Palm Islanders tell of riot aftermath

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The Voice of Indigences' Australia
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EDITION 342 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2005
Redfern
mourns
fY«w,'t*Mi.u.,.i*.mtiiwmmu
Looking
back
on 2004
- Starts
Page 31
Palm Island community leaders Brad Foster and Erykah Kyle - they say island residents are living in fear and are traumatised by police
actions following the riot sparked by the death in custody of Palm Island resident Cameron Doomadgee last November.
Living in fear
Tamworth
By SUSAN FORDE
time Palm Islanders tell
•Vi^B^B Life on Palm Island nis
I ^H I still far from normal,
again! ^* V I with a heavy police
I /->i rOl presence and what of riot aftermath
Page 17 IQLD » locals call continued
^^^^^J harassment of
^^^"^"^ community members,
prompting one community leader Doomadgee's death. up in full-body riot gear with masks
Tasmania
to ask who is running Queensland Mr Foster said there were '30 to on, with two plainclothes police,"
- the Police Union or the Premier. 40 coppers still on the island and it Mr Foster told Koori Mail.
Brad Foster, chief executive of makes you wonder what they're 'They smashed the front and
considers Carpentaria Land Council and a still doing here'. He said they were back doors and walked straight
Palm Island community leader, using scare tactics and 'our kids into the house. There were six kids
said that up until last week, police are going to be traumatised'. asleep in the lounge room who
'stolen' were still raiding houses in full riot "People are afraid to sleep in were disturbed by what happened.
gear and frightening residents, their houses and the wider public The police said they were looking
Mother's fears
following the riot in November doesn't know about it. A lot of for drugs but didn't find anything.
reparation which was sparked by the death in people are just living in fear at the That kind of behaviour hasn't
custody of Cameron Doomadgee. moment," he said. stopped yet." for daughter
Page 3 Island residents burned down the "On December 31, my younger • Continued Page 5
police station and court house after brother was sitting at home here. • Major issue sidetracked - - See Page 4
hearing an autopsy report on Mr Three carloads of coppers rocked Letter, Page 24
Team of 1868's place in cricket history assured - Back Page
IlilliltJJilHriH"
A Yarn
With...
A sporting view of I
Pastor says he's
the year 2004 7th-generation
owner - P53
A look at last year's
big sports stories
- See Pages 66-69
Top End
plan delay
Cairns rally
One group holds for justice
out in parks Quartermaine
talks - P6 holds fears
for locals-P11
LEXINE
WAAMA conies
,
under fire
SOLOMON Grievances over Help for APY people
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radio station - P9 Adelaide house set up to
Call to change
assist young people fight
A Torres Strait Islander police culture
solvent, drug abuse - P6
who is music producer Inquiry urges
awareness
manager for the Central
training - P7
Australian Aboriginal
Music Association
Favourite bush tucker?
Cassowary (I remember from small).
Favourite non-Indigenous food?
Rice (it goes with everything). Leadership boost
Favourite drink?
Anything lemony.
High hopes held for 2004
Favourite music?
leadership graduates - P9
The CAAMA Music recordings are
amazing!
Favourite sport/leisure?
Watch it all day - footy and golf.
Favourite read?
The Bible.
Favourite holiday destination?
Anything beachy, salt water, sand and
fishing ... l-lun (island) gal forever.
What are you watching on TV? Leanne's new career
Anything doco'ish ... history, music and I Koori Mail details
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THE KOORI MAIL, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2005. The Void of Uoiyenoui Auftralt" f^i
Proud m o m e nt for graduates
a
By Victorian correspondent
JIRRA LULLA HARVEY
Traditional academic attire
was replaced by a sea of
red, black and gold as 66
proud Indigenous
graduates collected
certificates in Aged Care Work, Home and
Community Care and Assessment and
Workplace Training at the Replay Group's
2004 STEP Program Graduation
Ceremony in Melbourne.
"The red, black and gold stoles clearly
mark your proud heritage but also your
academic achievements,*' said Mary
Jones, chief executive officer of the
Replay Group.
"I have never seen this many people at
a graduation with Indigenous stoles, so
congratulations."
The STEP Program provides practical
training in an Indigenous environment.
"It was a powerful and innovative way
to gain a certificate," said graduate
Howard Armstrong.
Deputy vice-chancellor at Swinburne
University of Technology Barbara van
Ernst said: "The cultural sensitivity these
graduates have will bring so much to
whoever they care for."
Graduate David McLachlan said: 'This
course has opened up a lot of
opportunities for all of us."
Seventy per cent of the 2004 group
has already accepted employment in the
areas in which they trained, while others
Proudly wearing their red, black and gold stoles, these graduates from the Replay Group's 2004 STEP Program are now ready
have gone on to further study.
to provide culturally sensitive care to Victorian Aboriginal people.
"I would like to see other Indigenous
students come through and get what I did
Tout of thisa course. Therse are a lot omf things ania
everyone could learn from this," Mr
McLachlan said.
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0 The Tasmanian Cairns • Tertiary Education and Training
Government Government considers Northern Queensland • Secondary Education
would consider [phone] • Aged Care
becoming the Brisbane • Prison Release and Diversion
first to offer 'stolen' compensation Sou(t0h7e)r n3 2Qu2e1e n3sl8a6n6d
financial
compensation to members of Sydney
New South Wales
the Stolen Generations, [phone]
Premier Paul Lennon said. members of the Stolen Generations is a key aspect of Melbourne
Mr Lennon said he would Generations and Mr Lennon the Aboriginal community's Victoria and
consider the step after said his Government would agenda for reconciliation, so it Tasmania
legislation to transfer three also consider offering a formal has to be addressed in the [phone]
Bass Strait islands - Cape apology. end," he said. Adelaide
Barren, Goose and Clarke Last month Mr Lennon "I don't know what the (08)S o8u2th6 7A u4st2ra2l2i a
islands - to Aboriginal title apologised and offered community reaction overall
Alice Springs
went before Parliament. payments of up to $60,000 to might be to it at the moment Central Australia
Mr Lennon said the victims of abuse in State care. but I do believe that most [phone]
Tasmanian Government had "To have reconciliation people in the Tasmanian
shown previously it was you've got to meet the key community want reconciliation
prepared to lead on social issues on the agenda and the to occur. www.ahl.gov.au
issues. The Parliament has issue of an apology and some "You'll remember that large
already passed an apology to reparation for the Stolen • Continued next page
P^J The Voice oi Indigenous Australia
THE KOORI MAIL, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2005.
