Torres Strait Regional Authority

Congratulations to our very own Ronald Fujii who has been a successful recipient for the Sir Roland Wilson Foundation, Pat Turner Scholarship to complete his PhD studies for the next 2 years. Ronald has worked in the public service for the past 20 years, for agencies in Canberra and at the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) managing programs that deliver natural resource management across the Torres Strait Region. His most recent role at the TSRA involved working in the Governance and Leadership program managing legislative processes and policies, supporting effective regional communication, and coordinating the integration of the delivery of government services to the region. Through the Pat Turner scholarship and Master of Public Policy program at CDU, Ronald will look for opportunities and pathways to help him gain a deeper understanding of complex policy, especially arrangements and implementation in the Northern Australian context. In addition, he will explore how policy arrangements can improve essential and critical service delivery in the Torres Strait, improving the lives of Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal people in the region. 

Protecting Our Coral Lifeline: Urgent Action Needed for Torres Strait’s Climate Refuges 🪸 🐚 TSRA is deeply committed to safeguarding the Zenadth Kes region. Our efforts support sustainable land and sea management, monitor ecosystem health, and foster collaboration with traditional custodians and scientists. Initiatives such as our ranger program, invasive species management, and climate adaptation strategies aim to protect not just the coral reefs but also the communities and marine life that depend on them.   Recent research has highlighted that cooler water flowing from the Torres Strait acts as a vital lifeline for corals in the face of rising ocean temperatures caused by climate change. These cooler currents create climate refuges, protecting corals during marine heatwaves and aiding their recovery. This unique feature positions the Torres Strait as a global biodiversity hotspot and a critical contributor to the resilience of the Great Barrier Reef system.   Researchers are calling for greater protections of these “cool spots” amid growing concerns that the Great Barrier Reef is reaching an environmental tipping point beyond repair.   As climate change intensifies, protecting areas like the Torres Strait has never been more urgent. However, we cannot do this alone. We must work collaboratively towards climate resilience, sustainable resource management, reef protection, and community-driven initiatives. By securing additional funding and support, we can enhance our efforts to protect these natural refuges, thereby strengthening the resilience of ecosystems that sustain life and livelihoods. Read more about the research here: https://lnkd.in/dCzKHeMC

As the year draws to a close, we're excited to share our Annual Report 2023-24! This year's cover artwork 'Unity and Strength' by Segar Passi, perfectly symbolises how we are coming together to drive economic development and wellbeing across the Torres Strait. The report highlights the dedication of our staff, partners and communities in building a sustainable future for Zenadth Kes while staying strong in culture and united in partnership. Here are some of our key highlights: 💙 opened Poruma’s seawall, safeguarding homes and preserving culture for generations 💚 welcomed 26 new rangers, including a record number of women 🖤 delivered 12 You Sabe Business Workshops to 95 participants 🤍 hosted over 100 language educators, cultural practitioners and language activists at the Zenadth Kes Language Symposium 💙 celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the Gab Titui Cultural Centre 💚 distributed over $2.5 million in grants across our programs 🖤 supported over 70 students to complete maritime operation courses, paving the way for careers in the maritime industry Want to learn more? The full Annual Report is available here: https://lnkd.in/gTrYm_g8

Strengthening Partnerships for a Stronger Torres Strait and NPA 🤝 The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) and Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) have taken a significant step forward in their shared mission to Close the Gap for Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) communities.  Together, we’ve signed a transformative Heads of Agreement that focuses on creating a healthier, more sustainable future.   Over the next four years, this partnership will drive real change in:  ▶️ Strategic collaboration across cultural, social, and economic priorities  ▶️ Employment and career pathways for local communities  ▶️ Renewable energy transitions to reduce reliance on diesel  ▶️ Healthy lifestyle promotion, including better access to nutritious food    This partnership builds on our shared vision of sustainable community development, cultural preservation, and economic growth.   CEQ Chairperson Joann Schmider said the agreement was a significant milestone for the organisation’s vision of Caring, Every Day, Always.    “This new partnership reflects a Board-to-Board strategic commitment for the organisations to collaborate on the matters that matter most to the people who live here,” Ms Schmider said.    As TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said, “by working together, we are building stronger foundations for our Torres Strait children, families, and Elders.”   #StrongerTogether #ClosingTheGap #HealthyCommunities

Podcast just dropped! 🎤 TSRA staff members Don Whap and Madeina David yarn with The Ecological Society of Australia about their invaluable work protecting Zenadth Kes Sea Country. 🐢 🪸 🎧 Listen now on your favourite podcast platform or visit the link for the full episode! https://lnkd.in/g5FXueVZ

