Torres_News_Edition_192_14 August 2025

Thursday, 14 August 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 192 l $2 incl. GST

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

Youth dancers play to a full house of pride

And we’re on, let’s go! Young dancers participating in Bangarra Dance Theatre’s Rekindling Youth Program 2025, 2025, held on Waiben last Friday night, take to the stage.

Pic by Floria Warria.

BY FLORA WARRIA Bangarra Dance Theatre held a community dance showcase in collaboration with Tagai College’s Secondary Campus on

Waiben last Friday night.

The Rekindling Youth Program was first launched in 2012/2013 to inspire and develop a new generation of First Nations youth into storytelling and

dance to reconnect and express themselves with their culture through contemporary dances and performances.

This year, Thursday Island Waybeni Koey Ngurpay Mudh

students were honoured to be a part of the program.

The Bangarra Dance Theatre took the initiative by consulting with the Elders of Waiben, who made themselves available to

be part of it. Organising and preparation behind the scenes was done by the students themselves.

Story continues with more pics on PAGES 14 & 15 N

Proudly supporting your community for more than 35 years Sea Swift is proud to support local and remote community initiatives across Northern Australia. Sea Swift contributes more than $1 million per year through event sponsorships, conservation efforts and local enterprise in remote and coastal communities.

This support includes: • Arts and cultural events • Environmental conservation

• Community wellbeing • Local enterprise • Community events.

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

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

General Cargo • Project & Charter • Mothershipping • Defence • Fuel • Engineering • Adventure Cruises seaswift.com.au 1800 424 422

02

THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025 TORRES NEWS

Torres Strait Regular Public Torres Regular Public

Strait

Transport Schedule TorresStrait Regular Public Transport Schedule Transport Schedule

“Your Queensland Airline, Proudly Uniting Our Region”

Wednesday Friday Thursday “Your Queensland Airline,Monday Proudly Uniting OurTuesday Region” Saturday Morning Morning Morning “Your Queensland Airline,Morning Proudly Uniting OurMorning Region” Morning Tuesday Wednesday Monday Thursday Saturday Dest.

Arrive Depart Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Friday Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Tuesday Wednesday Morning Morning Friday Monday Thursday Morning Horn -07:15 Horn -07:10 Saturday Morning Horn -07:10 Horn -07:10 Horn -- Morning 07:10 --Morning 07:10 Horn Arrive Arrive Depart Dest.

Dest. Morning Arrive Depart BoiguDepart 07:55 08:25 Yorke 07:50 08:10Morning Dest.

Arrive Depart Arrive Coconut Depart Dest.

Arrive Yorke 07:50 08:10 YorkeDest. 07:50 08:10 Depart 07:45 08:05 CoconutDest.07:45 Morning 08:05 Morning Morning Morning

Saibai 08:40 09:10 Darnley 08:30 09:00 -Horn 07:15 Horn 07:10 08:30 Darnley 09:00 Murray 08:35 09:05--Arrive -- Depart 07:10Darnley Murray 08:35 09:05 Horn --09:00Depart 07:10 -07:10 Horn -07:10 Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Depart Arrive Dest.

Arrive Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest. 08:30 Arrive DepartHorn Horn 09:50 -Yorke 09:20 09:50 09:20 YorkeCoconut 09:20 09:50 Coconut 09:35 10:05 Coconut 09:35 10:05 Boigu 07:55 08:25 Yorke 07:50 08:10 07:50 08:10Yorke Yorke 07:50 Coconut 07:45 08:05 07:45 08:05 -07:15 Horn Horn -07:10 -07:10 --09:5008:10 07:10 Horn -07:10 Horn -07:10 Horn Horn 09:10 -07:45 Horn09:00 Saibai 10:30 -- 08:40 Horn 10:30 -- 09:00 Horn Murray 10:30 08:35 -Horn 10:40 -Horn 10:40 -Darnley 08:30 08:30 09:00 Darnley 08:30 Murray 08:35 09:05 09:05 07:55 08:25 07:50 08:10 Boigu 07:50 08:10 Yorke 07:50 08:10 Coconut 07:45 08:05 Yorke 07:45 08:05 Coconut 07:45 Horn 08:05 08:35 -- 09:20 07:45 Horn Coconut -- 09:35 -07:45 Kubin -07:45 Horn -07:45 Horn Horn 09:50 09:20 09:00 09:50Horn Yorke 09:35 Saibai 09:5008:40-- 09:10 Darnley 09:20 08:30 09:00 08:30 Darnley 08:30 09:50 09:00 Murray Murray 08:3510:05 09:05Yorke 08:35 10:05 09:05 Coconut 08:05 08:35 Kubin Badu 09:15 Kubin 08:05 08:35 Kubin Kubin 08:05 08:35 08:05 08:35 Kubin 08:05 08:35 Horn -- 09:50 07:45 08:45 10:30 10:30 09:50 -Horn 10:30 -Horn 10:40 Horn 10:40 --Horn Yorke 09:20 -- 09:50 09:20 Yorke 09:20 09:50 Coconut 09:35 --10:05Horn 09:35 Badu 10:05 08:45 09:15 09:35 -Badu 08:45 09:15 Badu Coconut Badu 08:45 09:15 Horn 08:45 09:15 Badu 08:45 09:15 Horn -07:45 Horn 08:3507:45 -07:45 --10:30 07:45 -- Kubin -07:45 -07:45 Horn Horn -- 08:05 Horn 10:30 -- Horn -Horn Horn -- Horn Horn 09:35 10:40 Horn -Horn--08:00 09:3510:30-Horn 09:35 Horn 09:35 --10:40 Horn -09:35 -“Your Queensland Airline, Proudly Uniting Our Kubin 08:05 08:35 Badu 08:4508:05 09:15 08:05 08:35 Horn 08:05-- 08:35 Kubin 08:05 08:05 08:35 Kubin -07:45 -07:45 07:45 Kubin -- 08:35 07:45 Kubin Horn-Horn Horn -08:30 Coconut 08:35 08:30 08:55 -08:30 Horn 08:30 -- Horn07:45 Horn Badu 08:45 09:15 Badu 09:35 08:45 09:15 Kubin Badu 08:45 09:15 Horn Monday Tuesday 08:45 Yorke 08:05 08:35 08:45-- 09:15 Yam Kubin 09:00 08:45 09:30 08:05 08:35 Murray 09:25 09:50 08:05 09:15 08:35 Badu 09:10 09:30 08:05 08:35 Badu Kubin 08:0509:15 08:35 Kubin Yorke 09:10 09:30 Morning Horn 09:35 --Warraber Horn -08:00 Morning 09:35 -Horn 09:35 -Horn 09:35 -Horn 09:35 -Coconut 10:20 10:45 Darnley 09:50 10:20 08:45 09:15 Horn 08:45 09:15 Badu 09:45 10:15 09:35 -09:50 10:20 08:45 09:15 Badu 08:45 Darnley 09:15 Badu 08:45 09:15 Badu Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Des Horn -08:30 “Your Queensland Airline, Proudly Uniting Our Region” Coconut 08:30 08:55 Horn -08:30 Horn -08:30 Horn -Horn-11:15 -Yorke -10:40 11:10 09:35 Yorke 10:40 11:10 09:35 -Horn Horn 08:00 09:35 --Horn -Horn 10:35 09:35 09:35 Horn Horn -07:10 Horn -07:10 Hor Yam 09:00 09:30 Murray 09:25 09:50 Yorke11:50 09:10 09:30 09:10 09:30 Horn 11:50 --Tuesday Horn Yorke -10:20 Horn -Wednesday Monday Thursday Horn -08:30 Coconut 08:30 08:55 Horn -08:30 Horn -08:30 Yorke 07:50 08:10 Yorke 07:50 08:10 Coc Warraber 09:45 10:15 Coconut Morning 10:20 10:45 09:50 10:20 Darnley10:45 09:50 Mabuiag 11:10 10:20 Darnley Morning Morning Darnley 08:30 09:00 Mur Yam 09:00 09:30 Murray08:30 09:00 09:25Darnley 09:50 Morning 09:10 09:30 Yorke 09:10 Proudly 09:30 Yorke Airline, Uniting Our Region” Horn 10:35 “Your --HornQueensland Horn 11:15 -10:40 11:10 Yorke 11:35 10:40 11:10 Yorke -Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Yorke 09:20 09:50 Yorke Warraber 09:45 10:15 Darnley Coconut 10:20 10:45 09:20 09:50 Coc 09:50 10:20 09:50 10:20 Darnley Horn11:50Wednesday 07:10 Horn -07:10 -- -- 07:10 -- -- 07:10 Horn -Horn -10:20 Monday Horn 11:50 --Tuesday Friday Thursday HornHorn 10:30 HornHorn 10:30 Saturday Hor -HornMonday10:35 11:15 -Horn Yorke Yorke 10:40 07:50 11:10 Yorke 10:40 11:10 Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 08:10 Yorke 07:50 08:10 Coconut 07:45 08:05 Coconut 07:45 08:05 Horn -07:45 Horn -07:45 Hor Morning Morning Mabuiag 10:45 11:10 Morning Morning Morning Morning 11:50 08:30 -Horn -- Our 10:20 Lunchtime Lunchtime Lunchtime Lunchtime Lunchtime Lunchtime 11:50 -Horn Darnley 09:00 Darnley 08:30 09:00 Murray 08:35 09:05 Murray 08:35 09:05 Dest.

Arrive Dep Dest.

Arrive Depart “Your Queensland Airline,Horn Proudly Uniting Region” Kubin 08:05 08:35 Dest.

Arrive Depart Kubin 08:05 08:35 Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Kub Horn 11:35 -09:20-- 09:50 Yorke 09:35 Dest.

Depart Coconut 09:35 Dest.

Mabuiag Arrive10:45 11:10 Horn Depart -- 10:05 07:1 Horn -- 10:05 07:10 BaduCoconut 08:45 09:15 Depart Horn -- Arrive 07:10Depart Badu 08:45 09:15 Horn Dest.

-- Arrive 07:10Yorke Horn 07:10 Horn Dest.

07:10 Arrive Depart 09:20 Dest.

Arrive Bad Dest.-- 09:50 Arrive Depart Tuesday-Wednesday Friday Monday Thursday Saturday Horn 10:30 10:40 10:40 Boigu 07:55 07:50 Horn 10:20 HornHorn 09:35 -- --08:2 Yorke 07:50 Horn --08:1011:15 HornHorn 09:35 -- --08:10 Yorke Horn 07:50 08:10 Coconut 07:45 --08:05 Coconut 07:45 --08:05 Hor --Thursday 10:20 Horn Horn -11:15 --Horn 10:20 10:30 Horn --Yorke 10:20 11:35 -Horn Tuesday Monday Wednesday Friday Saturday

Horn Dest.

Yorke Horn Darnley Yorke Yorke Darnley Horn Yorke Horn Horn Kubin Horn Badu Kubin Horn Badu Horn

Torres Tr Torres Strait Regular Public Transport Schedule Torres Strait Regular Public Transport Schedule

Morning Morning Morning Morning Morning 09:00Horn Morning Horn --08:3507:45 --08:3507:45 Horn 07:45 HornHorn -- --08:40 08:30 Saibai 12:15 09:1 Darnley 08:3007:45 09:00 Darnley 08:3011:45 09:0012:15 Darnley Murray 09:05 Murray 09:05 Boigu 11:00 11:30 Hor Yam Boigu 08:30 11:00 11:30 Boigu 11:45 11:00 11:30 Boigu 11:00 11:30 --Yam Lunchtime Lunchtime Lunchtime Lunchtime Lunchtime Lunchtime Dest.

Arrive08:35 Depart Dest.

Arrive08:35 Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Arrive Depart Dest.

Kubin 08:05 Kubin 08:05 Kubin 08:05 08:35 Kubin 08:05 08:35 Yam 09:00 09:30 Horn 09:50 -Yorke 09:20 09:50 Yorke 09:5013:00 Yorke Saibai 09:20 11:45 09:50Thursday Coconut 09:35 10:05 Coconut 09:35 10:05 Yor Saibai 11:45 12:15 Warraber09:20Wednesday 12:30 Monday Tuesday Friday Saturday 12:15 12:30 13:00 Saibai -11:45 Horn 12:15 Saibai 11:45 12:15 Warraber -- 09:15 07:15 Horn 07:10 Horn --Arrive 07:10 Horn Dest.

-07:10 Horn -07:10Badu Dest.

Depart -07:10 HornDepart Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Badu 08:45 Dest.

Arrive Depart 08:45 09:15 Badu 08:45 08:45 Horn 09:45 -- 09:15 07:4 Warraber 10:15 Horn 10:3009:15 -- Badu Horn 10:3013:20--Arrive Horn 10:30 12:55 -Horn 10:40 -Horn 10:40 -Dar Horn 12:55 -Horn -Horn -Horn 13:20 -12:55 Boigu -Horn 12:55 --Lunchtime Lunchtime Lunchtime 07:55 --08:25 Yorke Horn 07:50 --08:10 Yorke 07:50-- 08:10 YorkeHorn Lunchtime 07:50 08:10 Coconut 08:05 Coconut 07:45Lunchtime 08:05 --Horn Horn Lunchtime 10:20 -- Horn 11:15 Horn 09:35 Horn 09:35 --07:45 09:35 10:20 07:45 -07:45 Horn -- -- 11:15 Kubin 10:35 08:05 HornHorn -- --08:3 Horn -10:20 Horn Horn -- Horn 07:45Horn Horn -- 09:3510:20 -07:45 Yor Horn -- 09:00 11:15 Horn Horn-- --07:4511:25 Horn 08:35 09:05 -11:25 Horn08:30 09:00 -11:25 Horn -11:25 Horn -11:15 Saibai 08:40 09:10 Darnley Darnley 08:30 09:00 Darnley 08:30 Murray Murray 08:35 09:05 Dest.

