Victoria Police is investigating an alleged sexual assault which occurred at the 2017 UNIFY Gathering music festival in South Gippsland on Friday night.
Sexual Crime Squad detectives have been told that a female victim was with a group of friends in a mosh pit around 10pm last night, when a stranger approached her from behind and sexually assaulted her. Police have been told that the victim didn’t see who the offender was, as she was surrounded by people.
The victim notified police immediately, and UNIFY Gathering organisers have also been made aware of the incident.
In a statement, UNIFY Gathering organisers say they are “disgusted and appalled that anyone thinks this is an acceptable way to act”, adding that “sexual assault and harassment is something we absolutely do not tolerate”.
“We also encourage anyone who doesn’t feel safe to come and speak to the many staff and security around the event.”
Organisers say they are working with authorities to assist the investigation and identify the offender. Read their full statement, below.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or submit a confidential crime report at the Crime Stoppers website.
If you need assistance, 1800 RESPECT – the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service — can be reached on 1800 737 732, while Lifeline can be reached on 13 11 14.
UNIFY Gathering Statement (Via Facebook)
It’s with a heavy heart that we make this statement. An incident took place on Friday at UNIFY Gathering which police are investigating. We’re working very closely with the authorities to assist the investigation and identify the perpetrator.
Sexual assault and harassment is something we absolutely do not tolerate. We are disgusted and appalled that anyone thinks this is an acceptable way to act. We encourage people to keep an eye out for eachother, and to take care of everyone at the festival. We also encourage anyone who doesn’t feel safe to come and speak to the many staff and security around the event. Lets work together to make UNIFY a safe place for everyone and anyone.
