Torres News_Edition 181_29 May 2025

Thursday, 29 May 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.

EDITORIAL l M: 0419 656 277 l E: christine@torres.news

l Edition 181 l $2 incl. GST

ADVERTISING l M: 0419 828 639 l E: ads@torres.news

New era for marine rescue services launched It’s a new era for marine rescue in the Torres Strait as Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) welcomed three Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) units to the fold, and launched its first newly established MRQ unit – MRQ Kubin – from Waiben on Saturday.

The new Moa Island-based unit was established in response to community need and joined newly launched MRQ units on Thursday Island, Masig and St Paul’s.

MRQ St Paul’s Scotty Ronsen said it was a great day.

“The most important thing is to save our people in the

region,” he said.

MRQ Masig volunteers Loice Naawi and Julohn Wigness also said it was a “very good day” to be in the MRQ uniform.

“The colours are really bright and we stand out from the rest of the tribe,” Julohn said.

Some of the highest search

and rescue activity in Queensland occurred in Torres Strait waters, where marine rescue volunteers covered more than 250 nautical miles with a 25-strong volunteer team.

Each unit carried out around a dozen activations each year, and jobs could become lengthy due to

the sheer distance they served.

Communities across the Torres Strait have relied on marine rescue units for the past 24 years on Thursday Island, 17 years on St Paul’s on Moa Island and seven years on Masig on Yorke Island.

Story continued & pics PAGE 7 N

Loice Naawi, Antonio Dorante & Julohn Wigness standing tall in their MRQ uniforms. Pic supplied.

Providing local employment in your community for more than 35 years Sea Swift is one of the largest employers in the region, and we pride ourselves on making a significant contribution to the employment and skill development of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in remote communities across Northern Australia.

We have an 80%-90% First Nations workforce in our remote depots and on our remote vessels Live schedules at www.seaswift.com.au | Connect with us on social media!

02

THURSDAY 29 MAY 2025 TORRES NEWS

­

­

J H H J H J H

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 29 MAY 2025

New TSRA-supported office for legal services A blessing and celebrations have officially opened the newly named ‘Law House’ at 25 Douglas Street on Thursday Island.

E&H Law Partner Peter Haarsma said the official opening of the Thursday Island office cemented the TSRA-funded firm’s commitment to continue delivering high-quality legal services over the next three years.

“In addition to our office in Cairns, the new-look Law House on Douglas Street provides face-to-face access to legal support here on Thursday Island,” Mr Haarsma said.

“Our door is open Monday to Friday, alongside 24-hour on-call support for urgent legal assistance and advice.

“We make it a point and priority to provide caring and culturally appropriate support across criminal, civil and family law matters.

“Our service is all about helping people navigate the legal

legal services is ensuring yumi people can access quality, culturally appropriate legal advice and support from the mainland communities to the outer islands.

“Ensuring access to strong legal support and advice is just one step TSRA is taking locally towards Closing the Gap to reduce the overrepresentation of First Nations people, including young people, in the justice system.”

Since being awarded the region’s legal services contract in April 2024, E&H Law has represented 2763 matters, supporting 1238 clients across the Torres Strait region, including Bamaga and Seisia.

Contact E&H Law for legal services and support on (07) 4041 1677 (office hours 8.30am to 5pm). After hours on-call services are available for urgent matters.

SAVE THE DATE GAB TITUI

INDIGENOUS ART AWARD 2025 TSRA representatives with E&H Law representatives and families. Pic supplied. system with confidence, ensuring they know their rights.”

TSRA Chairperson George Nona said TSRA’s funding

commitment for legal services would provide stability and long-term legal support for residents in the Torres Strait region, including

NPA communities of Bamaga and Seisia, to 2028.

“Congratulations to E&H Law on the official opening of the Law

House, signalling a new era for legal services and expertise for the region,” Mr Nona said.

“TSRA’s four-year [in total] funding of

TI Hospital under new scrutiny – Minister STORY AND PIC

BY CARLI WILLIS Developing problems in the Torres Strait over the past five years have been closely watched by Queensland’s State Health Minister Tim Nicholls, who says he plans to visit communities soon.

He said he was particularly concerned about damage and repairs to the newly developed Waiben Hospital.

“That’s got to be a priority – we can’t have wards not open and services not being delivered,” he said.

“What we’ve really found is there has been a failure in relation to the construction of the hospital.

“It’s just unacceptable to have mould in a supposedly new building, and a building that’s taken, quite frankly, far too long to build.

“We’ve had a number of problems, including the mould issue up there.”

Mr Nicholls said Health Infrastructure Queensland (HIQ) was investigating whether the building issues were a failure of design or a failure of implementation.

“We need to find out what the work is and who’s responsible for it, because that may lead to who pays for the repairs and how those repairs

The corridors of the trouble-plagued Thursday Island hospital. are undertaken,” he said.

Mr Nicholls said whilst the cost of Waiben Hospital had blown over the committed $56 million, there was no money left for the repairs. “[I’m] arguing the case with my colleagues for funding to be made available, and we will be making those announcements in the budget,” he said.

“Ultimately, it will come from the taxpayers of Queensland.”

Mr Nicholls said he’d also discovered there were workplace health and safety issues, and issues with birthing services.

“We’re also looking at the workforce issues in relation to

TI, the Cape and the broader area,” he said.

“We’ve done a workforce survey, particularly around maternity and birthing services.

“Disturbingly, we’ve found about an 11.5 per cent shortage in terms of midwives, and about a 17 per cent shortage in terms of anaesthetists across our birthing and midwifery services.”

He acknowledged community calls for more Indigenous doctors and especially Torres Strait Islander doctors.

“We need to have a focus in terms of scholarships and training programs,” he said.

“Speaking with the Chief Executive Officer yesterday,

and looking at some of the reports, I’m advised that we’re working on some scholarships and supportive roles to be able to provide that support so we can strengthen our Indigenous workforce in those areas.”

Mr Nicholls also said he was waiting for an investigation report into cultural safety at the TCHHS. “We now have an implementation group we’ve established, and that is about delivering,” he said.

“The time for talking is over, the time for action is now.

“That implementation group, which the Director-General has established, is all about moving to the implementation of those recommendations.”

Opening Night Thursday 12 June 2025 6pm Start

For more information or to register your a endance, please contact 07 4069 0888 | info@gabtitui.gov.au Image: Reef Mat (detailed) by Lavinia Ketchell (2025) Photography by George Serras.

04 NEWS

TIB fishers advisory positions open Traditional Inhabitant Boat (TIB) available across eight PZJA Advisory fishers from Zenadth Kes and the Committees: Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) • Tropical Rock Lobster Working are urged to contact their local Group TSRA Board member to apply for • Tropical Rock Lobster Resource positions on the region’s Protected Assessment Group Zone Joint Authority (PZJA) • Finfish Working Group Advisory Committees.

• Finfish Resource Assessment Taking on community feedback, Group the Torres Strait Regional Authority • Hand Collectables Working Group (TSRA) has changed the selection • Hand Collectables Resource process and extended applications to Assessment Group 9 June 2025. The changes provided • Torres Strait Prawn Management extra time to apply, along with Advisory Committee more transparency and better access • Torres Strait Scientific Advisory for fishers across the region to get Committee involved.

Each committee included TIB TSRA Chairperson George Nona members from the 20 communities said the committees enabled local represented by the TSRA. voices to guide the future of the region’s fisheries.

TIB fishers from the NPA communities of Injinoo, New “The PZJA Advisory Committees are critical for providing region-wide Mapoon and Umagico should contact industry expertise on key Torres the TSRA Board member for Bamaga Strait fisheries that are majority or Seisia to be considered for any owned by our people,” Mr Nona said. Kaiwalagal cluster positions.

“Only our fishers have extensive Existing applications and knowledge and experience of the Expressions of Interest were Protected Zone traditional fisheries automatically transferred to the and communities in our region. new selection process, so previous applicants did not need to reapply.

“I urge local fishers to apply, their knowledge is vital to important Interested fishers must be able to discussions held at the PZJA commit their time and knowledge to Advisory Committees. be a committee member.

“Together we can maintain Need more information? Go to wk: 29/5/25 ____ www.tsra.gov.au/fisheries or email sustainable fishing1industries in our Lena Passi AdsIn E EXCEL E DUMMY E waters andWomen’s increase Shelter. employment and fisheries@tsra.gov.au 18x3 [54] ad $4.90 monofor rateyumi [discount & free colour] $264.60 incl. economic opportunities Applicants will be assessed against Booking deadline noon Monday 26/5/25 region now and into12the future.” the list of responsibilities available PO# by 12noon Tuesday 27/5/25 A ______________ total of 40 positions Deadline: were online at www.tsra.gov.au/fisheries

TN1095

THURSDAY 29 MAY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Smol Yarn Cowboys House kids join Convoy for a Cure Nine young Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal boys and girls from North Queensland Cowboys House took part in a charity event in Townsville on Sunday, helping to raise more than $200,000 for research into brain cancer.

