Thursday, 7 August 2025
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New partnership hope for Closing the Gap
The Federal Government has established a new First Nations Economic Partnership with the Coalition of Peaks and the First Nations Economic Empowerment Alliance on the heels of the release of the latest Closing the Gap data.
The Annual Data Compilation Report (ADCR), which tracks Australia’s performance towards the targets and indicators in the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, was released late last week and showed mixed progress with just four of 19 targets on track to be met.
An assessment of progress for nine out of the 15 targets showed:
• outcomes were worsening in four targets: adult imprisonment (Target 10); children in out-of-home care (12); suicide (14); and children developmentally on track (in all five domains of the Australian Early Development Census) (4).
• outcomes were improving, but were not on track to be met in six targets: life expectancy (Target 1); healthy birthweights (2); year 12 or equivalent qualifications (5); tertiary qualifications (6); youth engagement (7); and appropriately sized housing (9A).
• outcomes were improving and on track to be met in four targets: preschool program enrolments (Target 3); employment (8); and land mass and sea country subject to legal rights and interests (15A and 15B).
• outcomes for one target were assessed as having no change from the baseline year: youth justice (Target 11).
The National Indigenous Health Leadership Alliance (NIHLA) welcomed the findings of the Productivity Commission’s report and an independent review of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap released last month (see next page).
“Together, they confirm what Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have long said: governments are not doing enough to meet their own commitments and the gap is growing –not closing – across many critical areas,” they said.
NIHLA Chair Karl Briscoe said not enough of the 19 socio-economic targets were on track.
“Alarmingly, rates of adult imprisonment and children in out-ofhome care continue to rise,” he said.
“The report highlights that without urgent structural reform, these outcomes will persist or deteriorate.
“We are seeing the consequences of government inaction – the data speaks for itself. The evidence is clear: the failure is not with our communities, but with the lack of systemic change.
“We cannot wait any longer.
“Structural reform, cultural safety, and shared decision-making must become the default, not the exception.”
Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Council (QAIHC) urged all governments to strengthen their commitment.
“This year’s CTG report card remains disappointing and continues to demonstrate a lack of focus on delivering priority reforms, and the need for local practical solutions to the challenges of Closing the Gap,” QAIHC Chief Executive Officer Paula Arnol said.
“There must be a focus on the Priority Reforms under CTG – [we need] formal partnerships and shared decision making, building the community-controlled sector, transforming government organisations and shared access to data and information at a regional level.
“If we commit to these priority reforms, improvement in the targets will follow.”
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Senator Malarndirri McCarthy, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and actor Jack Thompson at the Garma Festival last weekend. Pic supplied.
GBK’s job placements lead the way nationally
New data shows Gur A Baradharaw Kod
Torres Strait Sea and Land Council (GBK’s) Community Development Program (CDP) service in the Endeavour and Torres Strait region has achieved the highest number of employment placements nationwide in 2023 – 2024.
Delivered by Meriba Ged Ngalpun Mab (MGNM) – GBK’s service arm and the CDP provider for the region – the program recorded 350 placements across the financial year, according to the newly released 2023 – 2024 CDP Regional Data Report.
Chair Ned David said he was proud MGNM led the list of CDPs by a substantial margin, placing 67 more people into jobs than the next top-performing region.
“We outperformed every other CDP region in Australia, including those located in larger towns and mining regions,” he said.
The report also showed MGNM recorded the highest number of 13- and 26-week outcomes
of any CDP region in the country, with 142 and 105 participants, respectively.
“These positive outcomes mean we are not only placing
job seekers, but also supporting them to remain in employment and to build sustainable futures,” he said.
Mr David praised the leadership of MGNM,
local teams who walk alongside job seekers every step of the way,” he said. “They have responded to the needs of local employers and created employment opportunities in remote communities where few existed previously.”
He also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of local employers.
“Their willingness to engage, train, and support job seekers
has been critical to these outcomes,” he said. “Our focus has always been on the right job, right person, right fit – and it’s making a difference.
“We are committed to building on the great work that has already been done in these communities, and we will continue to build skills, confidence and capability in job seekers in the Endeavour and Torres Straits.”
General Manager Shakira Sabatino and her dedicated team of staff, who worked across the Torres Strait.
“This national result is a credit to our
More work needed to Close the Gap
The federal government said its new First Nations Economic Partnership would work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people around Australia to leverage land and Native Title, boost skills and education, and create jobs and back business by investing an additional $75 million to support Prescribed Bodies Corporate.
They said they planned to invest $31 million to establish 12 Mobile TAFE services to be delivered in partnership with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled sector, states and territories.
They were also looking at how the work of Indigenous Business Australia and the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation could better deliver for all Indigenous communities, whether they hold Native Title or not.
The Partnership was announced at the Garma Festival after the first Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led
independent review of Closing the Gap was released by the Coalition of Peaks last month.
Among the key findings and recommendations in that review, Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research (Jumbunna Research) found the architecture of Closing the Gap and the National Agreement was sound and provided a solid framework supported by all parties.
However, they said implementation remained a challenge and stood as a reflection of a tension between the vision of governments on the one hand, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their organisations on the other.
They said there was little evidence of the work needed from all government levels to support systemic and structural change.
The Government said the Partnership was an example of the Government’s commitment to the Priority Reforms of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, to work in partnership, invest in the First Nations community-controlled sector, and transform mainstream systems to achieve better outcomes for First Nations people.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said making sure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians could get a secure job, make the most of business
opportunities and benefit from their land was a big part of Closing the Gap.
“The First Nations Economic Partnership will help put communities in the driver’s seat of economic opportunity, ownership and equity,” he said.
“Mobile TAFE will offer hands-on training on Country and will bring skills and jobs to communities.
“Locals will be able to learn trade skills, get a qualification and build a career without having to leave home.”
Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the Partnership was about recognising and realising the economic potential of First Nations communities, not just as participants in the economy but “as partners in our shared prosperity”.
“We’re investing to equip Traditional Owners to leverage their land and sea assets, to get better deals and to bring jobs and wealth to First Nations communities,” he said.
“Our economic agenda is about growth that’s stronger and more inclusive.
“Backing First Nations businesses, jobs
and skills is a central part of that – because we know our economy works better when everyone has the chance to succeed.”
Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said economic empowerment was about self-determination and creating opportunities to reflect the aspirations of First Nations communities.
“Prescribed Bodies Corporate are critical partners for Traditional Owners, the first point of contact in commercial negotiations and strong vehicles for First Nations economic empowerment” she said.
LINK TO the Annual Data Compilation Report on the Productivity Commission’s website is at www.pc.gov.au/ closing-the-gap-data/ annual-data-report LINK TO the First Nations Economic Partnership details: https://treasury. gov.au/publication/ first-nations-economicpartnership LINK TO Jumbunna Institute research results: https://www. coalitionofpeaks.org.au/ independent-review-ofclosing-the-gap
MGNM’s Warraber work crew: Charlian Jacko David, Samuel Billy, Community Works Supervisor Scotty Enosa, CDP Projects Coordinator Elsie Nona, Thomas Larry, Barry Maitie, Awasie Bob, Ioane Sorogo & Sylvia Harry. Pic supplied.
