‘Too much to bear’: Yarrabah stab victim’s mum fears a life will be lost following recent stabbing attack
A Far North mum who almost lost a child following a recent stabbing attack in Yarrabah has called for an end to the bloodshed and violence gripping the Indigenous community.
Cairns
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A FAR North mum who almost lost a child following a recent stabbing attack in Yarrabah has called for an end to the bloodshed and violence gripping the Indigenous community.
Her 15-year-old daughter was rushed to hospital on Monday after a disturbing street brawl left her fighting for life.
Another 15-year-old girl was charged under the Youth Justice Act for allegedly throwing a knife at her during a fight, piercing her chest requiring a three-day stay in Cairns Hospital.
“I am absolutely fed up with the violence and I don’t know why this is happening so much in our community,” she said.
“There seems to be a culture of violence and people just stand by and watch.
“There were a whole heap of adults standing around and encouraging this type of behaviour, and its learned behaviour.
“It must stop.”
The incident is one of several recent attacks plaguing the Cairns region.
The mother said the thought of burying another child “was too much to bear” and has called for police to help curb the worrying trend of assaults and other crimes.
“I’ve already lost one child God help me if I lose another,” she said.
“My daughters have been threatened numerous times before this and even my pregnant daughter has been threatened with violence.
“The police aren’t doing enough to stop and prevent this type of behaviour before it starts.”
Yarrabah Police Officer In Charge Nick Sweetten said the town didn’t have a bigger problem than others in the region, such as Cairns and Mossman.
He said the teenager involved would be dealt with under the Youth Justice Act but could not give specifics.
The Act covers courses of actions including criminal charges before the court, mediation programs, cautioning and, in some instances, no action.
“It’s a serious incident but I don’t think it’s out of the ordinary for Yarrabah,” he said.
“It’s no different to anywhere else, it’s a bit of a never ending cycle.
“Everywhere has their own social issues, all over the world, influenced by things such as housing shortages, unemployment, alcohol and drug use.
“It certainly hasn’t helped with the current situation, recent lockdowns and Covid. Stress is maybe heightened.”
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