They travelled in the Cowboys House bus and were amongst 287 trucks and 101 bikes which participated in the Convoy for a Cure.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli was there and walked along checking out the vehicles.

Along the 25km convoy route, more than 15,000 men, women and children lined the streets as the trucks cruised past with drivers honking their horns.

The convoy raised the money to fund research into DIPG (Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma), an aggressive and rare type of cancer that forms in the brainstem, and almost always occurs in young children.

It finished at Ross Dam Park for a family fun day, which was attended by more than 1000 people.

Story by Alf Wilson.

Vet clinic on the way

A number of milestones should be reached at next month’s Thursday Island Animal Support Group Inc’s (TIASG) vet clinic, to be held from 6-10 June.

TIASG President Sonia PROJECT OFFICER <projectofficer@lpws.org.au> - Julia 0458 513 381 Einersen said their quarterly vet Lena Passi Women’s Shelter Assoc. Inc. clinics were always full.

Lena Passi Women’s Shelter Assoc. Inc. Lena Passi Women’s Shelter Assoc. Inc. Prevention, Intervention & Community Legal Education “As a consequence, we are Prevention, Intervention & Community Education looking forward to treating our Services Prevention, Prevention Intervention &(PICLE) Community LegalLegal Education (PICLE) Services 2000th animal and hoping to (PICLE) Services desex pet number 500 during the June clinic,” she said.

“This would not be possible without our collaboration with COERCIVE CONTROL COERCIVE CONTROL Vets Beyond Borders in providing COERCIVE CONTROL volunteer vet staff and the Animal WHAT IS COERCIVE CONTROL? WHAT IS control COERCIVE CONTROL? Coercive is when someone uses a pattern of abusive behaviours over time that hurt, Welfare League Queensland, WHAT IS COERCIVE CONTROL? Coercive control isfrighten when someone uses a pattern of so abusive behaviours over time thatthem. hurt, humiliate, isolate, or threaten they can control manipulate under whom our clinics are Coercive control is when someone uses a another pattern person of abusive behaviours overortime that hurt, humiliate, isolate, frighten or threaten another person so they can control or manipulate them. humiliate, isolate, frighten or threaten another person so they can control or manipulate them. registered.

Some patterns of abusive behaviour are: Some patterns of abusive behaviour are: “And of course our local • Isolating someone from are: friends and family Some patterns of abusive behaviour • Isolating someone from friends and family volunteers, who organise • Monitoring their movements, • Isolating someone from friends andphone, familyor social media • Restricting Monitoring access their movements, phone, or socialormedia appointments and the paperwork, • to money, transportation, other essentials • Monitoring their movements, phone, or social media Restricting access to money, transportation, or other essentials •• Threatening them into compliance do the endless amounts of • Restricting accessortointimidating money, transportation, or other essentials Threateningwhat or intimidating them into compliance •• Controlling they wear, whocompliance they talk to, or where they go • Threatening or intimidating them into washing associated with running a • Humiliating Controlling what they wear, who they talk to,self-esteem or where they go • or belittling them to reduce • Controlling what they wear, who they talk to,their or where they go vet clinic, and support owners and Humiliating or belittling themoftophysical reduce their self-esteem •• Physical threats • Humiliating orviolence belittlingor them to reduce their violence self-esteem vet volunteers during the clinic.”

• Physical violence or threats of physical violence

‘Legal Yarns’ ‘Legal Yarns’ ‘Legal Yarns’

Physical violence or threats of physical violence CHANGES TO THE LAW: CHANGES TO THEwill LAW: Coercive control CHANGES TO THE LAW: be a criminal offence in Queensland from 26 May 2025.

Coercive control will be a criminal offence in Queensland from 26 May 2025.

Coercive control will be a criminal offence in Queensland from 26 May 2025.

This means that it will be illegal (against the law) for anyone to use abusive behaviours toward This means thatformer it will be illegalfamily (against the law) for anyone(unpaid) to use abusive behaviours toward their current partner, informal carer with the toward intention to This means that it or will be illegal (against themember law) for or anyone to use abusive behaviours their current or former partner, family member or informal (unpaid) carer with the intention to control or coerce (pressure or intimidate) them. their current or former partner, family member or informal (unpaid) carer with the intention to control or coerce (pressure or intimidate) them. control or coerce (pressure or intimidate) them.

The criminal offence captures patterns of physical and/or non-physical abuse used to hurt, The criminal offence captures patterns of physical and/or non-physical abuse used to hurt, humiliate, isolate, frighten, or threaten The criminal offence captures patterns of someone. physical and/or non-physical abuse used to hurt, humiliate, isolate, frighten, or threaten someone. humiliate, isolate, frighten, or threaten someone.

The criminal offence will carry a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment. This is due to the The criminal offence will carryand a maximum penalty ofcontrol 14 years imprisonment.

This is due to the serious nature ofwill thecarry offence the harm coercive can cause someone.

The criminal offence a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment.

This is due to the serious nature of the offence and the harm coercive control can cause someone. serious nature of the offence and the harm coercive control can cause someone.

WHO DOES IT APPLY TO? WHO DOES IT APPLYwill TO?apply to people in intimate and family relationships, including: WHOCoercive DOES ITcontrol APPLYlaws TO? Coercive controland laws will apply to people in intimate and family relationships, including: Spouses facto, or dating) Coercive•control laws willpartners apply to (married, people in de intimate and family relationships, including: • Former Spousespartners and partners (married, de facto, or dating) • (ex-spouses, ex-boyfriends/girlfriends) • Spouses and partners (married, de facto, or dating) Formermembers partners (ex-spouses, ex-boyfriends/girlfriends) •• Family (in someex-boyfriends/girlfriends) cases) • Former partners (ex-spouses, • People Family members (in some cases)setting • living together in a family • Family members (in some cases) • People living together in a family setting • People living together in a family setting These laws are meant to protect individuals from long-term psychological abuse that can These laws are their meant to protect individuals from long-term psychological abuse that can impact Theseseverely laws are meant to well-being. protect individuals from long-term psychological abuse that can severely impact their well-being. severely impact their well-being.

•

If anyone would like more information, please reach out to the PICLE Services – come see us Ifatanyone would like more information, reach outortoemail: the PICLE Services – come see us the E&H Lawmore Office or contact us onplease 0461 If anyone would like information, please reach577 out067 to the PICLE projectofficer@lpws.org.au Services – come see us at the E&H Law Office or contact us on 0461 577 067 or email: projectofficer@lpws.org.au at the E&H Law Office or contact us on 0461 577 067 or email: projectofficer@lpws.org.au

To make an appointment for the vet clinic being held from 6-10 June, email tiasginfo@gmail. com or text 0477 271 958.

Cowboys House kids: Brayden Misick, Warraber Island; Philip Sam & Joseph Sam, Sabai Island; Derek Reston, Staff; Ralph Sam – Sabai Island; Tahliyah Jawai, Napranum; Miriam Mabo, Murray Island; Joelle Williams, Thursday Island; Racyna Binawel, Moa Island & Lakeisha Yam, Kowanyama. Pic by Alf Wilson.

Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa Advisory Group members Belza Lowah, Ivy Trevallion, Paul Ban, Francis Tapim, McRose Elu and Commissioner C’zarke Maza. Pic supplied.

Tribute

Corporate plan endorsed

The Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa Advisory Group (above) met in Townsville last month to pay tribute to their late member Dana Ober, whose passion and advocacy continued to inspire their work.

Commissioner C’Zarke Maza said the gathering was a valuable opportunity to hear from those who help shape the work of his Office.

“Our Advisory Group members bring deep community knowledge and lived experience to the table,” said Commissioner Maza.

“Their insights help ensure the cultural recognition process stays grounded in respect, integrity and Ailan Kastom.”

The Office of the Commissioner Meriba Omasker Kaziw Kazipa (OCMOKK) launched a new website on Tuesday which allowed families easy access to information about the Cultural Recognition Order (CRO) application process.

“We’ve designed this website to be simple, welcoming, and informative; a true reflection of the values we stand for,” Commissioner Maza said.

Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC - pictured below) has endorsed a Corporate Plan for 2025–2030, outlining a clear strategic direction to guide Council’s operations, service delivery and advocacy across the next five years.

Developed through extensive consultation across the Torres Strait, the Plan aimed to support improved liveability, economic resilience, and cultural preservation throughout the region.

