Coen
The township of Coen is about halfway between Cairns and the tip of Cape York. It is not a discrete Aboriginal community and is part of Cook Shire. The township had an estimated resident adult population of 193 people as at 30 June 2010.
Commissioners
Commissioner Peter Pedro PETER
Commissioner Peter Pedro PETER (Lama Lama Clan) is an Elder of great significance within the Lama Lama Clan and the wider community. Coen Commissioner Peter is a valued member of the Coen Men’s Group who pass on their skills and knowledge in leatherwork and woodwork to the younger men and produce goods for sale. Coen Commissioner Peter teaches traditional carving of spears and woomeras, as taught by his Elders. Coen Commissioner Peter is currently the Deputy Chairperson of the Coen Justice Group and provides respect and leadership as a Local Commissioner.
Commissioner May Mary KEPPLE
Commissioner May Mary KEPPLE (Wik-Munkan Clan) is a member of the Coen Justice Group, a Murri Court Elder, a Justice of the Peace (Qualified) and currently works part-time at Mulley’s Market. Coen Commissioner Kepple enjoys painting on canvas and previously managed the Wunthulpu Visitor Centre in Coen. Coen Commissioner Kepple has been an accredited foster carer for the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services since 2007 and remains committed to the welfare of children ensuring they receive opportunities for self-development and a bright future.
Commissioner Garry Lloyd PORT
Commissioner Garry Lloyd PORT (Lama Lama / Kuku Yalanji / Awapathu Clans) is from a well respected Coen family and son of Barry Port, the famous Aboriginal tracker. Coen Commissioner Port is a Justice of the Peace (Qualified) and works fulltime as an Indigenous Administration and Support Worker for Australian Red Cross. He is deeply involved with supporting young people and ensuring they reach their full educational potential.
Commissioner Elaine Louise LIDDY
Commissioner Elaine Louise LIDDY (Lama Lama Clan) was born in Cairns. Coen Commissioner Liddy is a fluent Umpithamu language speaker and has contributed to a dictionary of the Umpithamu language. Coen Commissioner Liddy enjoys working fulltime as a Lama Lama Ranger on her homeland of Port Stewart, is a Justice of the Peace (Qualified) and is a highly respected leader of the Lama Lama Clan.
COEN Local Coordinator – Dellis Gledhill
Dellis Gledhill commenced her career in the Australian Defence Force before making a sea change and returning to her hometown of Mossman in North Queensland. Dellis has worked in remote communities for nineteen years, and for the past four years has worked in Aurukun. She has an admirable rapport with the people of Aurukun and Coen and is well accepted by community members. Dellis’ experience extends to the court system where she assists as a Justice of the Peace (Magistrates Court). She is committed to the continuation of the Family Responsibilities Commission and to working with the communities of Aurukun and Coen in her capacity as Local Coordinator.