Images released of protesters linked to brawl on Cross River Rail site

The Queensland government CFMEU inquiry has published images of 15 men suspected to be present at a brawl on a key Annerley worksite, asking to speak with the men so “all relevant perspectives are heard” in the $19.7 million probe.

Released on Sunday afternoon, a statement from the commission of inquiry said the men had been at a “confrontational protest” at an Annerley Cross River Rail worksite on May 1, 2024.

The 15 unidentified men – some of whom were wearing masks and other face coverings – were seen with known union members at the edge of the site along Cope Street.

The images were provided by investigators following a suspected brawl at the worksite.

“Media footage … showed a physical confrontation involving multiple individuals near the Cope Street works spilling onto the street before groups dispersed prior to police arrival,” the statement from the inquiry read.

Senior Counsel Assisting Patrick Wheelahan KC urged anyone who might know the whereabouts of the more than a dozen men to come forward, so the inquiry could question the men and “ensure all relevant perspectives are heard”.

“These individuals were present at a significant incident on the Cross River Rail worksite, and their recollections may help the Commission form a clearer understanding of what occurred that day,” Wheelahan said.

The commission of inquiry was launched by the state after reporting by this masthead and 60 Minutes detailed criminality, corruption and misconduct in the union and construction sector nationwide.

Lat month, Cross River Rail Delivery Authority chief executive Graeme Newton handed the inquiry more than 480 pages of evidence detailing pressure from the union to gain power over the multibillion-dollar project.

Newton’s testimony outlined attempted union influence from the project’s infancy, including placing personnel at meetings and weighing in on major contractor selection processes.

The statement asked anyone with information about the men, or the men themselves, to contact its confidential tip lines by calling 1800 810 933 or writing into the commission’s website.

The inquiry continues on April 14.

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