Sea Swift operations co-ordinator Damone Everall and executive chairman Chris Pearce in May. The region’s largest shipping company has reached a positive resolution with Torres Strait Island Regional Council. Photo: Cape York Weekly.
Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) and Sea Swift have resolved an ongoing legal matter and confirmed their commitment to improve infrastructure, build employment, and enhance economic and social growth in the region.
One area they’re already seeing eye to eye on is the need for improved landing and ramp facilities, many of which are at end-of-life condition and hazardous to operations.
Sea Swift executive chairman Chris Pearce said the two organisations could now move forward and focus solely on working as joint advocates for the communities that relied on them.
“We have some great opportunities in play for our two organisations to collaborate on together and are committed to provide benefits for the Torres Strait Islander communities as a team,” Mr Pearce said.
“There are some key issues that need to be addressed immediately, such as the remote infrastructure, which needs government attention. We are also working to promote local jobs for local people and navigating how we can provide tangible career pathways for people in these locations as well as supporting local industries.
“Sea Swift is committed to continuing to drive the relationship between the organisations into the future and to improve the conditions of the communities in Northern Australia.”
Sea Swift, the region’s largest shipping company, has provided sea freight services to the area’s remote and regional communities since 1987.
TSIRC chief executive officer James William said council was pleased to have reached a positive resolution with Sea Swift that enabled both to focus on what really mattered – delivering tangible benefits for Torres Strait Islander communities.
“This agreement strengthens our partnership and ensures our communities have a stronger voice in the decisions that impact them,” Mr William said.
“By working together with Sea Swift, we are tackling some of the most pressing issues facing our islands – from the safe and reliable delivery of essential goods to the removal of accumulated waste and the improvement of our physical environment.
“The benefits of this partnership will be visible and measurable. Cleaner communities, safer and more sustainable infrastructure, and new employment pathways for our people are outcomes we can all stand behind.”
He described the legal matter as “a long and protracted process” for which both parties should be commended for their perseverance and patience.
“Our islands face unique challenges, but through cooperative partnerships like this one, we can drive meaningful change that protects our environment, supports local jobs, and improves everyday life for Torres Strait Islanders now and into the future.”