T r a u ma on P a lm
By ALF WILSON Doris had suffered cancer for some time
and passed away at the Joyce Palmer
MMM Angry Palm Island mother Medical Centre.
• <H I Gail Wotton, pictured, is The 68-year-old was too ill to attend
^» Bl concerned that her 16-year- Cameron's funeral the previous Saturday,
I ^H old daughter, Krysten. is still even in an ambulance.
IQLD ^ suffering nightmares months She was buried beside Cameron in the
M^^__J after police placed a gun at Palm Island cemetery.
^^ her head. Doris wrote a tribute to Cameron, which
Mrs Wotton said Krysten was in a Palm was printed in the service booklet handed
Island house which police raided the day out at Cameron's funeral, which read:
after the local police station and
My Son
courthouse was torched after the death in
custody of Cameron Doomadgee.
Krysten was one of a number of Palm
I feel so lucky to have you for my son
Island girls who attend school at St Pat's
I love your smiling face
Catholic College in Townsville who
When we talk seriously about the world
returned home.
I love your smile when you laugh at the
"My daughter is an innocent Christian
jokes you always told when you came
girl who was in one house which police
home just to check up on me
raided looking to arrest people and she
I love your eyes when you are showing
was placed on the floor and had a weapon
emotions
held at her head. I am very angry that it
I love your mind when you have new
could have happened," Mrs Wotton said.
ideas about life
Mrs Wotton said that occurred in late
Many people tell me that they can't wait
November and Krysten was suffering in the
for their children to leave home
new year. "It will affect her for a long time.
I want you to know that I enjoy your
Any mother who had an innocent daughter on my daughter for the rest of her life. She "I am horrified by the whole thing and company so much
in the same situation would be outraged," was scared stiff," Mrs Wotton said. my daughter will require long-term I always look forward to any time we
she said. A Townsville-based Catholic nun counselling," Mrs Wotton said. spend together
Mrs Wotton was not in the house at the associated with St Pat's College told Koori Meanwhile, Doris Doomadgee, the frail Now my heart breaks into so many tiny
time but said that police even looked inside Mail that a number of Palm Island girls who mother of death in custody victim Cameron piece
the fridge. "How could any person hide in a were pupils had faced similar situations. Doomadgee, died at 4am on Friday, Because I know we can never have our
fridge?" she said. "It would have been better if they had December 16, on Palm Island. little yarns again
Mrs Wotton works at St Michael's stayed at school. They have suffered Cameron Doomadgee died in police I am so proud of you Cameron, I love
School on Palm Island as an assistant and trauma," the nun said. custody on the island on November 19 and you very much
said everybody had supported her through Mrs Wotton said that Australia was on November 26 a riot erupted during Until we meet again.
the emotional time. supposed to be the lucky country and that which the Palm Island police station, court
"Everybody has been wonderful and it the raids resembled a scene in Iraq. house and barracks were torched. Love from your mum Doris
worries me the effect that incident will have
Tasmania to consider
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here." backed by the ALP, Liberal Party Tasmanian Government for
Mr Lennon said he would and Tasmanian Greens. leading the nation on
Card Start Date: / / Card Expiry Date: / / keep an open mind on a formal "I think most people in the reconciliation, saying he hoped
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Address: their parents because of their that they need to provide some going to change (Prime Minister)
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- Postcode: 1960s. traditional recreational land couldn't be brought into the
"The fact we are giving activities from white people can issue even kicking and
Phone: • Fax: consideration to this issue continue on the land as well. screaming, but other State
shows that we haven't closed "As a result of that, then the governments ... it would have _
Signature:. Contact Name: our mind to it, that we are concern amongst white people significant influence with them.
prepared to deal with the issue in the community about land Mr Mansell said the offer pul
Mail your completed form to: Contact Phone No.: honestly with the Aboriginal transfers has fallen away to the Government did not
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Koori Mail He said he believed Ihe land Mr Lennon said other issues indirectly affected by the
PO Box 117 Lismore NSW 2480 transfer, pushed by his late that needed to be addressed in assimilation policies of Ihe
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone] predecessor Jim Bacon, now the reconciliation process 1950s and 1960s.
had wide support across the included the continuation of "We had to draw a line in tr*
Please photocopy this form for your tax records. State. traditional cultures, education sand somewhere to get those
PricesT qhuiost weidl li bnecl au dTeA tXh eI NGVSOTI C(ES6 F5.O0R0 G- SGTS Tw hS5e.n9 1p)a y{mSe12n0t. 0i0s -m GaSdTe "S 10.91). The Bill stalled last year after and employment. who suffered the most some
opposition from independent Tasmanian Aboriginal Legal compensation," he said. - AAP
THE KOORI MAIL, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2005. Tt,e V.,ce oi lnd.genous AuStrot" ft
Palm Islanders 'living in fear
about covering our airfares, and
• Continued from Page 1 they questioned his friend. They harassment were occurring. called him and Mr Yanner with the could we not mention about the
were asking them about a high- That whole issue about the offer for them to join the Minister
Mr Foster said that on the day powered rifle on Palm. airfares was started by the Police on a trip to Palm Island following airf"aIr teosl db ehiinmg sptariadig fhotr .a way that I
he travelled to Palm Island with "My brother wasn't even on Union, who didn't want the the riot. wasn't going to lie for him. I again
QMiuneiesntesrl aLnidd dAyb oCrliagrikn,a hli Asf fyaoiurns ger Pal'mT hwihs eins ath vei orliaotti owna osf o tnh.ei r basic GFoosvteerrn smaeindt. to pay our fares," Mr her" oWuet . sGaiedt wteh'edm bteal hkianpgp yt ot toh hee lp told him I'd go to Palm to get the
brother was also pulled up by human rights. This stuff shouldn't "Who's running this State? The community, and we said they Minister in there for talks but I
poli'cTeh.e police were in full riot gear be Mhra pFpoesntienrg .s"a id he was Pol"iIc ef eUenli loink eo Ir' tmh bea Pcrke imni etrh?e Joh sphloaunled w laest ausn dk nwoew w owuhladt gtiom.e the wwaassnn''tt pplaayninnign gth oen a igrofianrge tbheecraeu aste^ I
again. They pulled up the car, surprised media attention so far Bjelke-Petersen days when the "They said they would go all. We were doing them a favour."
