Fraser Coast ranger assaulted, arrest made in second attack of 2025

Escalating violence, threats and abuse of councillors and council staff has led to the second arrest this year, and tightened security at council-owned facilities on the Fraser Coast.

A person has been arrested following the second assault on a Hervey Bay ranger in a matter of weeks, with the Fraser Coast Regional Council condemning the growing abuse and threats towards its staff and councillors.

A person has been arrested following the second assault on a Hervey Bay ranger in a matter of weeks, with the Fraser Coast Regional Council condemning the growing abuse and threats towards its staff and councillors.

Council CEO Ken Diehm said police had charged a person with assault after they headbutted a community ranger while the officer was performing his duties.

“This follows another incident where a ranger was allegedly assaulted at Apex Park in Pialba while assisting a rough sleeper to register his dog for free. Police also arrested and charged this individual,” he said.

Josh Damon Handley, 20, was charged with wilful damage and serious assault of a public officer with bodily harm following the Apex Park attack in January.

“These attacks are completely unacceptable,” Mr Diehm said.

“We take the safety of our staff seriously and will work closely with police to ensure those responsible face the full consequences of the law.”

Mr Diehm said councillors were also facing increased verbal abuse and threats, with some no longer feeling safe hosting or attending community events alone.

The Fraser Coast council moved to address homeless sites on the foreshore after the first attack on a ranger in January.

“Council values open and respectful conversations with the community, but the escalation of abuse towards councillors and staff, particularly online, is unacceptable,” he said.

“Enough is enough.

“It’s appalling that some of our councillors are being targeted with threats and abuse – both online and in person.

“Our staff and councillors are members of the community too.

“They deserve to be treated with respect and have the right to feel safe at work.”

Concerns over safety have also led to increased security measures at council facilities.

Council CEO Ken Diehm said there had been a spate of incidents of physical, verbal and online abuse of council staff in recent times, with the Esplanade assault the most extreme example.

“We have had to strengthen security at the Maryborough Regional Library and Customer Service Centre due to increased anti-social behaviour,” Mr Diehm said.

“Council has engaged security guards, reviewed duress and alarm procedures, provided de-escalation training and redesigned the Maryborough Customer Service Centre to improve safety.

“The safety of staff and councillors is paramount, and Council is committed to ensuring their protection. We will not hesitate to report incidents to the police where required.”

A press conference will be held tomorrow to gauge more details of the assault.