Thursday, 6 February 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
BY VELMA GARA
The future looks very bright for artist Jymahl Savage, considering he was always getting in trouble at school for imagining he was in the boomies (waves).
He has earned himself a
Creative Australia funding grant to develop further his skills showcasing works, starting with three major events later this year.
Pic courtesy of Badu Arts Centre.
Story continued and pics on PAGE 12 N
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BY VELMA GARA
As readers would know, the Bruce Highway has been cut off by floods after, at the time of printing – or not – an unprecedented and ongoing rain event.
The Townsville, Hinchinbrook, and Cairns Chambers of Commerce have all called on the Federal and State Governments to take immediate action to rebuild the Ollera Creek bridge, north of Townsville after its destruction closed the Highway indefinitely. The closure has
For more on the rain events over the past week see PAGE 4 N
caused widespread economic and social disruption to freight and supply chains, healthcare access, employment and business, disaster responses and recovery – and the distribution of the print run of this week’s Torres News It means the Torres News will not be printed this week BUT to access your free online copy of the Torres News for this week only, use the QR code at right or your search engine and type in the search bar tsimatorresnews Publisher Publications, which will take you to your free copy of the Torres News Edition 165 (dated 6 February 2025) –click on the page and enjoy!
BY CARLI WILLIS
An urgent need for the federal government to better resource national security in the region has been amplified by the recent arrival of two illegal Romanian arrivals on Masig last month.
The pair flew to Ngurupai via Masig, where they were intercepted by police and the Australian
Border Force (ABF) and have since been held in detention in Brisbane.
Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) Mayor Phillemon Mosby Cr Mosby said it has become a resource issue.
“The inconsistency of permanent, relevant authoritised staff has caused a high level of frequent breaches in the Torres Strait, not only from people within the Torres Strait Treaty
Villages but from other foreign countries that have come through Papua New Guinea (PNG) to try and sneak into Australia through the Torres Strait,” he said.
“[It’s] placing our communities and our people, who are very vulnerable, at high risk.”
The Torres Strait Treaty – an international agreement signed between PNG and Australia – honoured
kinship, cultural ties and histories shared between Torres Strait Islanders and 13 PNG coastal villages.
Cr Mosby said they needed real staffing and investment in the region.
“It calls for real commitment from the Australian Government on strengthening the border here in the Torres Strait,” he said.
Story continues + pics on PAGE3 N
Sea Swift is one of the largest employers in the region, and we pride ourselves on making a significant contribution to the employment and skill development of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in remote communities across Northern Australia.
An annual global design competition seeking creative solutions for sustainable and regenerative energy and water systems for island communities has been launched from Fiji.
The competition, LAGI 2025 Fiji, is offered by the residents of Marou, in Fiji, and the Land Art Generator (LAGI), free to enter and will close on 5 May 2025.
Marou Village, in the Yasawa archipelago of Fiji, was one of many coastal island communities especially vulnerable to climate change, with stronger cyclones, rising sea levels, warming waters, biodiversity loss, prolonged droughts and major flood events a threat to their existence.
LAGI 2025 Fiji called for the design of a work of art in the landscape that would supply clean and reliable electricity and water, support sustainable tourism and help them build a resilient future for generations to come.
Two winning teams would each be provided with a stipend of USD $100,000 to advance their design proposal and build a functioning prototype of their idea in Fiji.
Based on the success of these prototypes, and in coordination with local authorities and funding partners, the goal was for one project to be chosen for implementation at fullscale as a pilot project with Marou Village.
The outcomes were to build a replicable model for designing, implementing and operating renewable energy and water systems with island communities and other destinations around the world.
Marou Village Sauturaga and Acting Chief Ilisari Naqau Nasau offered his thanks.
“Thank you to all the LAGI 2025 Fiji designers from around the world who will be participating in this competition and for the ideas you will be bringing to us,” he said.
“We feel very blessed to be the host of this project, which will bring forward proposals for energy and water systems that we could never have imagined.
“Your design ideas will be helpful for many generations – bringing electricity and water infrastructure to Marou and Yasawa School.
“On behalf of myself and all the elders of the village, please accept our sincere gratitude for the very big task you are undertaking with us here – vinaka vakalevu.”
A publication, exhibition, and a program of community engagement events will communicate the innovative outcomes throughout Fiji and around the world, to inspire the public about the beauty and wealth of possibilities of a world beyond carbon while demonstrating creative adaptations to a rapidly shifting climate.
Past LAGI design competitions have been held for Dubai/ Abu Dhabi (2010), New York City (2012), Copenhagen (2014), Santa Monica (2016), Melbourne (2018), Abu Dhabi (2019), Fly Ranch (2020), and Mannheim (2022) – and have brought in over 1500 designs from 80+ countries.
For more information see: https://www. youtube.com/ watch?v=Gz64Idbnfyc Project Website: https://lagi2025fiji.org
More about the Land Art Generator Initiative: https://landartgenerator. org
BY
“We will continue to advocate for a comprehensive approach to border security that includes sufficient funding, staffing, resources and collaboration with local leaders,” Mayor Mosby said.
The Torres News questioned the ABF on current staffing arrangements but had not yet received a response.
As it was for many of the islands Masig had one Police Liaison Officer who did not have the powers to make arrests or confiscate illegal items.
Masig was also one of four islands without a Border Liaison Officer, tasked with checking and reporting arrivals on the island.
Federal member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch likened staff with no powers to having ‘Mickey Mouse badges’.
“I’ve advocated that there should be more locals who have the authority to be able to at least detain and to hold,” he said.
“There’s got to be officers there with authority, local people, [and] they may wear a number of hats, whether they be for Border Force [or] quarantine.”
Cr Mosby said investment in skilling local professionals had long been talked about but was yet to be actioned.
“Local knowledge and presence are crucial in deferring unlawful activities and ensuring that swift response to any of these breaches,” he said.
Cr Mosby said the celebrations marking 40 years of the Torres Strait Treaty on Saibai on Saturday 15 February
would reinforce the significance of the spirit of the agreement.