Arrive Depart Horn -08:30 Dest.

Arrive Depart Horn 08:30 Dest.

Arrive Depart Horn --08:05 08:30 Dest.

Arrive11:30 Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.Kubin 11:00 Arrive Depart Kubin11:30 08:05 08:35 Kubin Boigu 11:00 11:30YamYam Badu -- --08:45 09:1 Kubin 08:05 08:35 11:45 12:15 Kubin 08:35 08:05 08:35 Horn 10:20 08:05 08:35 Hor Boigu 11:00 Yam 11:45 12:15 Boigu 11:00 Boigu 11:30 11:4509:50 12:15 Yorke 09:3512:05 Yam 09:35 11:55 12:25 Yam 09:20 09:50 11:55 12:25 09:00 Yorke09:30 Yorke 12:05 12:25 Horn 09:5009:30--11:45 Yam 12:15 09:10 Yorke 09:20-- 09:50 Yorke 09:20 Coconut 10:05 Yorke Coconut 10:0512:25 Yam 09:30-Yorke Horn Badu 08:45 09:15 Horn 10:4509:10 09:35 -- Badu 11:15 Saibai Horn 08:45 09:15 Badu 08:45--13:00 09:15 Badu 08:45 Saibai 09:15 Mabuiag 11:10 -10:20 Horn Badu 11:45 08:45 09:15 11:15 Horn Horn -10:20 Saibai 11:45 10:20 12:15Warraber Horn -10:20 Warraber 12:30 12:30 13:00 11:45 12:15 Warraber 12:30 Saibai 11:45 12:15 12:15 Darnley 10:4012:45-- 13:15 Horn -07:45 Horn 10:30 -13:10 Warraber Horn 10:30 -Horn 10:30 --13:00 12:40 13:10 09:45 Darnley 12:45 13:15 Horn Warraber 10:40 12:40 -Horn Warraber 12:30 13:0009:50 Darnley 09:50---- 10:20 10:20 Horn 09:35 -Horn 11:35 08:0 Horn 09:35 -- 11:00 Horn 09:35 -- 12:15 Horn 09:35 -- Warraber Horn Horn 09:3510:15 -- Darnley Boigu 11:00 11:30 Yam 11:45 12:15 Boigu 11:30 Horn Yam 11:45 Boigu 11:00 Horn 13:20 --YorkeHorn Boigu 11:00 11:30 12:55 -Horn 13:20 -Horn 12:55 --11:30 Horn 12:55 -Horn --13:20 07:45-- Horn Kubin 08:05 08:35 14:05 Horn --12:55 07:45 --Horn Horn -07:45 -- 13:35 07:45 Horn -07:45 Horn 13:30 -Horn 13:30 -Yorke 13:35 14:05 Horn 13:20 -Horn 10:35-- --08:30Yorke 10:40 10:40 11:10 Yorke Horn -08:30 Horn Coconut 08:3011:10 08:5 Horn -08:30 Saibai 11:45 12:15 Warraber 13:00 Horn -- 08:35 11:15 Saibai 12:1508:05 Warraber 12:30 13:00 Horn 08:05-- 12:30 --11:25 11:25 Saibai 12:15 Saibai 12:15 Kubin 08:35 Badu 09:15 Kubin 08:05 Horn Kubin 08:05 Horn 08:35 --Yam 11:25 Kubin 08:0514:45 08:3511:45 Horn Horn -Kubin 08:35 Horn --11:45 11:25 Horn -11:25 11:15 Tuesday Horn -12:35 Horn 14:45 --11:50 Horn Horn --Horn 12:35 --11:45 --08:45 10:20 Horn -- Monday 11:2511:50 Horn -09:00 09:30 Murray 09:25 --09:5 Yorke 09:10 09:30 Yorke 09:10 09:30 12:55 --Badu Horn 09:15 Horn 11:45 09:35 Yam 11:45 12:15 13:20 -- Yam Horn Badu 08:45 09:15 Badu 08:45 09:15 Badu 08:45 --09:15 Badu 12:25 08:45 09:15 13:25 12:55 -- 09:45 Horn Yorke 08:45 12:25 Kubin 11:4512:05 12:10 13:20 Horn 12:55 -- Yam Horn ----Yorke Horn Horn 12:20 11:55 Lunchtime Yam 11:55 12:25 12:25 --Lunchtime Kubin 12:55 12:15 Mabuiag 10:45 11:10 Horn -11:55 10:20 10:4 Kubin 12:55 13:25 12:55 Warraber 10:15 Kubin 11:45 12:10 12:05 Coconut Darnley 09:50 10:20 Darnley 09:50 10:20 Horn 09:35 -Horn -08:00 Horn Horn 09:35 -Horn 09:35 -Horn 09:35 -Horn -- -- 11:15 Warraber 09:35 12:30 13:00 Badu KubinWarraber 13:10 Horn --12:5013:15 11:25 Darnley 12:25 12:45 Dest.

Arrive Depart Horn 11:35 --11:10 Dest.

Badu 13:35 14:05 Horn 12:40 12:40 -- 13:10 11:2510:35 Horn -Kubin 12:15 12:45 Depart Horn Arrive 11:15 Des -Horn 11:25 Horn12:50 --13:15 11:25 Warraber 12:40-- Badu 13:10 Darnley 12:45 Yorke 13:35 14:05 12:30 13:00 Horn --10:40 11:15 Badu 12:25 Yorke 10:40 Warraber 11:10 --13:0508:30-- Horn Coconut 08:30 08:55 Horn -08:30 -08:3013:50 Horn Horn 10:20 Badu Horn Horn 13:20 12:15 --Horn Horn -11:15 Hor Yam 11:45 14:25 --11:55 13:35 Horn--13:20 11:50 --Yorke Horn Horn --Yam 10:20 Horn Yorke 12:05 14:05 12:25 11:50 Horn -Badu 12:55 13:25 Horn 14:25 -Horn 13:05 ---- 13:35 Yam 13:20 13:30 11:55 12:25 Horn 13:30 --12:25 14:05 -Yorke 12:05 12:25 Yam 11:45 12:15 Yam 09:00 09:30 Yorke Murray 09:25 09:50 09:10 09:30 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday 09:1014:10 09:30 Yorke Boigu 11:00 Horn 11:30 -11:10 Horn -11:25 Darnley 13:45 11:45 -- 12:15 Boi Warraber 12:30 13:00 Horn 09:45 14:45 --Horn Horn 12:45 13:15 --Mabuiag 12:35 HornDarnley 14:4512:45Yam -- 13:15 Warraber 13:1010:45 Horn --12:40 12:35 Warraber 13:10Horn --12:30 11:25 Warraber 13:00 Warraber 10:15 Darnley Coconut 10:20 10:45 Darnley 09:50 10:20 Lunchtime Lunchtime Lunchtime Lunchtime 09:50 10:2012:40 Saibai 11:45 12:15 Warraber 12:30 13:00 Sai Horn 11:35 -Kubin 11:45 12:10 13:20 --HornYorke Horn Horn 10:35 13:35 -12:20 14:05 Kubin 12:55 -- 13:35 11:5514:05 13:30 -- 10:40 Horn Kubin 12:55 13:25-- Depart -Kubin 12:10 Horn 11:45 11:15 13:30Arrive Horn11:10Dest.

Yorke12:55 Yorke13:25 13:20 ----Horn Horn Yorke 10:40 11:10 Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Arrive--Depart Horn --Depart HornDest.

13:20 Hor Friday Monday Thursday Tuesday Wednesday Badu 12:25 12:50 Kubin 12:40 13:10 Horn -11:25 Badu Horn 11:50 HornHorn -10:20 Horn-- Monday 14:45 11:50 -- 13:35 Kubin 12:15 12:45 Badu 14:05 --12:35 10:20 Badu 12:25 Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Saturday Horn -- 12:50 11:15 Horn -- 14:05 12:35 14:45 -Horn -- Friday Horn --11:15 10:20 --11:25 10:20 Horn -- Horn13:35-Horn -11:25 Horn HornHorn -Hor Afternoon Lunchtime Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon14:25 Lunchtime Afternoon Horn 13:05 12:10 --Mabuiag 10:45 13:20 11:10 Badu 13:50 11:00 11:30 Yam 11:45 --12:15 Horn -Kubin 11:45 Lunchtime Lunchtime Lunchtime Lunchtime Boigu 11:00 11:30 Badu 12:55 13:25 Horn 14:25 --13:25 Boigu 11:00 11:30 Horn -12:20 Horn 13:05 Yam 11:45 12:15 Kubin 12:55 13:25 Yorke 12:05 12:25 Horn -11:55 Yam Kubin Boigu 12:55 Kubin 11:45 12:10 Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart -Arrive Depart 12:30 13:00 Saibai Dest. ArriveArrive Depart Arrive Depart Dest.

Horn -Saibai 11:45 12:15 Warraber 11:45 12:15 Horn 11:35 14:10 Depart Saibai 11:45 12:15 Warraber 13:00 Dest. Dest.

Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Darnley 13:15 HornKubin 13:45 -- 12:45 Badu 12:25 12:50 Dest.

Arrive 12:50 Depart Dest.12:45 Arrive Dep Dest. 12:30 Arrive Depart Wa Kubin 12:40 Dest.

13:10 Badu 13:35 14:05Arrive 12:15 Badu 13:35 14:05 Badu 12:25 Horn -13:40 Horn -13:40 Horn --Horn 13:40 13:20 Soon!

--10:2014:05 -- Horn 13:40 12:55-- --10:20 --10:20 12:55--Coming --Yorke HornHorn -Horn 12:55 --Hor HornHorn 13:20 Horn Horn -11:15 Horn 13:35 14:05 Horn -11: Horn -Horn 10:20 13:05 -Horn Monday Badu 13:20 13:50 Tuesday Wednesday Horn 14:45 15:15 14:25 Thursday -Badu14:30 12:55 13:25 14:25Friday -- 11:15Horn Horn Horn 13:05 -- 14:05 Mabuiag 14:05 14:30 Saturday Mabuiag 14:05 14:30 Boigu --11:00 Horn --11:0011:25 Boigu 11:00 11:30 Yam Mabuiag 11:25 Book flights 11:45 14:05 12:15 14:30 Horn HornHorn 11:25 Boigu Mabuiag 11:30 Horn -- 11:25 Yam 14:45 --11:45 12: Boigu 11:30 Boigu -- --11:00 11:30 Hor Friday Monday Thursday Tuesday Wednesday Lunchtime Lunchtime Lunchtime Lunchtime -- Lunchtime Horn Horn 14:55 -- 11:55 Horn 13:45 -- Warraber 11:45 Horn 14:55 -- Lunchtime Horn 14:5514:10 -- Saibai Saibai Horn 12:30 14:55 -Yorke 12:05 11:4515:30 12:1516:00 Yam 12:25 Warraber 13:00Yam Yam 11:55 12:25 Kubin 12:10 Saibai 11:4512:15 12:15 12:30 13: Horn -12:20 Saibai 11:4512:25 12:15 Saibai11:45 11:45 12:15 Kub online using Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon Arrive Afternoon Dest.

Depart Dest.

Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive DepartAfternoon 12:30 Horn -- Horn14:05 14:15 12:45 Horn Arrive -15:40 Horn Arrive -Horn -- Depart 14:05 Horn 12:5516:40 -12:40 13:10 Horn 13:20 Depart -- Warraber 12:40 13:10 Badu 12:25 12:50 Horn Horn 12:5513:00----Darnley Horn 12:40 13:20 Kubin 13:10 Horn 12:5513:15 -- Warraber 12:55 -- Warraber Bad your LFS 13:30 -- Horn -10:20 Horn Dest.

-11:15 Horn Arrive Depart -10:20 Horn -11:15 HornDepart -- 16:00 10:20 Horn 10:20 Dest. Monday Arrive Depart Arrive Yorke Depart Arrive Depart Horn 13:20---- Dest.

--11:25 Arrive Coconut 14:40 Yorke 13:35 Horn Horn 13:30-14:55 15:15 Kubin Dest.

16:30 Coconut 14:40 15:00 Horn Horn -11:25 Horn 13:05 -- --Badu Friday Horn Dest.-- Wednesday --11:15 15:40 Thursday Tuesday Horn Horn -- 14:05 11:25 Horn 13:20 13:50 -11: Hor Horn15:00 11:15 Boigu 11:00 11:30 Yam 12:15 Boigu 11:00 12:15 11:30 Boigu Yam -- 14:45 11:45 11:30 Boigu 11:00 11:30 Horn 13:40 12:15 Horn --11:55 11:25 Horn Horn Afternoon -13:40Murray Horn16:40 13:40 Yam 11:45 Murray 15:30 Horn 11:45 14:05 Horn --Yorke13:40 12:05 12:25 15:35 16:05 Badu 11:00 17:10 Horn 15:30 --16:00 Horn -- 12:35 Yam-- Darnley 12:25 KubinHorn 16:00 16:30 Yam 11:55 --12:25 Yorke14:10 -- 12:05 12: Yam16:00 --11:4512:35 12:15 Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon Saibai 11:45 12:15 Warraber 12:30 13:00 Saibai 11:45 13:00 12:15 Saibai New updates to our Warraber 12:30 13:00 11:45 13:15 12:15 Saibai 11:45Mabuiag 12:15 11:45 Horn --12:40 12:20 14:05 14:30 Warraber 12:30 Kubin Coconut 16:30 17:0012:55 Darnley Kubin 13:25 Mabuiag 14:05 14:30 Mabuiag 14:05 14:30Coconut Warraber 12:4012:10 13:10 Yorke 16:25 16:55 Horn 12:45 17:30Kubin -Boigu 15:15 14:30 Warraber 13:10 Darnley 12:55 12:45 13: 16:3014:45 17:00 Warraber 12:3013:25 13:00 Badu Mabuiag 16:40 14:05 17:10 Dest.

