Death of Queensland Sentencing Advisory Council member Bevan Costello

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Women and for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Shannon Fentiman has paid tribute to Queensland Sentencing Advisory Council (QSAC) member Bevan Costello who passed away today.

Ms Fentiman said she was deeply saddened to learn the news and sends her sincerest condolences to his family, friends, community and colleagues.

“Mr Costello worked at QSAC as the chair of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Panel and was one of 12 independent members appointed to the Council,” Minister Fentiman said.

“As a proud Wakka Wakka man and Elder within the Cherbourg community, along with his extensive experience in the education industry, Mr Costello brought to the Council a unique insight into cultural and Indigenous history aspects of sentencing.

“He was also a passionate advocate for his local community and worked tirelessly to help promote positive change in Cherbourg and the surrounding area.

“Mr Costello was a highly admired leader, elder and traditional owner and will be greatly missed.”

A qualified secondary teacher and Principal at the Silver Lining School in the South Burnett, Mr Costello was Chair of the Bramabah Justice Group in Cherbourg. He also sat on the local Murri Court helping magistrates understand the lives and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people coming before the court.

Mr Costello was also a founding member of the Ration Shed Museum, represented Queensland in Rugby League and served two terms as a local government councillor for Cherbourg.

ENDS

Media contact:                       Inga Williams                          0439 949 719