“[They will celebrate] how those international agreements, were reached and how that international boundary recognises not only our cultural kingship and affiliation but our maritime connection to our surrounding land and sea environment in the Torres Strait,” he said.
Mr Entsch said the celebrations were also an opportunity to discuss the Treaty arrangements with locals.
“Because a lot of the movement up there is movement from PNG,” he said.
MEANWHILE, several failed attempts by the Torres News to contact the ABF for details on various border incursions prompted Mr Entsch to meet with Home Affairs Minister
Tony Burke, who has subsequently ordered the national security agency to be more transparent with the MP and Zenadth Kes communities.
“Some time ago when five Africans were found on Saibai Island [there were] concerns about the lack of information or refusal by Border Force to provide information to [the Torres News] or to me,” Mr Entsch said.
The incident, which occurred in May last year, exposed serious concerns over ABF conduct.
Reports and photos by the Torres News found local fisherman and their personal dinghies had been used to apprehend the unlawful arrivals to Saibai.
“I put in a formal complaint to the then Minister [for Home Affairs and] wrote on several occasions, and
he refused to address my concerns,” said Mr Entsch.
“When there was a change in the portfolio and Minister Tony Burke came in, I approached [him] personally in Canberra.
“I was very concerned about the attitude of Border Force [and] he said to me that he would address the problem.
“He immediately authorised two very senior Border Force officers to meet with me in my office in Cairns (in January).
“They had been instructed by the Minister to deal directly with me and to be open and frank in any information they were to provide.”
Mr Entsch said the ABF confirmed the two Romanian men who boarded a civilian plane on Masig did not have Australian visas and
would be detained whilst authorities investigated how they got there.
“It’s understood the individuals in question did not have any weapons or drugs etc on them,” Mr Entsch said.
TSIRC Mayor, Phillemon Mosby, welcomed the directive from the Minister but said there was work to do to improve overall engagement with communities.
“Transparency and timely updates are essential when we’re living in vulnerable communities, where there’s no law enforcement agencies or relevant department representatives,” he said.
“It is absolutely critical and crucial that [there is] open communication with communities to reassure the community safety is paramount.”
Do
Think
Townsville, Hinchinbrook and Cairns Chambers of Commerce want a long-term, floodresilient solution to the Bruce Highway, and have also called on the Government to fast-track funding and deploy emergency construction crews to ensure North and Far North Queensland’s economy and communities were not left stranded.
The Bureau of Meteorology said persistent, heavy rain continued all of last weekend across northeast Queensland, leading to widespread major flooding which caused significant damage and
Hermit Park, Idalia, Oonoonba, Railway Estate and Rosslea were evacuated last weekend.
Significant three-day rainfall totals from 9am Friday to 9am Monday AEST include: 1469 mm at Rollingstone
1428 mm at Race Road
1269 mm at Cardwell
117 mm at Ingham Airport
• 1115 mm at Halifax
• 1028 mm at Bluewater
• 900 mm at Deeragun, Townsville
• 867 mm at North Ward, Townsville.
• 710 mm at Townsville Palm Island also experienced significant rainfall causing power outages as a result of landslips, and several other disruptions to the community.
The state and
federal governments have released Personal Hardship Assistance, for residents of Townsville, Palm Island and several other places.
Support included a range of grants that covered the cost of emergency essentials, the replacement of damaged household white goods and income-tested assistance for property structural repairs and the
reconnection of essential services.
Federal Minister for Emergency Services Jenny McAllister said the communities had their support.
“I would like to acknowledge the efforts of first responders and the local councils who have done a fantastic job in very difficult circumstances, and local communities that have followed warnings,” she said.
“Emergency grants up to $180 per person, to a maximum of $900 for a family of five or more are available to eligible Queenslanders affected by these floods.
“This assistance will also help local government clean up and restore assets as soon as possible.”
To check eligibility and apply for DRFA Personal Hardship Assistance visit www.qld.gov. au/disasterhelp or phone the Queensland Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.
BY KANTESHA TAKAI
Renowned Zenadth Kes artist Nola Page-Ward has generously donated a reprint of her award-
Modern, state of the art classrooms, day schooling and boarding facilities for boys and girls.
Our curriculum provides academic and vocational pathways, enabling the best possible employment opportunities.
Your child will enjoy small class sizes, individual student attention for maximum outcomes, including sporting and cultural opportunities.
Our college is founded on the basis that no child will be denied a Catholic education based on financial hardship. Generous fee concessions apply to holders of meanstested concession cards and those with a genuine inability to pay.
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Email: msb.enrolments@cns.catholic.edu.au TO ENROL
Enter CEQ’s ‘Ailan Life’ photo competition for your chance to win a $150 voucher to spend at your local IBIS store, Mitre 10, Col Jones, Mona’s Bazaar and Community Home & Hardware. Pictured are our 2024 Grand Final winners picking up their voucher for their July winning entry: IBIS Kirirri Store Manager Anima Dorante, left, with OLSH P-2 Teacher Kirriri (HMD) Island Michelle Nolan and some of her students. Pic courtesy CEQ.
with Torres News with the weekly photo competition,” he said.
Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) is proud to continue the weekly Ailan Life photo competition in partnership with the Torres News
CEQ Nutrition and Health, and Engagement General Manager Fred Gela said they would choose a winner every month from the entries received.
“The lucky winner will receive a $150 voucher to use at their local IBIS store, Mitre 10, Col Jones, Mona’s Bazaar or Community Home & Hardware,” he said.
“Their photo will also be featured in CEQ’s fortnightly promotional adverts, digital notice boards, CEQ website IBIS promotion page and social media channels as a bonus to showcase the photographer’s winning shot across our local communities.”
Torres News editor Diat Alferink said the competition was an opportunity for everyone to share their favourite Ailan view of life in the region.
“This is also a chance for us to showcase the talents of our local photographers and readers,” she said.
“Our pic or pics of the week will be published in each issue of the Torres News.”
To enter the competition send a photo of an Ailan view of life in the Far North, along with the entrant’s name, phone number and your local IBIS store, and up to 25 words to describe the pic to ads@torres.news
“The competition is open now and will run for 12 months, so there are plenty of chances to win the $150 voucher,” Diat said.
