For immediate release 17 May 2011
I wish to acknowledge the traditional owners of Kaiwalagal on whose land I am writing from and all other traditional owners and elders, past and present, throughout our region.
IFAC The TSRA has been working to establish the new Indigenous Fisheries Advisory Committee (IFAC). The IFAC is part of the TSRA’s commitment to increased involvement of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people in the region’s fisheries. The main focus of the IFAC is economic development and sustainable management of Torres Strait fisheries. Announced in February 2011, the IFAC was established after an independent review which recommended the establishment of an expertise based Committee. The TSRA is currently in the process of appointing Committee members who will provide high quality advice to the TSRA board. Information sessions about the IFAC and its programs will be rolled out across the Torres Strait in the coming months.
National Congress of Australia’s First People I would like to congratulate the newly elected Co-Chairs of the National Congress of Australia’s First People. Ms Jody Broun and Mr Les Malezer were elected Co-Chairs in mid April 2011 and now hold the two most senior positions in the organisation. The establishment of the National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples is the culmination of years of hard work to re-create a national representative body. The Congress is building a national platform for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to have a say in policy development now and in the future, ensuring the creation of a national collective voice. The TSRA welcomes the new Co-Chairs and we look forward to working together to promote and support the rights and recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Further details about the Congress can be found at nationalcongress.com.au.
MOU TSRA has historically worked closely with local government authorities. I am pleased to announce the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the TSRA and the Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC). A Memorandum of Understanding is a formal commitment outlining how partners will work together on a range of issues. I expect this MOU will continue to improve the quality of life for all residents of the Northern Peninsula Area. The MOU was signed off in a spirit of good will and demonstrates the strong trust between the TSRA and the NPARC. I look forward a close working relationship With Mayor Joseph Elu and the NPARC Councillors. Until next time, may God bless you all and keep you safe. John T Kris Chairperson Torres Strait Regional Authority
NPARC Mayor, Cr Joseph Elu (L) and TSRA Chairperson, Toshie Kris (R) sign off on the MOU
TSRA Executive Board Members with NPARC representatives celebrate the MOU signing
Front row L-R: TSRA Member for Horn and Prince of Wales Islands, Ms Napcia Bin Tahal; TSRA Member for Hammond, Ms Nancy Pearson; NPARC Cr Gina Nona; TSRA Member for Boigu, Mr Donald Banu. Back row L-R: NPARC Cr Peter Lui; NPARC Cr Jeffrey Aniba; TSRA Member for Iama, Mr Walter Makie; TSRA Chairperson, Mr Toshie Kris; NPARC Mayor, Cr Joseph Elu; TSRA Member for Mabuiag Mr Keith Fell; TSRA Member for Erub, Mr Kenny Bedford; NPARC Cr Michael Bond; TSRA General Manager Mr Wayne See Kee.
TSRA Media Contact: Communications Coordinator, Susan Bryce, Telephone (07) 4069 0700.