pulled their guns on these two had focused on the payment of police were running the show. ahead and make the travel Mr Foster said the meeting
young blokes and told them to airfares for him and fellow "The Premier should be arrangements. between the Palm Island Council
freeze," he said. community leader Murrandoo showing leadership and backing "Bruce Pickard (the ATSI and the Minister was very
'They put handcuffs on both of Yanner, who travelled to Palm up the Minister's decision to take director-general) then rang me the constructive at a time when
them. My brother was left in the Island with the Minister, when us to Palm, rather than jumping day before we were to leave and relations between the community
back of a paddy wagon for two or other more important issues like a because the Police Union says to." said he was copping some heat and the Government were at a low
three hours out in the sun while death in custody and police Mr Foster said Ms Clark's oftice from the Premier's Department point.
D ay of h i gh
emotions
Jane Doomadgee, right,
with Cameron
Doomadgee's girlfriend,
Tracey Twaddle.
Film stars
send their
By SUSAN FORDE Ms Kyle said the council
'The doctor said
was currently seeking a
•MB Palm Island specialist to help individuals sympathy
in his statement
I ^B I chairwoman and the community as a
I VI Erykah Ky|e whole with trauma
to us that the counselling. By ALF WILSON
I r^lB saYs she will She said Palm Islanders I
final 20 minutes now wanted to ensure that nternational celebrities
IQLD « never forget the
any future interactions with Brad Pitt, Steven Segal,
^^^_^J emotions of the
of his life, he government have definite Tina Turner, Whoopi
day when the
outcomes. Goldberg and Jean Claude
community received the
was in terrible, "If government is running a Van Damme have sent their
autopsy report on Cameron
health service here, then at condolences to the Palm
Doomadgee's death.
"I spoke to our lawyers terrible pain' the end of every month we Island family of Cameron
want to see what's been Doomadgee, who died in
and decided to read a death, Ms Kyle said: "The done, what's been achieved," police custody.
sfsaphrpertboeealeaaomodtptdupe iaef lttttrome h whwuee iewhandnn deas.tgm.t r aWtm etjhIto yooi h v o wrleoeru ee uropral nryo uIet citp q notwtuoetmoihpoasem rspsst uotyl ,anhtu e"yaarig letshtkp h yIio'ae.nrdn g t dI, tduhaseiwosursfc crt"ut ihlhTobli alfrh atete e hs , b tpia fehnaihaaeigcdue n tt ffi.iwi otfn narhauT sah llhu it as2ims tw n0 at se w ontmt a ,leaihors tnebsr euaiautmrbtt nleh.e e tni s,htm ao ,ttf o sGWhsnetehoarr evm'ae deesTn,orsagh npni.e'ead mrt i.tse d ke n iantbnco,y how tetu hrhtrehse ye c'itorhrmae fmt iau rlwsnloti r tky . tmDDpehrvooaoeeoodTtn emmdehtseaa esttadd htc hmggrhoaaeeo,nvrueed egca.,o hhnr lae NedeJ acssn ateis cfniisueotvoeblseen sla rdweol weqo eurfd eeM n rt
told Koori Mail. he died in so much pain, "That's no good to us. international coverage
"I mentioned at the end made emotions run high." From now on, if government around the globe, including
that someone in the inquest Ms Kyle said she felt wants to run things here, they on CNN.
(autopsy) said that it was an traumatised by the whole better start showing some Marcus Smith is the
accident and the young event - the death in custody, outcomes or they can shut up breakfast announcer for
people just wept - they all the riot and the continued shop and we'll come up with Townsville-based radio
started screaming and yelling. police presence. our own solutions." station 4KIG and he said
And then they just ran, and "I lost a son in custody Ms Kyle said the riots had that Jane Doomadgee had
nothing was going to stop over three years ago and this been building for a long time. phoned confirming that the
them. has reignited that grief, and "The anger has been building family had received the
"I was shocked. They ran you never get past it," she up because of the sheer condolences from the five
to the police station and the said. hopelessness of being stars.
police did not expect to see "There's so many losses in neglected like this when it "Jane had confirmed this
them. The police were in our community. There's so was the Government that information for us. We first
shorts, some had no shoes much sorrow here that when changed direction, taking heard about it on talkback
something like this happens,
on, so they weren't ready. away self-determination," she radio and from there we
it brings it all to the fore.
"I knew I had to do said. followed the story," Mr
something, and I went there "I've been traumatised and "It's all about Smith told Koori Mail.
and I urged them to go back if I as a strong woman can mainstreaming - I hate that "The family wants to set
Palm Island Council chairwoman Erykah Kyle: and talk. feel like this, I can only word. I hate it. We had our up a website to get more
"I lost a son in custody over three "I tried to calm them down imagine what it's doing to own identity. You're not going and apparently the stars
years ago and this has reignited that grief." and it worked for a while." some ofthe others." to take that away from us." have followed the coverage
On Mr Doomadgee's in the US."
Mr Smith said that the
Another attack on 'I can tell you,
family wanted to try to
contact Russell Crowe, who
Happy Valley the brother was visited Palm Island in July
2003 with his band.
unrecognisable' "Russell Crowe enjoyed
-See Page 13 his time on the island and
-See Page 13 would be welcome back
there," Mr Smith said.
[^ The Voice of Indigenous Australia
THE KOORI MAIL, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2005.
River forests
ato be studied
Victoria's River Red Gum forests
along the Murray River will be the
subject of a formal environmental
investigation by the Victorian
Environmental Assessment
Council (VEAC).
Minister for Environment John Thwaites said:
"The River Red Gum Forests are of great
significance to Indigenous communities living in
this area.
The investigation will focus on land use issues
associated with Murray River Red Gum Forests
and will complement other initiatives such as the
Living Murray Agreement.
"As the traditional custodians of Victoria's land
and water, Indigenous communities have a
fundamental role in managing our natural
resources."
The Government is inviting comment from
Aboriginal people on the proposed terms of
reference through January.