“We are very grateful to CEQ for their support.”
Fred said the summer weather was a perfect time to start taking photos to celebrate all the region had to offer.
“Community Enterprise Queensland is very proud to continue to partner
“We hope to showcase a unique part of Australia with some of the most breathtaking views and stunning landscapes we have around Far North Queensland.
“We look forward to seeing entries from talented amateur and pro photographers across the Far North and to reading about what they love most about their ‘Ailan life’.”
The ‘Ailan Life’ competition was yet another way CEQ supported and supports Far North Queensland communities through their 3031 retail stores.
Their other activities included:
• supporting healthy breakfast programs in schools;
• supporting attendance programs in schools;
• donating water to community events and activities;
• sponsoring major community events and celebrations such as NAIDOC week;
• sponsoring Coming of the Light events in many Torres Strait Island communities;
• sponsoring smaller community events through the supply of fresh food or gift cards;
• offering fortnightly specials on fresh food and groceries; and,
• offering assistance to those with sad news or in Sorry Business.
CEQ’s 31 stores were made up of the Islanders Board of Industry and Service (IBIS) and the Aboriginal Business, Industry and Service (ABIS) mainland stores, as well as other community-based stores including Col Jones, Mitre 10 and Mona’s Bazaar on Thursday Island and the Community Home & Hardware in Bamaga. For more information, visit http:// www.ceqld.org.au
Waste collection on Prince of Wales Island has faced significant issues due to an unreliable barge service provider and lack of critical community infrastructure, Torres Shire Council CEO Dalassa Yorkston says.
She said inconsistencies in service frequency led to missed scheduled pickups resulting in less waste being collected.
“Ongoing discussions are taking place with the current provider and an alternative company to resolve these issues,” she said.
“The absence of a safe landing facility access to remove waste has also compounded the current situation.”
Mayor Elsie Seriat OAM thanked residents for raising their concerns at the recent Torres Shire community consultation meeting held on Prince of Wales Island late last year.
“It was great to listen first-hand as residents reached out to the Council to express their concerns, with many calling for a rebate or refund for the inadequate service they are receiving” Mayor Seriat said.
“In response to these challenges, the Council initiated a comprehensive review of the waste management services, aiming to ensure more reliable and efficient service in the future.
“I am pleased to announce that Council has agreed to pass on a rebate to Prince of Wales Island ratepayers in response to their concerns raised.”
Ms Yorkston said the Council was also considering temporary measures to handle a waste backlog, such as advocating for
emergency funding, arranging for alternative transport options or setting up localised drop-off points.
“Council thanks the
community for your patience and understanding as we continue to advocate for the waste removal from Prince of Wales Island to the Horn Island landfill,” she said.
The Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) approved the implementation of emergency coastal protection works to safeguard homes on Mer Island threatened by coastal erosion at its first ordinary meeting of the year, held last Wednesday.
The temporary measures involved sandfilled bags put in place to create a protective barrier for the affected properties.
The project was expected to take approximately two months to complete.
Council has also approved a development process on Dauan to enable the construction of a mechanical shed and ranger station, complementing existing buildings and services.
At the meeting
Council also adopted a comprehensive policy framework designed to guide decision-making and operational practices.
Chief Executive Officer James William said the framework was significant.
“This framework marks a significant step forward in ensuring that our operations are aligned with our Corporate Plan and the values and aspirations of our communities,” he said.
Mayor Phillemon Mosby said Council was also proud to partner with the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) to secure $130,000 in funding to subsidise ferry services between Hammond and Thursday Islands.
“This funding, secured through TSRA, is a significant step
forward in ensuring our community members have affordable and reliable access to essential services on Thursday Island,” he said.
“It’s a win for everyone who relies on this vital connection for work, health care, and daily life.”
Council said they were also pleased to report on their financial position as of the end of December 2024, against the 2024-2025 budget. They said the following were highlights:
• The actual operating result (before depreciation) to date reflected a surplus of $19M ($205.7K budget surplus) attributed to:
• Revenue $20.3M favourable variance
• Higher volume of high dollar value
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priority works
• Increase in grant income received due to the Financial Assistance grant being paid in the current financial year and the continuation of the Indigenous Councils Funding Program
• Council is reporting a favourable net result to date of $6.3M.
To ensure continued financial stability, management has engaged an external consultant to conduct a comprehensive review of organisational practices and financial management.
The findings and recommendations from this review will be presented to Council at ongoing intervals.
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A project pathway into the marine dive industry – Malu Gubal – has won Cairnsbased training organisation Wakaid a $200,000 Indigenous Workforce Skills and Development Grant from the Queensland Government.
The project will support 14 First Nations people to gain the necessary skills and qualifications to start a career in the marine industry as they obtain dive qualifications including first aid and
advanced resuscitation and oxygen therapy training.
Waikaid has provided innovative and customised consultancy solutions to align with businesses’ and organisations’ strategic approach since 2017.
New part-owner, director and training coordinator Ann-Maree Titasey said she came on board post-COVID in 2022.
She brought with her a significant change in the directorship and management
of the company.
“We know this is an important program for our community if we want to protect our reef and our tourism industry,” she said.
She said there would also be opportunities, beyond the COTS management program, where participants could be employed in various sections of the marine industry such as tourism, research vessels and, with further training, into the commercial sector.
LEFT: Stanley Cook, Miya Services Cultural Advisor Genus Passi, Trudi Passi and Aba Bero.
BELOW LEFT: Northern Region/QRL Area Manager Kerri Ritchie and Palm Island Mayor Alf Lacey.
BELOW RIGHT: Artist/Wulgurukaba and Bindal Custodian Nicki-Bidju Pryor starts an artwork to highlight the event.
BY VELMA GARA
Miya Services, a new business in the Townsville region that caters for First Nations youth and their families, held a ‘meet and greet’ with invited community members and organisations last month.
Services offered by the new organisation
included residential care services, emergency accommodation, family connection, and mentoring and transition to adulthood for young people, males and females, aged five to 18 through 11 residential care homes.
