The inquest into the death of Aboriginal woman Tammy Shipley reveals her children's heartfelt grief over the loss of their mother, who died in custody after excessive water consumption.
The ongoing coronial inquest into the death of Tammy Shipley, an Aboriginal woman who died in custody at Silverwater Women's Corrections Centre, highlights the profound grief of her family, particularly her daughters. They described their mother as a 'loving, caring and beautiful' individual, expressing how her loss has left an indelible void in their lives. Shipley died under tragic circumstances after consuming an excessive amount of water, a situation that has drawn attention to the challenges surrounding mental health and the treatment of individuals with psychiatric conditions in the corrections system.
Tammy Shipley passed away on December 20, 2022, after drinking approximately 20 litres of water in a single day due to a complication of her schizoaffective disorder, known as polydipsia. The inquest aims to uncover details surrounding her death, with hearings set to continue throughout the week. Witness testimony from her daughters emphasizes the emotional impact of the tragedy, as one daughter articulated the sentiment of losing a 'best friend' and the everyday struggles they now face without their mother's presence.
This case not only invites a re-examination of the conditions in which Indigenous people are held in custody but also raises vital questions about the accountability of correctional facilities in providing adequate healthcare to inmates. As the inquest progresses, it will be crucial to assess the systemic shortcomings that may have contributed to Shipley’s untimely death, ensuring that lessons are learned to prevent similar tragedies in the future, particularly concerning mental health support.