The proposed terms of reference can be
obtained by contacting the Department of
Sustainability and Environment's Customer Service
Centre on 136 186 or on the internet at
www.dse.vic.gov.au
Minister Jay Weatherill discussing issues of community importance with South Australian Elders.
Home brew ban
Adelaide help for A PY people
for Mornington
••• Home brew has been banned on HA house in suburban Adelaide will be used "While the young people are closely supported and
I ^H I Mornington Island in a bid to cut to help young Aboriginal people from the supervised by their house parents, they are also
¥* V I alcohol-related problems in the Gulf Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) encouraged to develop their independence and other
I _ nlB of Carpentaria Aboriginal community. Lands stop their solvent and drug abuse. living skills.
| OLD « Minister for Aboriginal andTorres Families and Communities Minister Jay "They attend medical appointments and link up with
^^^^^1 Strait Islander Policy Liddy Clark said Weatherill said the house program was new support groups while living in a substance-free
a community justice group on the and innovative and would help young environment."
island had called for the ban after legislation was Anangu rebuild their lives. The house is being funded and supported by the
passed in October. "This program has recruited house parents with an Department for Families and Communities' agency
"The new home brew laws will ban the extensive knowledge of the APY Lands community who Children, Youth and Family Services, Aboriginal Family
possession of home brew kits, home brew have first-hand experience of the challenges young Support Services, Metropolitan Aboriginal Youth Team,
concentrate, home-made alcohol and supplying Aboriginal people face from substance misuse," Mr Nunkuwarrin Yunti and other health services and local
home-made alcohol to someone else," Ms Clark Weatherill said. schools.
said.
Current alcohol management plans on the
island only cover public parts of the community D e l ay for NT
area, including restricting the amount of alcohol
residents can carry through the community to their
homes.
"Residents have until March 1, 2005 to remove
their home brew kits, home-made alcohol and
home brew concentrate from the communities."
The Government has been working with
communities since 2002 to develop alcohol
management plans to curb alcohol abuse and its
effects, particularly on children and young people.
Alcohol is prohibited in all public places and
internal waterways at Mornington Island, except for
Sweers Island and the Bountiful Islands, and can p a r ks p l an
be sold only at the Lelka Murrin Tavern and the Birri
Fishing Lodge, -AAP
Peacheys charged
f^^^^^^% Four relations of Cronulla Sharks
I KICIAI M ru9by league star David Peachey,
I N oW J including his mother, will face court 0 W i th successful acceptance by traditional without their involvement."
^^^_ ^H after a brawl in Sydney's Kings agreements owners of all 28 parks and The High Court's 2002
^^^^^^^^ Cross. Peachey's mother Irene, and reached with reserves by December 31, Ward decision meant that the
Barbara, Paul and Martin Peachey have all traditional 2004. declaration of 49 Territory
pleaded not guilty to charges of affray and assault owners over 27 "For that reason, we will parks and reserves was
resulting from a fight that left four police injured. of 28 parks and introduce legislation in the invalid, and that 11 could be
They will face court on February 2. Peachey was reserves, the February 2005 Legislative subject to claim under the Land
detained for a short time after the November 26 Northern Territory Government Assembly sittings to extend the Rights Act. All Territory parks
incident but was not charged. says is well on the way to date of compliance under the could also be subject to native
0Pilkington a living treasuree stablishing the nation's most Parks and Reserves title claims - including
advanced national parks (Framework forthe Future) Act. compensation claims.
Doris Pilkington Garimara, the author system. "While I respect the To avoid uncertainty and
Chief Minister Clare Martin decision of the traditional extensive, costly litigation, the
said: 'The Government's owners concerned, I am Territory passed legislation
package has been formally disappointed that one of the which established negotiation CLARE MARTIN
accepted by traditional owners parks, Keep River, remains framework with land councils
for all but one of the parks and outside the package. and traditional owners of parks backward step to allow this
whose family story was immortalised reserves involved. While this is "This extension provides and reserves. whole package to founder due
in the acclaimed film 'Rabbit-Proof a good achievement and further time for the Keep River "Given the overwhelming to the inability to secure
Fence', was among 12 West strong progress towards the traditional owners to level of agreement that has agreement with one group J
Australian artisans honoured as State development of a Parks Master reconsider their position, been achieved, we believe it traditional owners," Ms MarW
Living Treasures. Writers, painters, Plan, the Act required full otherwise we will proceed would be a significant said.
THE KOOdRaIn cMeArIsL ,a nWdE oDtNheErS aDrtAisYt,s J wAeNreU ARY 12, 2005. Tt,e Voice of Ind.genoul Austral.' ft
acknowledged for their lifetime contributions to arts
and culture in WA with the second round of Living
Taparniedna tsseournr gJew araniwatanerrgd osJo.i mOBtumhtyce Chrhe airw Cahredr erle,ci apniden tplsa wyewrrieg ht
Tamworth's new doctor
Bring skills to your
Indigenous
Community
S Volunteers Community
Tamworth, in mid-
ICV send trained volunteers lo transfer their skills ta indigenous communities ,
organisalions and businesses - OR if you have a business idea and need I^P_y
north-western New lo start, call our toll free number lo find oui how we can assist you.
South Wales, has a
new doctor - an
Indigenous woman
who has returned home to practise l call toll tree
after studying at the University of
1800 819 542 {T®Kwww.wolindigBnous.org.au
New South Wales (UNSW).
Casey Wadwell, who grew up at
Spring Ridge, near Tamworth,
started her internship at the
Tamworth Base Hospital this week. Queensland Government
"I am really excited to start at
the hospital," said the 25-year-old. Department of Corrective Services
"For years I have wanted to go
Official Visitors
back to where I grew up and
become a GP."
VRN: CS01/05
Dr Wadwell is the first
The Department of Corrective Services (DCS) is seeking Expressions of Interest from
Indigenous student to complete
persons who would like to be considered for the positions of:
UNSW's Pre-Medicine Program and • South East Queensland Community Official Visitor (x 2 positions) (Indigenous
then go on to become a doctor. Team):
"I love medicine because I can • Numinbah Correctional Centre/Palen Creek Correctional Centre Community Official
help people and it is also an Visitor (x 1 position):
• Capricornia Correctional Centre, Rockhampton Legal- Official Visitor
interesting career," said Dr
(x 1 position):
Wadwell. • Townsville Correctional Centre Community Official Visitor (x 1 position)
"If it had not been for UNSW's •Appointment as an Official Visitor (Legal) requires current registration as a solicitor
Pre-Medicine Program, I might or barrister.
have ended up in a totally different Dr Casey Wadwell - the newest doctor in Tamworth The role of the Official Visitor is to independently hear and resolve grievances at the
area. It really helped me realise the local level, providing an intermediary between prisoners and correctional facility
in New South Wales.
possibilities of medicine." management and staff.
