by Adele on 7 October, 2010
It was reported yesterday that Victoria’s Ombudsman has recommended the closure of the Parkville Youth Justice Precinct on the basis that the conditions are in breach of international human rights laws and government health regulations. You can read the report here.
Somewhat disturbing to read of the problems that were identified. I was a resident/DETAINEE of Baltara Reception Centre (Turana is on the same site) in the early 80’s. Initially I was held in a secure unit and then moved to an open unit. The little I recall of the secure unit was of a very sterile and dank environment. I was the victim of sexual interference by other much older boys.
I am typing this early Christmas morning. A month or so ago I was working out where to go after Christmas with my 2 daughters. One of the choices was to visit Melbourne and go back to the Parkville site so I can permanently close that chapter in my life after nearly 30 years. We now live in Adelaide.