Cape York Weekly FREE – #154 | Tuesday, October 3, 2023
Editor Matt Nicholls: 0477 450 558 | editor@capeyorkweekly.com.au
LONG-SERVING OFFICER RETIRES
End of an era By MATT NICHOLLS
CAPE York’s longest serving police officer has called it a day, signing off on Friday after a Police Remembrance Day service. Cooktown’s officer in charge, Senior Sergeant John McArthur has led the local station since 2004, having previously enjoyed stints around the Far North, including Coen, Aurukun, Kowanyama and Normanton. “I think every police officer should experience the Cape at least once,” he told Cape York Weekly on Monday. “Everyone has heard about what it’s like to police in the Cape, but unless you’re on the ground you don’t really know what it’s like. “I don’t think it would hurt to see every recruit do at least six months working in the Cape at some stage.” For those who know Snr Sgt McArthur, he was happy to retire from Queensland Police Service with as little fanfare as possible. “Don’t go writing anything too long,” he said, not knowing that his story would end up on page 1. Unsurprisingly, his colleagues and superiors, as well as community leaders, were happy to speak about his service. “He’s one of the very good blokes,” said former Weipa officer in charge Brett Jenkins, now the Inspector at the Cassowary Coast. “John was always big on promoting the Cape as a great place to work for younger officers.” Continued – Page 2
INSIDE TODAY
FORMER DUX IS BACK IN WEIPA Page 3
POLLING BOOTH ISSUES IN CAPE Page 5 AUSTRALIA DAY CELEBRATIONS Pages 8 & 9 PCYC AURUKUN NAIDOC BALL Pages 13 to 15
BRING ON NUMBER TEN!
More than 150 people braved the heat, wind and blisters to complete Conquer the Corrugations on the weekend. The mental health-focused event opened hearts and minds as walkers traversed 42km between Coen and the Archer River. Backed by health professionals, this year’s Conquer introduced participants to some of the many services on offer in the Cape. All focus now turns to next year’s event, with up to 1000 people tipped to partcipate in the 10th walk in 2024. Event gallery – INSIDE
MAPOON BARRA BASH A HIT Page 24
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