Mayor Phillemon Mosby said the Plan set out an ambitious, yet practical roadmap for the future of Zenadth Kes. “It provides a strong foundation to guide decision-making and partnerships, ensuring our efforts continue to meet the evolving needs of our communities,” he said.

Chief Executive Officer James William said the Plan would assist Council to deliver coordinated and community-focused outcomes.

“The Corporate Plan 2025–2030 sets out a clear strategic direction for how Council will serve communities over the next five years,” Mr William said.

Families can access the new website at https://ocmokk.com. au/

TIASG’s youngest volunteer, Anne-Rita Gela helps one of the youngest patients during the March clinic. Pic supplied.

The Corporate Plan will be available on Council’s website and at Council offices when it comes into effect from 1 July.

Torres Strait Island Regional Council. Pic supplied.

NEWS 05

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 29 MAY 2025

Health services face class action for alleged racism

BY CARLI WILLIS A class action against Queensland Health has been launched in the federal court alleging systemic racism at two remote Hospital and Health Services.

Litigators, JGA Saddler Lawyers, said there were clear breaches of the Racial Discrimination Act (1975) by the North-West Hospital and Health Service (NWHHS) and the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS).

The NWHHS and TCHHS service 47 of Queensland’s most remote communities, many of which have high populations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

JGA Saddler Lawyers Darren Cash (left) and Rebbecca Jancauskas (Director) say the evidence will clearly show racial discrimination has occurred. Pics supplied.

JGA Saddler Lawyers said racial discrimination resulted in substandard health care being provided, which, in some cases, led to death.

Director Rebecca Jancauskas said her team would examine three decades as part of the lawsuit, from December 1996 to March 2025.

She said evidence during this time showed instances of ongoing systemic racism.

“We’ve heard horrible, harrowing stories of people who’ve been turned away and who have suffered extreme outcomes as a result,” she said.

“Their health has suffered, and in some cases, they’ve passed away as a result of the care that has been doled out.

“We will say that this can very clearly be distinguished between allegations in terms of an overloaded or inappropriate health system.

“We say the evidence will show that this is racial discrimination.”

Ms Jancauskas said while the lawsuit was based on experiences of racial discrimination, there was room to amend the scope in the future.

“There are cases that involve racial discrimination elements that are brought under other causes of action, including negligence,” she said.

“As evidence is received, [we will] take the advice of our barristers at the appropriate times to determine whether the case needs to be

amended, broadened or narrowed as it stands.”

Ms Jancauskas said it was evident in the hundreds of people the firm had heard from so far that claimants were racially discriminated against.

“The purpose of the Racial Discrimination Act, having been implemented as a federal law, makes it unlawful to exclude people, to draw distinctions between people, or to treat them differently because of their race,” she said.

“This case alleges that unlawful discrimination on the basis of race has occurred.”

Litigation funder, Litigation Lending Services or LLS, known for their work in Stolen Generations and Stolen Wages class actions,

supplied funding support.

“There is a budget in this matter, but like all class actions, that’s commercially sensitive information, and so that needs to remain confidential,” said Ms Jancauskas.

Prominent Human Rights Barrister, Joshua Creamer, has been engaged to represent the interests of the claimants.

Earlier in the year, he was involved in community meetings in the Torres Strait, which heard from community members on the matter.

Work underway Queensland’s Minister for Health, Tim Nicholls, said he would not comment on matters before the court, but would say that

100 new bikes on their way from Naarm

Happy cycling on Waiben is about to expand with 100 new bikes. Pic supplied.

Ride Revolution Project’s 100 bicycles are on their way to Waiben from Naarm (Melbourne).

The project was started to overcome the barriers of cost and remoteness, which meant few families had the option to travel by bicycle around Waiben.

“By removing financial barriers to transport, this initiative empowers individuals and families with greater access to everything – food, education, employment, health services, social opportunities –everything,” Mobilise TI coordinator Sarah Tedder said.

“This project is not just

about enabling more people to access bicycles, it’s what those bicycles can do for a person or family – they give independence, freedom, opportunity and connection, and in turn, strengthen relationships and therefore the community overall.

“Participants have expressed real excitement at soon having a way to get around that is easy, fun and free.

“We selected applicants based on their current mobility options, their caregiving responsibilities, their community leadership, and their commitment to riding a bicycle

to get around, among other things.”

Two children from Tagai Primary – Waybeni Buway, Jairus Sabatino and Lesleah Newman, would also receive bicycles as awards for their entries in the Kids Design Competition run earlier in the year.

To ensure generations of local families continued to benefit from bicycle access, recipients were asked to keep their bicycles within the Zenadth Kes region.

“If a family plans to leave the region in the future, or if a bicycle is no longer being used or suitable for them, we ask that

it be returned, sold for the same or less than was paid, or passed on to someone else living locally,” Sarah said.

The project was made possible through the financial and in-kind support of Cybec Foundation, 99 Bikes, Ports North, Sea Swift, CEQ, Coral Sea Concrete, Island Stars Cafe, and Makai Cafe, as well as the 201 generous supporters of the Ride Revolution crowdfunding campaign.

Anyone who missed out on receiving a bicycle this time can express their interest in any future bulk buy or second-hand bicycle here: https://bit.ly/

needabike

Prominent Human Rights Barrister Joshua Creamer has been engaged by JGA Saddler Lawyers. racial discrimination was unacceptable.

“I’ve met with a number of the mayors [and] they have been very clear to both the Premier and myself of the challenges that we face there,” he said.

In recent years, both the NWHHS and TCHHS have been investigated in relation to their treatment of Indigenous staff and patients.

Some of these reports already cited instances of Indigenous staff and patients who have experienced discrimination in those services.

Mr Nicholls said he was awaiting an

investigation currently underway into the cultural safety of the TCHHS processes, with a report originally slated for release in June 2024 now due in mid-2025.

“Once we’ve got that, we’ll then look at what action needs to be taken,” he said.

“I think those two pieces of work, which should be implemented, will go a long way to helping address the issues.

“That implementation group, which the Director General has established, is all about moving to the implementation of those recommendations.”

DAVID KEMPTON MEMBER FOR COOK

Queensland’s Minister for Health, Tim Nicholls, wants to visit Torres Strait communities to hear directly from them.

Torres Strait & NPA Update Kapu bathainga / Debe idim!

As your new State Member for Cook, I would like to keep everyone informed of the discussions I am having in the region. Whilst we hardly notice the difference in Zenadth Kes, winter is almost here.

This week I presented at the Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) May workshop.

The topics discussed were the ongoing cost-ofliving crisis in the region and the challenges facing Sea Swift as their operating costs continue to climb.

I am talking to Sea Swift, the councils, and the Government, looking for efficient solutions to help drive down the cost of freight and cost of living in the region. We also discussed the housing situation, where I agreed to support TSIRC in a funding bid.

I also advised TSIRC that I am keen to support it in its policy for a pathway to freehold for all island residents. The current land tenure system and process make it hard for locals to buy houses and establish and grow local businesses across the islands that people call home. I support TSIRC with its vision for more home ownership and enterprise, with the appropriate safeguards for all parties.

I was pleased to confirm that new health centres and staff accommodation for the Torres and Cape Health and Hospital Service (TCHHS) would be constructed on Boigu, Badu and Horn Island.

I have been in constant contact with NPARC to ensure the compulsory maintenance of the Jardine River Ferry is completed as soon as possible to minimise the interruptions to local tourism businesses and local travel. I am working with NPARC and the Government to find a long-term solution.

Finally, I welcome Talei Elu to my team.

Koeyma esso.

Electoral Office:

Commonwealth Centre, Hastings Street, Thursday Island Q 4875

06 NEWS

Human rights advocates, activists and campaigners meet in Brisbane

THURSDAY 29 MAY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Waiben: Bows from the The Boy Who Found His Way Home cast members and writer Jillian Boyd-Bowie. Pics below thanks to Jillian Boyd-Bowie.

Jillian’s play a success across the boards

Orepa Davis, Vonda Malone, Stephen Mam, Kaleb Mabo, Nancy Bamaga and Thomas Mayo at the Bandarran Marra’Gu Gathering Strength summit. Pic by Lewis Bin Doraho.

First Nations communities met to consider how to uphold, promote and protect the human rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples at a unique event hosted by the Queensland and Australian Human Rights Commissions and the Queensland Family and Child Commission, at the Queensland State Library in Brisbane earlier this month.

The Bandarran Marra’Gu Gathering Strength summit discussions considered how the four streams of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples – self-determination, cultural integrity and preservation, protection from discrimination and participation in decisionmaking – could be advanced.

