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.