2006 Speeches

Address by TSRA Deputy Chairman

Mr Fred Gela

Iama Island Airstrip Opening

28 August 2006

I would like to begin by acknowledging:

• The traditional owners of Iama and neighbouring islands
• Elders
• Iama Island Council
• State Member for Cook, Mr Jason O’Brien
• Queensland Transport Representatives – Mr Steve McGrath
• Queensland Main Roads Representatives
• Ladies and Gentlemen

Thank you for inviting me here today to be present on this important day for Torres Strait aviation safety, with Iama Island being the final community to receive an all-weather sealed airstrip. 

The upgraded airstrips in our region have been the result of a collaboration involving all levels of Government, including the TSRA, the Queensland Departments of Transport and Main Roads, and our Island Councils. 

It is a good example of how by working in partnership, and taking a whole of government approach, Torres Strait communities are now benefiting from its results, which are providing vital improvements to the quality of life for our people. 

This upgraded airstrip will provide year round access to Iama, as well as enhancing business opportunities and assisting in quick and safer air travel for our visitors and families. 

An important aspect of this project on Iama, has been its significant contribution to community capacity building and I would like to congratulate the four community members who took part in the construction of the airstrip and received training under the Heavy Equipment and Management Training Program (HEMTP). 

These trainees have been skilled in the areas of construction and heavy machinery use, giving them the confidence and knowledge to assist their own community in maintaining this airstrip, as well as becoming part of a skilled pool of local workers who can be called upon to assist in future projects. 

I would like to commend all stakeholders who have been involved in the funding, planning, construction and completion of this project. 

I extend my appreciation to the Department of Main Road’s Remote Communities Services Unit for coordinating HEMPT and also the Queensland Department of Local Government, Planning, Sport and Recreation (DLGPS&R), for joining the TSRA to support this initiative. 

In addition, I would also like to acknowledge the ongoing support of the Queensland Departments of Transport and Main Roads, for working in partnership with the TSRA and the region’s communities to achieve this milestone in Torres Strait aviation safety. 

Finally I would like to congratulate the Iama Island Council and community on their new airstrip and esso them for supporting this project and sharing the TSRA’s goal of achieving a better quality of life for our people.  Esso.