The homes were in 10 locations around Townsville, each catering for three to four youths and support staff.
Miya Services was
focused on mentoring for outcomes, ASD/ ADHD/FASD, Youth Justice referrals and reconnecting with complex family environments.
After the introductions and speeches were made by Miya Services staff members, about 30 guests were treated to a kup muri dinner.
The winner of the 2024 Ailan Life Grand Final photo competition is our July 2024 entry, submitted by OLSH Kirriri Island P-2 Teacher Michelle Nolan on behalf of her student’s families – Congratulations!
A funny thing happened on the way to the Hammond Island campus’ school’s mass in July last year – which led to 2024’s winning Ailan Life pic for teacher Michelle Nolan, Student Learning Officer Seba Sabatino and their students Cassandra, Jemimah, Martha, Viv, Shirley and Dante.
The school forgot to pick them up. So they walked.
And, as told to the Torres News by Michelle, they were sidetracked.
At first by the beautiful big park along the way, then by the big log and then by, y’know, stories about the seasons and the tides, and how the log came to be there.
It was Seba’s idea to take the pic and the rest, as they say, is history!
The group now has a second $150 voucher to share at CEQ stores, and they are very excited about it.
As we step into another exciting school year, it is essential to reflect on the vital role of Kindy & Prep education in shaping the future of our children.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every member of our school community for your unwavering support in this journey. Together, we can ensure that this year is a remarkable one for our students.
Our commitment is clear:
we aim for every student to achieve at least one year’s growth during their time with us.
We eagerly look forward to celebrating their achievements across the year as our youngest student’s embrace being part of the Tagai family. Your involvement in this process is invaluable; together, we can make a significant impact on their educational success.
In our Prep and Kindy
classes, our dedicated teachers play a crucial role in bridging the gap between children’s school experiences and their learning from home, kindergarten, or childcare settings.
This connection is essential for fostering a sense of continuity and security, allowing children to thrive in their new educational environment. A positive partnership between family and school lays a strong
foundation from which to build a successful start to formal education.
The importance of attending every day of school cannot be overstated. It sets the tone for a successful year – both academically and socially.
The beginning of the year is an opportunity for your child to familiarise themselves with their new surroundings, build relationships with peers and teachers, and absorb essential
information that will help them navigate the school year ahead. Attending every day consolidates this.
As we embark on this school year, let us unite in our efforts to create a nurturing environment that promotes growth and success for every child.
Thank you for your continued support, and let us work together to make this year truly unforgettable!
M Continued from P1 BY
VELMA GARA
Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF).
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Jymahl said drawing the things he had seen fishing and hunting at dawn and dusk with his family and friends was his starting point.
In 2019, he began producing linoprints, monoprints, pearl-shells and wood carvings which reflected his relationship with the sea. Five years later, Jymahl became Badu Arts Centre’s top-selling artist at the Darwin
He said it was something that made him hungry to build his arts career and grow his knowledge even more.
Australia’s Young People: First Nations Arts and Culture Project
It gave Jymahl access to focus on individual skills development that were not available in the Torres Strait.
The $20,000 grant was from Creative
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He said he would travel to Cairns to work with Master Printmaker, Dian Darmansjah, exploring new techniques and approaches in printing.
He would then go back home to apply what he had learned as he created works for the exhibition – Malu Mabaigal (Men of the Sea) – which was the title of his first exhibition to be held at Northsite Contemporary Gallery, Cairns from May – July 2025.
Jymahl said Malu Mabaigal was to showcase the unique lifestyle and environment his people relied on for life and the deep knowledge they held about the world beneath the surface of the sea.
The exhibition was
The Corporate Plan is Torres Shire Council’s roadmap for the next five years and we are working on developing our new plan. This plan will set out Council's goals, priorities, and the key projects and services we aim to deliver for our community. This plan helps guide all Council decisions to make sure that our work benefits the people of Torres Shire in meaningful ways. By planning ahead, we can manage resources wisely, focus on the things that matter most, and make sure we’re moving toward a strong, vibrant future for everyone.
Your input is vital to shaping the future of our Shire so please complete this survey to help guide our future.
The Torres Shire Council is committed to managing public funds responsibly to benefit our community. As a local government, we work hard to ensure that all spending is done wisely, with every dollar going towards improving the quality of life and services for our residents. Because we rely heavily on grants and other limited sources of funding, we must carefully prioritise our projects and initiatives. As you respond to this survey, please keep in mind the need for responsible financial management so that we can direct resources to where they are most needed and impactful.
on during an important time on the First Nations arts calendar in Far North Queensland and provided “an incredible opportunity to develop the market for work and coincide with the lead up to Cairns Indigenous Arts Fair (CIAF), DAAF and possibly Sydney Contemporary”.
Jymahl has been a traditional hunter and fisherman since he was 15 years old and he learned to read the biodiversity of the land and seas around his home on Badu Island.
“I’ve witnessed significant change to habitat and species due to the climate crisis,” he said.
Badu community has many artists with a wealth of knowledge who were an inspiration to Jymahl.
“Since I began carving, I have been mentored and supported by many key Badu artists, including Harry Nona, Laurie Nona, Tipoti Nona and Alick Tipoti,” he said.
“The way they handle materials and tell the
stories of Zenadth Kes has always inspired me.”
Jymahl said he was grateful to the Badu Art Centre for supporting his practice and the guidance they had offered which had given him the confidence to apply for the Creative Australia grant.
He encouraged any young First Nations artists to access their local art centre as they had the expertise to support their creative goals.
ABOVE: Jymahl Savage’s monoprint titled Kairr Mabaig. BELOW: Jymahl with one of his many starting points in-hand. Pics courtesy of Badu Arts Centre.
STORY BY CARLI WILLIS
For the past five years, the Queensland Nurses and Midwives Union (QNMU) says they have raised concerns and implored Queensland Health to address serious health issues experienced in the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS).
QNMU Secretary Sarah Beaman said issues included the model of care, the provision of safe and quality care, and associated community outcomes.
“These attempts were met with a lack of support from TCHHS officials and the QNMU was forced to refer these matters to the Queensland Health (QH) Director General and other authorities for action,” she said.