The program, which is in its We are seeking persons with legal qualifications or significant community
Police 'need involvement/service and an interest in corrective services, criminal justice, and social
seventh year, is aimed at reducing
justice to fill these part-time/casual roles.
the shortage of Indigenous doctors
Successful applicants would possess the following qualities:
across the country. It is run by the • Maturity
Faculty of Medicine in • Knowledge/awareness of corrective services
collaboration with the Nura Gili • Well developed interpersonal skills
Indigenous Programs. Members of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, women, and persons
from a non-English speaking background are encouraged to apply.
Public Service employees, and employees of engaged service providers are not eligible
for appointment. Applicants will be subjected to a criminal history check.
cultural Information packages are available from www.dcs.qld.gov.au under Community
Information or by telephoning [phone].
Applications should be submitted by:
• Official Visitor (Community) 5:00 p.m., Monday, 31 January 2005
• Official Visitor (Legal) 5:00 p.m., Monday, 28 February 2005
awareness'
Australian Government
Department of Agriculture,
^ ^ VM Police should Fisheries and Forestry
M receive more
I N S W^ Aboriginal Export Market
^ ^^ ^H cultural
V &V awareness Development Training Course
training, an inquiry into the
troubled Sydney suburbs of
Call for Applications
Redfern and Waterloo has
recommended.
The Australian Government's Young People in Rural Industries Program invites
A riot erupted in Redfern in
young men and women (18-35 years) to apply for the Export Market
February last year following the Development Training Course, to be held in Sydney from 9-13 May 2005.
death of teenager Thomas TJ'
Hickey, who was impaled on a This fully funded course will provide participants with a valuable introduction to
exporting. Participants will:
fence while riding his bicycle in
the area. • Gain a better understanding ofthe global marketplace and Australia's trade
Many locals blamed police The riot in Redfern last February - a NSW parliamentary inquiry priorities;
for his death. has found that a cycle of tension and disharmony between • Learn how to realistically assess their business' export readiness;
A coronial inquest found police and the community which needed to be broken. • Understand and develop structured export business plans;
• Understand the procedural and legal aspects of exporting; and
police were not chasing "The overwhelming view 'The need to ensure that
• Find out about the assistance to help them get into exporting.
Thomas at the time of his death expressed to us was that more these children and young
and were not responsible for cultural awareness training is people are duly protected was a The Export Market Development Training Course is run by the Australian
the accident. needed," the report said. matter of great anxiety for Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, in partnership
A NSW parliamentary inquiry The committee also called inquiry participants and we urge with Austrade and the Australian Institute of Export.
last month delivered its final for a review of the police the department to ensure that For further information and an application form, please:
report into issues concerning Aboriginal Community Liaison real progress is made in this
Redfern and the neighbouring Program in Redfern. area as a matter of priority," the Visit www.daff.gov.au/youngleaders, or
Email youngleaders(« daff.gov.au, or
suburb of Waterloo. During the hearings, report said. Call [phone]
The committee found a cycle witnesses told the committee The committee urged the
of tension and disharmony some notifications of child New South Wales Indigenous People and Primary Producers are encouraged to apply.
between police and the abuse to the Department of Government's Redfern- Applications must be lodged by COB Thursday 17 February 2005.
community which needed to be Community Services were not Waterloo Authority to consult
broken. investigated further or acted with residents on plans to DEPARTMENT <)K AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND FORESTRY
It called for police recruits to upon. redevelop the area, -AAP
THE KOORI MAIL, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2005.
Pbcu^uen*l d^tge uirTrvsheeets na.V n omdioicrne ego itAr baIoinrndiiigngiegnn aoiulns Australia
A not-so-merry Christmas forBtaey
By RAEGAN SCHOFIELD, of the alerted by fellow employees to The hallway, other bedrooms and
Champion Post of Parkes return immediately to his home in bathroom received major smoke
Dugga Street. damage. The living area and kitchen
^^••WN While most people What Bluey arrived home to was has also received smoke damage
J were enjoying the a nightmare come true - his house Ironically, his mother and father's
I N S W ^M festive season and had partly burned down. bedroom escaped the fury of the
• ^^ ^H planning celebrations Bluey's house is of sentimental blaze.
^HB^*M^ to see in the New value - it is where he and his family "I have had overwhelming
Year, Robert Bluey' Nolan Jnr sat in grew up. support from family and friends,"
his fire-damaged house in Peak Hill, 'The Warramunga Corporation Bluey said. "I'm still working of a
in western New South Wales, and gave this house to my parents to day for the council - it is what keeps
contemplated his future. live in many years ago." Bluey said. me going. When I finish work, I
Late last year Bluey - as he is "Later dad and mum saved up come home and try to fix things."
known to locals in Peak Hill - lost their money and purchased the The estimated value of the
his father. His mother passed away house. This is where my four damage from the blaze is $100,000.
some years earlier of breast cancer. brothers, three sisters and I were A carpenter, electrician and '
As he and his relatives grieved raised. plumber - Bluey's cousins - have
the loss of this special member of "I have many cherished donated their labour to assist Bluey
the family, Bluey, pictured in the memories in this house." to rebuild his cherished home.
damaged house, did not know it but It's believed an electrical fault "Finding the money to purchase
life was about to deal him another caused the fire that destroyed more the materials is what's going to be
vicious blow. than half the home - the other half the hardest thing," he said.
One week following his father's is where Bluey now lives. • Anyone who would like to
death, Bluey was working for One room - his brother's - and provide assistance to Bluey to
Parkes Shire Council on a section half of the roof of the home was rebuild his home can contact Peak
of the Tullamore Road when he was burned out. Hill Hardware on [phone].