Aboriginal and Torres

Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner Katie Kiss said rights were not a privilege, they were a responsibility.

“We are rights holders, entitled to self-determination, cultural integrity, participation in decision-making, equality and non-discrimination,” she said.

“Australian governments have a duty to ensure compliance with international human rights obligations and embed the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in legislative frameworks that affect us.”

A statement from participants delivered a powerful call to governments to listen to the combined voices and experience of Elders, and all generations, to promote, protect and uphold their human rights.

Queensland Human Rights Commissioner Scott McDougall said human rights were fundamental to “all efforts to improve the lives of First Nations peoples in Queensland”.

“With the growing challenges to human rights in Queensland and Australia, it is more important than ever to provide an environment to ensure the voices of First Nations peoples are prioritised in the ongoing efforts to uphold their rights.”

“I am pleased that the Bandarran Marra’Gu Gathering Strength summit provided a safe space for First Nations community members across Queensland to come together to take stock of the status of their rights as Indigenous peoples.”

The full statement is online at: https://bit.ly/3Fa4NNb

More than 500 audience members across three fun-filled nights at the Gab Titui amphitheatre on Waiben and Ugarie Community Hall on Badu were captivated by Jillian Boyd-Bowie’s first play, The Boy Who Found His Way Home, earlier this month.

Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) proudly supported the premiere of Jillian’s first play production, which was presented by the Grin & Tonic Theatre Troupe in collaboration with Bani Productions, Gab Titui Cultural Centre, Arts Queensland and the Torres Strait Islander Media Association (TSIMA).

“Sitting in the audience, watching and observing my story from page to stage was a surreal moment for me, especially seeing families and friends enjoying the show from start to finish, it warms my heart,” Jillian said.

Grounded in culture, the show delivered powerful messages as a true celebration of Torres Strait talent with familiar stories about home and identity.

Renowned Torres Strait actor, Jimi Bani (Mabo, The Straits), brought many of the characters to life and said he was honoured to be part of the three-week production.

“To be able to deliver Aunty Jill’s words and share the stage with Vaughan was magical,” Jimi said.

“We’ve rehearsed and finessed the show in under three weeks, but acting alongside Vaughan has been the biggest highlight; he is an amazing storyteller, and I was honoured to ride this wave with him.”

Theatre newcomer, Vaughan Wapau’s delivery of Iothamo was met

The Badu performance and crowd.

with standing ovations.

“I honestly don’t know what to say, the show was so good and I’m glad family and the audience enjoyed it,” Vaughan said.

“I just loved that familiar story portrayed by Iothamo trying to fit in and then finding accomplishment and pride in learning his culture from his Ata and discovering his identity.”

TSRA Chairperson George Nona praised the production team for bringing generations together through love and laughter.

“You could feel the joy and emotion from the crowd,” he said.

“They saw themselves in this story, and that’s the power of local theatre.

“TSRA and the Gab Titui Cultural Centre are proud to support homegrown First Nation performing artists from our region to share their works on stage, here and abroad.

“Credit to playwright Jillian BoydBowie on this amazing debut and for capturing our people, our humour and the connections we have with each other.

“Congratulations to Jimi, Vaughan and the Grin & Tonic Theatre Troupe for producing a wonderful show that reflected culture, keeping storytelling alive for our future generations.”

TSRA acknowledged TSIMA for its contribution to the play, with Radio4MW being a prominent feature of the show.

Following its Waiben success, The Boy Who Found His Way Home was presented to the Badu community on 21 May, as part of its mission to continue sharing Torres Strait stories with Torres Strait audiences.

NEWS 07

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 29 MAY 2025

Archbishop backs Yessie in invite to Albo

Torres Strait 8 spokesperson Yessie Mosby showing Archbishop Jeremy Greaves the impacts of climate change at his family’s property on Masig on Saturday 11 May 2024.

Yessie Mosby and Archbishop Jeremy Greaves are asking Prime Minister Albanese to commit during National Reconciliation Week to meeting them on Yessie’s low-lying island of Masig in the next 12 months. Pics supplied.

Torres Strait 8 spokesperson Yessie Mosby and Anglican archbishop Jeremy Greaves are calling upon the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to say “yes” to Yessie during National Reconciliation Week in an open letter.

They have invited the prime minister to meet them on the Torres Strait Island of Masig to witness the devastating impacts of climate change on the low-lying island.

Last month Labor promised an additional $36.2 million over five years to help fund Stage 3 of the Torres Strait Seawalls Program for the islands of Poruma, Iama, Masig, Warraber and Badu.

While the additional

tree that was planted with a newborn’s umbilical cord, thus becoming that baby’s tree for life.

“Together we looked at the incomplete seawall - a wall that needs urgent completion because the shore is rapidly eroding - and discussed other strategies that need to be implemented to protect Masig and other low-lying Torres Strait Islands.

“And, together we observed where ancestor burial places have washed out to sea, including Yessie’s great-great-greatgrandmother’s grave.”

The Torres Strait 8 made legal history in 2022 after the United Nations Human Rights Committee found that

seawall funding is welcomed, the Torres Strait 8 spokesperson and the senior Anglican leader want the prime minister to see the urgency of the seawall’s completion and the severe impacts of successive governments’ climate change inaction with them on Masig firsthand.

The invitation, issued via an open letter on the first day of National Reconciliation Week, followed Archbishop Jeremy Greaves’ climaterelated visit to Masig, the island of Kulkalgal traditional owner and Torres Strait 8 spokesperson Yessie Mosby, last year.

“We write this open letter to you during National

Reconciliation Week in a spirit of good faith and as Anglicans and Queensland community leaders,” the open letter said.

“In May last year, we walked around Yessie’s island, Masig, to take in its beauty and to lament the damaging impacts of the changing climate.

“Together we discussed the healing properties of Masig’s bush medicine, including the island’s bark, flowers, fruits, leaves and sap.

“Together we looked at a coconut tree lying on the sand — a tree that had been standing tall and proud less than three months before, a

the Australian Government was violating its human rights obligations to them through climate change inaction.

The letter said the prime minister failed to respond to previous invitations to visit Masig from Mr Mosby and requested that the Hon Anthony Albanese MP visit the island in the next 12 months.

The open letter was emailed to the prime minister on Tuesday, with a recording of their invitation on the Archbishop’s YouTube channel.

It was published online and invited support from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and faith groups.

Numerous interfaith and community group leaders have already signed on in support of the open letter, including representatives from the Australian Religious Response to Climate Change, the Queensland Community Alliance, the Catholic Archdiocese of Brisbane, the Uniting Church in Australia Queensland Synod, the Queensland District of the Lutheran Church and Reconciliation Queensland.

Nominated representatives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations or faith groups are invited to support the invitation to the Prime Minister by signing the letter here: www.bit.ly/43ibqGq

New era for marine services rescue launched on Waiben

Pics supplied.

M Continued from P1 Thursday Island originally was an Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association unit up until 1999, then in 2001 it became VMR. A citation celebration was held last Saturday to recognise the volunteers as inaugural MRQ volunteer members.

It also paid homage to the legacy of volunteers and their many years of service in keeping people safe at sea in the Torres Strait.

MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff said the newly launched Torres Strait units represented

an important step for MRQ’s capability to continue delivering for Queensland’s regions.

“These units are our most northern units across the state and boast some of the most diverse and challenging areas for our volunteers to carry out rescues,” Mr Wulff said.

“Volunteers are dedicated to helping keep the Torres Strait’s on-water community safe and we couldn’t be prouder to launch our first MRQ-established unit MRQ Kubin, on Moa Island, and welcome volunteers from St Pauls, Thursday Island and

Masig to the service.

“We know this community relies on the support of their experienced volunteers to help them in their times of need and this support will continue from the same, friendly faces they know.

“MRQ now has marine rescue units as far north as the Torres Strait and south to Currumbin on the Gold Coast and we look forward to welcoming more units to the MRQ family.”

Safety information can be found here:

https://www.mrq. qld.gov.au/safetyinformation

VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE www.ocmokk.com.au

08

THURSDAY 29 MAY 2025 TORRES NEWS

TAGAI STATE COLLEGE

YUMI College News

Maiem: Sew Ngapa Recently, the Heads of Campus (HOCs) from across Tagai State College came together in Cairns for the first of the biannual Leaders Forums. These face-to-face meetings are vital to the ongoing success of our multicampus college, offering an invaluable opportunity for collaboration, reflection, and professional growth. The gathering was enthusiastically received by all participants.

The forum’s program focused on both

the development of leadership capability and the refinement of technical skills in teaching and learning. HOCs engaged in sessions designed to deepen their impact as instructional leaders while staying informed about broader educational developments.

