A teenager abused for wearing a kippah and carrying an Israeli flag was later assaulted at a scout camp south-east of Melbourne, police allege.
The 18-year-old was walking in Lardner Park, south of Warragul, which hosts a weekend camp for scouts, about 2pm on Saturday when another teenager allegedly verbally abused him for wearing the kippah and carrying “that flag”.
That night, at an event run by Scouts Victoria, the same teenager – a fellow scout – tapped the 18-year-old on the shoulder, before punching him in the face three times in front of his peers, according to the Anti-Defamation Commission.
Police said the “targeted” antisemitic incident, which happened about 9pm, was reported to officers the following day.
Seven News said Saturday night’s event was a rave.
The teenager, Joshua – whose surname was withheld for privacy reasons – sustained minor injuries, police said.
He was shaken by the incident, and immediately reported it to scout leaders outside the venue. Joshua told the commission he was left scared and sad he was not free to express his culture and religion.
“[I have] always heard about antisemitic attacks but never thought it would happen to me,” he said.
He feared returning to scouts in case he was assaulted again, the commission said.
“[Joshua] was threatened and marked with words first. Then ambushed with fists smashing into his face,” commission chair Dvir Abramovich said. “We are watching something dark and rotten in this country become worse every day.”
Joshua’s family was outraged by the incident, which they said proved antisemitism could “rear it’s ugly head at any time”, Seven News reported.
Scouts Victoria said it was aware of the incident. More than 1500 young people and volunteers had attended the camp, where young people’s safety and wellbeing were Scouts Victoria’s highest priority, executive manager Jon McGregor said.
“An altercation occurred between two young people, and one of the youths involved was sent home immediately,” McGregor said in a statement.
“The young person removed from camp is remorseful for his actions and has apologised in writing to everyone involved. Scouts Victoria is an inclusive organisation that does not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or violence.”
Scouts Victoria was supporting both teenagers and their families, McGregor said.
On Monday, police interviewed and released a 17-year-old boy. He is expected to be charged on summons to face a children’s court at a later date.
Multicultural Affairs Minister Ingrid Stitt said she was appalled by reports the young Jewish man was attacked at the scout camp, and the government condemned antisemitism.
“No person should ever have to fear for their safety,” Stitt said. “This attack comes at a time when our Jewish community are still grieving and fearful for their safety following the Bondi attack in December.”
Police said there was no place in society for antisemitic, racist or “hate based” behaviour.
“Victoria Police understand incidents of antisemitism can leave communities feeling targeted, threatened, and vulnerable,” a police spokeswoman said. “The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.”
Police urged anyone with information about the alleged assault to come forward.
Crimestoppers can be contacted at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au or on 1800 333 000.
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