Queensland CFMEU inquiry accuses rail manager of withholding evidence

During the Queensland CFMEU inquiry, head Stuart Wood accused a manager of a major Brisbane rail project of “deliberately withholding evidence” regarding a violent brawl at the Cross River Rail site. The incident, which occurred on May 1, 2024, involved a confrontation between workers attempting to break a union blockade and picket lines established by CFMEU members.

Patrick O’Brien, the former site manager for the CPB-Unity Alliance at Dutton Park station, was called to give evidence. The inquiry reviewed WhatsApp logs from senior project figures discussing union efforts to blockade gates. In one exchange, O’Brien noted that a CFMEU organiser warned that the picket line would “kick off” if anyone tried to pass, leading O’Brien to question if attempting to “sneak in” subcontractors would escalate the situation.

The inquiry is investigating misconduct within the union and construction sectors, seeking to understand the lead-up to the altercation that spilled onto a public road and required a police escort.