Arrive Depart Horn 12:55 HornDest. 13:20 Arrive -Dest.

Arrive --Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Depart website will allow Dest.

Horn 12:55 -- Arrive Horn 13:20 -- Badu Horn Depart 12:55 14:05 -- Badu Horn 12:55 -12:25 12:40 Horn 13:20 -Yorke 13:35 Horn --13:10--17:35 13:35 14:05 Horn -- 13:35 Horn 13:3012:50 -- Kubin Horn--14:55 13:30 Yorke 13:35 14: Horn 13:2014:05-- Badu Horn 17:35 Monday Tuesday Horn 17:35 -Horn 14:55 -Horn 14:55 -Horn 17:30 -Saibai 15:30 16:00 Horn 14:55 -Horn -- -- 11:15 you to upload your HornHorn -11:25 -- -- 13:50 13:40 Horn Horn -11:25 Horn Horn --Horn 11:25 Horn 11:25 Horn -- 13:05 -- --11:15 13:40 13:40 Horn --14:15 14:05 Horn -13:4014:45 Badu 13:20 Horn -11:25 Horn 14:25-- --11:25 -- Horn Horn 14:25 Horn -- Horn 12:35 Horn 14:45 -- Horn -12:35 Horn -Horn -14:15 Afternoon Horn Afternoon -14:05 Horn -15:40 Horn -14:15 Horn -15:40 Horn 16:40 -Horn -14:05 Yam 11:45 12:15 Yorke Letter of Eligibility, 12:05 12:25 Yam 11:55 12:10 12:25 Yam 12:25 Yam14:05 14:30 Yorke 12:0514:30 12:25 11:45 12:15 Mabuiag 14:05 Horn 14:10 --13:25 Kubin 11:45 Mabuiag 14:05 14:30Yorke Boigu 15:15 Mabuiag 14:05 Horn 14:3011:55 --Mabuiag 12:20 Kubin Kubin12:55 Coconut 13:25 Horn Arrive -11: 12:55 Kubin 11:45 12:10 14:5514:45 Yorke 14:55 15:15 Arrive Depart Dest.

Des 16:00 Kubin 16:30 14:40 15:00Dest. create a profile and Depart Warraber Yorke 13:10 Warraber 14:55 15:15 Kubin 16:00 16:30 12:40 Coconut 12:30 14:4013:00 15:00 Darnley 13:15 Horn 12:45 --15:15 15:40 Warraber 12:40 13:10 Warraber Darnley 12:45 13:15 12:30 13:00 Badu 12:25 12:5014:55 14:55 -Horn Kubin 12:40 13:10 Badu 13:35 14:05 Horn 14:55 -14:55 -Horn Kubin 12:15 12: Saibai 15:30 16:00 Badu 13:35 14:05 Badu 12:25 12:50 -Horn -13:40 Darnley 13:35 15:3514:05 16:05 Darnley 15:35 16:05 Badu 16:40 17:10 bookHorn your flights -on 14:05 Hor Horn 13:20 Yorke 15:30 16:00Horn Horn 13:30 -- 16:40 Darnley 15:35 16:05 Horn 17:10 13:20 13:30 -Yorke 13:35 14:05 Murray 15:30 -- 16:00 Horn 13:20Murray -Kubin 16:00 Horn 16:30 Badu 13:05 -Monday Thursday Tuesday Badu 13:50 Wednesday Horn 14:25 -Badu 12:55 13: Horn 14:25 -Horn 13:05 -Horn -14:05 Mabuiag 14:05 14:30 Boigu 14:45 15:15 Mab Horn -14:15 Horn -15:40 New updates to our 16:40 -Horn our website.

Horn 14:05 Yorke 16:25 --16:55 Yorke 16:55 Horn 17:30 Horn --16:30 Horn -- -- 11:25 Horn Horn 12:35 14:45 17:00 --16:25 Afternoon Horn --12:35 Horn 11:25 Yorke 16:25 16:55-- Coconut 17:30 Coconut 16:30 17:00 Badu 14:45 16:40 17:10 Horn-Horn 14:10 -Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon Horn 13:45 Horn 14:55 -Saibai 15:30 16:00 Hor website will allow Coconut 14:40 15:00 Horn 17:35 -Horn 17:35 -Kubin 11:45 Yorke 14:55 15:15 Coconut 14:4012:10 15:00 HornHorn -12:20 -- Kubin 15:40 Kubin 12:55 13:2516:00 Horn -11:55 Kubin 16:3012:55 Kubin 12:10 Horn Horn 13:25 17:35 Arrive --11:45 Horn 17:35 -Dest.

Depart Dest.

Arrive-- Depart Horn 17:30 -Dest. 17:35 Arrive -Depart Dest.

Arrive Depart Hor Stay tuned for more Horn 16:40 Horn -14:05 you to upload your Horn -15:40 Horn -15:40 Badu 12:25 12:50 Kubin 12:40 16:00 13:10 Badu MurrayKubin 15:30 16:00 13:35 14:0516:40 12:45 Darnley 15:35 --16:05 Badu Badu 17:1013:35 14:05 Badu 12:25Horn 12:50 Murray 15:30 16:00 16:30Monday Horn Horn Horn -14:15 Kubin -- --12:15 14:15 Horn 14:05 Thursday Tuesday Horn --15:0013:40 Horn -- Wednesday 15:40 13:40 Kub Coconut 14:40 Horn -- --15:4013:40 New updates todetails. our Letter ofFriday Eligibility, Horn 13:05 -Kubin 16:0013:50 16:30 Kubin 16:00 16:30 Badu 13:20 Horn 14:25 -- 17:30 Badu 12:5517:00 13:25 Horn 14:25 -- Mabuiag Horn 13:05 -Coconut 16:30 Yorke 16:25 16:55 -Horn Coconut 16:30 17:00 Badu 16:40 17:10 Mabuiag 16:0014:05 14:30 14:05 14:30 Boigu 14:55 14:4515:15 15:15 Afternoon Mabuiag 15:30 14:05 14:30 Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon Yorke 14:55 15:15 Yorke Bad Murray 16:00 Kubin 16:00 16:30 Kubin 16:30 create a profile and website will allow Horn 14:10 Badu 16:40 --17:10 Badu 17:10 Horn 13:45 -- --16:40 17:35 Horn Dest.16:3014:55 Arrive Horn 14:55 --Hor Horn --Depart Saibai 15:30 16:00 17:3514:55 -- Darnley Horn Horn --Depart Horn 17:35 -Arrive Depart Dest.

Dest.15:35 Arrive Depart Horn 17:30 Dest.-Arrive Depart Dest.

Arrive Coconut 17:00 Badu 16:40 17:10 Darnley 15:35 16:05 16:05 Badu 16:40 17:10 book your flights on Horn 17:30 -Horn 17:30 you -- to upload your Horn 17:35 -- --- 15:40 13:40 Horn Coming 14:15 Horn Horn 16:40 --Horn Horn --15:40 14:05 Horn -13:40 Horn Horn 16:25 -- 14:15 13:40 --Horn 14:05 Horn -13:40 Horn -14:15 Horn -- 16:55 Horn 17:30 -- --Soon our website.

Yorke Monday 16:25 16:55 Letter of Eligibility, Horn 17:30 Friday -- -- Yorke Thursday Tuesday Wednesday Mabuiag-- 16:00 14:0516:30 14:30 Yorke 14:55 15:15 Kubin Coconut 14:40 15:00 Horn -15:40 Mabuiag 14:05 14:30 Mabuiag 14:05 14:30 Horn 14:15 Boigu 14:45 15:15 Mabuiag 14:05 14:30 Book flights Yorke 14:55 Yorke 14:55 -- 15:15 Kubin 16:00 16:30Horn Afternoon create a14:55 profile and Horn Afternoon 17:35 15:15 -17:35 Afternoon Afternoon Afternoon Horn 14:5516:40 15:35 16:05 Murray 15:30 16:00 Horn 14:5516:30 -- Badu Horn 14:55 -Yorke 15:1517:10-- Darnley Saibai 15:30 16:00 Horn 14:5516:00-- Kubin tuned for more online using Dest.

ArriveHorn Depart Darnley 15:35 16:05 Darnley 16:05 Staybook Badu 16:4016:30 17:10 your flights Yorke on Dest.

Arrive Arrive Depart Horn -- Depart 15:40 Dest.

Arrive Depart Dest.

--15:35 15:40 Arrive Depart Dest.

16:25 16:55 Horn Horn 15:3517:30 -- --14:05 16:40-- 17:10 Horn 14:15 Horn -- 17:00 15:40Badu Darnley 16:05 16:40 -- Coconut Horn -14:05 Horn details.

Horn -13:40 Horn -13:40 --Horn 13:40 your LFS Coming Soon!

Horn -14:05 Horn our website.

-13:40 Horn Yorke 16:25 16:55 Yorke 16:25 16:55 Kubin 16:00 16:30 17:3017:35 -- Kubin 16:30--Yorke Horn 17:35 -Horn --16:30Horn 14:40 15:00 17:30 Yorke16:00 14:55 15:15 Coconut Kubin 16:00 16:25 16:55 Coconut 14:40 15:00 Horn -15:40 Yorke Darnley $150 Mabuiag 14:05 14:30 14:05 | 14:30 Mabuiag 14:05 14:30 14:45 15:15 Mabuiag 14:05 14:30 Mabuiag Book flights 17:35 --Boigu Horn --16:4014:15 Horn 17:35 -Horn Darnley Badu 16:40 17:10 Badu 16:40 17:10 Horn -15:40 Murray 16:00 15:35 16:05 Badu 17:10 Horn 17:35 15:30 -Murray 15:30 16:00 Kubin 16:00 16:30 Horn 14:55 -Horn 14:55 -- Yorke Horn 14:55 to ou Saibai 15:30 16:00 Horn 14:55 -Stay more 14:55 Kubin New updates 16:00 16:30 16:30for17:00 Horn -- tuned 15:40 Horn -- -- 15:40 online using Horn --16:25 Yorke17:30 16:55 Coconut Horn 17:3015:15 -- $100 Horn 17:30 -Coconut 16:30 17:00 Badu Horn -- 15:40 16:40 17:10 Kubin | Badu website will allow Horn -14:05 -14:15 Horn -15:40 Horn 16:40 -Horn -14:05 Horn Darnley 15:35 16:05 details.

Badu 16:40 17:10 Horn 17:35 -Kubin 16:00 16:30 Horn 17:35 -Horn 17:35 -Horn 17:30 -Kubin 16:00 16:30 your Kubin 16:00LFS 16:30 you to upload you Coconut 16:25 14:40 15:00 14:55 15:15 Kubin 16:00 16:30 Yorke Coconut 14:40 15:00 Horn -15:40 Horn Yorke 16:55 Horn -Badu -14:15 -14:15 Horn -- 17:10 15:40 Horn 16:40 17:10 Boigu | Saibai $150 Letter17:30 of Eligibility, Badu 16:40 17:10 Badu 16:40 Murray 15:30 16:00 15:35 16:05 Badu 16:40 17:10 Darnley Murray 15:30 16:00 Kubin 16:00 16:30 Yorke Horn 17:35 --14:55 15:15 Yorke17:30 14:55 15:15 Kubin 16:00 toHorn 16:30 create a profile and New updates our Coconut -- 16:30 17:00 17:3017:00 --Badu Horn 17:30 -Horn Yorke 16:25 16:55 Horn 17:30 -Coconut 16:30 16:40 17:10 Darnley Horn 15:40 15:35 16:05 15:35 16:05 Badu website16:40 17:10 Darnley Yam | Warraber $100 book your flights o will allow Horn 17:35 -Horn 17:35 -- Kubin Horn 17:35 -Horn 17:30 -our website.

Yorke 16:25Yorke 16:55| Darnley Yorke 16:25 16:55 Hornyou to upload 17:30 your -$15016:00 -- 16:30 Horn -14:15 Horn 14:15 Horn -15:40 Badu 16:40 17:10 Horn 17:35 -17:35 -Mabuiag $100 Letter of Eligibility, Horn Yorke 14:55 15:15 Yorke 14:55 -- 15:15 16:00 16:30 Stay tuned for mor create a profile and Horn Horn 17:30 Horn -15:40 Kubin -15:40 Kubin | Badu $100 15:35 16:05 Darnley 15:35 16:05 Darnley Badu 16:40 17:10 details.

9 June 2025 Kubin 16:00 16:30 Coconut | Murray $150 book your flights on KubinEffective 16:00 16:30 our website.

Yorke 16:25 16:55 Yorke 16:25 16:55 Horn 17:30 -$150 Badu 16:40 Yorke 17:10 | Darnley Badu 16:40 17:10 Boigu | Saibai Horn 17:35 -Horn$150 17:35 -Horn 17:30 -Horn 17:30 -Stay tuned for more Horn -15:40 Horn -15:40 All flights start and end at Horn Island. The advertised price is to travel between selected destinations on the same flight. details.