QAIHC CEO Paula Arnol. Pic supplied.
M Continued from P1
Pauline Vella <finance@cclc.org.au> or pauline@cclc.org.au
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Savage doco premieres this week
Proud Badu Islander
Xavier Savage tells of his love of family and the Torres Strait in a documentary broadcast on FOX Sport from this week.
The Canberra Raiders star winger talks about being a “Kulpiyam man” and his love of Badu and its people.
Xavier also speaks about his many family members living in Cairns and the support they have given him since he moved to Canberra.
He also talks about the support Raiders coach Ricky Stuart and the club have provided to a young man moving to the national capital.
The 23-year-old joined the Raiders in 2021 and has played 65 first-grade matches.
The documentary is a must-watch for Torres Strait Islanders and showcases how Xavier
has developed into one of the best wingers in the NRL.
From Alf Wilson Play on!
Sports Vouchers are open to help Queensland kids get into sport.
Vouchers will be provided over two rounds for summer or winter sports.
Each voucher is valued up to $200, with every Queensland child and young person aged between five and 17 named on a Medicare card eligible to apply.
The first round opened on Monday this week.
For more information, see https://www.qld. gov.au/recreation/ sports/funding/playon/ apply
Ephemera winners
Congratulations to Marion Gaemers and Lynnette Griffiths, who were the winners of the Townsville City Council’s $10,000 Ephemera: Trace-less 2025 Artistic Excellence Award
those who served our country and have now passed.
On Saturday, 16 August, a Veterans Parade will be held along The Strand from Strand Park to Jezzine Barracks.
Descendants of veterans are invited to march, carrying a printed sign with the name and photo of their veteran, or wearing their medals.
Katrina and Mercy with some products ready for the Gathering. Pic supplied.
The North Queensland artists, also well-known in the Torres Strait, created Killers made from ghost net, beach found rope, sand, fabric and fishing rod supports.
The supersized ghost net anemone (200 x 300 x 300cm) moved with the natural environmental wind conditions as it would with the ocean currents.
Marion and Lynette won the People’s Choice Award at Ephemera in 2017.
Tribute to Pacific victory – VP80
A tribute marking 80 years since the Victory in the Pacific and the end of WWII will be held in Townsville on 15-17 August, to celebrate history and community.
Many Torres Strait Islanders served and continue to serve, including those in the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion.
Commemorative services, veteran parades, live music, a fly past and a spectacular ‘Sky Salute’ fireworks around The Strand and Jezzine Barracks are on the VP80 program.
The focus of VP80 has always been intended to honour not only the surviving World War II veterans, but also
They will be led by veterans in historic military vehicles. Register at https://bit. ly/46sniHJ
Kidney transplant service opened
Queensland Governor Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM officially opened the North Queensland Kidney Transplant Service at Townsville University Hospital late last month.
Julie Hogben, a 23-year-old patient from Townsville, said the new service gave her the opportunity for a “second start at life”.
“This service means I can receive a transplant locally, then recover close to family and not spend months away in Brisbane; it gives me real hope for the future,” she said.
North Queensland Kidney Transplant Service Director Dr Michelle Harfield said the service was codesigned with regional patients like Julie in mind.
“Under our model of care, transplant surgeries will be performed at Townsville University Hospital, while pre- and post-transplant care will be delivered through hospitals and facilities
across the region, close to where patients live,” she said.
“With a $15 million annual investment from the Queensland Government, this worldclass service will change lives across the north, including in Townsville, Cairns, Mackay, Mount Isa, Cape York and the Torres Strait.”
Malu Mai Gathering
Malu Mai Wellness Consultancy is getting ready for its 7th World First Nations Traditional Knowledge Gathering.
The consultancy helps to bring hope, peace, healing and harmony to individuals, families and communities, and fosters holistic wellness and wellbeing of body, mind, heart, soul and spirit.
Founder Noritta Morseu Diop has announced a range of speakers for the event to be held on 22-24 August.
They include: University of Queensland Director of Indigenous Research, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences
Professor Jackie Huggins (Bidjara and BirriGubba Juru Nations); Gavin Lyall, a proud Inuk
Canadian and Danish man who has experience working with aged care to youth mentoring and NDIS; North Queensland Land Council CEO Leon Yeatman, a proud Gunggandji man from Yarrabah with cultural connection in the Wet Tropics, Cape York, North West Queensland and the Gulf Regions; and, Iris Silva Brito, who was born in Itabuna, in the land of the Tupiniquin people in the state of Bahia, Brazil, and has built a career deeply connected to education, social policy, community development and social justice.
Noritta said volunteers (from Melbourne) recently assisted her with the preparation of candles and aromatherapy oils using local honey infused with bush medicines from a community garden for the guest speakers and attendees of the threeday event.
The 7th Gathering will be held at Taromeo, in south-east Queensland. For more information and registration, check the website www. malumaiconsultancy. com
Artist Marion Gaemers looks over Killers at Ephemera on The Strand, Townsville. Pic by Townsville City Council.
Art survey winners drawn Life changing scholarships
Artists and creatives from across the Torres Strait, including Northern Peninsula Area communities, have had their say in a region-wide creative industry survey by the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA).
To thank participants for their contributions, TSRA Chairperson George Nona and CEO Charlie Kaddy held a recent prize draw with 10 lucky winners – selected at random – awarded $60 CEQ vouchers.
Mr Nona said the survey feedback would help TSRA boost funding, strengthen arts business support and unlock national and international opportunities for First Nations creatives.
“Over two months, TSRA received 179 responses in one of the most extensive art industry surveys ever undertaken in the region,” Mr Nona said.
“The landmark Zenadth Kes Creative Arts Survey has helped capture the economic
impact of the region’s creative arts industry.
“Congratulations to the 10 lucky prize draw winners and thank you to everyone who participated in the survey.”
The CEQ voucher winners were Moilang (Rosie) Ware, Margaret Mara, Eddie Nona, James Levi, Christine Connor, Kirsty Young, Amanda Mosby, Nazareth Fauid, Nadiah Uta and Irene Robinson.
The data would be used to help TSRA’s Culture Arts & Heritage (CAH) and Economic Development (ED) programs tailor services to offer meaningful
programs that reflect the needs and aspirations of arts businesses.
It would also inform the development of a regionally tailored strategy to guide TSRA’s support for First Nations artists, creative businesses and sole traders.
The TSRA Creative Arts Blueprint was expected to launch in late 2025.
Prize winners will be contacted directly by TSRA to collect their CEQ vouchers.
For updates on the strategy or TSRA’s CAH and ED programs, visit www.tsra.gov.au
Disaster funds at hand
Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith has welcomed more than $58 million in funding for critical infrastructure in Far North Queensland and Torres Strait.
“This program is essential to ensuring our most vulnerable areas in disaster are safeguarded,” Mr Smith said.
