With Torres Strait Regional Authority Chairperson, John Toshie Kris.  

I wish to acknowledge the traditional owners of Kaiwalagal, on whose land I am writing from and all other traditional owners and elders throughout our region.  I am receiving pleasing feedback on the role this column has had in keeping our communities informed of the many progressive projects and exciting developments that are occurring within our region.

Kuiki Mabaigal Forum  

I provided in a previous Chairperson’s column, an update on the Kuiki Mabaigal Forum.  I would like to clarify the TSRA’s position on an article in the Torres News (29th September edition page 3).  As you may know, the ICC Chairman presented proposed reforms on local government to the Queensland Indigenous Affairs Minister Liddy Clark.  These proposed reforms arose from the Kuiki Mabaigal Forum held on Badu in August.

I attended the Masig celebration on the 23rd of August 2004 and it was my understanding that I and others supported the resolutions in principle whereby a process should be taken to consult the people throughout the region and other peak agencies.  To date there has been no formal discussions with myself or the TSRA Board on any of the proposed resolutions.  I will be inviting the ICC Chair to attend a meeting with the TSRA Executive Members in the near future. 

I look forward to receiving feedback from the Kuiki Mabaigal Forum and from the ICC Chair on other issues of regional governance.

TSRA funding for important infrastructure developments

The TSRA plays an active role in facilitating regional development and I am pleased to note that two TSRA funded initiatives in the Torres Shire are progressing.  The first is the establishment of a much-needed sewerage scheme at Horn Island.  This important project will be crucial in ensuring Horn Island residents continue to enjoy a good standard of sanitation and vastly improved environmental health.  The TSRA is also pleased to be providing some funding towards the long-awaited construction of the new boat ramp at Rose Hill. 

Both these projects will serve to enhance and compliment the existing infrastructure in our region and I congratulate the Torres Shire Council on taking the initiative and furthering the development of this part of the region.

TSRA General Manager's Departure

As Chairperson of the Torres Strait Regional Authority and on behalf of all those who had the pleasure to work with him, it gives me a degree of sadness to say goodbye to Mr. Mike Fordham, the General Manager of the TSRA.  Mike has been the General Manager of the TSRA for almost three and a half years and will be relocating to Coffs Harbour in New South Wales to take up a new appointment with the Australian government.

As many would know, Mike has been a highly dedicated and committed leader of the TSRA Administration and in his role as General Manager has been instrumental in driving and upholding the function of the TSRA as an organisation dedicated to delivering positive results for the Torres Strait and its residents.  I would like to wish Mike, Suzie and the boys all the very best for the future and for the positive challenges that will no doubt lay ahead.  I am also pleased to offer my full support to Mr. Wayne See Kee who has just been appointed acting General Manager. 

Any feedback for my column can be sent to:

Mr. John T. Kris
TSRA Chairperson
PO Box 261
Thursday Island QLD 4875

John T. Kris
TSRA Chairperson