Minjerribah Elders Urge Queensland to Halt Flag Removal Plans
URGENT UPDATE: Minjerribah Moorgumpin Elders In Council are taking a stand against the Queensland government’s proposed removal of flags at Goompi / Dunwich on North Stradbroke Island. In a meeting on October 3, 2023, local Aboriginal representatives expressed “significant concerns” to the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads about the imminent decision.
The flagpoles, installed two years ago by the community, proudly display the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags, along with the Kanaky and Palestinian flags. These symbols represent the community’s strong condemnation of “colonial facilitated, historical racist legal violence and genocide.” Yet, officials have stated that these flagpoles pose a public safety risk, a claim that remains “unclear” according to community leaders.
The Elders noted that “despite the risks claimed by the department, the criteria for this decision remains ambiguous.” They highlighted that the flagpoles withstood the impact of Cyclone Alfred earlier this year without incident.
Community representatives pointed out far more pressing safety concerns in Goompi / Dunwich, including numerous illegally parked vehicles obstructing traffic and posing risks to pedestrians, particularly school children. The state-controlled road runs through the heart of the community, adjacent to the primary school and daycare center.
The Elders emphasized that “no action has been taken” to address the dangers posed by these illegally parked vehicles or the influx of tourist traffic speeding through this residential area. “The department made it clear that they are fully committed to their position and were unwilling to compromise,” the Elders stated, raising questions about the true motives behind the department’s actions.
Amidst the ongoing discussions, Minjerribah Moorgumpin Elders In Council declared their determination to protect their right to express their sovereignty. The community remains vigilant and unified in their efforts to keep these flags flying, symbolizing their pride and resistance against colonial legacies.
This situation is developing rapidly, and the community urges immediate public support as they fight for their rights. The next critical step will be monitoring the government’s response and any further actions taken regarding the flagpoles.
Stay tuned for updates on this vital issue impacting the Indigenous community of North Stradbroke Island.
