Justice for Aubrey Donahue

March 31, 2023
Issue 
Protesting for justice for Aubrey in Meanjin on March 31. Photo taken from a still of a livestream by Jonathan Sriranganathan.

Vigils and protests for Aubrey Donahue are being held in Western Australia and Queensland following the police killing of the 27-year-old man from Mareeba, east of Gimuy/Cairns, on March 26.

Chants of “They say justice, we say murder”, and “No justice, no peace, No racist police” rang out over the Brisbane CBD on March 31, as campaigners demanding justice took to the streets for the second day running.

About 150 people took to the streets of Mareeba the day after the killing on March 27 in an outpouring of anger and grief.

News reports state that specialist police went to Aubrey’s home in response to an incident. They allege he had a knife and, after a four-hour stand off, he was shot.

Aubrey’s mother Desley Ketchup told the ABC went to the Mareeba police station to find out why her son was killed.

“This is about justice for my son,” she said. “We are hurting, we are angry, and we want justice now.”

One hundred people attended a community meeting the same day.

It was reported on March 31 that the police who killed Aubrey were not wearing body cameras. The ABC reported Acting Deputy Commissioner Mark Wheeler saying that this practice is “routine”, but that it would now be reviewed.

Coroner Terry Ryan will hold an inquest into the shooting.

You need Green Left, and we need you!

Green Left is funded by contributions from readers and supporters. Help us reach our funding target.

Make a One-off Donation or choose from one of our Monthly Donation options.

Become a supporter to get the digital edition for $5 per month or the print edition for $10 per month. One-time payment options are available.

You can also call 1800 634 206 to make a donation or to become a supporter. Thank you.