“As part of this referral, the QNMU provided evidence of discriminatory recruitment practices in TCHHS.
“Following the referral, former Health Minister Shannon Fentiman announced a QH Health Service Investigation (HSI) into TCHHS issues.”
In October 2023, it was announced an investigation would be carried out by Professor Cindy Shannon AM, Dr Sean Taylor, Dr Mark Wenitong and Associate Professor Carmen Parter.
In February 2024 the Terms of Reference were announced and an assessment of two parts was ordered: Part A – Assessment of health services provided by TCHHS and Part B –Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Safety.
Part A of the report was released in July 2024.
Part B of the report was originally due for release in June 2024 but was pushed back for release by mid-2025.
Ms Beaman said QNMU and two other unions had provided evidence to the TCHHS
QNMU Secretary Sarah Beaman. Pic supplied.
Recruitment Review, completed last year.
She said the QNMU had been vocal about housing for health staff.
“The QNMU and members have been extremely vocal about TCHHS housing policy,” she said.
“The policy is outdated, poorly drafted and doesn’t promote equality or equity among the workforce.
“Any policy that excludes individuals from equal entitlements due to their culture has no place in government.”
A spokesperson for the TCHHS said the staff housing policy, which came under scrutiny in the Recruitment Review, reflected the bigger issue of a lack of housing across the region.
“As a result, the TCHHS is building its own staff accommodation in Bamaga, Pormpuraaw, Badu, Laura, Lockhart River and Horn Island to help offset this issue,” they said.
Ms Beaman said the QNMU and members eagerly awaited Part B of the investigation and would continue to monitor outcomes and advocate for change.
“We will always ensure our members have a seat at the table and are heard,” she said.
“The Torres and Cape Roundtable started as a result of QNMU First Nations members raising concerns around the erosion of the Torres Model of Care, which they believe is the gold standard of health care for the community.
“First Nations nurses and midwives who want to live in and care for their community must be given fair opportunity to do so.”
BY ALF WILSON
Dementia rates in the Torres Strait are amongst the highest in the world and a team of James Cook University researchers will trial a new way of caring for sufferers in an attempt to bring them down.
The Healthy Aging Research Team (HART) team, based at the JCU Nguma-bada Campus in Cairns, included Professor Eddy Strivens (team leader), Associate Professor Sarah Russell, Dr Rhiann Sue See, Dr Gavin Miller, Chenoa Wapau, Betty Sagigi, Rachel Quigley and Melissa Kilburn.
A neuropsychologist, Associate Professor Russell was an integral part of the team
that was to develop, pilot and evaluate a health service-based local model of care for people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) – a significant risk factor for dementia.
“Our previous studies have identified high rates of MCI,” Dr Russell said. “This is a condition where there is evidence of objective cognitive impairment but minimal functional impact.”
Another vital team member, Dr Rhiann Sue See, was a First Nations geriatrician who would complete her PhD on the research. Dr Sue See, who has done some previous risk factor modelling, has suggested a substantial proportion of dementia and MCI in the region may be attributed
to potentially modifiable factors, many of which can be addressed through lifestyle changes and education.
“We think MCI may currently impact more than one fifth of the Torres Strait population over 45 years old. So, any intervention that can potentially delay or reduce the onset of dementia has significant health, social and financial benefits for individuals, communities and health services,” Dr Sue See said.
Dr Russell said research into dementia in the region was ongoing.
“We have been going up to the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area clinically - many of us have clinical roles with Queensland Health working with older adults - and in a research capacity through HART for over 20 years,” she said.
“Last year we visited at least 10 island communities, some more than once, and the NPA. Over 100 older adults had geriatric assessments completed and we ran yarning and workshops across communities.”
The call for doctors to come home to work on Country has been long and loud by community members across the Torres Strait and northern Cape.
Last year, a group of 20 Ailan doctors made a historic trip to Waiben and the Torres Strait, some of them connecting with their homelands for the first time.
Organised by the Australian Indigenous Doctors Association (AIDA) and local Elders, the Igilyawa Program was a visit to the Torres Strait by doctors and student doctors who spent time in communities, schools, hospitals and local health services.
A final report from the visit – Igilyawa 2024 Report: Custodians of Life – published late last year, highlighted the importance and need for culturally safe care to the community.
Feedback from the visit included in the final report also showed 82 per cent of the doctors were interested in coming home to work and 100 per cent agreed they were considering ways to further contribute to the health needs of Torres Strait Islanders.
AIDA CEO Donna Burns said the united voice of the doctors was powerful.
“These [doctors] expressed an interest in working back home with community, where we know the health disparity is so great,” she said.
“That cultural understanding will be so powerful in someone’s healing journey, and we are really committed to [advocating] to shake up a system”
Dr Karen Nicholls was the second Torres Strait Islander doctor known to graduate from university in 1999.
She said since that time there had been a cultural shift in industry understanding that Indigenous health professionals brought valuable skill sets to the table.
“We become doctors, we become clinically good, but we can also provide cultural safety with the way in which we do things,” she said.
“That is often why
we get into medicine, because we want to do good by community.
“You cannot be clinically safe without being culturally safe – the two go hand in hand.”
AIDA’s report was presented to island leaders on Waiben, which Ms Burns said was well-received.
“As we came to launch the report, many of the Elders here on Waiben [said they] would love to see in their lifetime, Torres Strait Islander doctors coming back and working here,” she said.
But the doctors said they faced too many barriers.
At the launch of the report, doctors spoke of their experiences of trying to find employment with the region’s primary healthcare provider – the Torres & Cape Hospital and Health Service (TCHHS) – only to be dismissed.
Doctors and Elders became emotional as they said they had pleaded with TCHHS to start with bringing “just one” doctor home, as there were no Torres Strait Islander doctors based in the Torres Strait or Northern
Peninsula Area’s island communities.
TCHHS Executive General Manager for the Northern Sector Marita Sagigi said it was alarming to learn the doctors were unsupported when they reached out.
She said TCHHS completed a Recruitment Review in March 2024 and was seriously weighing the importance of cultural connection during recruitment.
