The Kenniff Brothers

The Kenniffs were compulsive cattle and horse thieves from the Western Districts of Queensland – from Augathella to Mitchell – during the 1890s.and turn of the century.

In 1903 – they allegedly shot and burnt the bodies of a policeman and station manager. After the murders of Doyle and Dahlke by the Kenniffs, many people in the district became terrified and left the vicinity, especially station managers, who became marked men.

The Queensland Government offered a reward for ₤1000 for the capture of the bushrangers. They were again and again seen, but always eluded their pursuers.

Gradually, however, news came to hand of their movements. On April 4th three horses were stolen from a paddock 30 miles from Merivale.

The Kenniffs were now on the run, riding eastward along the Great Dividing Range. They were reported having been seen in the Yuelba district, riding like demons on tired horses.

A massive manhunt was organised and three months later the brothers were captured at Arrest Creek, south of Mitchell. Despite the circumstantial evidence they were both found guilty of murder and sentenced to death. James’ sentence was later commuted to 16 years jail and a royal pardon saw him released in November 1914. Patrick was executed on 12 January 1903 at Boggo Road Prison and buried in South Brisbane cemetery. He proclaimed his innocence to the last.