A highlight of the forum was the contribution from several distinguished guest speakers, including Angela Falkenberg, President of the Australian Primary Principals Association; Shirlee Gallo, Regional Director for the Department of Education Far North Region; and Mandy Whybird, School Supervisor for Tagai State College. Each speaker brought a unique perspective

on educational leadership and shared valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing schools at national and state levels.

Mrs Whybird, a former teacher on Masig Island, spoke powerfully about the enduring influence of her time living and working in the Torres Strait. She shared how raising her children within the community and maintaining close ties with families over the past two decades has shaped both her personal and professional journey—a sentiment that resonated deeply with many of the leaders present.

cornerstone of teaching across the college, a key focus of the forum was mathematics education. Dr Jodie Miller from the University of Queensland led an engaging workshop, providing practical, evidence-based strategies for enhancing numeracy instruction. With significant investment in this area, Tagai campuses are seeing the benefits of a consistent, research-informed approach to teaching maths—ensuring students across the region are well supported in building strong mathematical understanding.

Jeff Jones Executive Principal

While literacy continues to be a

2025 Teach Rural Career Fair Recap On Saturday 24 May, Jeff and I proudly represented Tagai State College at the 2025 Teach Rural Career Fair in Brisbane. This event connects new and experienced teachers with schools in regional, rural, and remote Queensland.

The day was all about encouraging teachers to take up roles outside of the big cities. We met over 250 attendees—some ready to start work now and others preparing for 2026. Many showed strong interest in working in remote communities like ours, with a number keen to find out more about life and teaching in the Torres Strait.

The fair highlighted the support available to teachers who relocate to remote areas, such as financial help, housing assistance, and professional learning. There were also panel sessions where current teachers and leaders spoke about their experiences and the benefits of teaching in small communities—like building strong relationships and making a real difference.

It was great to see so much enthusiasm and interest in Tagai. We shared stories of our unique culture, the importance of education in our region, and what it means to be part of our island communities.

I’ll also be attending the Teach Queensland Career Fair in Term 3 to keep promoting Tagai and helping attract great teachers to our schools. Events like this are an important way to ensure our children have access to strong, committed educators.

The career fair was a big success and left many inspired to explore the rewarding path of teaching in remote Queensland.

Head of School, Data & Performance Yolanda McLean

areas

09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 29 MAY 2025

Campus Highlights Literacy Rotations Supporting Student Growth in Reading

Poruma Ngurpay Lag

Head of Campus: Fiona Butler Term 1 Attendance - 17 Students enrolled

Current

86% (14 students)

Target Goal

90% (15 students)

Students have been enthusiastically engaging in literacy rotations, and their progress is clearly showing. These rotations are structured to provide meaningful, targeted practice in essential areas of reading, including phonemic awareness, decoding, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Each rotation is carefully planned to offer a mix of collaborative, independent, and teacherled tasks that support a wide range of learning needs.

Through small-group instruction, strategybased reading tasks, and skill-focused activities, students are developing stronger reading foundations and applying what they’ve learned across various contexts. Whether working with peers to analyse texts, practicing fluency through repeated reading, or building vocabulary with interactive games, students are becoming more confident, capable readers.

We’re proud of the effort our students are putting into their reading and excited to continue building on this growth throughout the remainder of the year.

Positive Culture for Learning in Action Our school continues to promote a positive and respectful learning environment through the Positive Culture for Learning framework. This term, students have been setting personal behaviour goals and consistently practising our core expectations—being a proud learner, being safe, respectful, and responsible.

Each week, we focus on a specific expectation, which is taught and reinforced through class discussions and real-life examples. Students are encouraged to reflect on their behaviour, set achievable goals, and celebrate their progress.

Au esoau to Our Wonderful Mums and Friends Au esoau to all the amazing mums and friends who joined us for our Mother’s Day afternoon! It was a special event filled with smiles, laughter, and lovely moments shared between students and their families.

The afternoon was planned by our senior students, who did a fantastic job organising activities, decorations, and refreshments to make everyone feel welcome and appreciated. Their hard work and thoughtfulness truly shone through.

Teachers acknowledge and reward positive behaviour to help students see the impact of their actions on others and the wider school community. Whether it’s using kind words, following routines, or showing responsibility, students are taking pride in their efforts and choices.

We’re proud of the way our students are embracing our college values and working towards becoming confident, respectful learners.

Campus Highlights Strong Progress in English and PLD Across All Year Levels

St Pauls

Ngurpay Mudh

Head of Campus: Soozi Wilson Term 1 Attendance - 44 Students enrolled

Current

81% (35 students)

Target Goal

90% (40 students)

This term, our students have demonstrated outstanding commitment to their learning, particularly in English and PLD (Promoting Literacy Development). We’re proud to report that over 90% of students have achieved a grade of C or higher in English, reflecting the hard work of both students and teachers in developing core literacy skills.

In addition, 75% of our students have shown improvement in their PLD assessments, highlighting significant growth in areas such as phonics, spelling, and reading comprehension. These results are a testament to the effectiveness of our literacy programs and the supportive learning environment across our classrooms.

Showcasing Culture at the ECA Reconciliation Symposium Last week, our amazing St Pauls Early Years teacher aides travelled to Cairns to represent Tagai and our region at the Early Childhood Australia (ECA) Reconciliation Symposium, themed “Advancing Reconciliation in Early Education and Care.”

Following their well-received showcase at the ECA Conference in Brisbane last year, the team was once again invited to share their knowledge and culture with early childhood educators from across the country.

Samantha and Monika Kris proudly set up a vibrant display stand, shared cultural stories, and led interactive singing and dancing sessions. A highlight was teaching the popular children’s song “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes” in traditional language, giving participants a memorable and meaningful experience.

Their contribution was warmly received and served as a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural sharing and reconciliation in early education.

Well done to all students for their efforts, and thank you to our dedicated staff and families for continuing to support student achievement.

We look forward to building on this momentum throughout the rest of the year!

FOR MORE INFORMATION (07) 4030 6333

contact@tagaisc.eq.edu.au

tagaisc.eq.edu.au

Tagai State College Navigating YUMI to a successful future

10 NEWS

THURSDAY 29 MAY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Kaurareg celebrate 24 years of recognition

BY FLORA WARRIA

TN0461 • 08-05-25

Senior Kaurareg Ranger and Board member Saliman Binjudah was one of the organisers for the celebration day with Toshie Nakata (TSC) member for Ngarupai and Aunty Nazareth Adidi. Pics by Flora Warria.

Board of Directors member and Kaurareg Senior Ranger) Enid Tom.

BOOK ONLINE: WWW.REBELTOURS.COM.AU

DATE 30/03/2025 BOOKEFFECTIVE ONLINE: P: 07 4069 1586 WWW.REBELTOURS.COM.AU

THURSDAY ISLAND/HORN ISLAND FERRY TIMETABLE (30/03/2025) FROM TI HIW

MON 06:15 06:25

TUE 06:15 06:25

WED 06:15 06:25

THU 06:15 06:25

FRI 06:15 06:25

SAT 06:15 06:25

SUN -

TI HIW

07:00 07:15

07:00 07:15

07:00 07:15

07:00 07:15

07:00 07:15

-

-

TI HIW

08:00 08:15

08:00 08:15

08:00 08:15

08:00 08:15

08:00 08:15

08:00 08:15

08:00 08:15

TI

09:00 QF

09:00 QF

09:00 QF

09:00 QF

09:00 QF

09:00 QF

09:00 QF

HIW TI

09:15 10:30

09:15 10:30

09:15 10:30

09:15 10:30

09:15 10:30

09:15 10:30

09:15 10:30

HIW

10:45 QF

10:45 QF

10:45 QF

10:45 QF

10:45 QF

10:45 QF

10:45 QF

TI HIW TI

11:45 12:00 13:45 QF

11:45 12:00 13:45 QF

11:45 12:00 13:45 QF

11:45 12:00 13:45 QF

11:45 12:00 13:45 QF

13:45 QF

13:45* QF

HIW

14:00

14:00

14:00

14:00

14:00

14:00

14:00*

TI

15:15 QF

15:15

15:15

15:15 QF

15:15 QF

15:15

15:15* QF

HIW

15:30 QF

15:30 QF

15:30 QF

15:30 QF

15:30 QF

15:30 QF

15:30*

TI HIW TI HIW

16:15 16:30 17:15 17:30 QF

16:15 16:30 17:15 17:30

16:15 16:30 17:15 17:30

16:15 16:30 17:15 17:30 QF

16:15 16:30 17:15 17:30 QF

16:15 16:30 -

17:00 17:15 QF

TI HIW

18:00 18:10

18:00 18:10

18:00 18:10

18:00 18:10

18:00 18:10

-

-

TIMETABLE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE DUE TO QANTAS SCHEDULING, SOME FERRIES MAY NOT OPERATE. Sunday 13.45/14.00/15.15/15.30 ferry only operates when Qantas operates that Flight• 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 permits.