“When disasters hit, they leave many of our communities cut off, unable to get essential resources in and out, and most importantly, evacuations of our most vulnerable.
“I am proud to see these projects being built back better and more resilient for future events that we see in our yearly wet season.”
The Crucial Access Links Program was funded through efficiencies realised under the joint Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
The Crucial Access Links Program was to safeguard transport linkages and access routes for rural and remote
communities, and aid connectivity and emergency response during disasters.
The program allowed local councils to repair and upgrade a range of infrastructure assets from ferry landings to air strips.
Projects to receive funding in Leichhardt under the Crucial Access Links Program included:
• Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council Airport Runway Upgrade – Correct central portion of Airport runway pavement, drainage, and runway lighting ($11.6 million).
• Boigu Island Airport Apron Upgrade – Raise apron surface, implement drainage system to prevent surface degradation, enhance structural integrity, and ensure compliance with aerodrome safety and operational standards ($7.5 million).
Mr Smith said upgrading critical infrastructure would help build resilience and ensure communities stay connected during natural disasters.
Babcock Australasia is celebrating a decade-long partnership with Yalari – a not-for-profit organisation supporting First Nations students achieve better education outcomes through senior boarding school scholarships.
Yalari’s program expands education opportunities for students from regional, rural, and remote communities – areas where subject choices, teacher availability and class sizes can sometimes limit academic and career pathways.
These students also face logistical challenges such as long travel distances, fewer extracurricular activities and limited exposure to diverse learning experiences.
Through Babcock’s continued support, Yalari has helped close gaps by providing students with greater access to resources, specialised courses and a broader
network of support.
Yalari alumni Seferina Whap, a Torres Strait local, graduated from The Glennie School in Toowoomba in 2022 and said a Yalari scholarship reshaped her life.
“Yalari opened more doors for my future than I ever could have imagined,” she said.
“Coming from Thursday Island in the Torres Strait to boarding at The Glennie School was a huge leap, but Yalari gave me the support and courage I needed to thrive.
“It helped me grow in ways I never expected - academically, personally and culturally.
“I’ve become a role model for my family and community, and it’s inspired me to dream bigger and helped me realise my full potential.”
Babcock Australasia CEO Andrew Cridland said their partnership with Yalari highlighted how a shared vision
could create lasting change.
“Seeing these students develop and emerge into future leaders through the pursuit of their academic goals – and knowing we’ve played a small role in helping them access opportunities – makes this initiative incredibly rewarding,” he said.
Yalari Founding Director Waverley Stanley AM said it was a long-term commitment.
“We believe it takes a whole community to educate a child and our 10-year partnership with Babcock is a true reflection of that,” he said.
“Babcock’s long-term commitment to education, opportunity and supporting young Indigenous people has been invaluable.
“Together, we’re helping to empower the next generation of Indigenous leaders and creating lasting impact for families and communities across Australia.”
Leadership empowering Torres Strait women to step forward
Women across the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) are being encouraged to apply for a leadership program designed to grow confidence, connection and community impact.
The Torres Strait Women’s Leadership Program, delivered by the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF), is open to women aged 21 and over.
ARLF’s Manager of First Nations Learning and Engagement and co-facilitator of the program, Annette Simpson, said the program wasn’t about formal titles or positions.
“Leadership can look like guiding others through a tough time, organising a community event, or simply listening well,” she said.
“If you’ve ever felt a pull to help others or step forward, you’re already on your leadership journey.”
Ms Simpson emphasised the program was designed for women who cared about their communities and wanted to build the confidence to speak up and
influence positive change.
“It’s a hands-on experience created by women, for women,” she said.
“It’s culturally safe and celebrates identity, lived experience and personal strength.”
The fully-funded program was supported by the Torres Strait Regional Authority and aimed to strengthen local leadership grounded in culture and care.
It included two five-day, inperson sessions, the first on the Magandjin lands of the Yuggera and Turrbal peoples (Brisbane) from 13 –- 17 October and the second on the Waibene lands of the Kaurareg peoples (Thursday Island) from 1 – 5 December.
Participants must attend both sessions to graduate.
Participants take part in group activities, storytelling and outdoor learning.
The sessions aimed to grow communication skills, strengthen values-based leadership and encourage connection with other women across the region.
“You don’t need years of experience,” Ms Simpson said.
“We’re looking for people who are ready to grow.
“This is about showing up with courage, openness and curiosity.”
The program covered travel, accommodation and all program costs. Participants were only responsible for meals and incidentals during travel.
Strong applicants should show a willingness to try new things, learn from others and share their knowledge back in their community, family or workplace.
There was an expectation that all participants would fully engage in the program and commit to every session.
“Don’t let self-doubt hold you back,” Ms Simpson said.
“You are already leading in your own way.
“This program will help you do it with more confidence and support.”
Applications are open now and close Monday 18 August.
To find out more or to apply, visit www.rural-leaders. org.au/torres-strait-womensleadership-program.
See advertisement on PAGE 7 N
TSRA Chairperson George Nona, Economic Development’s Darlene Fell & CEO Charlie Kaddy hold the prize draw. Pic supplied.
Djarragun seniors play their part at annual Cairns Show
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Djarragun College Senior students proudly represented their school at a stand at the Cairns Show from 16 – 18 July, showcasing their talents, skills and warm community spirit.
Visitors were greeted with colourful balloons, beautiful artwork for sale by our Certificate III Aboriginal and/ or Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts students, and even had the chance to have their hair stylishly braided by our Certificate II Salon Assistant students.
The Djarragun stand was a hub of activity, with Certificate II Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health students offering free health checks, while our Certificate III Early Childhood Education and Care students entertained children so parents
could relax with a coffee or delicious meal from the food truck and coffee van hosted by our Cape York Girl Academy students.
Passers-by could also capture the moment in our lively photo booth.
Students did themselves and the College proud, displaying not only their skills but also their dedication and teamwork.
The students’ artwork and hospitality skills will be showcased again at the College’s Tribalmania, on Tuesday 16 September, 11.30am – 3pm, with artworks on display and available for purchase at the College gallery.
Rangers celebrated for their ‘incredible’ work
The important work of Indigenous rangers who care for land and sea Country and deliver social, cultural and economic benefits to First Nations communities was celebrated on the last day of July for World Ranger Day.
Minister for Indigenous Australians Senator Malarndirri McCarthy said rangers did “incredible” work they hoped to celebrate with the launch of a photography and video competition.
The competition, run by the National Indigenous Australians Agency and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water, was a chance for Indigenous rangers to showcase their work (details above right).
“On World Ranger Day, we recognise the outstanding contributions of Indigenous rangers who care for Country with deep knowledge and dedication,” she said.
“Indigenous rangers are doing incredible work every day, protecting the environment, preserving biodiversity and keeping culture strong.
“This competition is a chance for Indigenous rangers to share their stories and celebrate the beauty of Country.”
Minister for the Environment and Water Senator Murray Watt said Indigenous rangers stood at the forefront of protecting Australia’s natural and cultural heritage.
