The TCICA delegation had back-to-back meetings during their trip to Canberra earlier this month.
A DELEGATION of leaders from Cape York and the Torres Strait has picked the brains of Canberra as it looks to improve liveability in the region and raise awareness of issues facing locals.
The Torres and Cape Indigenous Councils Alliance had representatives from a large portion of councils in the region, including Cook Shire and the Weipa Town Authority.
TCICA executive officer Melinda Eades said it was a great chance to catch up with ministers and key department staff following the formation of the Albanese government.
“There were a lot of new faces and it was great for TCICA to be able to get our messages across,” she said.
WTA member Jaime Gane said it was her first delegation to the capital as an elected official.
“It was an eye-opening experience and there were a lot of positives,” she said.
“Because you have such a busy schedule with a lot of back-to-back meetings, you really need to be well rehearsed.
“I think (the ministers) understand the challenges of Cape York but our issues are complex and layered.
“There is a lot of support when it comes to funding but one of the challenges we have is a lack of management.
“It’s great there is money on the table for marketing and promotion but we also need management.”
Ms Gane said she received a lot of positive feedback about the upcoming Western Cape Futures Symposium, which will be held in Weipa from March 23 to 25 next year.
