Representatives for Victorian Governor Margaret Gardner appeared at the Melbourne Magistrate’s Court on 27 February 26, after an officer of the Governor was served a charge sheet by informant Djuran Bunjileenee Uncle Robbie Thorpe for wilfully entering a private place without express or implied permission of the owner or occupier, and refusing to leave after being asked to do so, under the Summary Offences Act 1966, section 9 (1). The matter was adjourned to 17 July 2026 as Ms. Gardner’s representatives stated that more time was needed for “a number of steps that need to be taken.”
The Governor enjoys the residence of Government House. This building stands on what is known as “King’s Domain,” a few hundred metres away from Camp Sovereignty and the resting place of the repatriated and reburied remains of 38 Aboriginal people from the lands and waters that the colonial government has designated as comprising the state of “Victoria.” This is a site of immense spiritual significance for Aboriginal Peoples and is listed as a Heritage Site under the Heritage Act. It is an unfinished burial site, containing the partial remains of victims of scientific cannibalism carried out by the British Empire. Many stolen remains are still in storage at Museums Victoria sites, awaiting their return and dignified burial.
A request was made of the Governor not to raise the Australian flag on 26 January 2025, a day of mourning for Aboriginal Peoples as it marks the beginning of the ongoing genocidal occupation. The Australian flag contains the Union Jack, a symbol of this occupying force. It is considered a hate symbol and is an unwelcome presence, especially at such a sacred site on such a significant day. This request was ignored.
The continued presence of the Governor at the site of Camp Sovereignty and the resting place is unwanted and illegitimate.