On 28-Apr-1996, Martin Bryant entered the Broad Arrow Cafe at the Port Arthur Historic Site. Using an Armalite rifle he shot at the patrons before barricading himself in a guest house. By the end of the day, 35 people had been killed, including an elderly couple, a young girl, and a baby in its mothers arms - the worst peace-time massacre on record by a single gunman.

Bryant was captured by police after he set the guest house on fire. After being treated for severe burns, he was transferred to the Risdon prison near Hobart where he was held pending trial. During that time period, he made several suicide attempts.

Eventually, Bryant pled guilty and a trial was avoided. Bryant was sentenced to life without parole and returned to Risdon prison. Although Bryant had some intellectual difficulties, he was deemed accountable for his actions and described by the judge as "a pathetic social misfit".

The event provoked an outpouring of sympathy from around the world, and calls for gun control in Australia. Semi-automatic and automatic weapons were immediately banned in Tasmania and polticians began working towards federal laws. Incidentally, it has been said that before the massacre, Tasmania had the loosest gun laws in Australia. While that may be true, Americans may wish to note that Tasmanians who wanted to own any firearm including air rifles was required to pass a gun handling course and carry a photo-bearing gun license. This license had to be produced prior to the purchase of ammunition etc.

Subsequent reports suggest Bryant has become a recluse in prison, not talking to anyone.

[Back to Tasmanian History questions]

Last reviewed 2006-08-06 12:44:23