Embedding cultural knowledge and practises into how we look after Country is at the heart of TSRA's Land and Sea Management Unit. Earlier this year TSRA representatives from Masig and Mer had the chance to share this vital work on a national platform at the AIATSIS Summit in Naarm (Melbourne). Speaking with passion, and a deep understanding of responsibility they shared two key cultural frameworks: 🌿 The Gasi Process – Warraber Island Warraberalgal Ranger Laura Pearson shared the sacred “Gasi Process,” an essential tradition handed down through generations. This ritual ensures that the wisdom of our ancestors continues to guide future caretakers of country. 🐚 Meriam Areriba Tonar Mer Seasonal Calendar Meriam Gesep Ranger Aaron Bon, together with Mer Ged Kem Le Deputy Chair John Tabo and Director Ben Depoma, presented the “Mer Seasonal Calendar,” which tracks seasonal changes to guide land and sea management—a testament to centuries of environmental insight. Each presentation honoured our communities’ resilience and adaptability. By sharing these stories, we reinforce the value of Ailan Kastom and Aboriginal Lore and our commitment to preserving cultural heritage across generations. Want to know more about TSRA's Enviromental Management? Visit our new website here: https://lnkd.in/gUSNfjrW

TSRA is proud to be part of the WAITOC Australian Indigenous Tourism Conference in Naarm (Melbourne)! We’re here with a strong delegation of local Torres Strait Islander businesses to champion Indigenous tourism, focusing on youth, environment, culture, and the growth of our tourism sector. This conference is a fantastic opportunity for our local businesses to build connections, learn from industry leaders, and form new partnerships with wholesalers, retailers, and media to bring the unique stories of the Torres Strait and Zendath Kes to audiences far and wide. Our businesses are truly making their mark – at home, across Zendath Kes, and on the national stage! #IndigenousBusinessMonth #MakingOurMark #IndigenousTourism #TorresStrait

“My goal is to create employment opportunities to keep the next generation here lor ples (at home), because without them we have no future." - Diane Sabatino, owner Torres Strait Electrical Diane is the first Torres Strait Islander woman to start her own electrical contracting business in the region offering electrical installations, repairs, maintenance, and test and tag services. While juggling family responsibilities, Diane completed TSRA’s three-part You Sabe Business workshop series before successfully applying for a TSRA Growth Package to kick start her business in 2023. One year on, Diane now has aspirations to employ an Indigenous apprentice creating both economic and social impact outcomes for her community. She is making her mark as both a businesswoman and young leader! Are you thinking about starting your own business? TSRA’s free You Sabe Business program connects local Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people with business advice, loan options and mentoring to explore upla business ideas.   Sign up to our newsletter to be the first to know about new workshop dates! www.tsra.gov.au #Indigenousbusinessmonth #makingourmark #womeninbusiness

Bringing health care closer to home 🌴 Many families in the Torres Strait living with chronic kidney conditions face long journeys to access essential care. But for some, this is about to change. The Kikirriu Dan Walmai (KDW) project is a community-led initiative to restore health to Maluilgal living on Badu, Moa, Mabuiag, Waiben and Gimuy. Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, and Assistant Minister for Indigenous Health the Hon. Ged Kearney and Senator for Queensland Nita Green visited Badu Island this week to discuss the development of a four-chair renal dialysis unit that will serve the near west region of the Torres Strait. Lead by the Kuiku Mabaigal with support from Flinders University, the unit will allow people to receive dialysis closer to home. This means more time with family, better health outcomes, and the comfort of staying on country. TSRA is proud to collaborate with KWD to progress this important project for our community. “If you operate by yourself, there is always a risk of duplication. Aspiration blo yumi people is to get services out to the outer islands. If we can work together to make it happen, it’s sets a precedent for other services,” said TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM. Want to read the progress report? You can! It's available here: http://bit.ly/4fikzSt

TSRA is proud to have supported the Boigu community in launching their incredible Bio-Cultural Landscape Profiles last month. Unveiled by the Malu Kiai Rangers and the Malu Ki’ai RNTBC at a vibrant cultural celebration, these profiles showcase the traditional language, ecological wisdom, with stunning artwork from Boigu artist Barry Maitie, with help from environmental expert David Fell. 🌿🎨 TSRA Acting CEO Charles Kaddy and TSRA representatives joined elders, Traditional Owners, and community members to celebrate this remarkable achievement. Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM commended the Boigu community for the breadth of cultural and scientific knowledge captured. “These profiles highlight the deep connection between the people of Boigu Island and their environment,” Mr Stephen shared. What a proud moment for the Boigu community! Read the media release here: https://lnkd.in/e49BC7Ep