Palm Island elders in north Queensland have called for justice rather
than division at the funeral of Cameron Doomadgee.
Mr Doomadgee's death in police custody late last month sparked riots and
protests.
Mourners gathered outside the church and under a mango tree for today's
funeral.
Mr Doomadgee's mother Doris was unable to attend the funeral due to a
terminal illness.
In a tribute, Eric Doomadgee said his father Cameron was the best father
a son could hope for.
Palm Island Council chairwoman Erykah Kyle also paid tribute to Mr
Doomadgee.
She told the congregation that his death should never have happened.
The congregation were also told to remember the 19 men arrested after
last month's riot.
The men were released on bail earlier this week on the condition they
would not return to the island, even for today's funeral.
The police presence at the funeral was small. Just one senior inspector,
who is a family friend, attended the service.
The funeral service coincides with a national day of action in Brisbane
over Aboriginal deaths in custody.
Mr Doomadgee, 36, was found dead in a cell at the Palm Island watch
house while in police custody late last month, sparking riots and protests.
Mr Doomadgee's death is the subject of a Crime and Misconduct Commission
inquiry. |
