At the Supreme Court in Brisbane on Monday, Lionel Patea pleaded guilty to the murder of his former partner Tara Brown on the Gold Coast in September 2015.
Outside, protestors against domestic violence carried roses and signs reading messages that highlighted the devastating impact of domestic violence.
The roses referenced charity Red Rose Foundation, which works to prevent domestic violence-related deaths in Australia.
Supporters and DV protestors laying roses after Lionel Patea's plea of guilty to murdering Tara Brown @ACurrentAffair9 pic.twitter.com/0XLlKl8a36 — Harry Clarke (@harrytclarke) February 27, 2017
Patea's lawyer Campbell MacCallum read a statement to reporters outside court on his behalf.
“I do this with the full support of my family who have encouraged me in my decision to face up to my actions and provide closure for the Brown family,” Mr MacCallum read.
“I do not want to cause Tara’s family further pain.
“I accept without hesitation the punishment imposed upon me by the justice system.”