“Indigenous rangers stand at the forefront of this effort, combining traditional knowledge with contemporary science to care for Country,” he said.
“This competition is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate how Indigenous rangers continue this legacy, not only as caretakers of Country, but as guardians for their people, nurturing strength, compassion and kindness within communities.”
The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) proudly celebrated the contributions of its 55 on-island rangers who worked across 13 islands.
TSRA Chairperson George Nona said the TSRA rangers reflected the strength of Ailan people and the wisdom of the Elders.
“They are land and sea custodians, knowledge holders, scientists and role models – preserving culture and biodiversity in one of the world’s most beautiful locations,” Mr Nona said.
“We honour TSRA Rangers not only on World Ranger Day but every day as they care for land, sea and culture.”
TSRA Ranger Alice Manas said the ranger team was critical for preserving culture, traditions and the environment for current and future generations.
“Rangers are more than boots on the ground, we help bridge a gap between traditional and scientific worlds, between governments and communities, between culture and conservation,” Ms Manas said.
“We wear our ranger uniforms with pride, knowing our work makes our families and communities proud and is creating a positive legacy in the Torres Strait.”
TSRA Environmental Management Program Manager Dr Billie Roberts said they had one of the strongest ranger programs in the nation with meaningful opportunities for rangers to help their communities drive decisions and achieve local aspirations.
“This ranger program is the only one of its kind in Australia – bolstered by an additional local team of 21 who bring culturally informed technical experience in fields including marine biology, environmental management and ecology,” Dr Roberts said.
“By blending deep cultural knowledge with scientific expertise, we are setting a national standard in caring for Country.”
TSRA Rangers were part of local, national and international partnerships which included contributing to the Great Reef Census, oil spill and disaster recovery with Maritime Safety Queensland, collaborations with the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and JCU TropWATER, and participation in the internationally acclaimed Queensland Indigenous Women’s Ranger Network plus ranger exchanges from
Arnhem Land to the Solomon Islands.
For more information, including eligibility criteria, about the 2025 Healthy Country, Healthy Waters, Healthy Communities photography and video competition visit www.indigenous. gov.au/photo-comp
Learn more at www.tsra.gov.au or follow TSRA on social media.
RIGHT: Our ‘incredible’ TSRA rangers. Pic supplied.
2025 Torres Strait Women’s Leadership Program
Step up and make a difference in
SESSION ONE: 13–17 October 2025, Brisbane SESSION TWO: 1–5 December 2025, Thursday Island
Decolonising healing: Wakai Waian’s vision for mental health in the Torres Strait
BY TOM HEARN
The Sager winds sweep across the turquoise waters of Thursday Island, carrying stories of resilience and strength from generations past.
From their humble office on TI, the team at Wakai Waian Healing is writing a new chapter in mental health care – one that is entirely grounded in Torres Strait cultural sovereignty.
For more than a decade, Wakai Waian Healing has led the way in decolonising mental health services, ensuring programs are not simply imported Western models, but culturally informed frameworks shaped by Torres Strait Islander values, language, and ways of knowing.
This journey has been guided by the vision of cultural leaders like Uncle Phillip Mills, who have been instrumental in shaping the Torres Model of Care – a model that prioritises culture, kinship, and connection as protective factors for social and emotional wellbeing.
“Culture itself is a protective factor,” Wakai Waian Healing Community and Cultural Mentor Group (CCMG) Co-Chair Shanna Mosby said.
“Our ceremonies, stories, and traditions hold the wisdom that keeps our communities strong.
“When we celebrate culture, we are not just preserving identity – we are actively building resilience and healing.”
Early days
From its earliest days, Wakai Waian Healing recognised that healing must begin with culture.
“Our ten-year journey has been about creating programs where culture and clinical practice sit side by side, not one above the other,” CEO and Torres Strait Islander senior psychologist Ed Mosby said.
“The Four Anchors program is an example of how we blend cultural authority with trauma-informed, evidence-based care – with results
that resonate deeply with our people.”
Now, Wakai Waian was extending this approach with the creation of a men’s group program, clinically led by Ed Mosby and Rob Trevallion and Ailan male mental health workers.
The program goes beyond therapy: it will create lived experience employment pathways for Torres Strait Islander men, empowering them to lead cultural healing from within.
“This is about breaking down colonial barriers,” Shanna said.
“We’re saying that lived experience, cultural authority, and deep community knowledge are just as important – if not more – than Western qualifications.
“Our men will lead because they know our people, our ways, and our challenges.”
Winds of Zenadth Kes
Just as the Sager winds marked seasonal shifts, Wakai Waian Healing was ushering in a shift in how mental health was understood and delivered in the Torres Strait.
The organisation was proud to
be actively involved in the Winds of Zenadh Kes Festival, which celebrates music, dance, and storytelling – cultural strengths that are proven protective factors against mental distress and suicide.
“Celebrating culture is not just about pride – it’s about survival,” Shanna said.
“When our people are connected to culture, we are stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to face challenges.
“Festivals like Winds of Zenadh Kes are part of the healing process.”
Ed agreed.
“Our clinical leadership means embedding culture at every level,” he said.
“By working with leaders like Uncle Phillip Mills and others who shaped the Torres Model of Care, we’re proving that true healing happens when culture and evidencebased practice work together.
“The protective factors that culture offers – belonging, identity, and connection – cannot be replicated by Western models alone.”
In speaking with the team at
dedication of leaders like Uncle Philip Mills, whose tireless work has been instrumental.
The Torres Model of Care was grounded in Torres Strait cultural values and community leadership and has become a blueprint for culturally safe and responsive health services across Zenadth Kes.
“Uncle Philip’s contributions have created pathways for services like ours to stand on strong cultural foundations,” Shanna said.
“His work and many other Elders remind us that care must be led by culture and that our health systems must reflect the stories, strengths, and priorities of our people.”
Wakai Waian Healing also acknowledged the efforts of the many Torres Strait Elders, clinicians, and community leaders who worked alongside Uncle Philip to build a framework that honours cultural integrity while addressing the unique mental health challenges faced by Torres Strait Islanders.
“Our people’s mental health is too important to be caught up in a system that often pits organisations against each other for funding and recognition,” Shanna said.
“This competitive mindset, shaped by colonial structures and funding models, is at odds with Torres Strait values of collective responsibility and community care.”
Wakai Waian has called for a shift – one where genuine and authentic collaborations, not competition, drive health outcomes.
“When we share knowledge, resources, and cultural authority, we create services that are stronger, safer, and truly reflective of who we are as Torres Strait Islanders,” Shanna said.
“It’s both an aspirational vision and a practical necessity: the wellbeing of the community depends on unity.”
Progress
Much of the progress in Torres Strait mental health and wellbeing has been built on the vision and
The winner of the July 2025 Ailan Life photo competition is Kate Tran – Congratulations Kate. Kate’s pic was taken on Thursday Island.