Murdi Paaki praised
4 H H ^ ^^ The shared Regional council led way Govemment to acknowledge the
I MC\A/ M resPons'bil't>' essential work of ATSIC regional
councils in their communities and to
I N S W ^B agreements
commit to retaining them after 30
B^^^ ^H announced in western
• kW New South Wales in shared responsibility' June."
• Labor supported the concept of
showed the importance of retaining
mutual responsibility in agreements
ATSIC regional councils for the future
with Indigenous communities but
of Indigenous communities, the
western New South Wales. co-ordinate Indigenous service wanted a more comprehensive
Australian Democrats said.
"Murdi Paaki has led the way in delivery through a 'whole-of- approach than linking hygiene to
Democrats Indigenous Affairs
negotiating better service delivery and government' approach. petrol bowser funding, Opposition
spokesman Aden Ridgeway said
community involvement in all aspects 'These agreements are the result Leader Mark Latham said.
these latest agreements had not
of life in the region's predominantly of experience, co-ordination and good He said Labor supported mutual
magically emerged overnight out of a
black towns like Bourke, Brewarrina community communication. They are responsibility. "We believe the best
new policy mantra but were the result
and Walgett," Senator Ridgeway said. not the result of glib policy phrases like results for Indigenous Australians will
of years of hard work by the ATSIC
'They have been involved with 'shared responsibility' and 'mutual come when a government provides
ADEN RIDGEWAY Murdi Paaki Regional Council and governments in COAG trials to better obligation'. I call on the Federal the full range of services," he said.
other Aboriginal organisations in
It's a ' n ew era of
DEPARTMENT
OF EDUCATION
AND TRAINING
discrimination'
ELSA DIXON ABORIGINAL
EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM
Call for applications for 2005/2006 ^f^J/^L% The Govern piecemeal and unsustainable. to turn attention away Irom its
The Elsa Dixon Aboriginal Employment Program is an initiative of the NSoWr ^H ment's coercive "Indigenous Australians failures and shift blame on to
Government to encourage job opportunities and career advancement for Aboriginal ^ approach to already face the harshest of Indigenous people by
and Torres Strait Islander people. The program is administered by the NSW k^^^. A welfare and penalties for being Indigenous - simplistically equating
Department of Education and Training. |nr^ sen/ice delivery a 20-year gap of life expectancy Indigenous disadvantage with
The Department is seeking applications from eligible organisations in the NSW ^^^^^"^ reform for - that other Australians would not passive welfare.
public, local government, private or community sectors for funding proposals under Indigenous communities will for one moment tolerate for their "Passive welfare is a
the following program elements: usher in a renewed era of racially own families and communities. symptom of broader failure, nol
1. Permanent Employment element discriminatory treatment of 'The fact remains that many root cause. Empowerment, not
2. Temporary Placement element Indigenous peoples, Australians of the problems in Indigenous coercive social engineering, is
3. Career Development element for Native Title and Reconciliation communities stem from long- required to fix the urgent
4. Partnership Project element (ANTaR) says. term under-funding of service problems facing Indigenous
5. Graduate Work Experience element "Indigenous people do not and infrastructure and a culture communities.
Please note that this call for applications does not commit the NSW Department of need further punishment, they of neglect by governments and "Until the Government is
Education and Training in any way to the provision of funding or assistance to a need support," ANTaR national mainstream departments. prepared to empower Indigenous
prospective applicant. president Phil Glendenning said. Indigenous Australia is littered communities to take
For more information or to obtain application forms and program guidelines please "The Government still fails to with examples of positive responsibility for their own
contact the Aboriginal Community Programs unit of the NSW Department of see that unless change comes initiatives by Indigenous futures and to provide adequate
Education and Training on [phone] or visit the unit's website from Indigenous people communities which have failed to resources based on need, the
www.det.nsw.edu.au/eas/acomm themselves and solutions are be supported or resourced by situation for Indigenous
Applications close COB Friday 11 March 2005 and should be submitted to: owned by Indigenous government. Australians is unlikely to
communities, outcomes will be "The Government continues improve."
Ms Katrina Morgan, Senior Co-ordinator, Aboriginal Community Programs, Man appears in court over noose incident
NSW Department of Education and Training, Level 13, 1 Oxford Street
DARLINGHURST NSW 2010.
Applications will not be accepted if they are: A 19-year-old man faced court on December Magistrates Court on charges including breaW
• late: 13 accused of a burglary that sparked an incident and entering and unlawful use of a motor vehw
• submitted by facsimile; or in which a youth was allegedly dragged along a He was released on bail.
• incomplete (ie, the application form must contain all essential information river bed with a noose around his neck. The charges stem from an incident in which
and any requested attachments). | Bevan James Bartman, of the community of Bartman and three friends allegedly broke into a
Toomelah, in north-west NSW, faced Goondiwindi Goondiwindi property on November 30.
THE KOORI MAIL, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2005.
The Vo.ce oi InJ.^oM Aust.A' T*
Violence protection
OPINION
'failing Victorians'
H Michael Mansell
Indigenous people rpaerlte aosfe dt hien fMiersltb ocuormnper.e Thehnes piavpee r is taawkaerne aswuapyp,o ratn dw oar klearcsk oalfl csutlotpur amlalyn y fvrioolme snctee rveiocttyipme ssh oofu lhdo wb eah afavmei.l yI f Haagnad n Shtaevpeh ethne ir
review of the intervention order Indigenous people from accessing tahbeuys ef otuhgehnt tbhaecyk woerr ree sliesstse dli tkehley to say - Your Say,
system, which has operated in the system.