Travel between different flights (i.e., Boigu to Warraber)$150 requires Kubin | Badu $100 Yorke | Darnley Yam | Warraber $100 16:00 16:30 Kubin 16:00 16:30 Kubin a connection at Horn Island and purchase of an additional fare. The timetable is subject to change due to operational requirements and public holidays.

Badu 16:40 17:10 Badu 16:40 17:10 for up-to-date and accurate flight information.

Kubin | Badu $100 Boigu |Please Saibairefer to our website Horn $15017:30 Horn 17:30 --Mabuiag $100

Coming Soon!

Book flights J online using Coming Soon!

J

your LFS Book flights J online using J your LFS

J

E: LFS@flyhav.com

Islands

Cost (LFS)

Ph: 1300 FLYHAV

Islands E: LFS@flyhav.com : Hinterland Aviation

Cost (LFS)

Islands E: Ph:LFS@flyhav.com 1300 FLYHAV : hinterlandaviation_

Cost (LFS)

: Hinterland Aviation Ph: 1300 FLYHAV

E: LFS@flyhav.com

lands FLYHAV Cost (LFS Ph:Is1300 E: LFS@flyhav.com

n Isla ds Cost (LFS): Hinterland Aviation

E: LFS@flyhav.com

Ph: 1300 FLYHAV

Yam | Warraber IslanCoconut ds | MurrayCost (LFS)

$100 $150

$150 Boigu | Saibai $150 Effective 9 June 2025 Kubin | Badu : hinterlandaviation_ Yam | Warraber $100 : Hinterland Aviation $100 Mabuiag $100 Yorke | Darnley $150 Boigu | Saibai $150 Mabuiag $100 All flights start and end at Horn Island. The advertised price is to travel between selected destinations on the same flight. Travel between different flightsstart (i.e., Boigu toHorn Warraber) requires All flights and end at2025 Island. The advertised price is to t Effective 9 June Coconut | Murray $150 Kubin | Badu $100 Yam | Warraber $100 : Hinterland Aviation a connection at Horn Island and purchase of an additional fare. The timetable is subject to change due to operational requirements and public holidays. a connection at Horn Island and purchase Coconut | Murray $150 of an : hinterlandaviation_ Please refer to our website for up-to-date and accurate flight information.

Please re Boigu | Saibai $150 Mabuiag $100

:: Hinterland Aviation hinterlandaviation_ E: LFS@flyhav.com

Ph: 1300 FLYHAV

Yorke | Darnley

: hinterlandaviation_ Ph: 1300 FLYHAV

All flights start and end at Horn Island. The advertised priceYam to| Warraber travel between selected destinations the same flight. between different (i.e., Boigu to Warraber) start and end|at Horn Travel Island. The advertised price isflights to travel between selected destinations on the same fligh Effective 9requires June 2025 $100All flightson : Hinterland Aviation Coconut Murray $150 : ishinterlandaviation_ a connection at Horn Island and purchase of anand additional The timetable is subject to change du a connection at Horn Island and purchase of an additional fare. The timetable is subject to change due to operational requirements publicfare. holidays.

Please refer to our website for up-to-date and accurate flight in

NEWS 03

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025

Rikisha wins law society’s top student award Congratulations to Rikisha Phineasa on winning the First Nations Student Award at the Queensland Law Society (QLS) Excellence in Law Awards held last weekend.

Rikisha is a proud Torres Strait Islander woman and finalyear Law and Arts (Indigenous Studies) student at James Cook University.

She is a Litigation Support Officer at Legal Aid Queensland, supporting access to justice for vulnerable Queenslanders.

Passionate about communityled change, Rikisha has held key leadership roles, including Secretary of the Townsville First Nations Youth Council and Tertiary Leader with Cape York Partnerships.

After her work on a statewide Indigenous leadership program, Rikisha has stepped into national advisory roles

Rikisha (centre) at the 2025 Qld Law Society Excellence in Law Awards Gala. Pic supplied. with the National Indigenous Youth Education Coalition (NIYEC) Youth Design Group and the Commonwealth Office

for Youth First Nations Youth Advisory Group, contributing to shaping federal education and youth policy.

Legal Aid Queensland also congratulated Rikisha on her achievement.

Well done, Rikisha!

Scan the QR code to register

Roads and infrastructure funding flows in A number of highpriority infrastructure projects have been identified in the Cook Electorate as part of the Crucial Access Links Program funded by the state and federal governments’ Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements to protect critical infrastructure for some of Queensland’s most remote communities.

After close collaboration with councils during the planning phase, local member for Cook, David Kempton, said the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA) was prioritising the delivery of these projects to benefit local communities.

“Councils have identified these highpriority infrastructure projects through their Regional Resilience Strategies and Local Resilience Action Plans,” he said.

The Crucial Access Links Program was funded under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery

LEFT: Member for Cook David Kempton with Minister for Local Government and Water and Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy. RIGHT: Leichhardt MP Matt Smith, in the NPA earlier this week to meet with Council CEO Dalassa Yorkston, Deputy Mayor Cr Mary Yoelu and Mayor Robert PoiPoi. Pics supplied.

Funding Arrangements (DRFA). By securing key transport routes, the program aimed to keep rural and remote communities connected and ensure critical access during times of disaster.

Managed by the QRA, the program allowed councils to repair and upgrade airstrips, boat ramps and seaports in communities regularly isolated by extreme weather.

The Crucial Access Links projects included: • Northern Peninsula

Area Regional Council: Northern Peninsula Airport runway upgrade • Torres Strait Island Regional Council: Boigu Island Airport apron upgrade.

MEANWHILE, Leichhardt MP Matt Smith has announced the Injinoo Back Road will also be upgraded under critical infrastructure funding arrangements.

Mr Smith was in the NPA earlier this week to speak to Council about

the road upgrades.

“Road connectivity is more than being able to pop to the local shop, it’s also about access to education and healthcare,” he said.

The project was one of 23 in regional and rural Australia to get funding through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program (SLRIP), an initiative of the Government designed to increase productivity and make local roads and bridges safer and more resilient.

The upgrade in Injinoo, which will be delivered by the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council, will create 2.99km of unsealed road to sealed formation.

“The sealing of this section of road and improving its flood resilience is essential for connectivity for this part of the community,” Mr Smith said. “Road safety is so important, and I am proud to work with Council on delivering this essential project.”

COUNTDOWN TO WINDS OF ZENADTH CULTURAL FESTIVAL... 33 DAYS TO GO!

04 NEWS

THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025 TORRES NEWS

Support for strong climate targets in national poll results Climate Action Network Program Director Barry Traill.

TN1134 12 issues: 7/8/25 to 23/10/25

AdsIN E ExcelE Dummy E 18x2 18x2 [36] colour ad @ discounted NFP rate (FY25/26 $3.25) $117 incl. per ad x 12 $1404 incl. total.

Pauline Vella <finance@cclc.org.au> or pauline@cclc.org.au

Seniors SeniorsLegal Legal&& Social SocialSupport Support Service Service

Free support for older people in the Cape York & Torres Strait regions concerned about abuse, mistreatment or financial FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND, CAPE YORK matters. & TORRES STRAIT REGIONS Are you:  Worried someone is taking advantage of your money?  Feeling unsafe?  In need of some extra support?

We can provide free legal and social support for:  People agedwith 60 years and older We can assist free legal and social  Aboriginal and/or Strait Islander support for people 60Torres years and older, or aged 50for years olderPeoples.

50Peoples years and older Firstand Nations

A new national poll shows the majority of Australians support stronger climate action – including setting a strong 2035 climate target – as the Productivity Commission warns climate damage is a major drag on the economy.

A survey of more than 1500 Australians found more than three-quarters (77 per cent) wanted the government’s climate plan to aim to limit risks from extreme weather events such as bushfires.

It was a view shared across the political spectrum, including three in four major party voters.

Six in 10 Australians

(61 per cent) think the Federal Government should do more on climate change.

Just 13 per cent of Australians thought the government should do less to limit the impacts of extreme weather events.

Concern about unnatural disasters was shared by the Productivity Commission, which last week found climate damage from escalating extreme weather events was a major risk to Australia’s productivity, and investment was needed to cut pollution and protect homes.

The government was expected to reveal its plan for setting a new

Sports integrity survey

Injinoo’s new welcome sign

Have your say on the future of sport in Australia!

The Australian Sports Commission is calling on athletes, clubs, coaches, volunteers and fans to share what facilities and infrastructure are needed to support sport at all levels.

Whether it’s your local oval or a highperformance centre, your voice matters.

Let’s help shape safe, inclusive, and integritydriven spaces for sport.

Open until Monday, 18 August 2025.

Injinoo has a new welcome sign featuring ‘art from the heart’ by award-winning artist and Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) artistic director Teho Ropeyarn.

The three-metre-high sign now welcomes the world to his home town and was recently unveiled by his proud mum, Jennifer Ropeyarn.

The project was two years in planning by the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council alongside local language and art experts.

NPARC Mayor Robert Poi Poi said the sign was a welcome to the rich history of Injinoo.

Designed by former manager of the NPA Art Centre Dev Lengjel, the Injinoo Welcome sign also displays traditional language Injinoo Ikaya,

Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie.

Pics supplied. targets were “solidly mainstream positions in Australia”.

“MPs can’t afford to turn their backs on people losing their lives, their savings and their

homes,” he said.

“Climate denial has and will continue to be punished at the ballot box. Australians want real action to protect lives and livelihoods.”

Smol Yarn

Complete the survey here: https://zurl.co/ fVr2D

XTREMECARE AUSTRALIA ‘THE FNQ’S LEADING NDIS PROVIDER’ Xtremecare Australia offers NDIS Support Coordination and Plan Management services in the Torres Straits (including Outer Islands) and NPA communities.

Do you live in the NPA or Torres Strait Region and want Xtremecare to be your Support Coordinator or Plan Manager?

Visit our Thursday Island office or phone us on 07 5514 6500.

07 5514 6500

climate target for 2035

by September.

“We know that setting a strong 2035 climate target will help protect Australians from climate harm while driving new jobs and economic opportunities,” Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie said.

“Now, this new polling confirms that strong climate targets are popular too.

“Voters’ concerns about extreme weather are justifiably growing more urgent.”

The Climate Action Network Program Director Barry Traill said support for credible climate action and strong, science-backed pollution reduction

XTREMECARE THURSDAY ISLAND OFFICE 53 Douglas Street, www.xtremecareaustralia.com.au THURSDAY ISLAND QLD 4875

Official unveiling of the new Injinoo welcome sign. Pic thanks to NPARC. curated by local linguists Sandra Woosup and Roy MacDonald.

Rego’s open for Reef Clean-up Registrations have officially opened for the 2025 Great Barrier Reef Clean-up, a flagship initiative of Tangaroa Blue Foundation’s

ReefClean® program, delivered in collaboration with Clean Up Australia.

Running throughout October, the event invites schools, businesses, community groups and individuals across the Reef catchment to host cleanups at their local beach,

creek, river or reef.

Participants receive free clean-up kits and support to organise their event, making it easy to take part in protecting Australia’s iconic Great Barrier Reef.

Register a clean-up and receive your free clean-up kits at www. reefclean.org

NEWS 05 Celebrating Spring with free gardening workshop

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025

Child safety inquiry announces Cairns hearing The Commission of Inquiry into Child Safety has announced it will hold its first regional hearing in Cairns early next month.

The public hearing will begin on Monday, 8 September and will last for about seven to 10 days.

The Inquiry will hear evidence from various government and nongovernment departments, peak industry bodies representing carers, residential care providers and First Nations organisations, foster carers, kinship carers and frontline workers, among others.

The announcement followed the Commission’s visit to Far North Queensland.

The Commissioner, the Honourable Paul Anastassiou KC, said he and his team spent a week in Cairns, consulting widely, to gain firsthand insight from the community.

“I want to thank the Cairns community, particularly the groups and individuals I have spoken to, for coming forward and sharing their experiences and stories with us,” Mr Anastassiou said.

“Community input is vital, which is why this Inquiry is taking a ground-up approach to ensure those with direct experiences of how the child safety system works and its strengths and challenges are heard.

“This will enable the inquiry to make informed recommendations for any necessary and practical reforms to the system.

“In Cairns, my team and I met with foster and kinship carers, outreach service workers, Department employees, representatives of the Office of the Public Guardian and community visitors, as well as a delegation of officers within the Queensland Police Service and council.”

Call for submissions The Commission of Inquiry has called on Far North Queenslanders with relevant insights about child safety concerns in Cairns, the Hinterland and Cape York to make submissions to help it identify issues on the front line at its first public hearing in Cairns.

The Commission has published an information document relating to the hearing on 8 September.

The first public hearing will hear from a range of witnesses about the challenges affecting those within the child protection system in the region.

Mr Anastassiou said he was keen to hear from as many parties as possible.

“The paramount aim of this Inquiry is to improve the lives and futures of children and young people,” Mr Anastassiou said.

“If you have information that will deepen our understanding about issues ‘on the ground’, then we want to hear from you.

“I am particularly interested to ensure the unfiltered voices of children and young people who are or were in state care are heard clearly during this Commission.

“Your input is important and valued.”

Since the Commission of Inquiry into Child Safety opened in July, it has received over 200 submissions.

Mr Anastassiou thanked those who have made submissions to date.

“Please be assured all submissions made to the Commission are reviewed and assessed

by Commission staff and form part of the body of material that will inform this Commission’s work,” he said.

To make a submission, visit the Commission’s website at https://www. childsafetyinquiry.qld. gov.au/submissions

The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) is set to celebrate spring with a free garden workshop on Thursday Island on Saturday, 6 September.