“Life on this remote northern Australian island moves gently between sea and sky — where nature is not just a backdrop, but a lifeline. It shelters rare creatures, like the kookaburra resting on the gate, and nurtures a community that treasures both the land and each other,” Kate said. “Here, the horizon is where ocean and sky meet like an embrace — much like the way people here live: close, warm, and deeply connected to their beautiful home.”
For your chance to win, email us your pic showing your Ailan Life along with your name, phone number and a 25-word description to ads@torres.news
One of the most striking insights from Wakai Waian Healing’s work was how cultural ways of being and knowing were often overlooked in colonial consultation models.
Too often, mainstream systems reduced mental health to clinical checklists and statistical outcomes, ignoring the social determinants that shape the everyday realities of Torres Strait Islanders – connection to land and sea, cultural obligations, spirituality, and community roles.
“Colonial consultations tend to speak about our people, rather than with them,” Ed said.
“They often miss the deeper layers of what wellbeing truly means for Torres Strait communities.
“For us, health is not just the absence of illness – it’s about cultural identity, belonging, and the strength of our collective story.”
Wakai Waian Healing was working to change this narrative by ensuring consultations and program design started with culture – not as an afterthought, but as the foundation.
Wakai Waian Healing, one message became clear: Torres Strait services must work together, not compete.
Peter Kraftman (IBIS Store Manager), left, with Kate Tran with her $150 gift voucher. Pic Flora Warria.
Uncle Phillip Mills, Shanna Mosby and Ed Mosby. Pic supplied.
2 Sistas Strong show their passion for fashion
BY SYLVIA TABUA
Thursday Island sisters
Darlene Fell and Irene Robinson have always had a passion for fashion and this year joined forces for the first time as ‘2 Sistas Strong – Cultural Art You Can Wear’.
The pair launched their Sand and Sea collection, inspired by their Wuthathi family ties, at CIAF last month.
“I think it just sort of came to us as two TI girls from a remote place had a dream from a small girl,” Darlene said.
“We were able to see what was happening in the CIAF (Cairns Indigenous Art Fair) and Darwin Art Fair and we thought it’s about time we got serious.
“We’ve been doing community work for a long time, mainly here on TI but all of it was voluntary.”
She said they had
decided to strike “while the iron was hot”.
“Indigenous fashion seems to be what people are interested in, I think we’ve realised we’ve got something that people like,” she said.
“Our Sand and Sea collection [is] bold, beautiful designs that are culturally infused,” she said.
“Whilst we know women love to look at bold fashion, they may not be game to actually wear it.
“I think that my line is about the beauty with a hint of boldness, it does have a different feel, whereas Irene’s is very loud and eyestopping.
“I think for us, the collection depicts our interpretation through a creative lens of what we would imagine the lands would look like.
“Mind you, we haven’t been there, but we’ve seen lots of pictures and we’ve heard the stories.
“I suppose this is our way of understanding a part of our culture that we don’t really understand, but we’ve sort of imagined it into something that we were able to do.
“And what we can do is design beautiful clothes.”
She said the responses from the crowds were overwhelming, with a lot of positive feedback received through a small stall her Mum and Irene looked after.
“Mum and Irene had a little stall at CIAF, and people actually came to visit us over the next couple of days, just to say thank you and congratulations,” she said.
“And they came to look for things, we had to tell them that the collection that we’re doing, we haven’t finished yet.
“It’s going to be a 10-piece collection
and we are making accessories, like the head pieces, the earrings and the jewellery, to sell, but the actual collection itself won’t be for sale because we’ve got some things in the future we want to do with it as well.”
She said they had learned a lot at CIAF.
“As 2 Sistas Strong, we are on our journey now,” she said.
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“I think two of us have become one and I think that I would just like to see where this goes.
“I’d like to really thank our family and our friends because we’ve had to concentrate to do this, but without the support of your family and friends, that encouragement, you can’t get there, so I really appreciate that.”
2 Sistas Strong will be attending the Australian Wearable Art Show at the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane Fashion Week later this month. Pics supplied.
BY BEL LUI
A large contingent of relatives travelled from near and far to attend the marriage of Ray Anthony (Togo) Noah and Christina Waianga
Wedding bells in Cairns for Mr & Mrs Noah
on Saturday, 2 August at the Anglican Church of St John the Evangelist in Cairns.
The service was officiated by Fr Dalton Cowley.
At the end of the ceremony, the large wedding party was met
with a cultural reception as they exited the Church.
The groom Anthony, is the second son of Fr John and wife Delina Demag Noah, from Murray (Mer) Island, and the bride, Christina Waianga and family,
are from
Later in the evening, everyone enjoyed a cultural feast and entertainment at the
the showgrounds until midnight.
Saibai Island, Torres Strait.
Fred Moule Exhibition Centre, at
Escort & Bride Christina Waianga.
ABOVE LEFT: (Mr & Mrs) Christina Noah & Anthony (Togo) Ray Noah.
ABOVE RIGHT: The Married couple Mr & Mrs Noah at the wedding reception. BELOW: The wedding cake,
Torres Strait Island Dancers.
Groom’s parents Fr. John & wife Delina Demag Noah.
Singers at the wedding reception.
The Bridemaids.
Mr & Mrs Noah with Matron of Honor & Best Man.
Relative Escort & Bride Christina Waianga entering Church.
Relative Arga Marou.
STORY AND PICS
Walk beside us as we celebrate who we are as First Nations people of Australia
The Torres News is going NATIONAL!
On 8 October 2025, a 12 page “Best of the Torres News” insert will be published in the national newspaper, the Koori Mail – The Voice of Indigenous Australia.
We will be featuring a selection of our best stories, pics and yarns from previous Torres News issues, and will have available advertising spots for your business which will receive NATIONAL exposure.
The Koori Mail’s national readership averages between 80,000 – 100,000 readers each fortnight throughout each state and territory in Australia, and is supported by their fortnightly circulation of both print newspapers (including distribution in Woolworths nationwide) and online subscriptions.
First Nations media plays an essential role in connecting with First Nations communities, especially those in regional and remote areas. The Koori
Mail stands as a reliable and culturally respectful platform that communicates directly and nationally, ensuring your message resonates in a meaningful way.
Their publication is committed to reflecting the voices, stories, and perspectives of First Nations communities, keeping their readers informed with vital news, powerful imagery, and messages that truly matter to their everyday lives.
With guaranteed readership and
And as an added bonus we will publish the insert on issuu (our online subscription site) for FREE for our readers to see, and the Koori Mail will also be placing the publication on their website!
“Best of the Torres News” will be inserted into the Koori Mail on a quarterly basis.
broad reach across both digital and print platforms, the “Best of the Torres News” insert in the Koori Mail provides a unique and impactful opportunity to engage with both Indigenous and nonIndigenous audiences.
Now is the time to advertise your business in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander media.
We will email you our advertising information sheet with sizes available and their rates – either for single advertisement into the 8 October Koori Mail insertion, or a yearly package consisting of 4 advertisements in our quarterly insertions.