Victoria for the past 17 years. "We heard that court staff are be perceived as the victim and more starting Page 22
throughout Victoria "Intervention orders work tor sometimes not helpful when likely to be seen as part of the
are shying away some people, but we've heard that Indigenous people apply for orders, problem.
from the legal for many people there are more as one said 'if a person does not "In our consultation paper we've
system that is problems than there are benefits," speak like a white person, the court detailed all the areas where
supposed to protect them from family Ms Peirce said. staff look at them like they're dumb'. problems occur, and ask people how
violence, Victorian Law Reform "Indigenous people endure all the "We heard that racist stereotypes the system could be improved. We
Commissioner Judith Peirce says. problems with the system that of Indigenous people meant that need to think about how the justice
Too many Indigenous people are everyone else does but then have to some police ignored breaches of system overall can best protect
suffering from family violence and face a raft of other issues. orders because of perceptions that people from family violence.
not seeking protection, which tells us "Perceptions of racism among Indigenous people were always
that the Crimes (Family Violence) Act police and court staff, fear of family violent towards each other, • Federal campaign stepped up
is not doing its job," she said. members being jailed or children "Indigenous women also suffer -See Page 17
The commission has met with
many Indigenous groups in the past
yeaVr to riesearcch it's Familsy Viol ennce ew leaders CALL FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
Consultation Paper, which was
DEVELOPMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES PLAN 2005/06
Expressions of Interest are invited from
By Victorian correspondent
^# Redfern-Waterloo service users and providers, and
JIRRA LULLA HARVEY
members of the community who wish to develop
E^ High hopes cm ma priority action plans for services to youth,
Aboriginal people, family and children, including
have been
family and domestic violence, and health (mental
pinned on the
2004 health, drug and alcohol abuse and dual diagnosis).
graduates of Redfern • Waterloo These will form part of the Redfern-Waterloo
the Koori Community Partnership Project Human Services Plan 2005/06.
Leadership Program to
contribute to the changing Information packs and copies of the Report on the Review of
direction of Victorian Human Services 2004 are available from:
Aboriginal affairs. • RWPP's web site: www.redfernwaterloo.nsw.gov.au
'This program has and will • By telephoning: 02 9698-0911
produce some really good
• By mail: GPO Box 5341, Sydney 2001.
people for the direction that
Aboriginal affairs needs to go • By email: [email protected]
in," said community leader
and program mentor Alf Expressions of Interest must be received by Sa
Bamblett. the Redfern-Waterloo Partnership Project
"Prior graduates are the class of 2004 - graduates of the Koori Community by 5.00 p.m Friday, 21 January 2005. Redfern • Waterloo
Leadership Program.
running organisations, GA£522764
contributing to Aboriginal Victorian Aboriginal people in our own
affairs and contributing to the Community Services community'-' Aboriginal and
way government runs. I am Association Limited Program facilitator Mark
confident that the 2004 (VACSAL). Rose said: "The graduates
Torres Strait Islander
graduates will also contribute Participants undertake really excelled themselves.
greatly to Aboriginal affairs." training with Aboriginal Elders, They invested and supported
The leadership program, leaders and community in the leadership of each ATSIC Commission
which won the 2003 Australian organisations to gain an other. It's great to know these
Training Initiative Award, is a insight into leadership issues graduates are going to be the Sydney Regional Council
partnership between Royal at State and local levels. leading lights in Aboriginal Call for Submissions on use of the Regional Land Fund
Melbourne Institute of Graduate Tammy Walsh affairs. Together with the
Technology's TAFE and higher said that 'the strength in this 2002-03 group, they will paint The Sydney Regional Council invites submissions to purchase property in the Sydney
Region from interested incorporated Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations based
education sectors and the program is learning from the future." in the Sydney Region.
• The objective of the Regional Land Fund is to enable Regional Councils to provide
WAAMA comes under fire grants to eligible Organisations to purchase financially viable land for traditional,
social, cultural or economic purposes.
• The concept of economic sustainability is important. There should be a focus on
viability and submissions should clearly show that purchases will contribute
significantly to the economic development within the community and that the
property is viable and requires no or only minimal recurrent funding.
M H ^B A Perth-based action group is Ms McGlade said the Registrar of Aboriginal • Note - the R.L.F. can not be used to develop property.
^F I calling on members on the public Corporations would also meet to discuss • The balance of the Regional Land Fund as at 30th November 2004 was
|^^ I who have complaints over the WAAMA. $2,088,943.03
t WA I running of the West Australian She claimed that WAAMA was not properly Submissions should adhere to the program guidelines and include:
fc I Aboriginal Media Association promoting Aboriginal music and other interests, • An outline of the Organisations vision
B _ ^ ^M (WAAMA) which broadcasts as and that the organisation had moved from • Business and Management Plans
^^^^^^ 100.9 Country FM community radio premises at 176 Wellington Street and was now • Purchase will contribute significantly to economic development within
station to voice their grievances with the operating out of studios owned by Channel 7. the community
Australian Broadcasting Authority (ABA). "Is this a further move to alienate themselves • The property is viable and requires non or only minimal recurrent funding
Hannah McGlade of the Noongar Radio Action from the Aboriginal community?" she asked. • Demonstrate the benefits to the entire Sydney Aboriginal community
Group says WAAMA is a government-funded Koori Mail tried three times to contact • How the proposal forwards the Sydney Regional Council Plan
organisation which is accountable to the WAAMA's Graeme Edwin in a bid to get comment • Identify potential properties with an estimate or costing of property; and
Aboriginal community and its funding bodies. but was told each time he was unavailable. Koori • Inform Council of any partners or other potential contributors (including in kind)
"Many concerned Aboriginal people feel that Mail asked that Mr Edwin contact the newspaper, Applications must be completed using an electronic submission kit Submission Kits
WAAMA is not meeting its responsibilities, but he had not done so by the time of going to including program guidelines, are available from the Indigenous Co-OrdSon Cen re -
Sydney. Assistance to complete submissions can be arranged on requesf
especially by its refusal to process membership press. Submissions close on 7 February, 2005. No late submissions will be accepted.
applications," she said. In an interview with The Australian newspaper Previous applicants are welcome to reapply
"Concerns about the changed nature of last month, Mr Edwin said that asbestos problems
Aboriginal radio, the commercial attitude adopted forced the station's move. He said a 'minority
by WAAMA and the non-Aboriginal leadership group' had adopted a hostile attitude to the Enquires can be directed to: -
structure have also been voiced. station, and that the station was responding to
"A formal complaint about WAAMA has been complaints to the ABA. He said that WAAMA's PhonT 02 ISs^OO1"3-0^3" " J° ""' " •"'" "°^ 0",~ °":
lodged with the Australian Broadcasting governing body was not compelled to accept
Authority." every request for membership. www.atsic.gov.au
P"fl
The Voice of Indigenous Australia
THE KOORI MAIL, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2005.
