2008 Chair Column

TSRA News Column

For publishing 15 October 2008

I wish to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Kaiwalagal from whose land I am writing and all other Traditional Owners and Elders throughout our region.

Local Leaders and Scientific Researchers Discuss Environmental Projects for the Torres Strait Region

Important briefings on the status of several scientific research studies in the Torres Strait region were presented at a meeting hosted by the Reef and Rainforest Research Centre (RRRC) on Friday 26 September. TSRA Board Members, key Torres Strait management agencies, and members of the Marine and Tropical Sciences Research Facility (MTSRF) came together to talk about the future of our region.

A subject of concern to many of us is climate change and rising sea levels. Most communities have experienced changes to shorelines and one of the MTSRF projects is looking at ways to support communities in becoming more resilient to these changes.

Scientists are examining how Torres Strait Islander people have adapted to sea level changes in the past and are combining it with western science to come up with planning strategies for the future. The impact of sea-level rises on sea grass and turtle nesting sites is also being studied, and how any changes would affect the region’s fisheries as a whole. This research complements the work being done by the Erosion Committee which includes members from James Cook University and Government agencies.

MTSRF research into sponge populations around Masig Island and other communities will assist in a proposed sponge aquaculture project which is currently in the planning and approval stage. Community-based harvesting strategies for dugong, turtle, trochus shell and beche-de-mer are also being researched so that Islanders can continue to use the ocean’s resources for food and economic development while making sure stocks are not depleted.

Vic McGrath from TSRA’s Land and Sea Management Unit is working with researchers to ensure that projects are of value to, and understood by, Torres Strait Islanders. If you have any queries about these projects you can contact him on (07) 4069 2957 or 0418 744 559.

Community Consultations

Throughout September and October, three teams from the TSRA, Torres Shire Council, Torres Strait Island Regional Council, Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council and the office of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships have been conducting community consultation meetings in all of the Torres Strait communities. The consultations are for the Integrated Planning and Service Delivery Project which will outline how key stakeholders will deliver their programs and services in the future.

The meetings held to date have been well attended and excellent information about future visions and priorities across a range of issues has been collected. Communities will have a chance to provide feedback on the information through their Council Representative and Community Forums prior to the Elected Leaders Forum.

Seisia Local Honoured with a Child Protection Week Regional Award

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Ms Sonia Townson who recently received a Child Protection Week Regional Award. Eight Awards were presented by the Child Safety Minister Margaret Keech, and Ms Townson was awarded for her dedication to Bamaga’s young people at risk of becoming alcohol or drug abusers.

Ms Townson has been working tirelessly with young people in Bamaga for a long time and it is welcome news that her efforts have been nationally recognised. She makes us all proud and reminds us that it is everyone’s responsibility to look after our children.

Alick Tipoti’s Print is the People’s Favourite at the Telstra Art Awards

I would also like to congratulate Mr Alick Tipoti for winning the People’s Choice Award at this year’s Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Art Awards. The winning linocut, Adhikuyam, is an extraordinary accomplishment. It is five metres wide and showcases his remarkable skill and talent. The Award comes just weeks after winning the 33rd Fremantle Print Award.

Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival

And finally I must congratulate and thank the Torres Shire Council for hosting the ‘Winds of Zenadth’ Cultural Festival and making it such a successful occasion.

In particular, congratulations to everyone who participated in the dance teams during the festivities. It is great to see all the dance teams keeping our heritage alive with such accomplished and enthusiastic performances.

Until the next column, may God bless you all and keep you safe.

Any feedback on this column can be sent to:

Mr John. T. Kris

TSRA Chairperson

PO Box 261

Thursday Island, Qld 4875

Alternatively, feedback can also be sent through the TSRA website via the media contact in the ‘contact us’ segment of the site.