“[This is] the importance of having somebody who speaks language, who people can feel comfortable with and engage in,” Ms Sagigi said.
“[We need to] make sure that we’re able to not only look at the clinical capacity and experience of a professional but also marry that up with the importance of that cultural safety they provide.”
The Recruitment Review showed the TCHHS had already faced scrutiny over discriminatory practices and policies from the Queensland Nurses and Midwives Union, the Australian Workers Union and the Together Union Queensland.
A spokesperson for the TCHHS said they were working
to implement the 35 recommendations within the recruitment review.
“[We are] particularly looking at processes that recognise and highlight the value of employing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” they said.
They said the staff housing policy, which also came under scrutiny in the report, reflected the bigger issue of a lack of housing across the region.
“As a result, the TCHHS is building its own staff accommodation in Bamaga, Pormpuraaw, Badu, Laura, Lockhart River, and Horn Island to help offset this issue,” they said.
An investigation was also underway into the cultural safety of the organisation’s processes, with that report –originally due for release in June 2024 – expected to be out mid-2025.
Queensland Health Minister Tim Nicholls said he met with the TCHHS Executive Board last month to discuss issues relating to workforce and access to health services.
A spokesperson for Premier David Crisafulli said workforce attraction and retention in health were a priority.
“We are committed
to growing the health workforce by 34,500 workers by 2032,” they said.
Barriers
Dr Karen Nicholls said many of the barriers faced by the AIDA doctors were not unique to the Torres Strait, particularly training opportunities.
“If you want to be an ophthalmologist – an eye specialist – there might not be a training program here,” she said.
“So even though you might want to go back [home after you study] and train here, that opportunity might not have been created as yet.
“The hope is that we can work and create the opportunities.”
Ms Sagigi said their remote locations meant the TCHHS was limited in what it could offer.
“This has been a great opportunity for us to connect with AIDA, to understand what pathways they currently have and how we can work together as a remote health service,” she said.
“How do we make sure that we are providing competency and confidence in the clinical practice of our First Nation staff if they are to come into our organisation?”
Ms Burns said the coming together of stakeholders was a step in the right direction towards bringing doctors home.
“Working in isolation would make systemic change very, very hard,” she said
“[Our doctors] would like a pathway here that absolutely highlights, emphasises, prioritises [and] privileges their Torres Strait Islander Heritage.
“That includes understanding culture, understanding language, understanding people, understanding families, understanding all of the beauty that comes with being a Torres Strait Islander.”
Dr Nicholls said since the trip, the 20 AIDA doctors had felt empowered.
She said the exercise was the first step toward creating a ‘nationhood of Torres Strait Islander doctors’, who were connected and supportive of each other.
“We share our experiences, give advice, give mentorship… that was not there when I began my medical career,” she said.
Ms Sagigi said while there was more work to be done to implement the findings of the
reviews, she was proud of what the TCHHS had done to provide traineeship opportunities to schoolgoers.
She said through federal funding the TCHHS had recruited 20 school-based trainees across the region over the past two years.
“We rotated them through all the different areas… [it’s] a great opportunity for those students to consider whereabouts in health they would like to work,” she said.
To see the final report from the TCHHS recruitment review go to: https://www.torrescape.health.qld.gov. au/__data/assets/pdf_ file/0016/238111/ Final-TCHHSRecruitmentreview-report-andattachments-FINAL. pdf
To see the Igilyawa 2024 Report: Custodians of Life go to: https://aida.org. au/publication/ igilyawa-2024-reportcustodians-of-life/
Each month our proud sponsor CEQ will pick their favourite entry and the winner will receive a $150 Gift Card to use at any of your local CEQ stores!
Each week we will publish a pic showing the Ailan way of life in the Torres Strait and the NPA – the kids swimming, a BBQ at the beach, fishing, scenic shots, etc – from local photographers and readers across our region.
Just email us your pic of Ailan Life along with your name, phone number and a 25-word description to ads@torres.news
This week’s pics, taken on Thursday Island, were submitted by Gillian Hu. Below are Gillian’s comments on her pics.
ABOVE: “While walking along the beach with my friend, we came across this beautiful sunset. Both of us are certain this is a moment we will cherish forever.”
RIGHT: “This is a yellow and bright bird named the Sahul Sunbird. The male is currently feeding its chick. This species is typical of northern Queensland.“
BELOW: “On a regular evening at the beach, I noticed the stars shining bright. I captured this moment to remember the unique starry sky of the Southern Hemisphere.”
Gillian is now in the draw to win this month’s $150 gift card! Good luck!
BY VELMA GARA
This year’s Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) will return to the iconic, one-stop arts and culture hub –Tanks Arts Centre.
CIAF CEO Dennis Stokes said the Tanks Arts Centre’s compelling combination of history, heritage and state-ofthe-art capability was housed within its three multi-purpose tanks and rainforest setting.
“We are excited to announce our return to Tanks Arts Centre and the many opportunities it affords, not the least of which is the convenience of everything in one place,” Mr Stokes said.
CIAF Artistic Director Teho Ropeyarn said this year’s theme Pay Attention! was a call to action for artists who promised to create an evocative and contemporary thread that connected visual and performing arts,
educational talks, site activations, cultural entertainment and activities.
“After the Voice Referendum in 2023, Pay Attention! challenges us to remain vigilant about the social, political, and cultural issues impacting First Nations communities at a profound time in our collective history,” Mr Ropeyarn said.
Mr Stokes said the city’s much-loved arts and cultural precinct would be transformed into an immersive and integrative First Nations celebration welcoming festivalgoers to drop in, wander at leisure or stay awhile.
“With our visual art exhibitions, live music, cultural dance and fashion performances housed within the three repurposed World War II oil tanks, the expansive outdoors activated by curated food stalls, art markets, workshops, conversations, and more, the Tanks Arts Centre is poised to offer visitors an unforgettable experience,” he said.
CIAF Patron
Henrietta Fourmile Marrie AO has welcomed the return to Tanks Arts Centre in 2025.
“CIAF has always celebrated the richness and diversity of Queensland’s distinct and diverse Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islands arts and culture,” she said.