Community governance is Studied
By WA north-west correspondent They work as community liaison officers years." Student Frank Sambo, from Billiluna
E DESIREE BISSETT to organise meetings and are developing an said there was much to be done.
understanding of financial statements so "We want to talk with government on how
People from four of the people can independently run their own to work together. Our community wants to
communities. move into tourism because we know tourists
TAFE lecturer Margaret Fitzgerald said the like looking at things in the bush and we can
course was about empowerment of the get jobs out of that," he said.
people. Fellow student Tony Cox, from Ringers
"Basically these people are community Soak, said informing the community on the
Kimberley region's remotest consulting agents and their job is to liaise governance process was important.
Aboriginal communities - Balgo, with the community so that when "We help to organise meetings so
Mulan, Ringers Soak and government agencies come out, everyone everyone knows what's going on. People
Billiluna - have been studying knows what they've come for," she said. have time to think about it. It's good to learn
the intricacies of community "The agents can also provide feedback to how to help our community and to think
Remote Kimberley governance. government departments on what they think about the kids," he said.
community members have They have been travelling hundreds of about programs and service delivery. We "We can put forward the communities'
painted models like this kilometres over rough roads to undertake a work through the set-up of Federal, State needs and learn in class from each other."
one showing how Certificate II, Introduction to Governance and local government and the sorts of things Fellow Ringers Soak classmate Teddy
communities and course run by the Kimberley College of that they do. It's an ongoing process and Dixon said he thought the classes were a
governments function. TAFE's Halls Creek campus. we'll be running this over a number of good way to go.
The students are gradually learning how
to organise meetings, work through levels of Boost for
government and talk with their communities
and government in order to improve living
conditions.
stations
Cattle are branded at one of the Indigenous Land Corporation stations
on Cape York Peninsula.
|VV| | The Indigenous Land
• ^H I Corporation (ILC) has
f* V I moved to restock
Broken Hill N SW
I oi nil Crocodile and
| Q LD ^ Welcome stations on
^L^__J Cape York Peninsula
University Department ^^^"^"* in northern
Queensland with over 900 breeders
from Roebuck Plains Station in
Western Australia.
Ar* of Rural Health The ILC purchased the stations
bare of stock in 2002 with the ILC
implementing a capital development Chairman of Ang-Gnarra Thomas
improvement project to repair dams, George and ILC general manager
fences and roads on the properties. David Galvin.
Parliamentary Secretary to the
The Broken Hill Department of Rural Health offers Indigenous people the opportunity Minister for Industry, Tourism and traditional owners to continue the
to undertake a Diploma in Indigenous Primary Health Care to develop their Resources and Federal Member for conservation and protection of the
knowledge and skills in primary health care and community development. Leichhardt Warren Entsch rock art sites as well as establishing
[Graduates of this course are employed as Aboriginal Health Workers, Primary welcomed the arrival of the training and employment programs
Health Care Workers and in a variety of other health care roles]. high-quality Brahman cattle. in environmental and cattle business
'This is certainly a major step management.
The course has been designed to ensure that student learning is connected twoiwtahr ds meeting the aspirations of 'The local Indigenous community
day-to-day work in communities, where Indigenous health is considered a priority. the local Ang-Gnarra landholders has been involved in fencing
Knowledge and skills gained reflect the competencies required for the provision of who have for generations enjoyed a projects on both properties and the
best practice in a primary health care worker setting. They include community close affinity to the Cape York restocking of the stations will now
development, mental health, men and women's health, sexual health. Peninsula cattle industry," he said. provide a number of work
"It provides a real opportunity for opportunities over the coming
The course is ideal for people who have not had formal training and wish teoc odnevoemliocp e mpowerment for the years," ILC chairwoman Shirley
skills in primary health care and community development. community in an industry that they McPherson said.
NOTE: Students are required to attend three one-week block intensives per love and understand. "Ang-Gnarra Aboriginal
semester at Broken Hill UDRH. "I also welcome the fact that the Corporation of Laura has
ILC is now putting a focus on not demonstrated its enthusiasm and
A/A n Advanced Diploma in Indigenous Primary Health Care is also offered for otnhloys el and acquisition, but also commitment for the project since the
with a Diploma or equivalent skills and knowledge. assisting Indigenous landholders in ILC advised that the property would
This course prepares students who are considering completing further studiaaecnshd i tetovhwaiatnr gcd hesac nogneo miinc f iocnudse pheansd ebneceen, baree r veesrtyo ckkeeedn. tAon gt-akGen aprarrat mine mtbheer s
a Bachelor of Health Sciences (Aboriginal Health & Community Development). The quite profound in the last couple of future cattle management training
course is part-time so the student learning and clinical skills development becomes years and something that is activities proposed to be conducted
firmly embedded in day-to-day community primary health care. certainly welcomed by me, and also on the stations. The ILC looks
the Indigenous landholders who forward to developing the training
For additional information and an application package please contact: acquire properties through the ILC opportunities with relevant State and
Mr Chris Ballantyne process." Federal Government assistance.
Ph (08 8080 1200) Fax [phone]) Welcome and Crocodile stations Thomas George, chairman of
Email [email protected] wfoerr teh epirrim sairginliyf ipcuanrtc hraoscekd a rbty stihtees I.L C Aonf gt-hGen aarreraa, asanidd ai ttr awdaitsi ognraela to wtnoe sre e
Or any staff member of the Primary Health Care team The properties are located in cattle being bought back to
on 08 8080 1200. Quinkan country, which is registered Welcome Station.
Broken Hill Department of Rural Health on the Australian Government's "We now have something lor ttie
x: CPBor0ro rBkioenxnd aH4ih5l 7lC,o NurStW, 2880 The UnFaicvuletrys "ilt Mye doif< iSnye dney aNmanatdnAi aosWn gepaelalmrc Eteos nomttfae tt pehslt.eaa nftusito funorsre i Ctr iosc opdriolpeo sed acprnueon omonpmpilupnenog irt tttouyh ng,eie stittyn ai pttnaivoroo tbnlie vca eustldr a wawreii lnttelhhd ea i asynn oh dua nvge
that the cattle business will be run in employed in all aspects of running a
ITil THE KOORI MAIL WEDNESDAY. JANUARY 12, 2005. a manner that will enable the cattleTh eb uVsoiicnee sosi ,In"d ihee soaui<d A.u stral.' |