TSRA’s sustainable horticulture expert George Saveka said the half-day event would blend traditional wisdom with modern practices on gardening in the Torres Strait.

“Come along and learn how to combine cultural knowledge and the latest gardening techniques to grow fresh, healthy fruit and vegetables in our region,” Mr Saveka said.

“Spring is the perfect season to have a go at planting

cabbage, corn, sweet potato, cucumber, ginger and herbs like basil and oregano.

“You never know what you can grow in the Torres Strait.”

The free community event will include hands-on demonstrations and mini workshops of up to 20 minutes each, plus gardening prize draws sponsored by CEQ’s Mitre 10.

Sessions will cover how to use hydroponics, fertiliser and propagation to grow gardens with little land and water, plus biosecurity tips, nutrition advice, garden cooking demos and more.

Community can also join the ‘crop swap’ and bring their

own fruit, veggies and plants to share.

TSRA Chairperson George Nona said the garden workshop supported food sustainability, community connection and healthy, active lifestyle choices.

“The free event as part

of TSRA’s Mekem Garden initiative brings together the best of our Torres Strait traditions with new ways to grow healthy and nutritious food locally,” Mr Nona said.

“Our Elders taught us the value of growing and eating food straight from the land.

This workshop brings our heritage into the present with practical steps for home gardening.

“Fresh, homegrown kaikai is good for our families, our environment and healthy communities.”

A fundraiser barbecue will also be hosted by the Sacred Heart Church.

Story continued & pic PAGE 6 N

2025 Torres Strait Women’s Leadership Program Step up and make a difference in your community SESSION ONE: 13–17 October 2025, Brisbane SESSION TWO: 1–5 December 2025, Thursday Island Do you: » Want to help shape the future of your community » Want to connect with other Torres Strait leaders » Want to build more confidence in your leadership » Want to explore your options as a leader

Take part in group activities, storytelling, and conversations that: » Help you understand yourself and how you work with others » Improve your communication and advocacy skills » Explore your leadership values and ways to influence change » Honour your lived experience while introducing new ways of thinking

Applications are now open for women aged 21+

APPLY NOW

Scholarships available through the Torres Strait Regional Authority.

rural-leaders.org.au

To speak to someone, reach out to Annette Simpson programs@rural-leaders.org.au 0432 018 442

06 NEWS Celebrating Spring with free workshop

THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025 TORRES NEWS

Busy times for state HR Commissioner

Scott McDougall “at the tip”.

TSRA’s sustainable horticulture expert George Saveka. Pic supplied.

M Continued from PAGE 5 The free gardening workshop is led by TSRA with Torres Shire Council and supported by partners Community Enterprise Queensland – including Mitre 10 Thursday Island – and the Queensland Government through Biosecurity Queensland.

Free garden workshop Saturday 6 September 2025, 9am-12pm Anzac Park, Thursday Island All welcome – no registrations needed!

Proudly led by Torres Strait Regional Authority and Torres Shire Council in partnership with Community Enterprise Queensland and the Queensland Government – Biosecurity Queensland.

For more information, contact TSRA’s George Saveka on 0437 581 005 or George.Saveka@ tsra.gov.au

Tanam Sabatino with Queensland Human Rights Commissioner Scott McDougall and Milton Savage. Pics supplied.

Queensland Human Rights Commissioner Scott McDougall paid visits to Thursday Island and the NPA, and attended the Garma Festival over the past few weeks.

Since becoming the Commissioner in 2018, Mr McDougall has tried to visit people and places which have been important to him.

The Queensland Human Rights Commissioner advocates for First Nations rights and youth justice laws across the state.

He said it had been a significant week of learning, listening and continuing to advocate.

On Thursday Island, he

visited the Torres Shire Council, Watchhouse and Police Station and Community Justice Group, as well as Port Kennedy Elders and the Torres Strait Island Regional Council.

He then went to the NPA and visited the Council and Justice Services.

At the Garma Festival, Mr McDougall featured on a human rights panel supporting selfdetermination for First Nations communities with Australian Human Rights Commission President, Commissioner Katie Kiss, and Commissioner Jeswynn Yogaratnam.

The Queensland Human Rights Commission has also produced the Rights Made Real:

Podcasters Kaleb Mabo and Solua Middleton.

Gathering Strength podcast, which has community members and leaders speak about what’s happening for First Nations peoples’ human rights around Australia.

Host Solua Middleton spoke with guests including

Mick Gooda, Professor Marcia Langton, Thomas Mayo and Kaleb Mabo for an inside look at how they were tackling the challenges and opportunities.

To listen to the four-part series or for more information, visit www.qhrc.qld.gov.au

16th 16t 6 h JU 6t JUNE UNE U NE - 24t 24th 4 hA 4t AUG UG 202 U 2025 02 0 5 - SALE ENDS SOON - SALE ENDS SOON - SALE ENDS SOON - SALE ENDS SOON -

On Sale 16th June to 24th August 2025 inclusive. While stock lasts, no rain checks.

Savings based on normal sell price at time of print.

@ceqld.org.au

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025

07

08

THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025 TORRES NEWS

TAGAI STATE COLLEGE

YUMI College News Maiem: Sew Ngapa, Tagai State College recently marked School Support Staff Appreciation Week, a dedicated time to acknowledge the outstanding contribution of non-teaching staff across all 17 campuses.

From office staff to groundskeepers, teacher aides to cleaners, these individuals play a critical role in the daily operations of the college and in supporting the wellbeing and success of students.

Coincidentally, the appreciation week took place during a day of industrial action by Queensland Teachers Union members of our teaching staff. On that day, the college relied heavily on our support teams, who

demonstrated exceptional professionalism and teamwork. While many campuses did not have students or teachers on site, several remained partially operational, and support staff ensured students were safe and that classrooms and facilities were prepared for learning to resume the next day. Their efforts ensured minimal disruption and highlighted their vital role in school life.

Support staff at Tagai are more than operational team members—they are community knowledge holders, cultural guides, and educators in their own right.

They help sustain local campus traditions and work closely with students to build core skills in language, literacy, and numeracy.

Their close connection to the communities they serve adds depth and relevance to the

educational experience.

Tagai continues to encourage community members to consider applying for support staff roles as they arise. These roles are essential to the fabric of the college and offer meaningful opportunities to contribute to student success.

The college is proud of its growing First Nations leadership. Sixteen campuses now have qualified First Nations teachers, and seven campuses are led by First Nations Heads of Campus. Together with active P&Cs and TSIREC members, this leadership ensures that Tagai remains deeply connected to Torres Strait cultures, values, and aspirations.

In recent weeks, Executive staff have visited campuses on Mer (Murray Island), Badu, and Ngurupai (Horn Island). Across each site, there was a noticeable consistency in quality of practice—from classroom routines to community engagement. This reflects a whole-of-college commitment to delivering a high standard of education, no matter the location.

The strength of Tagai lies in its people.

Whether in leadership, teaching, or support roles, our staff are united in a shared mission: Empowering Yumi – Delivering Prapa Pathways for all students across Zenadth Kes. Jeff Jones, Executive Principal

Positive Culture and High Expectations Shine at Dauan Campus During my recent visit to Dauan Campus on Friday, 25 July 2025, I had the privilege of witnessing some remarkable growth and positive change, particularly in the areas of student engagement, the campus environment, and classroom tone. These shifts are a true testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire school community.

One of the most memorable moments of my visit was the morning Positive Culture for Learning (PCL) parade, led by Mrs Binawell.

The focus was on reinforcing the PCL routines, including Exercise, Breath, Blow, Cough and Wash. I observed a noticeable calmness and confidence in the students—far more than on previous visits. This was a clear result of the high expectations and consistent routines implemented by Acting Head of Campus, Mrs Liz Southwell, and the collaborative culture she has fostered with the Dauan team. Students responded positively, demonstrating how setting clear behavioural expectations from the outset can establish a respectful and focused school culture.

I would also like to acknowledge the valuable contributions of DRTs Dearne Newburn and Hayden Fritz, who began the term at Dauan.

Their work in supporting the alignment of staff behaviours with college expectations played a key role in laying the foundation for the progress we are now seeing across the campus.

As Dr Chris Sarra’s research reminds us, setting high expectations is essential to student success. When students are clear about what is expected of them and feel supported in reaching those expectations, they rise to meet them. The positive shift in student behaviour at Dauan is powerful evidence of this principle in action.

The campus itself was also a standout. The grounds were clean, organised, and well maintained—a reflection of the excellent work by Miss Melly Elisalah. Her efficient use of equipment and focus on high-traffic areas has helped create a welcoming and studentfriendly space, with plans to extend this work to other areas of the campus.

Inside the classrooms, I observed calm, purposeful learning environments where students were engaged and confident.

Learning walls and bump-it-up walls were clearly aligned with the Term 3 curriculum, and routines were firmly embedded. Students demonstrated automaticity in their learning and a strong sense of pride in their work. The tone was positive, consistent, and supportive—fostering a space where students are not only expected to succeed but are given the structure and encouragement to do so.

The improvements in student behaviour and classroom engagement are a direct reflection of the high expectations set by Mrs Southwell and her team. These expectations go beyond rules and routines—they are grounded in a belief that every student can achieve, regardless of their background or previous challenges. As Dr Sarra highlights, high expectations are about building belief, resilience, and potential. Dauan Campus is bringing this philosophy to life with inspiring results.

It was incredibly rewarding to witness the cultural and academic growth at Dauan. The commitment to student success is clearly visible, and I look forward to seeing how the campus continues to grow and thrive in the months ahead. Stay tuned for more updates from Dauan Campus as they continue to create an environment where high expectations lead to extraordinary outcomes.

Yolanda McLean Head of School

09

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025

Iama Campus Celebrates NAIDOC Day On Friday 25 July, Iama Campus proudly celebrated NAIDOC Day under this year’s theme, “The Next Generation – Strength, Vision and Legacy.”

Iama Ngurpay Lag

Students engaged in a variety of cultural activities, including coconut scraping, storytelling, local map design,

weaving, and traditional art.

The celebrations culminated in vibrant island dancing and singing performances, followed by a shared Kai Kai with family and community members.

The event was a true reflection of the strength and pride of

the Torres Strait culture, with students actively learning from and connecting with Elders and community leaders.

Iama Campus extends a heartfelt thank you to GBK, Iama Rangers, Elders, the Parents and Citizens’ Association, Councillor Aggie

Hankin, and all community members for their generous support. Your contributions made this celebration a meaningful and memorable occasion, honouring culture, identity, and the next generation.

Head of Campus: Travers Southwell Semester 1 Attendance - 44 Students enrolled

Current

75% (33 students)

Target Goal

90% (40 students)

Ugar Campus Celebrates World Rangers Day with Ugaram Rangers On Thursday 31st July 2025, Ugar Eruer Uteb proudly celebrated World Rangers Day at the island’s wharf gazebo alongside the Ugaram Rangers, parents, and the local community.

Ugar

Eruer Uteb

Head of Campus: Maryann Tamwoy Semester 1 Attendance - 14 Students enrolled

Current

75% (11 students)

Target Goal

90% (13 students)

The celebration featured two informative displays set up by the Rangers, showcasing photos of their projects and the tools they use to care for the land and sea. Students were fascinated by the visual displays, which highlighted the vital work Rangers carry out

across the island.

Following the exhibition, students were divided into two groups to participate in handson replanting activities—one near the Anglican Church and the other at the wharf gazebo.

These activities perfectly complemented the school’s integrated unit, Let it Grow, sparking questions about planting, erosion, and environmental care from eager young minds.

Ranger Stephen reflected on the day, saying, “It was incredible to see the kids light up with curiosity and connection to nature. Not just the children, but this event also brought the community together to participate in planting at the farewell sign garden.”

A heartfelt au esoau to our local Ugaram Rangers—Ranger Supervisor Bob Modee and Senior Ranger Gloria Stephen—for inviting us to celebrate this special day.

FOR MORE INFORMATION (07) 4030 6333

contact@tagaisc.eq.edu.au

tagaisc.eq.edu.au

We also extend our thanks to the parents and community members who helped make the event memorable.

The day concluded with a shared BBQ lunch before students returned to school, full of inspiration and new knowledge. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with the Ugaram Rangers and thank them for the incredible work they do to care for Country and community.

Tagai State College Navigating YUMI to a successful future

10 NEWS

THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025 TORRES NEWS

Lifeline for the digital divide in remote studies

ABOVE: Florence Mosby, Franceska Kebisu & Jomas Mareko-Kebisu unpacking their new laptops.

LEFT: Franceska smiles as she unboxes new laptops with Florence.

Florence & Franceska with new laptops.

Torres Strait Kaziw Meta has received 80 refurbished laptops as part of a national initiative to bridge the digital divide in Zenadth Kes. The donation came through the First Nations Device Bank (FNDB), an innovative program launched by WorkVentures in 2024 with the support of ACCAN and nbn.

The initiative aimed to tackle Closing the Gap Target 17 through enhanced digital inclusion for First Nations Australians.

Torres Strait Kaziw Meta CEO Thomas Dunsmore said the donation was a game-changer for the boarding facility, who were committed to helping outer island boarders excel in their schoolwork.

“These devices will provide boarders with the tools to participate in online learning, build foundational digital skills and expand their future opportunities,” said Mr Dunsmore.

“We are grateful to WorkVentures for this significant donation to support boarders and their education.

“Access to reliable technology and stable internet should be a basic right, not a barrier.”

Boarders had access to refurbished HP ProBook 360s, donated by WorkVentures’ corporate partner CHGMERIDIAN and came fully equipped with essential software, digital training materials, and six

months of technical support.

