Threats force Fraser Coast councillor to cancel Craignish community meet
Fraser Coast council staff have retreated from public meet-ups on the future of the Torquay caravan park after an unprecedented wave of online abuse, intimidation and threats of physical violence.
A Fraser Coast councillor has been forced to cancel a regular community catch-up session because of concerns over abuse and intimidation regarding the ongoing debate over the future of Torquay Caravan Park.
Division 5 councillor Michelle Govers posted her concerns on Facebook this week, stating the decision had not been made lightly.
It comes after months of debate on the future of the caravan park, with community input being sought regarding whether the site should stay a caravan park, or become an open space or playground.
According to Ms Govers, safety had become too much of a risk to go ahead with the planned event at Craignish.
“Unfortunately, staff attending recent community pop-up sessions about the Torquay foreshore have been repeatedly subjected to verbal abuse, threats of physical violence, and intimidation,” she said.
“As a result, those sessions have had to be cancelled to protect their safety.
“In recent days, social media commentary has indicated that the Craignish Catch-Up may be used as an avenue to vent frustrations about the same issue.
“Given the level of aggression and hostility already being shown, I am simply not prepared to put myself, my fellow councillors, or our community members in a situation where anyone’s safety could be at risk.
“I am deeply saddened and frankly bewildered that what began as an invitation for the community to share its views has led to online abuse and threats of physical violence.
“I fully respect that people hold strong opinions on this matter (passionate debate is healthy in any democracy), but the behaviour we are now seeing is completely unacceptable.
“This aggression is not only disheartening; it prevents councillors and council staff from being able to do the very thing many people are asking for – to listen, engage, and work together for the good of our community.
“Violence and intimidation have no place in civic discussion, and I sincerely hope we can return to respectful, constructive dialogue soon.”
Fraser Coast council chief executive Ken Diehm said the council strongly supported Ms Govers’ decision to cancel the meet and greet at Craignish in response to the threats and aggressive behaviour directed at staff and councillors in recent weeks.
“It is completely unacceptable for anyone to be abused, intimidated or threatened while simply trying to do their job,” he said.
“Everyone has the right to feel safe at work and at public events.
“If that safety is at risk, we will take action, including cancelling events when necessary.
“Council welcomes robust debate and open discussion, and we understand that people have strong views on some issues.
“But when things turn aggressive, it shuts down real conversations and makes it harder for councillors and staff to listen, engage and help.
“We echo councillor Govers’ call for our community to get back to talking with each other respectfully, because that’s the only way we can move forward together.”
