Aaron Bunch Journalist with Australian Associated Press | Collection of published work | + 61 484 008 119 | abunch@aap.com.au

Aaron Bunch
Hundreds flee Nth Qld New Year’s riot

Concern is growing for hundreds of people, who fled an isolated community in Far North Queensland following violent riots.

January 9, 2020

Murder-fuelled riots have caused hundreds of people to flee an isolated community in Far North Queensland, with dozens of children among those hiding out in a bush camp.

Homes were firebombed on New Year’s Day when a mob of about 200 armed people took to the streets of Aurukun on Cape York looking for “vengeance”, police say.

The violence followed the alleged stabbing murder of a 37-year-old man, for which two teens have been charged.

In the days since about 230 people have fled the tiny community of about 1300 to a nearby bush camp and the neighbouring town of Coen, about six hours to the west.

“These are innocent people frightened for their lives,” a support worker told AAP on the condition of anonymity.

“No one wants to speak out, otherwise they will be targeted.”

About 110 people have been hiding for nine days in a bush camp about 80km from Aurukun.

A community group is helping to feed, shelter and look after their sanitation needs, however, concern is growing for their health.

“About 30 per cent are kids, we had a child with a high temperature overnight,” camp coordinator Tim White said.

There’s also worry in Coen, where the sudden influx of about 130 people is putting a strain on food supplies, accommodation and the local medical service.

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