Advertising booking deadline: Friday 29 August
Culture, community and climate change
An excerpt from Leichhardt MP Matt Smith’s maiden speech to Federal Parliament last week.
This is not as easy as it sounds. How does a person distil everything he is and his ambitions for the electorate and the country into 20 minutes? While wearing a tie?
...Leichhardt is the home of two ancient and distinct cultures. The culture of Zenadth Kes – meaning the people of the land, sea and sky of the Torres Strait – and of
course the dreaming, the songlines of the many different Aboriginal peoples of Cape York and the far north.
Travel to community, or to one of the islands of the Torres Strait and culture breathes, you can feel it.
...The Torres Strait also punches hard above its weight: it is of course, the birthplace of Uncle Koiki Mabo, a man of Mer Island who, with his fellow plaintiffs, overturned Terra Nullius That is Strength. I am proud to call
Maria Tapim, daughter of plaintiff Dave Passi, my friend.
The Cape is the great frontier.
You will find mining, agriculture, fishing, tourism, small businesses and services.
It is a place where people go to find themselves and lose themselves. You head up the Cape to live – you last six months or you stay 30 years.
...The Far North, and especially Leichhardt, sits on the edge of greatness. We are
uniquely positioned.
We could be a global powerhouse for renewable energy.
We have the wind, we have the rain and we have the sun. And critical minerals are in abundance.
If I sound optimistic, it’s because I am. A future made in Australia could just as easily be a future made in the Far North.
Our region has so much untapped potential.
We are the gateway to the South Pacific. Our proximity to Asia – all roads lead North.
Of course, the area has its challenges. Our tourism industry is still trying to work its way back from COVID, and the reputational and infrastructure damages from natural disasters have not helped, but I say this very clearly.
We are open for business, drift up North and you will have the time of your life up here.
Connectivity remains an issue, and I was heartened when it was announced during the campaign that we would be working to get all of Leichhardt to have mobile coverage, improving business, health and educational opportunities, and making people safer.
A large chunk of the electorate is cut off by road every wet season and relies on sea freight, which drives up costs, among other challenges.
Climate change is hurting the Torres Strait.
On the island of Masig, the bodies of the ancestors and more recently departed family members, including babies, are being washed out to sea as the cemetery is inundated.
I have spoken to members of the threatened communities who have told me quite clearly that they will not leave their babies, and when the sea comes for them, they will sit and accept their fate.
For saltwater people, the sea being a threat is an existential crisis of its own.
Night. Too often, I am one of very few male voices in the room.
Men of Australia, I challenge you to step up on this issue.
Recent statistics say that 32 per cent of men confessed to using coercive control on women, 10 per cent copped to using physical violence. To put that into perspective, on any cricket team statistically, one teammate beats his partner.
Far too often, violence begets violence, [and] intergenerational trauma is real. For children witnessing domestic and family violence, the prism through which they see the world is darkened: sons are taught to be perpetrators and daughters taught to accept it.
As men, we have to call out this behaviour, protect those we love, and help other men to break the cycle and deal with the mental health issues that exacerbate violence.
We owe this to our children and ourselves.
...I stand before you today not because of my own brilliance but because of people like the Prime Minister, Senator Nita Green, Senator Murray Watt ... Senator Green especially was there on day one, and has travelled all the way from the Senate to hear me today. They all encouraged me, helped me decide to put my hand up and supported me through the campaign.
This seat was won not on my magnificent oration but on the back of the thousands of hours of work done by an army of volunteers in the unforgiving wet season.
Some of whom had been hoping for Labor to take Leichhardt for 15 years.
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This is the stark reality: the first lot of climate refugees won’t come from the South Pacific but from our own country.
The Far North represents 10 per cent of all Domestic Violence call-outs for all of Queensland.
...We’ve had enough tragedy. I was deeply affected by a murder suicide that rocked our region. I attend many rallies calling for an end to domestic and gendered violence, events like Reclaim The
Since the election, my transition has been made smoother not because of my awesome knowledge of parliamentary procedure but because my predecessor, former Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch, despite coming from the opposite side of the aisle, agreed to help me navigate this vast and diverse electorate.
This is a collaborative approach.
...Let me say it again: Australia’s Far North is a place of unmatched beauty and potential. But potential without work is unrealised, potential without work is wasted.
Speaker, I stand ready to work on behalf of the people who put me here. Let’s do this. Thank you.
Matt Smith giving his maiden speech. Pic supplied.
Kaziw Meta students soar with Cairns Eagles
BY AFL CAPE YORK DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR
KIERAN SCIBERRAS
Seven students from Kaziw Meta boarding joined the Cairns Eagles last weekend thanks to a partnership between Kaziw Meta, AFL Cape York and the Cairns Eagles.
The Eagles hosted the North Cairns Tigers at ‘The Nest’ in the U13s mixed and U15s boys, while U17s girls took on the Manunda Hawks.
It as the third time this year Kaziw Meta boarding students have made the 1800 km+ round trip to play with the Eagles team.
Students were selected based on criteria set by themselves which includes behaviour, training attendance and sportsmanship.
After an outstanding regular season, the U17s girls will now prepare for the upcoming finals series.
Kris set for Queensland duties
Lucinda Kris (St Paul’s) was presented with her Queensland uniform last week when she joined her teammates in the lead-up to the 2025 12-year and under National AFL championship on
the Sunshine Coast.
As part of the state team, Lucinda and her teammates will take on South Australia, Victoria, ACT, Western Australia, New South Wales and the Northern Territory. The carnival commenced on 4 August with Queensland playing South Australia in their first match.
Keep your eye out for number 23!
Chris Johnson and Angie Nadredre (CJAN) Cup
The annual CJAN cup will return next week as the Northern Peninsula
Suns Academy teams, Queensland State teams and National Indigenous teams – the Woomeras (girls) and Boomerangs (boys).
This year, outstanding participants may be invited to take part in the U17s Pacific Series that will be hosted in Cairns in September.
In the lead up to the carnival, AFL Cape York will host in-school super clinics at all NPA State College campuses and a community colour fun run that focuses on encouraging school attendance.
The CJAN cup will be held on Yusia-Ginau Oval on Thursday, 14 August, supported by Rio Tinto, TSRA and Torres Health.
Area becomes the home of AFL Cape York.
More than 80 high school students from AFL Cape York Houses, Cairns State High School, Weipa, Thursday Island and Bamaga will compete in AFL Cape York’s marquee interschool carnival.
The event has been held since the early 2000s and is a key talent and participation carnival on the AFL Cape York calendar.
Players from this event have gone on to represent the Crusaders, Gold Coast
Buai Mudh Thursday Island
Neighbourhood and Community Centre
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With the last inner islands school visit of the term at Horn Island Primary on Friday, AFL Cape York has hosted more in-school AFL sessions, inter-school Gala days and afterschool Auskick than any other year!
The AFL Cape York Game Development team also visited Badu Island and NPA State College – Bamaga Secondary campus this week in the lead up to the 2025 CJAN Cup (August 14th on Yusia Ginau Oval).