WorkVentures Digital Projects & Partnerships Project Manager Karen Stephen said the FNDB collected devices from corporates and government organisations and redistributed them to First Nations communities through co-designed partnerships.

“Our model ensures devices are fit for purpose and tailored to community needs,” Mrs Stephen said.

“For Torres Strait Kaziw Meta, this meant a consistent fleet of the same model laptops, making it easier for both boarders and staff.”

For local educators such as Levi Dugger, a secondary teacher at Tagai State College and Torres Strait Kaziw Meta, the benefits of this program extended beyond the screen.

“Many of our boarders have never had a personal laptop,” he said.

“These devices will allow them to complete assignments, research, and safely explore the internet.

“These basic skills that are taken for granted elsewhere, but transformative here.”

The Device Bank not only provided laptops but ensured wraparound digital training and mentoring support to build long-term capability as well.

This resonated deeply with digital advocate, local business owner and the 2024 Innovate with nbn Indigenous Business Award winner Kantesha Ward.

“The future of work is driven

by technological advancements and digital economies,” she said.

“However, remote communities like many in the Torres Strait are struggling to keep up for many reasons, and one is accessibility.”

Kantesha connected WorkVentures with Torres Strait Kaziw Meta after identifying an accessibility gap at the boarding facility.

“I hope to support young people in developing their digital literacy levels, create interest in STEM and encourage them to pursue remote work opportunities that allow them to remain on island and work for any company across the globe - or start their own,” she said.

The 80 laptops were part of a broader shipment of 200 laptops to be distributed across the Torres Strait as part of the FNDB’s pilot rollout.

The program was underscored by research showing a 23.5-point digital inclusion gap for Torres Strait Islanders compared to the national average; a stark contrast to the national First Nations average of 7.5 points.

It was a divide particularly felt in education, employment, and telehealth access.

Mr Dunsmore said it was about more than laptops.

“It’s about unlocking potential, building futures, and ensuring our young people can thrive in the modern world without having to leave their identity behind,” he said.

Florence Mosby, Franceska Kebisu, Jake Sam & Jomas Mareko-Kebisu with new laptops.

Pics by Rozahlia Dorante & Laura de Jersey.

ABOVE: Jake Sam and Jomas MarekoKebisu with new laptops.

LEFT: Franceska Kebisu with new laptop.

Jake Sam unboxing.

11

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025

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.

Thursday, 24 July 2025 EDITORIAL l M: 0419

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

656 277 l E: christine@torres.ne ws

ADVERTISING l M: 0419

MPs on listening journe y to

Torres Strrat Island Regional Council Mayor Phillemon Mosby, Aven Noah, Alfred Passi, Local Member David Kemption, Premier David Crisafulli & TSIRC Cr Bobby Kaigey on Mer last week.

Phone: (02) 66 222 666

US NEWSPAP ER – 100%

ABORIGIN AL-OWNE D 100%

l Edition 189 l $2 incl. GST

828 639 l E: ads@torres.n

ews

ailans

SELF-FUN DING

PUBLISHED SINCE 1991

WEDNESDAY, JULY 16, 2025

Recommended price $2.99

www.koorimail.com

Wa r a k u r n a Superheroes shine at French photo festival

BY CHRISTINE HOWES

Premier David Crisafulli and Member for Cook David Kempton visited several islands in Zenadth Kes last week.

The visit was an opportunity to have “broad-ranging conversation” about issues of concern in the Torres Strait

with locals on Horn, Thursday, Saibai and Mer islands.

They also met with the Mayors, Cr Elsie Seriat, Cr Phillemon Mosby and Cr Robert PoiPoi, and Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Chairperson George Nona.

As part of their visit, they took a walk around the Waiben CEQ supermarket, spoke with local border and quaranti ne

officials on Saibai and did a tour of Mer’s health faciliti es.

“Last week we got the opportunity to spend more time in this beautiful part of the state,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“Local member David Kempton and I were able to listen directly to communiti es, so our Government can deliver what matters to this region.

Pages 32-33

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!

(GST-inclusive)

“It’s also great to hear firsthand that all three councils are working together to better their communities and boost tourism opportunities.”

Mr Kempton said it was very much a listening expediti on by the Premier.

“He didn’t go up there to make any grand announcements or make any big promises,” he said.

Pic supplied.

THE NATIONAL INDIGENO

EDITION 855

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.

“Whilst up there we talked about the cost of living, issues around the cost of constructing houses, health, transport is a massive issue, together with the cost of transport and the on-fl ow [that has] into housing and cost of living, and so on.”

Story continued and more

pics on PAGE 4 N

Providing local em employment in your community for mo more than 35 years Sea Swift is

one of the largest employers emp in the region, and we ourselves on making a pride significant contribution cont to the employment and development of local skill Aboriginal and Torres To Strait Islander people in remote communities across Northern N Australia.

We have an 80%-90%

First Nations N workforce in our remote depots and on our remote vessels

Pic by Dean Saffron.

OS

Live schedules festival the at ww www.seaswift w French photo ww ww f .com.au | Con ft opens at prestigious created in.seaswift Connect with us on social Photography from Australia David Charles Collins and Kieran Lawson, media! stage as On Country: a series by Tony Albert, talent has taken centre AUSTRALIA’S photographicto the exhibition are the Warakurna Superheroes, of Warakurna.

Central Territory community Rencontres d’Arles. from the remote Northern collaboration with children

National NAIDOC winne Female Elder

Person of the Year

Male Elder

is a Gomeroi Uncle Harry Phillip Hall prominent man Daniel Hunt a Jaru and Indjibarndi and Euahlayi man and extensive work Aunty Rosalie leader. He is also was recognised for his Western Australia Elder life to Aboriginal community worked her rights activist and has in Aboriginal health.

Kickett has dedicated I turn to most … a human people, most within “Legacy is the thing empowering Aboriginal in public service, including than 60 have come Aboriginal men. for more because it is those who recently incarcerated who really Indigenous affairs to her parents, before us, those trailblazers, She dedicated her award died from years.

Dr Hunt said. who have paved the way," and her late daughter gender-based violence.

rs

Lifetime Achievement

“Best of the Torres News” will be inserted into the Koori Mail on a quarterly basis.

man Anmatjere and Marranunggu recognised for Michael Long OAM was racism his leadership to address for within the AFL and advocate all reminds Indigenous rights. He is a Australians that reconciliation together. journey we must take

Boorloo’s celebration - inside Pictures and stories from

Why advertise in our “Best of the Torres News” insert?

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

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.

For all advertising enquiries or bookings, please contact: Sharon “Shaz” Gallery  0419 828 639 J  ads@torres.news 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

12 ART NEWS

THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025 TORRES NEWS

Dear Son takes Mayo’s book from the page to the stage

ABOVE: Dear Son cast – Trevor Jamieson, Waangenga Blanco, Jimi Bani, Kirk Page & Aaron Pederson. Pic supplied by Queensland Theatre.

LEFT: Jimi Bani on stage. Pic supplied by Queensland Theatre.

A theatre adaptation of Thomas Mayo’s book Dear Son was a great success in Brisbane earlier this year.

Though the curtain may have closed for the final time on the world premiere season at the Bille Brown Theatre, the show will go on, touring Adelaide this month until tomorrow night and then onto Sydney in January.

The all-star cast included Aaron Pedersen, Jimi Bani, Waangenga Blanco, Trevor Jamieson and Kirk Page.

These seasoned actors brought the book to life and the Queensland audiences and critics loved it.

Mayo’s book was an anthology of powerful letters of love, hope and healing from First Nations fathers and sons.

Published in 2021, the book was a literary celebration of First Nations manhood, culture, resistance and family, featuring letters by Mayo himself to his father and son, and twelve other Indigenous men he invited to write letters including Stan Grant, Troy Cassar-Daley, Johnny Liddle, Charlie King, Joe Williams, Yessie Mosby, Joel Bayliss, Daniel James, Jack Latimore, Daniel Morrison, Tim Sculthorpe and Blak Douglas.

State Theatre Company South Australia Artistic Director Petra Kalive said it was an inspired idea to adapt the book into a piece of theatre with playwrights Isaac Drandic and John Hervey.

“It’s a profound exploration of First Nations fatherhood, culture, and resilience,” Ms Kalive said.

“This combination – Thomas Mayo, Isaac Drandic and John Harvey – and the fabulous creative team they have

Danielle Ah Boo, Patrick Mau, Jimi Bani & Susie Toolis. Pic supplied by Danielle Ah Boo.

ABOVE: Thomas Mayo with his children and the Dear Son book. Pic supplied by Thomas Mayo.

LEFT: Cast and crew with the Mayo Family.

Pic supplied by Josh Woning.

RIGHT: Thomas Mayo & Danielle Ah Boo. Pic supplied by Danielle Ah Boo.

assembled, is honestly unbeatable.

“We don’t see many Australian stories that centre fatherhood, especially from a First Nations perspective.

“State Theatre Company South Australia is so proud to be partnering with Queensland Theatre on what promises to be a powerful and unmissable work – one that celebrates the strength and vulnerability of Indigenous men, challenges stereotypes, and invites deeper understanding.”

Dear Son opened at the Odeon Theatre in Adelaide on 26 July.

After Mr Mayo attended the opening night in Brisbane with his children, he said on social media that he hadn’t expected Dear Son to become a play.

“I’m so happy it has and wow, it is really something special,” he said.

“For those who don’t know, Dear Son – Letters and Reflections from First Nations Fathers was a defiant response to the stereotyping of Indigenous men and how the colonisers strategically worked at disempowering us – our pride in ourselves and our place in our families and communities – to be able to exploit our labour, our people, our land.

“It was also written to reflect on what it is to be a man-to face up to mistakes, flaws, and how we could be better as men.”

Mr Mayo recently announced that the book would soon be updated in a second edition.

“I’m working on a second edition of the book, it will be ready in time for Father’s Day 2027,” he said.

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025

ART NEWS 13

Mabo pushes the ‘Boundaries’

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

PIC 2.

PIC 1.

PIC 3.

PIC 4.

Gail Mabo’s Wer Wer 1, 2025, Dry point etching and collagraph print on 300gsm Hahnemühle etching paper. 75 x 98.5cm. Edition 1/4. Pic by Amanda Galea.

A deeply personal and culturally significant new body of work by Meriam artist Gail Mabo pays tribute to her father, Edward Koiki Mabo, by drawing inspiration from the original handdrawn maps of land boundaries on Mer. Gail Mabo has reimagined the original drawn maps, previously only shared during the historic court case, through a new series of large-scale prints.

“These maps reflect the way our people understand and respect Country, lineage and ownership,” Ms Mabo said.

“Wer Wer (Boundaries) honours my father’s fight and acknowledges the families who carry these boundaries forward.”

The works were created over an intensive residency in The Studio at Umbrella in Townsville, and collaboratively printed with technical assistance

by Dian Darmansjah, an artist and master printmaker. Working together, Ms Mabo was introduced to carborundum collagraph and drypoint etching techniques, which resulted in a highly textured, sophisticated new series that expanded her practice into new territory.

“These maps are my interpretation of my father’s hand-drawn maps, which are now part of the National Library collection in the Mabo Papers,”

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

Just email us your pic of Ailan Life along with your name, phone number and a 25-word description to ads@torres.news This week we have entries from four of our readers!

Gail Mabo tracing her father’s maps in The Studio at Umbrella during intensive residency in The Studio at Umbrella, collaboratively printed with technical assistance by Dian Darmansjah. Pic by Erin Ricardo.

Ms Mabo said.

Wer Wer comprises a suite of four unique works, each produced in a highly limited edition of only three or four prints.

With such a small release, these works are expected to attract strong interest from both private and institutional collectors seeking significant new works from one of Australia’s leading First Nations artists.

This significant new project extends a longstanding relationship between Gail Mabo and Umbrella.

Over many years, Ms Mabo has exhibited and developed new work with the organisation, including her celebrated 2020 etching Tagai, produced with master printmaker Jo Lankester, now held in multiple

public collections.

She has also worked with Umbrella in acclaimed touring exhibitions House of Cards (2021-2022), Legacy: Reflections on Mabo (2019-2022) and POSTWORLD, which is currently touring nationally until 2027.

Her work is also held in numerous major collections, including the National Gallery of Australia and the Australian High Commission in Singapore.

The creation of Wer Wer further strengthens Mabo’s significant career trajectory while contributing to the cultural vitality of the Gurambilbarra / Townsville arts community.

Umbrella director Kate O’Hara said the project sat at the heart

of their commitment to supporting North Queensland’s distinctive and authentic First Nations voices.

“Through mentorship, skills development and new creative opportunities, initiatives like this directly elevate local talent and promote knowledge exchange, strengthening our regional arts ecology,” she said.

The project was made possible through the Regional Arts Development Fund, a partnership between the Queensland Government and Townsville City Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

For more information, please visit the Umbrella website at www.umbrella.org. au or contact the gallery directly.

at the 2018 Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival on Thursday Island.

It depicts two warriors upfront (with two in the background) in full traditional costume telling a story through dance,” Tarita said.

Kelly Dare submitted our last pic this week, taken on Thursday Island.

“A balcony view of land, sea and sky,” Kelly said.

Peta, Oscar, Tarita and Kelly are now in the draw to win this month’s $150 gift card! Good luck!

Our first three pics, taken on Thursday Island, were submitted by Peta Mawn.

Pic 1: “Enjoying the sunset with family at Bach Beach after walking the dogs, three kids – Oscar, Cooper and Scarlett – and our dog Oreo,” Peta said.

