MIA

Dear readers, I haven't forgotten about you. I've actually bought a new camera and have been taking wonderful pictures of the amazing food I've eaten. But my life has been a madhouse this week! Senior Sargeant Chris Hurley is on trial in Townsville for manslaughter, for the death of an Aboriginal man in custody in November 2004. I've said before, but it's worth mentioning again: this is the first police officer *ever* to be charged for an Aboriginal death in custody. So this is a big deal. And I have been in the courtroom watching it all go down.

This week is also the 50th anniversary of a big strike on Palm Island, a reserve where they sent 'troublemaking' Aboriginal people after colonisation up until... the 70's I think. They went on strike in 57 over their terrible living conditions and the control that was exerted over every aspect of their lives. Friday evening Andy and I went to a play commemorating the event; this coming Friday I will actually be going to Palm Island for the day. The play will be on again, and there will just be general merry-making. I'm hoping to meet lots of people, and I'm just honoured that I've been invited to such an important celebration.

I will post soon, and update you on everything. I'll have pictures from Palm, pictures from outside the courthouse (traditional dancers, media circus, etc), and most importantly, pictures of food. Talk to you soon!