Not-for-profit remote store operator Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) has marked a historic milestone for the Torres Strait with the launch of the first 100 per cent fully electric vehicle (EV) on Waibene (Thursday Island).
The new Volkswagen ID. Buzz EV – a modern, fully electric van – has been unveiled with a blessing from Father Stephen, representing a step forward for sustainable transport in the Torres Strait and reflecting CEQ’s commitment to our vision: ’Caring, every day, always.’
CEQ Chief Executive Officer Michael Dykes said the launch is about more than transport and getting from A to B – it’s about stepping forward as a community partner and showing we will put the community and environment first.
“The introduction of electric vehicles into the Torres Strait is a powerful symbol of progress and sustainability,” said Mr Dykes.
“Our hope for the future is that we can give confidence to others to do likewise, and that we can inspire individuals to create infrastructure that supports EVs across the Torres Strait.
“This EV demonstrates that even in remote regions, we can all play our part in reducing emissions and building climate resilience.”
The ID. Buzz EV will be used for daily CEQ operations, including:
- Waibene store daily activities
- regional store visits
- pick-ups from ferries
- general business, and transporting team members between stores.
As part of the launch, CEQ also announced plans to install a public EV charging station on Waibene in 2026.
This will not only support CEQ’s new vehicle, but will also be available for other electric vehicles as they become more popular in the region.
The EV initiative aligns with CEQ’s commitment to Closing the Gap reforms by investing in infrastructure that empowers communities while protecting land and sea for future generations.
“Every EV on our roads means cleaner air for local families, reduced reliance on imported fuels, and greater protection of our marine ecosystems,” Mr Dykes said.
“This shift honours the long legacy of Torres Strait people as caretakers of country and culture, while ensuring our communities remain strong and resilient.”
CEQ selected the VW ID. Buzz EV over other options because of the need for reliability, and that the retro style combi-van look suited the island culture and would bring smiles to local residents with its vibrant colour and cute looks.
“CEQ team members are already getting feedback that the Buzz is a welcome new resident, and it’s certainly generated community interest with people wanting to buy their own,” added Mr Dykes.
The new EV comes just months after the IBIS Bamaga store received new solar energy infrastructure, further strengthening CEQ’s push towards cleaner, renewable and more sustainable solutions across the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area.
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About CEQ
CEQ is a not-for-profit organisation responsible for providing goods and essential services to the Torres Strait, Cape York Peninsula and in Doomadgee and on Palm Island through its 31 stores. Of all the remote team members employed at CEQ, 90 per cent identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander peoples.
CEQ manages Islanders Board of Industry and Service (IBIS) and Aboriginal Business, Industry and Service (ABIS) stores, as well as other stores including Col Jones, Mona’s Bazaar and Mitre 10 on Waibene and Community Home & Hardware in Bamaga.
For more information on CEQ, visit www.ceqld.org.au
