The Manoora community centre is bolstering staff to prepare for a flood of traumatised children and families. Pictures: Liam Kidston Source: News Corp Australia
DOZENS of anguished children are seeking help from social workers in Manoora to cope with the deaths of their eight mates.
As police begin scaling back the crime scene at 34 Murray St, welfare groups at the neighbourhood’s community centre were bolstering staff and volunteers to prepare for a flood of traumatised children and families.
Manoora has been in shock since Raina Mersane Ina Thaiday, also known as Mersane Warria, allegedly murdered her seven children and a niece in their home.
Already “dozens” of the victims’ friends have sought comfort at the neighbourhood hub, Salvation Army Captain Darren Kingston said.
Families from across Manoora have paid their respects at the Murray St home. Source: News Corp Australia
“A lot of these kids knew the children,” he said. “Sometimes kids just need a chance to process the information and sometimes they do that through things like drawing and craft or just sitting with someone and talking or reflecting.”
Apunipima Cape York Health Council doctor Mark Wenitong said the effort to help Manoora recover was unprecedented for local services.
“But dealing with the death of children is something most people struggle with and multiple deaths is just horrific,” said Dr Wenitong, whose daughter lives across the road from the crime scene.
Clan leaders yesterday began making arrangements for funerals of the children. Many of the victims’ relatives have arrived in Cairns from the Torres Strait.
Police will work through Christmas and expect to complete their investigation over the next two to three days.