Pic 2 & 3: “These pics are the two brothers paddle boarding, and also the family camping by the fire,” she said.

Pic 4, submitted by Oscar Mawn, shows him skimboarding into the sunset at Bach Beach.

Pic 5 was submitted by Tarita Bin Doraho. “The pic was taken

PIC 5.

PIC 6.

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

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

14 NEWS

THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025 TORRES NEWS

Rekindling Youth dancers play to packed house M Continued from P1

TN0461 • 08-05-25 Rekindling Youth Program Dancers. Pic by Flora Warria.

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.

It was a first for them, and it took courage for them to perform in front of a large crowd, which included their schoolmates and families.

The Rekindling Youth Program was created by former Bangarra Artistic Director Stephen Page and Co-CEO Frances Rings.

Youth Program Director Sidney Saltner said Bangarra had made the decision to take the program out to schools and the community in 2012.

He said they had wanted to have kids involved to make a lasting impression on their lives and inspire them. “[When we] go ahead with the program [we] embed ourselves with the community [and] build trust as we leave something behind that is tangible,” he said.

He said the performance was the culmination of three years of work, which included that widespread consultation and partnership.

“Overall, we have come back to the community four times,” he said. “The result of it is we are going to showcase to you what these brilliant youth have learned, gained and experienced, with warm-up sessions, choreography moves and dance moves.

“They have put together their contemporary dance pieces for all to see.

“The program has given the Elders the opportunity to engage with the young people, passing on their knowledge through songs, storytelling and dance, which has given the young people inspiration and put their creative minds to work and create their own contemporary dance moves.”

Audience members,

including Fraser Nai, said they were proud of what they had seen.

“When I saw the young ones perform, I was so proud of the kids,” Fraser said.

“They did an amazing job, to see the confidence in them to perform in front of a very large crowd, and I feel so proud to witness and be a part of this showcase,” he said.

Michelle Martin said it was fantastic.

“I thought it was just fantastic, so good to see these children show their confidence,” she said.

“A lot of time our kids feel shame and don’t want to be seen in front of a big audience, but it was so good, too deadly to see them show off their talents and skills tonight.

“It is good to see the community coming tonight and to be part of the show that the children performed, to see them and support them.

“The show has just given the young people a taste of something that they will want more of, I believe something like that helps to develop confidence and I know that will take them to places and boost their confidence within the community, and I love it.”

Sidney said the Bangarra Dance Theatre was grateful to the community for their support.

“I would like to thank all the Elders who have been a part of it and who have supported the program every step of the way,” he said.

“Without our elders, their knowledge, support and guidance to community members and school staff, we would not have been able to do this program, and we would not have been able to help these beautiful, talented young people to achieve their passion and goals.”

More pics PAGE 15 N

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

HERE

For more information: Call 0419 828 639 or Email ads@torres.news

NEWS 15

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025

Bangarra Executive Director and Co-CEO Louise Ingram with Torres Shire Council Mayor Elsie Seriat. Pic by Diat Alferink.

Getting excited for the showcase. Pic Flora Warria.

Sidney Saltner & BAI Communications CEO Peter Lambourne.

Pic by Diat Alferink.

TSIMA’s Luke Mosby. Pic by Diat Alferink.

ABOVE RIGHT: Deadly dancer Timena-June Bani proudly showed off her Certificate of Participation in Rekindling Youth Program 2025. Pic by Diat Alferink.

RIGHT: The spear dance.

Tagai Secondary Head of Campus Suberia Bowie and Montessori Teacher Michelle Martin. Pic by Diat Alferink.

BELOW: The basket dance.

BOTTOM: The young ones are waiting patiently.

Pics by Flora Warria.

Former Bangarra dancer, choreographer and actress Elma Kris presenting Paimele Bani Dorante with her certificate. Pic by Diat Alferink.

Bangarra’s Sani Townson with TSIMA CEO Diat Alferink. Pic by Diat Alferink.

Just too deadly. Pic by Flora Warria.

16 NEWS & CLASSIFIEDS

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025

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

Torres News Would you like to reach readers across the region and on the mainland?

Advertise in the Torres News and get your message out!

For more information

TN1128

New job program sees success PREVENTION AND CONTROL PROGRAM

Public Health Act 2005 Section 38 Queensland Health authorised a prevention and control program with the following conditions.

• The program will operate in the local government area of the Torres Shire Council.

• The program will be undertaken by authorised persons under the Public Health Act 2005 from Council and the Tropical Public Health Service – Cairns.

• The program is necessary to minimise the risk of dengue and Zika outbreaks throughout the region.

• The program will target the dengue mosquito Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus.

• The program will involve the inspection of yards and premises to include residential and industrial areas by authorised persons.

• Measures taken under the program may include inspecting yards, applying chemicals and setting mosquito traps. This work may be done in the absence of the resident or with their consent.

• The program will be undertaken daily between the hours of 8:00 am and 6:00 pm.

• The program will be in place between 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026.

For more information please visit website www.health.qld.gov.au dengue or phone: 1800 MOZZIE (669943).

M18175

Advertise Your Business in the

AdsIN E Excel E Dummy E

x5 weeks: 17/7 , 24/7 , 31/7 , 7/8 & 14/8/25 TSIMA - 11x2 FOC AD. AUTH. DIAT ALFERINK Emailed proof 24/4/24: Diat.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Remote Jobs and Economic Development (RJED) program has created 1450 jobs in remote communities across the country since it started, according to the National Indigenous Australians Agency’s (NIAA’s) latest Remote Employment update.

The first RJED grant round funded more

21-02-11 Lena Passi domestic violence 10x1 FOC

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

mix of part-time, fullthan 650 new jobs with time and casual roles. around 100 employers.

Successful RJED The second grant employers were now round funded 800 able to hire local people jobs with around 150 in jobs that communities employers. needed with fair wages Jobs were filled in and conditions, including a variety of sectors, superannuation and including tourism, construction, agriculture, annual leave.

14/8/25. _____ The Remote community services, AdsIN E Excel E Dummy E Australia health care and 11x2 ad @ $6.30 incl. MONO rate $138.60Employment incl.

(RAES) grant administration, with a – A/CService Ingham Funeral Services INGH100

TN1147

Email: inghamfuneralservice@bigpond.com <inghamfuneralservice@bigpond.com> FUNERAL NOTICE

BACKO – Samson Neale “Sam”

Late of Cairns Formerly of Halifax Sam passed away peacefully surrounded by family on 3rd August, 2025 aged 64.

Beloved Husband of Christabel Warren-Backo; Cherished Father of Elaine, Jacob, Daniel, Luke, Sarah, Peter, Ryan, Aiden & Angelina; Adored Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Uncle, Brother & Friend.

“Respected and Loved by all who knew him.”

All Relatives and Friends are warmly invited to attend the Funeral Service of the late Sam Backo which is to commence at 10.00am Friday, 22nd August, 2025 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Abbott Street, Ingham, followed by his interment in the Lawn Section of the Halifax Cemetery.

Family have requested that everyone wear Sam’s favourite colour maroon.

A. DELISE 106 Lannercost Street, Ingham Qld 4850 Ph: 4776 2393 A/H Mob: 0419 024952

Notice is given to financial members of the Torres Strait Islanders Media Association Inc. that the Annual General Meeting will be held on Saturday, 16 August, 2025, at the TSIMA OFFICE (UPSTAIRS), Thursday Island. The meeting will commence at 2pm.

All members of the Torres Strait Islanders Media Association are invited to attend.

AGENDA (a) The receiving of the Annual Report 2023/2024 (b) The receiving of the Auditor’s report 2023/2024 (c) The appointment of Auditor (d) Appointment of Board of Directors (e) Special Resolutions For more information please contact: Diat Alferink (CEO) on 4069 1524, 0497 618 738 or email: ceo@tsima4mw.org.au

EDITORIAL 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

ADVERTISING DEADLINES

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

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

Ad bookings 12 NOON TUESDAYS NEWS & PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS Ad copy (ad to be set) 12 NOON TUESDAYS Kantesha Takai, Jillian Bowie, Talei Elu, Supplied Ad material 2PM TUESDAYS Shanella Majid, Bel Lui and Alf Wilson.

Classifieds 3PM TUESDAYS Published every Thursday. Circulation 1000.

NEWS & PHOTOS DEADLINE Readership average: Print readership 4000 + online subscriptions + 9.8k followers on our @ All news, sports and photo contributions 5PM MONDAYS TSIMAtorresnews Facebook page

The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) is a Commonwealth statutory body dedicated to delivering programs across the Torres Strait region.

Our vision is Yumi pasin – yumi Ailan Kastom. Strong in culture, unified partnerships to achieve a sustainable future..

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER EL2 SALARY RANGE $140,283 – $159,778 LOCATION – CAIRNS OR THURSDAY ISLAND ONGOING OPPORTUNITY Plus 15.4% superannuation, district allowance, housing subsidy, and leave fare allowance (payable after 12 months’ service).

IF WORKING FOR THE COMMUNITY IS WHAT YOU ENJOY, PLEASE JOIN OUR TEAM! TSRA is looking for a highly experienced, senior finance leader with a heart for people and mind for results – someone with integrity, ethics and strong governance background.

As the CFO you will be responsible for providing advice to the agency on a range of strategic initiatives, investments and business needs as well as legislative and regulatory compliance.

Applications close at 11:30pm AEST, Sunday 24 August 2025.

To Apply: • View this vacancy and apply online at www.tsra.gov.au/jobs • If you do not have access to the internet please contact the HR Team on (07) 4069 0700.

For more information please contact Corporate Service Manager, Wade Mullings on 07 4069 0700 or via email Wade.Mullings@tsra.gov.au Merit Pool established through this selection process may be used to fill future, similar ongoing or non-ongoing vacancies. Merit pools are valid for up to 18 months from the advertised vacancy date.

opportunity has closed and successful applicants will be notified ahead of the new service starting on 1 November this year.

The RAES will support job seekers to build their skills and address the barriers faced with remote employment. It will help those who are looking for work and those needing help to get the skills and resources they need to become job-ready.

Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy said the government was delivering on their commitments.

“Our remote jobs program is changing lives for First Nations people living in remote communities across the country,” she said.

“The dignity of work, with decent wages and conditions, impacts not just individuals, but families and communities, and contributes to Closing the Gap in employment outcomes.”

Special Envoy for Remote Communities and Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour MP, said the 1450 jobs were a “key milestone”.

“The Government is committed to helping rebuild thriving remote communities, and jobs are a central part of this,” she said.

“They provide purpose, economic opportunity, security and they help build a sense of community.

“These are real jobs, with leave entitlements, superannuation and fair wages.

“I am eager to see the remaining jobs rolled out and to continue working with remote communities on how to deliver tangible economic outcomes for people.”

A third RJED round is expected to open in 2025-26.

Employers who want to create jobs in remote communities will have further opportunities in future RJED grant rounds expected in 2025-26 and 2026-27.

For more information about RJED visit www. niaa.gov.au/remote-jobs

SPORT 17

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025

Lucinda and Mistee leading the AFL way Badu Island.

M From PAGE 20 Pics supplied.

Horn Island.

Horn Island.

Badu Island.

Lucinda Kris in action at the national championships. Pics supplied.

Badu Island.

Horn Island.

Badu Island.

Badu Island.

Horn Island.

Badu Island.

Horn Island.

18 SPORT

THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025 TORRES NEWS

Seb Kris and Xavier Savage lead Raiders to top the table

BY ALF WILSON Centre Seb Kris and Xavier Savage each scored tries when the Canberra Raiders remained top of the 17-club comp ladder with a 28-12 win over the Manly Sea Eagles on Friday night.

Before a big home crowd at Canberra’s GIO Stadium, speedster Xavier crossed early at the 14th minute when he charged over in a corner.

Then in the 64th minute, Seb pounced on a Manly wayward pass to run 40 metres and score and celebrated with his traditional totem.

Both Seb and Xavier had family and friends from Cairns and the Torres Strait there to cheer them on.

VELMA

The Raiders led 10-6 at halftime and are sitting a game clear as ladder leaders from Melbourne Storm and the Bulldogs.

Eels over Cowboys A close game with drama in the 80th minute as a try is referred to the bunker for interference by Jeremiah Nanai.

The bunker rules ‘no try’, and the Eels somehow hang on after they had invited the Cowboys into the position to steal the game, 19-18, with a couple of crazy plays Injury hurts Broncos Injuries to star backs Ezra Mam, Adam Reynolds and Selwyn Cobbo cost the Brisbane Broncos dearly in their 22-2 loss to premiership

favourites the Melbourne Storm on Thursday night.

It was a blockbuster match at Melbourne’s AAMI Park but turned into a horror game for the Broncos, who failed to score a try for the first time since 2021, whilst the Storm crossed four times.

In the 22nd minute, fiveeighth Ezra and his halfback partner Adam tried to chase down Storm winger Xavier Coates and overstretched, damaging their hamstrings, and they left the field.

Losing such dominating halves, who are key Broncos players, will have a severe effect on the Broncos in the run-up to the finals series.

Two of the Storm tries were scored by Xavier, and his side led 12-2 at halftime.

“We’ll have to get our scans and go through the process, but all three are hamstring injuries, which is quite strange because the boys are pretty measured with what they do with the players throughout the week,” Broncos coach Michael Maguire said post-match.

“Ezra is pretty positive, so we’ll see where that takes itself throughout the week.”

Rabbitohs win Winger Alex “AJ” Johnston scored twice for the South Sydney Rabbitohs, who beat the Gold Coast Titans 20-18 in a cliffhanger on Sunday.