6.40am (Depart Rebel Wharf) ***Bookings essential 7.05am (Arrive Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY Please call or email for any 7.25am (Depart Engineers Wharf) 7.45am (Arrive Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY queries.

Depart Thursday Island Depart Hammond IslandThis service does not 3.20pm (Depart Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY 3.35pm (Arrive Engineers Wharf) operate on public holidays, Monday-Friday Monday-Friday 3.55pm (Depart Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY school holidays or weekends.

6.40am (Depart REBEL Wharf)***Bookings ESSENTIAL*** 7.05am (Arrive Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY 7.25am (Dept Engineers Wharf) 7.45am (Arrive Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY

P J 07 4069 1586 • E J info@rebeltours.com.au • W J www.rebeltours.com.au

• Please note: Please be aware that we will have ferries to meet every Qantas and THE QUEUE! 3.20pm (Depart Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY 3.35pm (ArrivesAVOID Engineers Wharf) Skytrans flight from Cairns. If you can not see a ferry that suits your flight please 3.55pm (Depart Engineers Wharf) SCHOOL FERRY SCAN ME and call the office on 4069 1586.

Book your ferry • Sunday ferry 13.45/14.00/15.15/15.30 ONLY operates when Qantas operates now using this QR that flight. code, pay online.

• Office hours are 7 days a week: Monday to Friday 7am to 7pm.

Saturday 8am to 5pm. Sunday 8.30am to 6pm.

• Schedule may change without notice.

The Ngarupai community celebrated a special milestone, the 24th anniversary of the Kaurareg Native Title Determination, last week.

The move towards Native Title had humble beginnings in Townsville a few years before 2001, as Ronny Wasaga and his wife Jeanon Wasaga worked through many mediations with Elders of the Kaurareg.

One of the Kaurareg Senior Rangers and Kaurareg Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (KNTAC) board member Enid Tom said they started their work in 1996.

“During that time, Ronny Wasaga, along with the Elders, formed the Muralug Tribal Council, and started discussions about Native Title,” she said.

“They followed what Mabo did, [they] gathered evidence and information, and began to talk among themselves about what and how they knew that this was their country, based on what they were taught about their country Kaurareg.

“After 1996, the Kaurareg People lodged their Native Title Claim towards the end of that year.

“The Kaurareg claimants were second in line to the Mabo Court decision, but because there were also seven other Islands that also put in a claim for Native Title within the claim at that time.

“On the 23 May 2001, we the Kaurareg Nation received the Native Title Determination from the Federal Government of Australia to recognise and had granted the Kaurareg as the Traditional land Holders of Muralug (Prince of Wales Island), Tarilug (Paki Island), Zuna (Entrance Island), Ngarupai (Horn Island), Dumaralug (Turtle Island), and Mepa.

“Native Title Determination proved these Islands belonged to

the Kaurareg, it gave us strength that the Islands had once again become ours, and they were always ours.

“By Australian law, these Islands of Kaurareg people (Kaiwalagal), were counted as one of the Islands of Australia, but traditionally, we are the rightful owners of the Islands in this region.

“In recent years, they formed the Kaurareg Aboriginal Corporation (KAC), which later became the Kaurareg Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (KNTAC), which now runs the Native Title Lands and Sea. “Due to funding situations, it was a struggle along the way from then until now where we are with KNTAC is that we are now able to start celebrating our Kaurareg Native Title Determination Day every year.

“This is the time we can reflect on the Elders who have passed on and are buried in our local cemetery.

“They were the ones who stood up to say that this is their country, and knew it was their country.

“It is to them that I thank today, and humble myself to them, because without them we would have nothing for our children and for our future generations to come.

“This has given us the opportunity to rise and show our future generations that we all must follow the footsteps of the ones before us, who were wise, knowledgeable, and knew the decisions they made were the right ones.

“They could foresee the vision of what our future where we would be, but one I can say is, we as Kaurareg people have been taught about our country, about our language, our dances, our songs, our stories, our totems, our identity and how to survive on our Islands.”

More pics PAGE 11 N

@TSIMAtorresnews

NEWS 11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 29 MAY 2025

Elder Aunty Margaret Luta. Pics by Flora Warria.

24th Anniversary cake.

Ngarupai Community members Aunty Heidi and Aunty Sue.

Cutting of the cake by Elders Jeanon Wasaga and Nazareth Adidi.

Photographs of the 2001 Kaurareg Native Title Determination Pics by Christine Howes.

For more see: https://chowes.com. au/2001-kauraregdetermination/ (Warning: includes images of people who may be deceased).

Community members Sonia Bosuen and granddaughter, Flora Majid and Eileen Morseu joined in the celebration.

12 CLASSIFIEDS

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 29 MAY 2025

ADVERTISING J M: 0419 828 639 J E: ads@torres.news

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

PUBLISHERS TORRES NEWS PTY LTD Diat Alferink – Chief Executive Officer E editor@torres.news 69 Douglas Street Thursday Island Q 4875

ADVERTISING ADVERTISING & PRODUCTION MANAGER – SHARON GALLERY M 0419 828 639 • E ads@torres.news

EDITORIAL

NEWS & PHOTOS DEADLINE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF – DIAT ALFERINK E editor@torres.news

All news, sports and photo contributions 5PM MONDAYS

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 ADVERTISING DEADLINES M 0473 231 367 Ad bookings 12 NOON TUESDAYS E flora@torres.news Ad copy (ad to be set) 12 NOON TUESDAYS NEWS & PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS Supplied Ad material 2PM TUESDAYS Kantesha Takai, Jillian Bowie, Talei Elu, Classifieds 3PM TUESDAYS Shanella Majid, Bel Lui and Alf Wilson.

EVERY THURSDAY

Available at various outlets in the Torres Strait and NPA and also at these newsagencies and stores

CAIRNS

MOSSMAN

Earlville Newsagency Stockland Cairns Shopping Centre, Earlville

News Extra Mossman 35 Front Street

PUBLISHED

ACCOUNTS TORRES NEWS PTY LTD ABN 16 657 427 908 SHARON GALLERY M 0419 828 639 E shaztorresnews@gmail.com PO Box 385, Thursday Island Q 4875

CIRCULATION COVERAGE AREA – Covering news and events and distributing to the Torres Strait and the Northern Peninsula Area and everywhere in between.

PUBLISHED – every Thursday.

CIRCULATION NUMBERS – 1000.

READERSHIP AV. – Print readership 4000 + online subscriptions + 9.8k followers on our @TSIMAtorresnews Facebook page

Marketplace Newsagency 2/96 McLaughlan Rd, Bentley Park Nextra Cairns Central Cairns Central Shopping Centre, 126 McLeod Street Railway Newsagency 48 McLeod Street, Cairns Raintrees Newsagency Raintrees Shopping Centre Alfred Street, Manunda

Open 9am to 4:30pm Lunch time closure 12:30pm to 1:30pm Mura Kosker is accepting donations of:

Clothes 156 Douglas Street (next to Meriba Mudh) Non-perishables Dry goods For more information, please contact: Lazariah Nona Toiletries AdsIN E Excel E Dummy E Buai Mudh Community Centre Coordinator Diaper and wipes 07 4069 1663 (“Press 2” for Buai Mudh) x4: 29/5/25 , 5/6 , 12/6 , 19/6 & 26/6/25 tincc@murakosker.org.au Toys TSIMA - 10X3 FOC AD. AUTH. DIAT ALFERINK

TN1096

JJOIN OUR TEAM

Job Description: Job Description: Want to learn some media skills? Interested in Will be working in your local community radio station telling stories, music and happy to talk about and provide information to your community and/or issues, and information about news and events in the region community?

ABIS Palm Island Bwgcolman Supermarket, 67 Beach Road

TOWNSVILLE Mooney Street News 72-86 Mooney Street, Gulliver NewsXpress Garbutt Central 1/221 Ingham Road, Garbutt NewsXpress Sun City 307 Flinders Mall

Moores Newspower 332 Shakespeare Street

DONATION DRIVE

Erub

MACKAY Tobacco Stop Woree Southside Shopping Village, Woree

Buai Mudh Thursday Island Neighbourhood and Community Centre

Broadcaster Broadca

PALM ISLAND Enmore News 5 Reservoir Rd, Manoora

HOW YOU CAN HELP FAMILIES IN NEED

PUBLISHED EVERY THURSDAY

You will have access to new issues on a weekly basis

You will be offered: You will Certificate be offered:3 in Radio Training Training Free training in Remote Broadcasting (Training Certifi cate 3 in Radio Training).

