Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch stands by award to Cairns City Mongols for work during cyclone

A chapter of the Mongols bikies has been recognised for “valued service” to the community in far north Queensland during Cyclone Jasper, with a Federal MP saying he stands by the award.

Leichardt MP Warren Entsch has raised eyebrows after controversially recognising an outlaw motorcycle gang’s service to the community. Picture: Brendan Radke

A federal MP has raised eyebrows after controversially recognising an outlaw motorcycle gang’s service to the community during Cyclone Jasper.

Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch is standing by the award for the Cairns City Mongols, which were nominated by a community member for their donations work during the Far North Queensland flood and cyclone event.

The branch received a certificate, which has the Australian coat of arms at the top, at the “Superhero Sunday” ceremony last weekend.

The certificate states it is “presented on behalf of the parliament of Australia and your fellow citizens of Leichhardt electorate in honour of your valued service to our community”.

Mr Entsch told the Herald Sun that Project Recognise – a group that aims to acknowledge local heroes – asked him to get involved and prepare certificates for those nominated.

The LNP member said it was not for him to vet candidates and decide who should get an award.

“I stand by it,” Mr Entsch said.

Warren Entsch says he stands by the award.

“What they do outside of this community thing is entirely up to them to be held accountable for.

“I’m recognising them for what they have done in what was a dreadful, unprecedented disaster in this area.”

Mr Entsch said he did ask why the motorcycle gang were included and was told the wives, partners and children of bike riders had helped people in need.

“Somebody obviously appreciated the fact that they provided the support with Christmas presents and cash and barbecues,” he said.

“I have no issue with recognising the good deeds in the community – that doesn’t in any way suggest that I endorse anything else in relation to the entity.”

“If ever there’s another event, I hope that they are prepared to step up again.”

Queensland Senator Susan McDonald attended the ceremony on behalf of Mr Entsch, alongside LNP candidate Bree James.

One former organised crime detective rejected any argument that help should be recognised no matter where it came from.

“I would say get f … d to that,” he said.

Queensland Labor Senator Nita Green said it was “outrageous” on Thursday that Mr Entsch was publicly celebrating outlaw motorcycle gangs.

“Peter Dutton and the LNP pretend they care about community safety but here they are publicly backing a group accused of crimes that our police have to work hard to prosecute,” Senator Green said.

“This shows once again that Mr Entsch and the LNP believe there’s one rule for them and one rule for everyone else.

“Whether it’s allegations of helping his billionaire donor to access covid vaccinations, awarding community grants to a company owned by his wife or failing to declare luxury accommodation, Warren’s conduct continues to fail the pub test.”

She urged Mr Dutton to stand up for the Queensland community “instead of standing by Mr Entsch”.

The certificate sponsored by federal MP Warren Entsch to the Mongols bikie club.

Mr Entsch’s move has caused a stir.

The investigator said that if Mr Entsch felt he needed to thank the bikies, he should have found another way.

“I wouldn’t be putting it in writing,” he said.

The Mongols’ Cairns chapter was raided by police three months ago as part of a crackdown on their activities.

Seven members were charged with 17 assault, drug and weapons offences.

Detective Insp. Mick Searle said at the time that the gang was emerging in the city.

“Like any group that’s trying to expand its presence, they will lay some groundwork with established members and then start a recruiting phase from there,” Insp. Searle said.

The Mongols are regarded by law enforcement internationally as an organised crime group.

They are listed among the “big six” Australian bikie gangs, along with the Bandidos, Hells Angels, Comancheros, Finks and Rebels.

Mr Entsch in 2013 declared his love for his Harley Davidson motorbike amid debate over attempts by Queensland’s police and state government to get rid of bikie gangs.

He said at the time that he would continue to support the Vietnam Vets motorcycle club, of which he was a patron.

Liberal leader Peter Dutton was contacted for comment.

Originally published as Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch stands by award to Cairns City Mongols for work during cyclone