Intimidation Incident at Bar Beach Raises Concerns About Localism in Newcastle

A young volunteer from Newy 87.8 has been left shaken after an alleged confrontation at Bar Beach. He was filming a video of the sunrise for the station’s Facebook page. The volunteer, who wishes to remain anonymous, was approached by a woman, believed to be in her 50s, who claimed that the Bar Beach footpath was “her turf. An interaction our volunteer described as “Intense”.

Crimestoppers Incident Number: 969361

The incident occurred as the volunteer was sitting in his vehicle, listening to the radio, with his tripod set up nearby. The woman allegedly demanded that he turn off the camera and leave the area. Despite explaining that he was conducting a legal activity on behalf of the community, particularly for those unable to leave their homes due to age or disability, the woman escalated her intimidation, standing closer to our volunteer who sat in his car. She insisted that she should be able to carry out her walk without him there, eventually standing in front of the camera to obstruct the recording.

The confrontation continued for some time, but ended when the volunteer exited his vehicle and asserted his right to be there, highlighting that he had grown up in the area and had every right to carry out a legal activity, especially one that benefits the community’s most vulnerable members who can’t leave their home to see the sunrise.

“I am shocked,” the volunteer said. “I am a local myself, and you hear stories of this happening in Sydney, but I have never experienced it in Newcastle. I literally grew up in Cooks Hill, and some lady is telling me to leave my local beach.”

A Wider Issue: Localism and Intimidation on Beaches

Intimidation and turf wars have been a contentious topic, particularly in Sydney, where similar incidents have occurred in places like Cronulla, Maroubra, and Bondi Beach. These events have attracted significant media attention and prompted discussions about localism in surf culture.

In Sydney, the New South Wales Police and local councils have increased patrols and implemented stricter regulations to curb aggressive behaviour on beaches. These measures aim to ensure that all beachgoers, whether locals or visitors, can enjoy the beaches safely.

Response and Community Call to Action

The volunteer has reported the incident to Crimestoppers (Ref: 969361), hoping that making the situation public will help curb further intimidation and turf wars on Newcastle’s beaches. Newy 87.8 is encouraging members of the public to help identify the woman involved and report any information to the station via private messages.

“It doesn’t matter if it is a male or female intimidating someone; this sort of behaviour is not acceptable in our community and should be stamped out before it becomes a problem,” a Newy 87.8 spokesperson said.

As Newcastle continues to grow and attract more visitors, ensuring that all public spaces remain welcoming and free from intimidation is crucial. The community is urged to stand together against such behaviour, promoting a culture of respect and inclusivity.

The Broader Context: Localism in Surf Culture

Localism, the practice of locals asserting dominance over certain areas, is not a new phenomenon in surf culture. Beaches across Australia have seen their share of conflicts, with territorial disputes sometimes leading to aggressive confrontations. Efforts to address these issues include community programs, law enforcement interventions, and public awareness campaigns.

By highlighting these incidents and working towards solutions, communities can foster a more inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome.

This incident at Bar Beach serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and community solidarity in the face of intimidation and localism. The story of Newy 87.8’s volunteer highlights the importance of standing up against such behaviour and ensuring that public spaces remain accessible and safe for all.

Newy 87.8’s Role In The Community

Newy 87.8 provides an essential service to the Newcastle community, broadcasting music from the 60s, 70s, and 80s, and has been doing so since 2014. This nostalgic playlist is particularly loved by the baby boomer generation, many of whom are alone, in care, or unable to leave their homes. The station serves as a lifeline, offering comfort and connection through familiar tunes. Additionally, the Newy 87.8 Facebook page extends its reach by providing local news, information, and entertainment, helping to reconnect our older radio audience to the broader community and foster a sense of belonging and reducing the feeling of isolation from younger generations. Our service was particularly important during the COVID-19 pandemic where isolation was a major concern amongst our older population.

Our history goes back pre-radio, where our volunteers helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Cancer Council by helping assisting them launch the Stars of Newcastle and producing online content amongst other community contributions. An annual event that is still run today.

The video our volunteer was filming

It is important to note, that the lady who approached our volunteer was walking towards the sunset, away from the camera, so her face would not have faced the camera. She intentionally placed her face in front of the camera then demanded the camera be switched off because she didn’t want to be filmed. It was her intention to deliberately intimidate the Newy 87.8 volunteer.

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Intimidation Laws in NSW Australia

In New South Wales, intimidation is taken seriously and is addressed under the Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act 2007. Intimidation can include conduct that harasses or causes fear of physical or mental harm, and it covers both physical actions and verbal threats. The key aspects of the law are as follows:

1. Definition of Intimidation: Intimidation is defined broadly to include conduct that harasses, stalks, or causes fear of physical or mental harm. This can be through physical actions, threats, or verbal abuse.
2. Penalties: Under section 13 of the Act, intimidation can lead to significant penalties. If found guilty of intimidation with the intent to cause fear of physical or mental harm, the perpetrator can face imprisonment for up to five years, fines, or both.
3. Protection Orders: Victims of intimidation can apply for an Apprehended Personal Violence Order (APVO) or an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO), depending on the relationship with the perpetrator. These orders aim to protect individuals from further harassment or intimidation by placing restrictions on the offender’s behavior.
4. Reporting: Incidents of intimidation should be reported to the police immediately. The NSW Police are equipped to handle such reports and can provide advice and support to victims, including assistance with applying for protection orders.
5. Support Services: In addition to legal measures, there are numerous support services available to victims of intimidation, including counseling, legal advice, and victim support organisations that can offer assistance and guidance.

These laws are in place to ensure that all members of the community feel safe and protected from harassment and intimidation, whether in public spaces like beaches or elsewhere. By understanding and utilising these legal protections, individuals can help uphold a respectful and inclusive community environment.

Support Services for Victims of Intimidation in NSW

Victims of intimidation and harassment in New South Wales have access to a range of support services that provide assistance, advice, and protection. Here are some key resources:

1. NSW Police:
   • Contact: Emergency: 000 | Non-Emergency: 131 444
   • Website: NSW Police
   • The police can provide immediate assistance, take reports of intimidation, and help with applying for Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs).
2. Victims Services NSW:
   • Phone: 1800 633 063
   • Website: Victims Services NSW
   • Offers support, counseling, financial assistance, and information for victims of crime, including intimidation.
3. 1800RESPECT:
   • Phone: 1800 737 732
   • Website: 1800RESPECT
   • A national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counseling service providing confidential support and advice.
4. Legal Aid NSW:
   • Phone: 1300 888 529
   • Website: Legal Aid NSW
   • Provides legal advice and representation for those experiencing intimidation and needing assistance with legal matters.
5. Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services (WDVCAS):
   • Website: WDVCAS
   • Offers support for women and children experiencing domestic violence, including help with navigating the legal system.
6. Lifeline:
   • Phone: 13 11 14
   • Website: Lifeline
   • Provides 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services.
7. MensLine Australia:
   • Phone: 1300 789 978
   • Website: MensLine Australia
   • A telephone and online support service for men with family and relationship concerns.
8. Headspace:
   • Phone: 1800 650 890
   • Website: Headspace
   • National youth mental health foundation providing early intervention mental health services to 12-25-year-olds.
9. NSW Health Sexual Assault Services:
   • Website: NSW Health Sexual Assault Services
   • Provides medical, counseling, and legal support to sexual assault survivors.

These services are available to support victims of intimidation, ensuring they receive the help and protection they need. By reaching out to these organisations, individuals can access the necessary resources to address their situation and work towards a safer, more supportive environment.

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