Grandfather of Kumanjayi Little Baby thanks community, urges calm as family begins sorry business
The family of five-year-old Kumanjayi Little Baby has thanked the community for its outpouring of support after her body was found on the outskirts of Alice Springs on Thursday, with tributes flowing in from across the country. Senior Warlpiri Elder and kinship grandfather Robin Japanangka Granites said the family was grateful to authorities and volunteers who searched for the child and to residents who have rallied since.
"We're really grateful… it made us think we have people who really supported us," he said. He urged community members to remain calm following an outburst of violence after an arrest in the case, adding that it is now time for sorry business and space for the family to grieve and remember her.
Hundreds of volunteers and police spent five days combing dense scrubland after Kumanjayi went missing last weekend from a home at the Old Timers / Ilyperenye town camp on the outskirts of Alice Springs. Northern Territory police arrested 47-year-old Jefferson Lewis on Thursday night in relation to the child's death.
Charges are yet to be laid, but are expected in the coming days. In Alice Springs, residents have placed pink flowers, teddy bears and handwritten messages outside the Old Timers town camp. Locals are also dropping off food, clothes and blankets at the Hidden Valley town camp, where the family is holding sorry business.
Mr Granites said he was very thankful to those providing donations. A sunset vigil is expected to be held next week, with attendees encouraged to wear pink in honour of Kumanjayi's favourite colour. As the investigation proceeds, the family has asked for calm and respect while they mourn.