Requirements:

Head online and get your copy

Requirements: Work hours: 4 hours/day Can work 4 hours a day, 5 days a week.

AdsIN E Excel E Dummy E

issuu.com/store/ publishers/ tsimatorresnews/ subscribe

Can work immediately

TN1097 For more info

JEN ENOSA Senior Content Producer (RIBS) (07) 40691524

x4: 29/5/25 , 5/6 , 12/6 jen@tsima4mw.org.au , 19/6 & 26/6/25 TSIMA - 10X3 FOC AD. AUTH. DIAT ALFERINK

Broadcaster Broadca

JJOIN OUR TEAM

Warraber Erub

Job Description: Job Description: Want to learn some media skills? Interested in Will be working in your local community radio station telling stories, music and happy to talk about and provide information to your community and/or issues, and information about news and events in the region community?

You will be offered: You will Certificate be offered:3 in Radio Training Training Free training in Remote Broadcasting (Training Certifi cate 3 in Radio Training).

Requirements:

Can work immediately

Requirements: Work hours: 4 hours/day Can work 4 hours a day, 5 days a week.

For more info

JEN ENOSA Senior Content Producer (RIBS) jen@tsima4mw.org.au (07) 40691524

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 24 Hour Service for DV CONNECT Ph: 1800 811 811 Lena Passi Women's Shelter ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

NPA WOMENS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HELP 24 hr Crisis Shelter – Ph: 4212 2200

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 29 MAY 2025

AFL boys kick goals in Cairns The region’s Primary schoolboys AFL side impressed against the best local school sides in Cairns during the AFLQ Schools Cup last week.

AFL Cape York Regional Development Coordinator Kieran Sciberras said the players in Years 5 and 6 impressed, both on and off the field.

“Every player was selected by their school based on school attendance and positive behaviour, followed by sporting ability,” Mr Sciberras said.

“The team showcased steps, speed and tackles every game and delighted everyone watching.”

Supporters cheered on the boys from the sidelines, including Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) representatives.

TSRA Chairperson George Nona said young people from the region stood out for their talent as first-class players.

“The AFL games create such a positive environment, and to be there personally, to have kids come up and connect with us is special,” Mr Nona said.

“The way AFL Cape York supports our young people is about more than just sport, to see the enjoyment and smiles on their faces is heartwarming and aligns with TSRA’s Healthy

Communities Program aspirations.

“Special thanks to the AFL Cape York team, including coach Kieran Sciberras, as a positive role model and champion for young people across our region, both on and off the field.

“I love seeing young people enjoy healthy lifestyles through sport.

“We may have a traditional rugby league background, but our kids are excelling in AFL. “We’ve been big supporters of AFL Cape York over the years – boys and girls – and look forward to kicking more goals together for our young people.”

Wilfred Cook was awarded AFL Cape York’s Most Valuable Player for his non-stop running, ability to read the play and skills.

Salateilu Sagigi took home the AFL Cape York Best on Ground honours for his versatility to play full back, full forward and provide support in the middle.

Both boys will travel to the Sunshine Coast in June to play in the School State Championships as part of AFL Cape York’s Under 12 Crusaders team.

Thanks to a generous sport scholarship from Member for Cook David Kempton MP, Leviticus (Levi) Elisala from Dauan Island was able to

participate in the Cairns trip and will also join Wilfred and Salateilu on the Sunshine Coast.

AFL Cape York Development Co-ordinator Kieran Sciberras said the scholarship support from Mr Kempton helped to overcome the financial and logistical barriers for Levi to participate as one of the most remote players in the competitions.

“For Levi to participate in the state championships is a minimum helicopter trip, bus ride and two plane flights, so we’re extremely grateful for this support to minimise the cost passed onto Levi’s family,” he said.

The team’s participation in the 2025 AFLQ Schools Cup was made possible thanks to: • Torres Strait Youth and Recreational Sporting Association • Torres Health • Torres Shire Council • CEQ - IBIS • Bamaga Enterprises Ltd – BEL • Kaiwalagal Ferries Charters • Peddells Ferry • Island Stars • AFL Cape York House for Boys • Cairns Eagles • Strait Fitness

SPORT 13

Families, coaches, TSRA representatives. Pics supplied.

Learn more about AFL Cape York on social media.

TOP LEFT: Levi from Dauan Island.

TOP RIGHT: Levi flying in from Dauan Island.

BOTTOM LEFT: Salateilu Sagigi – Best on Ground.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Wilfred Cook – MVP.

Townsville AFL Sir Douglas Nicolls Round A Townsville senior women’s team who play for the Northern Beaches Suns AFL Club, proudly wore their Indigenous designed uniform for the Sir Douglas Nicolls Round last weekend.

The uniform was designed by Indigenous player and Captain of the Senior Men’s team, David Hedlam, a proud Bardi/ Watjarri-Yamatji man.

Player, Martina Kingi, said our Indigenous round meant a lot to them.

“We get to share our culture and passion with the rest of our club,” she said. “We celebrate our mob, past and present, and hope we do them proud.”

Pictured are Northern Beaches players Martina Kingi, Nickayla Ross, Malaika Stokes, Rittia China & Peata Deegan. Pic supplied.

14 SPORT

THURSDAY 29 MAY 2025 TORRES NEWS

Jayden’s double seals the deal

Distance no barrier for Seb and Xavier

BY ALF WILSON The Torres Strait is a long way from New Zealand but distance proved no barrier for Seb Kris and Xavier Savage, who starred for the Canberra Raiders in their 16-10 win over the Warriors on Sunday.

In the nailbiter at Auckland’s Go Media Stadium, the Raiders went into the clash as an underdog, and it was played in wet conditions, making ball handling difficult.

Visiting sides always find it difficult to win over the ditch, and the Warriors enjoyed the majority of support from the 26,000 spectators at the ground.

Scores were level at 8-all at halftime and the Green Machine crossed for the only second-half try.

Centre Seb set up the Raiders’ other try in the 33rd minute.

Fast becoming one of the premiers centres in the 17 club comp, Seb made a line break before offloading to Tom Starling who crossed.

Seb made several other telling runs and was also solid in defence.

Winger Xavier is more renowned as an attacking back but performed well in defence against a classy Warriors outfit.

The Raiders’ victory has them now in second place on the ladder, and the Warriors are third.

Dane in new role Experienced centre Dane Gagai was in an unusual role of goal kicker when his Newcastle Knights beat premiers the Penrith Panthers 25-6 at Bathurst.

With normal kicker Kailyn Ponga missing due to Origin duties, Dane was drafted into the role.

VELMA

Dane landed four goals with a total of eight points in what was one of five major upsets.

The Panthers were missing Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo, Brian To’o, Dylan Edwards and Liam Martin and the young Panthers side never looked like winning.

Premiers of the past four seasons, the Panthers now sit last on the 17-club ladder.

Hammer-less Dolphins nail Bulldogs A well-drilled Dolphins side without champion fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow thrashed ladder leaders the Sydney Bulldogs 44-8 in wet conditions on Thursday night at Accor Stadium..

Dolphins superstar the Hammer was in camp with the Queensland Maroons side for Wednesday’s State of Origin game one.

The Bulldogs were without Max King and Stephen Crichton, who were in the NSW camp.

It was a seven-to-one performance by the Dolphins which have now won five games.

Both sides have a bye and a chance to catch their breath in Round 13.

Other games Underdogs, the Parramatta Eels defeated Manly Sea Eagles 30-10 on Friday night.

An understrength beat the Cronulla Sharks 42-16 on Teams get a rest The Cowboys and Brisbane Broncos were among seven teams to have a bye.

Next weekend’s games will be vital for both sides.

The Cowboys are at home in Townsville, hosting the West Tigers.

Whilst the Broncos will meet the Manly Sea Eagles at Sydney’s 4 Pines Park (Brookvale) on Saturday.

GARA’S

OUT! IN THIS WEEK’S ‘HOOPS’ NEWS...

wife, Alyssa, have

Baby Mills Patty Mills and his

expecting their first

announced they are child, a girl, in August.

Jayden Hodges celebrates after scoring one of his two tries. Pics supplied by Blackhawks.

BY ALF WILSON TWO tries by veteran Jayden Hodges were vital for the Townsville Blackhawks, who beat the PNG Hunters 36-26 in Friday night’s blockbuster at Townsville’s Jack Manski Oval.

Going into the round Blackhawks were placed second and the Hunters were third in the 15-club competition.