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Ezra scores twice in South Sydney Rabbitohs demolition
BY ALF WILSON
Five-eighth Ezra Mam scored two tries when his Brisbane Broncos thrashed an injurystricken South Sydney Rabbitohs 60-14 in Brisbane on Friday night.
It was a 10-to-three demolition for the Broncos, who sit in sixth spot on the ladder.
At the 16th minute, Ezra caught a pass from Selwyn Cobbo and broke the defensive line.
He passed to fullback Reece Walsh, who then fired a pass back to Ezra, who scored under the post.
In the 66th minute, Ezra crossed again to cap off a dominating match.
In front of 38,430 fans at Suncorp Stadium, Ezra darted from dummy half, threw a dummy and sliced through for his second try of the night.
Centre Gehamat Shibasaki also had a strong game for the Broncos.
Alex AJ Johnston lined up on a wing for the Rabbitohs but failed to score a try to add
to his 207 in his NRL career.
Dolphins miracle win Fullback Hamiso
Tabuai-Fidow had a quiet game compared to his normal efforts, but still played a role in the Dolphins’ miracle last-minute 20-18 win over the New Zealand Warriors on Friday night.
The Hammer didn’t score a try this week but looked certain to at the 18th minute when classy centre Herbie Farnworth
IN THIS WEEK’S ‘HOOPS’ NEWS...
Support needed
Financial support is needed for Nahla Moke’s U14 champion team to attend the Club Championships in Perth.
Her parents are Naomi and Andrew Moke, who also coached the team.
Nahla and the Logan Thunder team won state champs in Division 1 and that automatically allows them to attend the event in late September.
Contributions can be made at https:// asf.org.au/projects/ logan-basketball/u14logan-thunder-girls
Another option is team sponsorship.
Send your EOI to velma@torres.news
Semifinals NBL1
North
Several First Nations players are competing in the semifinals, and most of them are guards. All players are performing well, especially Deshawn Ross-Paiwan, who seems to thrive in big games.
He’s been the X-factor for the Sunshine Coast Phoenix.
Women’s Games
Southern Districts Spartans v Mackay Meteorettes
This will be the battle of the guards.
When these teams met in round 8, the Spartans got the win by 10 points.
It’s hard to pick a winner as both teams have great offensive
broke through the defensive line and raced 60 metres downfield.
Hammer was backing up on his outside and about to take a pass with the try line wide open when Herbie fell to the ground in severe pain with a hamstring injury.
Now placed eighth, the Dolphins scored four tries to three and led 16-12 at halftime.
The Warriors have a precarious hold on fourth spot and a finals
players and can play great defence as well.
Both Jess McDowellWhite and Monique Bobongie will lead their respective teams.
Logan Thunder v Cairns Dolphins
These two teams met early in the competition and Logan won by about 30 points.
However, Cairns didn’t have forward Cayla George or guard Summah Evans, so it will be a different game this time.
Men’s Games
Gold Coast Rollers v Southern Districts Spartans
When these two teams met in the rounds, the Spartans got the win, but only by eight points.
Again, I’m expecting the guards to shine – Preston Le Gassick for Rollers and Tamuri Wigness for the visitors.
This game could go into overtime as neither teams don’t like losing.
Brisbane Capitals v Sunshine Coast Phoenix
This game could also go into overtime. These teams have won one game each in the rounds, so they will be confident.
As one of the top teams that had a rest and a week off, the Capitals may be fired up or slow
double chance, sitting on 30 points just ahead of several clubs.
Jamal’s Cowboys debut
Young forward Jamal Shibasaki played his first game for the Cowboys this season when they went down 32-12 to the Cronulla Sharks in Sydney on Sunday.
A Cowboys teammate was another Torres Strait Islander in Reuben Cotter.
Jamal is a younger
at the start, whereas other players for the Phoenix need to step up and help Deshawn with the scoring.
All semifinals will be played this Saturday night and only the winners will advance to the grand finals.
Quarter Finals Results
It was encouraging to see teams play from the north of the competition – Cairns, Townsville, Mackay and Rockhampton.
Mackay Meteorettes v Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92-89 (Unique Thompson 30 points, 13 rebounds, Monique Bobongie 19 points, five assists; Erin Bollman 25 points, nine rebounds, seven assists, Shannon Ryan 18 points seven rebounds).
Mackay had a slow start and maybe it was nerves that saw them down by 15 points at half time (only scoring 10 points in the second quarter).
They then came out confident and scored 33 points and by the end of the third quarter, the score was 68 to 67.
Cheyenne Bobongie started and scored four points, nine rebounds and eight assists.
Cairns Dolphins v Townsville Flames 89-74 (Mia Loyd 27
Raiders, but his side lost 18-12 to the St George Dragons at WIN Stadium in Wollongong on Saturday.
The match was played in shocking conditions with heavy rain ensuring the ball was slippery and players from both sides made many mistakes.
Speedy Raiders winger Xavier Savage was restricted in attack because of the wet ball.
Seb had missed last week due to a concussion diagnosis.
The Raiders had won their previous nine games and, despite the loss, are still top of the 17-club ladder.
brother of Broncos and Queensland Maroons Origin centre Gehamat and came off the interchange bench just after halftime and made many runs.
His only other Cowboys match was last season and Jamal has been shining for the Cairns Northern Pride in the Queensland Cup. Seb returns Consistent centre Seb Kris made a welcome return for the Canberra
Dane Knight for another season
Meanwhile, veteran Torres Strait centre Dane Gagai has been signed on a one-year extension with the Newcastle Knights, who had a bye.
The 34-year-old of Iama and Badu descent was off contract at the end of this year and supporters organised an online petition for the club to re-sign the former Queensland State of Origin star.
“Everyone knows
Dane brings experience and competitiveness to every contest, every day,” Knights recruitment manager Peter O’Sullivan said. Other games
Premiers Penrith Panthers d Gold Coast Titans 30-26 after a try in extra time, Melbourne Storm d Parramatta Eels 16-10, Roosters d Manly Sea Eagles 20-4 and West Tigers upset the 28-14.
NRLW round 5
A Cowboys ladies side, including Torres Strait players Jasmine Peters (centre), Tahlulah Tillett (five eighth), Tallisha Harden and Essay Banu (forwards) went down 12-6 to the New Zealand Warriors in Newcastle on Sunday. It was played in trying wet conditions, making ball handling difficult.
The Warriors led 8-6 at halftime and scored two tries to one.
In other games, Titans and Bulldogs played a 14-all draw, Roosters d West Tigers 32-4, Broncos d Sharks 28-14, Knights d Raiders 18-nil, Eels d Dragons 12-10.
points, 10 rebounds, six assists, Summah Evans 16 points and Cayla George 15 points, 14 rebounds, two blocks; Samantha Bowman 24 points, eight rebounds, Mia Murray 18 points six rebounds).
Cairns had a confident start and by half time had a comfortable lead 45 to 37, third quarter Townsville made adjustments to edge close 64 to 59; yet in the last quarter the Dolphins found it easy to score and finished the game by 15 points.