That took AJ’s total during his celebrated career to 209 tries, just three short of the ARL/NRL record of 212 by Ken Irvine.

The speedster scored in the second and 59th minutes to ensure the Rabbitohs would not take out the infamous wooden spoon.

Roosters hammer hapless Dolphins A well-drilled Roosters thrashed the Dolphins 64-12 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Saturday night.

Dolphins star fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow had few scoring opportunities on the losing side, which was outplayed all over the field.

Other games Premiers Penrith Panthers d Newcastle Knights 48-12, which was the 311th NRL game for Knights back Dane Gagai, St George Dragons d Cronulla Sharks 22-14, Bulldogs d Warriors 32-14.

NRLW The Cowboys ladies continued on their winning way with a 14-10 win over Parramatta Eels on Sunday night at Sydney’s Commbank Stadium.

The side included Jasmine Peters, Tahlulah Tillett, Tallisha Harden and Essay Banu.

Eels had led 4-nil at halftime, and Cowboys scored three tries to two, moving to fourth on the 12 club ladder with four wins and two losses.

Other games Sharks d Dragons 20-6, Knights d West Tigers 30-6, Warriors d Bulldogs 34-6, Roosters d Titans 24-8 and Brisbane Broncos d Canberra Raiders 44-28.

GARA’S

OUT! IN THIS WEEK’S ‘HOOPS’ NEWS...

Elite camp The National Indigenous Performance Camp (NIPC) was held last weekend in Canberra, with top young athletes in attendance for highperformance training, mentorship and cultural connection.

This is the second year the camp has gone ahead for some of the most talented First Nations athletes from across the country.

Held at the Centre of Excellence in Canberra, 29 athletes guided by coaches and mentors took part in an intensive program designed to elevate their skills in a high-performance environment.

Over the four days, athletes enjoyed advanced on-court sessions, recovery programs, strength and conditioning work, and cultural education activities.

NBL1 North Grand finalists Southern Districts Spartans has both its women’s and men’s teams in the grand finals

of the NBL1 North competition.

The women’s team will host Logan Thunder at Carina while the men’s team will play Brisbane Capitals at Auchenflower Stadium.

Grand finals games are a best-of-three series, and tip off for the first game is tomorrow night, with game two on Saturday, and if needed, the decider on Sunday.

My predictions Grand finals are different to the games played during the rounds.

It’s a clean slate.

Players will perform at another level – to be more efficient, not give away cheap fouls and play smart.

Having home-court advantage gives teams confidence and, at times, can distract the opposition.

Women’s games – Spartans v Thunder If the Spartans can have another game with a great start as they did against Mackay in the semifinals, there’s no stopping them.

I feel that this series will go to the third game and a decider.

Queenslanders at NIPC – Cassie Dover, Chris Cedar, Jay Sebasio, Noah Kirk, Jema Sebasio, Leah Pitt, Usai Bickey, Mya Moke, Keenan Williams & Nathan Jawai. Pic supplied by Basketball Australia.

Whichever team is the fittest and can play three big games in a row will be the champion.

Spartans to win the first game; Thunder wins the second, and best of luck to both teams for the third game, as it will be a grind.

Men’s games – Capitals v Spartans Spartans will want a better start to this series as they played catch-up last week in the semifinals.

Caps are not going to let them dictate the game, and with their inside/outside plays, can manage to get a good lead.

The visiting team needs to win the first game, so it doesn’t end up being 2-0 by the Caps.

NBL1 North Semifinals results Spartans came out hot and scored 59 points in the first half, and it became a catch-up game for the Mackay Meteorettes.

The McDowell-White sisters, Jess and Hayley, found range beyond the arc, shooting four and five 3-pointers each, respectively.

Southern Districts Spartans v Mackay Meteorettes 96-79 (Jess McDowell-White 26 points, six assists, Nicole Fransson 20 points, nine rebounds and Hayley McDowellWhite 17 points; Unique Thompson 18 points, 10 rebounds, Chey Bobongie 16 points, four rebounds and

five assists, Monique Bobongie 14 points).

Spartan men defeated Gold Coast Rollers to advance.

Rollers led for most of the game, but in the 4th quarter, Southern Districts’ shots were going in, and they took over the lead late in the game to win.

Gold Coast Rollers v Southern Districts Spartans 81-85 (Reuben Te Rangi 22 points, nine rebounds, Boston Mazlin 21 points, seven rebounds; Tamuri Wigness 37 points, seven rebounds, six assists, four steals, Blake Jones 13 points, five rebounds).

Logan Thunder women had to fight hard against Cairns.

At times, Cairns seemed the better team, but Logan found ways to stay in the game, which went into double overtime.

Logan Thunder v Cairns Dolphins 100-93 OT2 (Leah Scott 26 points 13 rebounds, Amadine Toi 22 points four steals, Kendell Heremaia 18 points; Mia Loyd 25 points nine rebounds five steals, Summah Evans 19 points four rebounds four steals, Cayla George 18 points 15 rebounds four assists two blocks).

Brisbane fought hard to win this game and without key player Sam McDaniel.

Sunshine Coast took advantage of that,

and there wasn’t much to separate these two teams.

Yet by the fourth quarter, the Capitals got ahead by a couple of buckets, and Phoenix had run out of time.

Phoenix guard Deshawn Ross-Paiwan top-scored despite playing limited minutes.

Brisbane Capitals v Sunshine Coast Phoenix 81-74 (Isaih Tueta 28 points, seven assists, Uche Dibiamaka 14 points, five rebounds, Anthony Kopcikas 13 points; Deshawn RossPaiwan 17 points, six rebounds, Nelson Kahler 15 points, 12 rebounds, Elias Cato 15 points, 11 rebounds, Jamaal Robateau 15 points).

SPORT 19

TORRES NEWS THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025

Babia brothers behind Indigenous round jerseys

BY ALF WILSON Proud Torres Strait Islander brothers Vinson and Eric Babia created the art on jumpers worn by the Cowboys and Canberra Raiders players during this year’s Indigenous round.

Both jumpers were launched last week in the lead up to the Indigenous round (23) and worn by players from the club on the weekend.

Cowboys Tagai jersey design was a story of strength and unity, and was launched with Reuben Cotter and Tahlulah Tillett.

Vinson, an NRL Cowboys House parent, said Tagai was a great Torres Strait ancestral warrior and farmer.

“The story of Tagai has been passed down through generations, shaping who we are,” he said.

“The five-point stars honour the strength of our Cowboys players, linking their resilience to cultural pride.”

The artist for this year’s Raiders jersey was Ngunnawal, Bundjalung

ABOVE: Cowboys players Braidon Burns, Reuben Cotter, artist Vinson Babia & Scott Drinkwater.

ABOVE RIGHT: Eric Babia in the Canberra Raiders dressing room with player Seb, who is wearing the jumper. Pics supplied. and Kamilaroi woman Shaenice Miles, who incorporated a range of

different elements and designs, and collaborated with the Raiders’

Indigenous playing group.

It also featured a

Torres Strait Islander influence, provided by Eric, while highlighting the culture of all First Nations people in the wider Raiders family.

The front of the jersey showcased important aspects of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal life with coconut nets, yarning circles, water and representations of ancestors all present.

These inclusions brought broader meaning to Xavier Savage’s heritage and represented his Aboriginal (Birri Gubba and Gunggandji) and Torres Strait Islander (Erub, Badu and Moa) connections.

The jersey also depicted the Torres Strait Islander totems of Sebastian Kris’ tribe, the Wagadagam and Panay peoples, with the front of the jersey displaying a shovel-nose shark, dugong, crocodile and a snake.

“The artwork displays the different seafood available with the changing seasons and tides, similar to a team environment, connecting with each other and with a common goal,” Eric said.

Wongai grand finals Wongai Basketball held its annual grand finals games on Monday night, with some great games played at the Torres Shire Sports Complex.

Results were: • Division 1 Men’s – Crocs defeated Muddies 69-60 • Division 1 Women’s – Vixens defeated Wildcats 50-37 • Division 2 Men’s – US Guys defeated TT Boys 79-57 We’ll have a full page of pics from Lewis Bin Doraho in our next issue!

THURSDAY ISLAND / SEISIA

Dudley’s double for deadly Blackhawks FERRY SCHEDULE Wabo, Alex Max, Manisa Kai and Jordan Pat. Clent Lama booted four goals.

BY ALF WILSON

Another two-try effort by winger Deadly Dudley Dotoi was a highlight of the Townsville Blackhawks’ 34-12 win over the Wynnum Manly Seagulls at Townsville’s Jack Manski Oval on Saturday.

Dudley scored in the 10th and 53rd minutes and is a runaway leader of the comp’s player individual try scorer table with 22.

The Blackhawks lead the ladder in the 15-club comp.

Former NRL player Jayden Hodges lined up at hooker for the Blackhawks and played for 53 minutes.

The Blackhawks, who are second on the ladder, will meet the Cutters in Mackay next round.

Pride lose to Devils The Northern Pride squandered a four-point halftime lead to go down 31-30 to premiers the Norths Devils at Barlow Park in Cairns on Saturday.

Pride led 22-18 at halftime, and it was a Devils field goal at the 78th minute that sealed the win after scores had been deadlocked at 30-all.

Try Scorers for the Pride were Jarrett Subloo (two), Laitia Moceidreke, Seamus

Other games Falcons d CQ Capras 12-8, Tweed Seagulls d Tigers 34-29, Jets had a bye.

Star Northern Pride halfback Jairel Martin-Savage.

Pic supplied by Northern Pride.

King-Smith and Jack Boyling.

James Frazer kicked five goals.

Centre Braithan RobertsonKetchell was on the Pride side.

Bears scored five tries to two.

Magpies beat the Mackay Cutters, which included centre Brentan Baira, 56-8.

Bears maul Dolphins Burleigh Bears beat a Dolphins side, which included five-eighth Dantoray Lui, 30-12 at UAA Park on the Gold Coast.

Scores level 12-all at halftime, and the Bears ran away with it after the break.

Hunters trap Clydesdales At Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby, the Hunters demolished the Clydesdales 48-12.

Hunters try scorers were Robert Mathias (2), Douglas David (2), Solo Wane, Sanny

Ladies’ premiership round seven Tries to five eighth Jenni-Sue Hoepper and centre Kimberley Hunt helped the Northern Pride to a 20-12 win over Norths Devils at Barlow Park in Cairns on Saturday.

Sharp-shooting kicker Kimberley also booted two goals.

Pride led 14-12 at halftime.

Players included halfback Jairel Martin-Savage and prop Sareka Mooka.

In their debut season in the 12-club expanded comp, the Pride sit sixth with four wins and three losses.

Next Saturday, Pride will meet the Cutters in a north Queensland derby at Mackay.

Other games Magpies d Mackay Cutters which included TS forward Lyrech Mara, 28-12. Falcons d Capras 34-10, Wynnum Manly Seagulls d Clydesdales 16-10, Tigers d Tweed Seagulls 30-16, Jets d Bears 24-22.

6 DAYS PER WEEK: MONDAY TO SATURDAY FERRY OPERATES ON ALL HOLIDAYS

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

Boarding strictly 15 mins prior to departure

PHONE 07 4069 1551 BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL – TICKET ONLINE 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.

20

THURSDAY 14 AUGUST 2025

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

Lucinda & Mistee lead the AFL way

Badu Island students enjoying AFL. Pic supplied.

BY AFL CAPE YORK DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR KIERAN SCIBERRAS

Lucinda Kris (St Paul’s, Moa Island) wrapped up her National Championship experience on Saturday.

For the past seven days, Lucinda has been a part of the 10 - 12 years Queensland team, which has taken on the best young footballers from across the country.

Playing predominantly in the ruck, Lucinda was a key player throughout the junior football carnival.

The Queensland girls’ team finished off the event with a solid win over the Northern Territory.

Mistee named Cairns player of the Year Mistee Sagigi (Thursday Island) was announced as the Gold Coast Suns’ Academy Player of the Year on Monday.

One of the four North Queensland academy players announced as award winners earlier this week, Mistee, has had a standout year on the football field, representing the Gold Coast Suns academy within the National U16’s Women’s championships as well as in the local Cairns leagues for the Cairns Eagles and North Cairns Tigers.

This year Mistee also earned another call up to represent the

junior women’s national Indigenous team – the Woomeras, earlier this year.

Footy focus switches to the NPA AFL football has wrapped up in the Torres Strait for the term, with last week’s sessions on Badu and Horn Island marking a break for AFL in the region.

Now the focus will switch to the Northern Peninsula Area with the annual ‘No-school, no-play’ colour

kicking off programs on Wednesday, before the Chris Johnson and Angie Nadredre (CJAN) Cup commences on Thursday.

The CJAN Cup may be one of the biggest ones to date, with young people from AFL Cape York Houses, Western Cape College, Tagai State College and NPA State College playing in the full-day AFL event. Photos and results to come.

More AFL pics on PAGE 17 N

Email your pic along with your name, phone number and a brief description of the pic to ads@torres.news Each month our proud sponsor CEQ will pick their favourite Ailan Life entry and the winner will receive a $150 GIFT CARD to use at any CEQ store!

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

All pics submitted will be considered in the draw for the monthly gift voucher.

Winners of the CEQ Ailan Life competition are determined by CEQ. Entries to the Ailan Life photo competition may be used by the CEQ marketing/promotions team as background images for store promotions such as posters, digital noticeboard specials, counter-facing displays (POS) screens, and/or on their website and social media.

Entries may also be used in-store to promote the ‘Ailan Life’ competition.