The Blackhawks looked set for a runaway win when they led 24-nil after 30 minutes.

At halftime, the Blackhawks led 24-10 but were outscored after the break by the entertaining Hunters.

Hooker Jayden scored his tries in the 20th and 78th minutes.

The other Blackhawks try scorers were Edward Hampson (three), Kane Jackson and Kaiden Lahrs. Matthew Wright booted four goals.

Winger Dudley Dotoi didn’t score for the first time in weeks.

The Torres News spoke to Jayden about his match-winning double and asked him how long it had been since he had crossed for two.

“It has been a fair while, and I was glad to score just before full-time, which sealed the win for us,” he said.

“The Hunters throw the ball around and can score tries and pull a cat out of the bag.”

When asked how he felt about bagging a pair when a normal try-scoring machine, Dudley missed out, he answered with a laugh.

“It was my turn this week,” he said.

Congratulations to them both!

Patty was a member of the NBA club, the Los Angeles Clippers, but there was talk of him heading to Australia to play in the National Basketball League.

NBL1 North Round 4 There were some close games in the last round, and notably, Mackay continued their great form and are at the top of the ladder and still undefeated.

Townsville teams split their road trip games in south east Queensland and the South West Metro

Pirates women’s game went into double overtime.

Phoenix guard Deshawn Ross-Paiwan didn’t find the points as easy as last week.

Gold Coast were on the road and lost all games.

Cairns had the bye but will be keen to notch up wins and move up the ladder.

Results Women Logan Thunder v Townsville Flames 78-59.

Mackay Meteorettes v Gold Coast Rollers 9869. (Monique Bobongie 13 points five rebounds

Jayden Hodges, right and other Blackhawks tackle a PNG Hunter.

It was a big crowd with many barracking for the Blackhawks at home, but the Hunters also had numerous fans.

Hunters try scorers were Gairo Voro (two), Finley Glare, Alex Max and Brandon Nima.

Jamie Mavoko kicked two goals and Trevor Solu snared one.

Jayden said he was honoured to line up for Erub United after the season at carnivals.

“My family is from Erub and I answer the call when I am asked to play for Erub,” he said.

Jamal scores for Pride Second rower Jamal Shibasaki scored one of the Northern Pride’s five tries when they beat the Capras 32-14 in Rockhampton on Saturday.

Jamal crossed just before full time after the Pride led 20-6 at halftime.

Braithan Ketchell was on the Pride side along with Seamus King-Smith, who is originally from Weipa.

and four assists).

Ipswich Force v Townsville Flames 61-72.

Rockhampton Cyclones vs Gold Coast Rollers 87-81.

Sunshine Coast Phoenix v Northside Wizards 91-89.

South West Metro Pirates v Brisbane Capitals (OT2) 75-78.

Ladder – Mackay (1st), Southern Districts (2nd), Logan (3rd), Townsville (4th).

Results Men Thunder v Townsville Heat 84-86. (Chris Cedar seven points and

Battle of the Torres Strait sixes It was the battle between Torres Strait five-eighths Dantoray Lui and Julian Christian when the Ipswich Jets met the Dolphins on Saturday.

Classy youngster Dantoray Lui lined up at five-eighth for the Dolphins whilst the experienced Julian Christian played in the number six jumper for the Jets.

The Jets won a nailbiter 22-20 after the Dolphins had led 10-6 at halftime.

Flying winger Jon Reuben was a key player for the Jets.

Brenton stars in narrow loss Outstanding centre Brenton Baira scored a try at the second minute when his Cutters lost 24-22 to premiers the North Devils at BP Stadium in Mackay on Saturday.

The powerful Devils, who are table leaders, led 16-10 at the break.

Other games Brisbane Tigers d Tweed Seagulls 38-24 and the Magpies d Clydesdales 52-32.

three assists).

Mackay Meteors v Gold Coast Rollers 108-89.

Ipswich Force v Townsville Heat 82-80.

Sunshine Coast Phoenix v Northside Wizards 93-82.

Rockhampton Rockets v Gold Coast Rollers 103-98.

South West Metro Pirates v Brisbane Capitals 85-115.

Ladder – Brisbane (1st), Sunshine Coast (2nd), Ipswich (3rd) and Mackay (4th).

All Star players The Indigenous

Basketball Australia (IBA) has named some players for the All Stars games against the Poitukohu Maori Aotearoa in Melbourne next month.

Women’s squad Teyahna Bond, Amber Kowcun, Jessica McDowell-White, Nes’eya ParkerWilliams, Jasmin Fejo and Abby Cubillo.

Men’s squad Nate Jawai, Anthony Mundine III, Tamuri Wigness and Kian Dennis.

More players will be named soon.

SPORT 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 29 MAY 2025

Volleyball teams celebrate a successful season M Continued from PAGE 16 Pics supplied.

Teams Participated: 1. Tagai Sec 2. Kazie Meta 1 3. Kaziw Meta 2 4. All Stars 5. Kasa Segur 6. Beginners 7. One Love 8. Eip Karem Beizam

Results:

• 4th Place – Eip Karem Beizam • 3rd Place – All Stars • Runners Up – Kaziw Meta 1 • Champions – Kaziw Meta 2

Encouragement Awards • Nadia Uta • Kunio Sagigi • Joanne Dorante • Lawini Marou

Best Male and Female Awards

• Best Setter – Dan Sagigi & Flora Cook • Best Passer – Salome David & Nanai Sailor • Best Server – Jophina Harry & Douglas Odo • Best Spiker – Roman Harry & Ayesha Kepa • Best Blocker – Sireli Momo & Kitty Sagigi • MVP’s – Josephine David & Toby Sailor

• Best and Fairest of the Competition – Velma Ketchell & Joseph Kaddy • Diva & Macho of the Competition – Nancy Cook & Douglas Odo • Best Team Spirit Award – Eip Karem Beizam • Best Dressed Team Award – One Love

Special Shout out to:

• Alex Blanco – Torres Shire Council – Sports and Recreation Officer for coordinating and running the competition • Leroy Pedro and Dan Sagigi for volunteering and supporting throughout the competition.

• Carly Mosby for Officiating the Grand Final Games

TN0230 8x2 local sports

3rd & 4th Place – All Stars & Eip Karem Beizam Team Photo.

Looking for more local sport?

We’re happy to run it if we have it!

Darts, ballgames, water sports, athletics ... whatever your game is, we’re keen!

Best & Fairest of the Competition – Velma Ketchell & Joseph Kaddy.

Best Dressed Team – One Love.

Best Passer – Salome David & Nanai Sailor (Absent).

Send us your pic of the week, fixtures or finals results by noon on Monday!  EMAIL: editor@torres.news

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

FERRY SCHEDULE

FRIDAY DEPARTURES:

Best Server – Jophina Harry & Douglas Odo.

Best Setter – Dan Sagigi & Flora Cook.

Best Spiker – Roman Harry (Jophina Accepting Award) & Ayesha Kepa.

THURSDAY ISLAND to SEISIA Depart 6.30AM & 2.30PM SEISIA to THURSDAY ISLAND Depart 8AM & 3.50PM

6 DAYS PER WEEK: MONDAY TO SATURDAY

FERRY OPERATES ON ALL HOLIDAYS

Diva & Macho of the Competition – Nancy Cook & Douglas Odo.

Best Team Spirit Award – Eip Karem Beizam.

THURSDAY ISLAND to SEISIA Depart 6.30AM & 2.30PM SEISIA to THURSDAY ISLAND Depart 8AM & 3.50PM Boarding strictly 15 mins prior to departure

PHONE 07 4069 1551 BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL – TICKET ONLINE

MVP – Josephine David & Aunty Annie accepting Toby Sailor’s award.

Encouragement Award – Nadia Uta, Kunio Sagigi, Joanne Dorante & Lawini Marou.

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

NO GLASS BOTTLES ALLOWED ONBOARD as Luggage or Freight The Jetty Shop & Office, Engineers Jetty, Thursday Is.

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

16

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

THURSDAY 29 MAY 2025

Pic supplied.

All wins for Kaziw Meta volleyballers

Kaziw Meta teams 1 and 2 (pictured at the Grand Final) were the winners of the Torres Shire Council’s mixed

social volleyball season, which had eight teams participating in this year’s competition and ran from 20 February

to 10 May.

TN0529 10x7 – 7/3/24

All teams participated in round robin matches and the top four teams

advanced to the grand finals played on Saturday, 10 May. See results and pics on PAGE 15 N

Location. Want to get the best value for your advertising dollar?

Location. This prime weekly advertising space is available now! Call 0419 828 639 or Location. email ads@torres.news for details.

Where you buy is important.