The YMAC (Yagara Magandjin Aboriginal Corporation} Elders of Magandjin express deep disappointment and concern regarding the actions taken by Brisbane City Council and Queensland Police in moving on community camps established in Victoria Park.
These camps were established as peaceful spaces for cultural gathering, truth-telling, advocacy, and the exercising of democratic rights by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and supporters. Instead of meaningful engagement and respectful dialogue, authorities chose an approach that escalated tensions and ultimately resulted in arrests.
Our Elders are saddened that a situation which could have been managed through communication and respect instead became one of confrontation. We believe the heavy-handed response unnecessarily provoked protesters and created distress within the broader community.
Victoria Park is a place of significance to many First Nations peoples, and the concerns being raised by community members deserve to be heard with dignity and respect – not met with force and brutality.
The YMAC Elders call on Brisbane City Council and Queensland Police Service to commit to genuine consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and to ensure that future interactions prioritise cultural respect, de-escalation, and human rights.
We also acknowledge those community members who attendedand, those who stood up against the destruction of this important site. and those impacted by the events that unfolded.
Our Elders continue to stand for peaceful advocacy, cultural integrity, and the right for First Nations voices to be heard on matters affecting Country, community, and future generations.
Read the hydrogeological report by Ned Hamer here – Springs — Save Victoria Park
Main photo: Yagara Magandjin Aboriginal Corporation elders