“Returning to the Tanks Arts Centre brings us back to the heart of this journey, where the foundation for our success was built.
“The venue’s rich history and exquisite rainforest setting perfectly complement the stories and traditions we aim as First Nations custodians and artists to share with audiences.”
Since its inception, CIAF has become one of Australia’s premier Indigenous art fairs, attracting thousands of visitors and providing a platform for artists to connect with national and international audiences.
CIAF 2025 will be held at the Tanks Arts Centre on 11 – 13 July 2025.
THURSDAY 6
In Loving Memory of Brendan Thomas Foster
29th June 1984 –31st January 2011
“Only the Holy Spirit gives eternal life.” (John 6:63)
Our minds still talk to you Our hearts still look for you But, Our souls know you are at peace.
Until we meet again...
Lovingly remembered by... Mum, Charles, Kevin, Lucinda, Vivien (Sisi), La-Tesha, Christopher, Jalynn, Aliyah, Brendan (Jnr), Karlee & Isayah.
EDITORIAL
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
NEWS
Aboriginal Hostels Limited is seeking an experienced APS 4 Deputy Head of Boarding who is highly motivated, energetic, enthusiastic and passionate about delivering quality services to our residents in our Canon Boggo Pilot Hostel, Thursday Island, QLD.
For more information or to apply, go to our website at: www.ahl.gov.au/work
Applications close: February
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
NEWS & PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS
Kantesha Takai, Jillian Bowie, Talei Elu, Shanella Majid, Bel Lui, Alf Wilson and Velma Gara.
Rugby league teams and players from the Torres Strait have achieved so much success over the years, Torres News Correspondent Alf Wilson writes…
If the rugby league Gods could hand down a definitive decision about the most successful times for Torres Strait and Cape York rugby league teams, the 2009 Foley Shield carnival in Townsville would be amongst the greatest.
The Foley Shield is a prestigious north Queensland rugby league competition that started in 1948.
Torres/Cape entered the competition for the first time in 2009 at the Townsville Sports Reserve.
The team was a classic underdog in every sense, with not many league followers in Townsville giving them any chance of even winning a game.
The Torres/Cape side was against big smoke teams Townsville, Cairns, Mackay, Innisfail/Eacham and Mount Isa/Mid West.
I covered the event and some punters offered 20 points start for Torres/Cape in their opening game on Good Friday against highly ranked Cairns.
But the form guides went out the door when Torres/Cape upset Cairns 28-24 with Weipa forward Garreth Smith scoring two tries and winning the coveted man-of-the-match award.
Aaron Binawel, Horace Baira, captain Danny Mosby, halfback Stanley Daniel and forward James Binawel shone.
During the game, former Canberra Raiders player and then Weipa-based QRL Development Officer David Westley, left the field injured with a deep facial wound that required eight stitches.
Ironically Westley had clashed heads with Cairns player Kieran Hayes whom he coached at Kangaroos club in Cairns for several years.
I fondly recall phoning Torres News editor Mark Bousen and then newly appointed News Editor Velma Gara from the Sports Reserve to keep them updated on progressive scores.
In game two on Easter Saturday, Torres/Cape beat Mid West/Mount Isa 32-24 in a match that was an even money bet after the upset victory over Cairns.
It was played in drizzling rain and Jimmy Baira of Badu descent scored the first and last try, kicked a late 40/20 and was best on ground.
Badu Islander Horace Baira scored two tries from centre and was also strong in defence.
Napranum Bulldog Jason Nixon scored a try and was crafty and creative from dummy half.
A few hours after the victory over the western Queensland boys
from Mid West/Mount Isa, Torres/ Cape faced Townsville with the winner to earn the other grand final berth against Innisfail/Eacham.
Despite their two wins only the brave-hearted Torres and Cape players and supporters gave them a chance. In punting terms, Townsville was “London to a Brick On” to win easily.
This was a “DAVID AND GOLIATH” battle.
But Torres/Cape showed great courage and class to beat the highrolling Townsville Silverstars 26-20 and even earned generous applause from opposition supporters.
It looked likely that Townsville would roll to a big early lead after they scored a try in the fourth minute courtesy of centre Lester Hero who played for Bindal Sharks United Club and would later line up at carnivals on TI.
The Townsville danger man was Yorke Islander Billo Mosby who
was one of the best performers at carnivals around the Torres Strait.
Mosby had played beside Garreth Smith in the winning Kulpiyam team at the 2008 Island of Origin series on Badu Island.
Mosby was nullified to a degree and centre Soki Dau scored two tries for Torres/Cape, with singles to Kubin player Jerry Savage, Edgar Daniel from TI, and Michael Morris from Dauan.
Torres/Cape led 16-14 at halftime.
Inspirational Torres/Cape captain Danny Mosby was delighted as he stood with his battle-hardened troops in front of the grandstand after the victory.
“We shocked them all here today and we could not gauge how we would go not having played in this competition before and I feel so proud,” Mosby said.
Tough prop James Binawel is a proud Dauan Islander and stirred
emotions when he yelled to his teammates.
“We come from the top and we stay on the top,” Binawel said.
Grand final
Innisfail/Eacham which last won a title in 1990 made the running in the final and led 22-4 at halftime.
Jimmy Baira scored the only points for Torres/Cape until then with a try just before the siren for the break.
The strong tackling Innisfail/ Eacham bolted to a 32-4 lead after the break before Torres/Cape finished well and scored tries by Horace Baira, Jimmy Baira and Michael Morris with Aaron Binawel kicking three goals.
Innisfail/Eacham went on to win the final 32-22.
Captain Danny Mosby pointed out that his side outscored the winners 18-8 in the second half.
“But overall we dropped lots of
ball and you can’t do that against good opposition,” he said.
Danny Mosby was the best player for Torres/Cape from five-eighth.
Grand Final Full Results:
Innisfail/Eacham 32 (Jordan Kane, Lloyd Singleton, Steve Sheppard, Dean Howard, Robert Haren, Ben Hagan tries, Steve Singleton 4 goals) d Torres/Cape 22 (Jimmy Baira 2, Horace Baira 1, Michael Morris 1 tries, Aaron Binawel 3 goals).
