Life in Doomadgee in far north Queensland may be settling down following last week's tensions between local residents and police, but people are demanding answers over allegations of racism and bullying.
A man was charged with allegedly assaulting a female police officer, and tensions rose further when the Queensland police sent an additional 30 officers from Mount Isa to assist local police, with residents saying they had a number of fines and search warrants being issued against them.
Community elders Barry Waldren accused the police of racism. "The police duties are to serve and protect. Unfortunately they are here serving warrants, serving up people with threats, which is racism at the highest", he said.
While police have yet to receive written complaints outlining grievances, the local Council wants the authorities to be proactive in investigating the allegations.
Police say they want the best relationship possible.
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"They [policemen] deal with matters of unrest and disorder, generally around licenced premises -- that's their role. They are professional in what they do," Queensland Police Superintendent Russell Miller said.