Great support roles for Teyahna and Taryn Bond.
Sunshine Coast
Phoenix v Rockhampton Rockets 117-86 (Deshawn Ross-Paiwan 30 points, five rebounds, Erik Kafritsas 26 points; Jalen Graham 26 points, seven rebounds, Harrison Hornery 17 points, eight rebounds).
What a game for Deshawn; he played great offence and had 15 points in the first half and continued to score in the second half.
Rockhampton tried to stay with them but may have had tired legs.
They had travelled to Cairns and Townsville, then had a home game which they had to win before travelling to the Sunshine Coast.
Southern Districts
Spartans v Mackay Meteors 108-96 (Tamuri Wigness 33 points eight rebounds, 12 assists, Blake Jones 18 points, 13 rebounds; Jerron Jamerson 19 points, five rebounds, Makuach Maluach 17 points, eight rebounds, five steals, Emmanuel Malou 17 points, four assists).
Mackay had a great start and let for most of the game.
At half time, the score was in Mackay’s favour 48 to 51 and by the end of the third, Mackay was still ahead 72 to 80.
Yet in the fourth quarter, Spartans shot the lights out 36 points to 16 and won the game.
Logan Thunder U14 Champs. Pic supplied.
Jamal Shibasaki captured on a burst for Northern Pride before he was drafted into the Cowboys team last Sunday. Pic supplied.
VELMA GARA’S
Ailan stars in statewide rugby league comp
Garbutt carnival consistently good for all
AND PICS
BY ALF WILSON
The Torres Strait Islander flag flew beside the Aboriginal and Australian flags during the 11th Garbutt Magpies AFL carnival on July 30.
For the first time, it was held at Gill Park in Gulliver suburb, which was the ground where the initial games were played by the First Nation’s Club when it was formed 70 years ago.
A total of 27 primary school teams competed and 12 fields were used.
The carnival honoured National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day, for which the theme was Little Footsteps, Big Future
Two days before the carnival, Palm Island players were presented with their jumpers at Garbutt Magpies Park.
Elder and former player Francis Tapim told the youngsters the importance of competing in such events.
MC on the big day, Randall Ross, said Garbutt Magpies was formed in 1955 and would celebrate its 70th birthday this year.
“The club played its
first games here back in 1955 and I did some years later as a junior,” Randall said.
Shalom Carinity Education side had 20 primary school students competing in the comp under the guidance of Pastor Andrew Bollom.
“We also had 12 Shalom High School student volunteers who umpired at the amazing event,” Pastor Bollom said.
The Shield-winning Palm Island team had to catch a plane and could not attend the presentation, but had their pic taken with their trophy at Townsville Airport.
“They were excited with the win and did their community proud,” Randall said.
FOOTNOTE: Garbutt Magpies is a fourth-generation club that comprises mostly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders players.
A gala 70th anniversary celebration and reunion will be held on November 1 at Ignatius Park College Hall.
Former players, officials and supporters from around Australia, including the Torres Strait, will be there.
The shield winners, Palm Island Bwgcolman/St Michael’s players, at Townsville airport with their trophy.
Girls from the Widda Dance Group performed.
LEFT: Francis Tapim presents a jumper to a Palm Island player at Garbutt Magpies Park. RIGHT: The Aboriginal, Torres Strait and Australian flags flying during the opening ceremony.
STORY
Dudley Dotoi. Pic thanks to Blackhawks. Dudley Dotoi. Pic thanks to Blackhawks.
Kimberley Hunt lines up a shot for goal. Pic Emily Barker.
Kimberley Hunt runs the ball. Pic Emily Barker.
Kimberley Hunt, right, and Jenni Sue-Hoepper left tackle an opponent. Pic Emily Barker.
16
THURSDAY 7 AUGUST 2025
Ailan players dominate statewide stats
BY ALF WILSON
Torres Strait Islanders have dominated major individual player statistics in this year’s Statewide men’s and women’s competitions.
Young Dudley Dotoi and Brenton Baira are the leading try scorers in the 15 club Hostplus Queensland Cup men’s premiership.
Blackhawks winger
“Deadly” Dudley was in front with 16 tries, and Mackay Cutters centre Brenton is in equal third with 13.
PNG Hunters star Sanny Wabo also has 13. Dudley was also leading the line breaks with 25 and sat fourth in tackle breaks with 77 as of last week.
Darnley Islander and Ipswich Jets utility back Julian Christian was third in try assists with 15.
Blackhawks hooker Jayden Hodges was second in the all points receipts ladder with 1298.
Jayden was also second in the dummy half runs category with 61. Big season for Kimberley Star Northern Pride centre Kimberley Hunt was the leading points and try scorer and second for the number of goals kicked in the BMD ladies premiership.
Allrounder Kimberley has been in sensational
form for debutant club the Pride and has scored six tries, amassed 48 individual points and booted 13 goals. Kimberley also led the line breaks with nine and her fifth-eight teammate Jenni-Sue Hopper also figured highly in comp stats.
Former Jillaroo Jenni-Sue was second in goal kicking percentage with 67, third in metres kicked in general play with 553, third in line break assists with four, and as a bonus, has
kicked a 40/20.
Hard-hitting Pride forward Sareka Mooka was fourth in the number of runs with 69.
Final spots up for grabs
There were no games last weekend, but with four rounds remaining in the 15-club men’s comp, finals spots were still up for grabs.
Blackhawks were sitting second on the ladder and their last games were against Wynnum Manly Seagulls (in Townsville
on Saturday), followed by Mackay Cutters, Dolphins and Tweed Seagulls.
Blackhawks were on 30 points with premiers Norths Devils also on 30 but with a lower for and against.
Next Saturday’s clash with Wynnum Manly Seagulls on 28 points is vital as the Brisbane team has a superior for and against percentage (125 to 46)
A loss would see the Blackhawks drop out of the top four.
Cairns Northern Pride are 13th and meet Norths Devils at Barlow Park, Cairns on Saturday, but realistically have little hope of qualifying for the finals.
Mackay Cutters are 11th and meet the Magpies in Brisbane this round.
Dantoray Lui’s Dolphins are fifth and look a sure bet to see finals action.
The Julian Christianinspired Ipswich Jets are seventh, whilst the PNG Hunters are eighth.
Ladies great season
It has been a great debutant season for the Northern Pride, who sit fifth on the ladder in the 12-club BMD ladies premiership.
The Pride has exceeded expectations and has three wins and three losses.
They meet the Norths Devils at Barlow Park in Cairns on Saturday (August 9), followed by the Cutters at Mackay a week later, Tweeds Seagulls away, Capras and Magpies at home.
The Cutters’ side, which includes forward Lyrech Mara, is ninth with two wins and four losses.
Grand final day
Four classic matches are locked in for a blockbuster QRL Grand Final Day on September 27 at Kayo Stadium.
In addition to the men’s and women’s comp deciders, there will be City versus Country matches.
Kimberley Hunt runs the ball in a match for the Northern Pride. Pic Emily Barker.