to the line.

David, who has started from the interchange bench in recent matches, was promoted to the run-on side and did provide impact.

Match-winning try A try by Seb Kris in the last 15 seconds of the match meant a win for the Canberra Raiders, 24-20, over the Cronulla Sharks on Thursday night.

Going into the final minute, hot favourites the Sharks had led 20-18, and looked set to hold on until centre Seb pounced on the ball to score, much to the delight of the home Canberra crowd.

Earlier in the game Seb fired out a miracle pass to Hudson Young who also scored.

Raiders winger Xavier Savage played a key role in the matchwinning try after he produced a grubber kick which was gathered by a teammate who flicked it onto Seb.

Cowboys upset Underdogs the North Queensland Cowboys travelled to Sydney’s CommBank Stadium to defeat premiers of the past four seasons, the Penrith Panthers, 22-18, on Friday night.

TN0529 10x7 – 7/3/24 Continued PAGE 15 N

Gold Coast Titans players Jacob Alick-Wiencke and David Fifita with family and friends. Pic courtesy of Gold Coast Titans.

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