Girl, security guard bashed at Toowoomba Grand Central Shopping Centre

Police have been called to Toowoomba’s Grand Central Shopping Centre after a group of violent youths attacked a young girl and the security guard who came to her aid.

Police have been called to Toowoomba’s Grand Central shopping centre following reports of a teen gang bashing.

The Toowoomba Chronicle understands the group attacked a 14-year-old girl and a security guard who came to her aid.

The violent incident occurred before 11am at the shopping hub near the Toymate and Just Jeans stores, on Saturday morning, August 19.

According to a female witness, who asked not to be named, a group of youths were assaulting the girl before they turned on a security guard.

She said shoppers stood back and watched the girl and guard being attacked and no-one stepped in to help.

It’s understood the centre notified police and performed first aid on the girl.

Queensland Police Service and Grand Central have been contacted for comment.

The crime scene at Grand Central after Toowoomba man Robert Brown, 75, was killed in an alleged assault at taxi rank on February 6, 2023. Picture: Peta McEachern

Earlier this year, staff at the centre raised concerns about the number of violent incidents occurring and an alleged culture of bullying.

Staff claimed the security company did not respond to calls for extra safety measures such as more guards to be rostered on and stab-proof vests.

Following those concerns, a new security contract was signed with Glad Group which will replace Springmount Service which currently provides security and cleaning services at Grand Central Shopping Centre.

Queensland Investment Corporation owns Grand Central Shopping Centre along with the Logan Hyperdome, Robina Town Centre and 14 other Australian shopping centres.

Grand Central Shopping Centre management has been contacted for comment.