MP Jonty Bush organising Reclaim the Trails event at Mount Coot-tha after violent attack
A group of walkers is taking a stand on violence against women on Brisbane’s Mt Coot-tha, after intimidation and an attack on popular trails.
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A group of walkers is taking a stand on violence against women on Brisbane’s Mt Coot-tha, after intimidation and an attack on popular trails.
State Member for Cooper Jonty Bush was prompted to organise a Reclaim the Trails event after multiple women reached out, frustrated that their safe space had been tarnished.
“It’s our mountain that we all know any love, so I thought it was important to pull an event together to reclaim the space,” Ms Bush said.
“Violence against women has no place in our community, and we are taking a stand to reclaim our trails and send that message to anyone wanting to harm others on our beautiful bush trails.
“Let’s not let a couple of people scare us away, let’s keep the trails busy and friendly and let’s be a better community for this.”
The first incident happened on June 7 on the Maculata walking track, where a woman was assaulted and pushed over by an unknown man.
NRL player Arana Taumata came to the woman’s aid after finding her shaken and dazed on the track just moments later.
Investigations into this attack are ongoing.
On June 27, police received reports of a man loitering and acting aggressively towards women on the Litchfield Track and Mahogany Trail.
Police believe the two incidents are unrelated.
Brisbane City Council announced this week that dozens of new 24/7 CCTV cameras had been installed around Mt Coot-tha, including some cameras hidden in trees.
Queensland police also responded to the attacks by deploying a surge of officers into the area and conducting patrols.
Ms Bush urged trail users to stand together.
“We want to see people out there exercising, it’s a great opportunity to reconnect, or a chance for someone to come and run in a group.
“There’s so much to see and do out there … it’s a beautiful place.”
The free event is open to anyone, including walkers, runners and cyclists.
Anyone wanting to join should meet at J.C. Slaughter Falls at 9am on Saturday, August 3.
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