Where are they now?
Most of the players in that 2009 side have retired and will have golden memories when they check out these pictures.
But where are they now?
Garreth Smith is the CEO of the Northern Pride, most of the others are still living on the islands and some in the Northern Peninsula Area.
Ten years ago Torres Strait Islander rugby league identity Aaron Daniel had a dream to form a team of family and friends who would take out a major Allblacks carnival.
That turned into a reality a decade later when Coastal Connexions won the Survival Day Reconciliation Knockout Rugby League carnival in Cairns late last month.
Aaron, 38, was unlucky to miss the grand final due to a knee injury, but still watched his side defeat Western Bears 46-10 in the grand final at Jones Park on January 26.
Ironically one of those who shared that dream with Aaron all those years ago, George
Gibuma, also could not play because he was aged over 40.
It was the 64th carnival victory Aaron has been involved in as a player, coach, or administrator.
“I called it my dream team and it took three
IN THIS WEEK’S ‘HOOPS’ NEWS...
LA Clippers
The Los Angeles Clippers and Utah Jazz have signed off on a deal to trade Patty Mills ahead of the deadline in the National Basketball Association (NBA).
Mills, the first Australian to play 1000 NBA games, will be suiting up for his seventh professional team and will relocate to the west coast of the United States to play for his new team.
U20 Nationals
Queensland collected silver on the weekend at the U20 Basketball Championship held Ballarat. Both teams played in the grand finals but were unlucky not to get the gold medals.
The women’s team lost narrowly to New South Wales, 69-64, and the men’s team was defeated by Victoria
Navy, 95-77.
Guard, Teyahna Bond, played her last maroon’s representative competition and collected the Defensive Player of the Tournament.
Men’s coach, Chris Cedar, has done an outstanding job with his team, with Queensland making it to the grand finals two years in a row.
The McDowell-White family were represented as well, with Zac (player) and mother, Bianca, as team manager.
Cairns
It was the clash of former teammates from Cairns Basketball in Round 14 of the Womens National Basketball League, Shaneice Swain (Sydney Flames) and Indi Bowyer (Canberra Capitals.
It was an important game for both teams fighting for fourth spot
months before this carnival, with the help of his bala Adeah Kabai, to get this team together and it was so good,” he said.
The team included players such as Gedi Dau (Boigu), Laurie Elisala (Dauan), Henry Williams (Darnley), Gideon Gela
on the ladder to continue post-season into the playoffs.
It didn’t disappoint as the game went into overtime and Sydney was the winner by four points, 92-88. Shaneice scored 36 points including five 3-pointers.
Canberra then went on the road and played Geelong United and won that game, 91-77. They are still in the hunt for fourth place.
Kittyhawk
Basketball is back on the NPA community calendar.
The Kittyhawk Association has started scrimmages on Tuesday and Thursday nights at 6pm.
All are welcome.
The NPA’s Junior Basketball ITC Program will start on Saturday 8 February, with morning training from 8am –10am. Special reminder for juniors to bring their shoes and water bottle.
Both scrimmages and ITC Program are held at the Reginald Sebasio Community Hall in Bamaga.
SheHoops
SheHoops ran two events in South East Queensland last month – an open basketball clinic at Ipswich, and the Indigenous Leadership Program at Logan Metro.
Other players came from Sydney, Newcastle and Kempsey, including star player Mal Webster, who was with the Sydney Rabbitohs.
The Western Bears
side included Aaron’s nephews Eddie and big brother Stanley Daniel, and the dynamic nephew Stanley Anau (Boigu). Aaron enjoyed sharing the win with his 56-year-old dad Kennedy Tom who has always been a big supporter.
Lauren Jackson and Abby Cubillo from SheHoops, along with other coaches, were present to work with the state’s female junior athletes. SheHoops is to inspire, connect and empower women and
girls in basketball. Mentors for this year are Abby Cubillo, Ally Wilson, Cayla George, Zitina Aokuso, Tess Madgen and Kristy Wallace.
Send us your pic of the week, fixtures or finals results by noon on Monday!
EMAIL:
BY ALF WILSON
Experienced forward Samara Luta, along with rising young star Jairel Martin-Savage are the latest signings by the Cairns-based Northern Pride for their debut year in the BMD Statewide ladies rugby league premiership.
They are both proud Torres Strait Islanders, Samara with Moa (St Pauls) and Mer connections whilst Jairel’s father’s side of the family was from Rennell Island (Mauar).
Samara said she was delighted to be signed up with her cousin Jairel.
“I will be moving to Cairns permanently and look forward to the season,” Samara said.
The 28-year-old Samara oozed experience and in 2019/20 was a member of the Cowboys Women’s Academy.
Samara was a key player for the Goldstars in 2020 and 21 including when they won a statewide ladies’ premiership.
In 2024 Samara was on the Centrals side who won the Townsville and District ladies’ grand final.
She also has an elite player contract with the Cowboy’s NRLW side for the 2025 season.
“That means if a
Cowboys NRLW forward is injured I would get a call-up,” she said.
A hard running and tackling forward Samara has a lot of experience in winning ladies Allblacks carnival teams.
That included being a teammate of her role model and former NRLW Dally M Medal winner Jenni-Sue Hoepper.
They lined up beside each other for a memorial side in honour of a late rugby league identity at the 2022 Bindal Sharks Allblacks carnival.
“Jenni-Sue is my role model and I am so glad she has signed with the Pride as well,” Samara said.
Aged 20, versatile Jairel played halfback or lock with skill and was
a great signing for the Pride.
Jairel had genuine speed and won major awards at women’s sections of recent Cairns and Townsville Allblacks carnivals.
At the Bindal Sharks event in early October, Jairel won the player of the final award when she was a member of the champion team Unity which beat Burdekin in the final.
Before that Jairel won the best back award at the Cairns Women’s Indigenous carnival when she lined up for Original Doobs which lost the final to Coastal Neurs.
In September Jairel was a teammate of Samara for the Centrals Tigers Townsville and District ladies competition grand final.
