A Melbourne community is set to come together for a picnic in solidarity with three men who were subjected to a homophobic attack earlier this month.
Brad Cressell and two other gay men were walking through JJ Holland Park in Kensington on January 2 when they were confronted by a man who allegedly hurled homophobic abuse at them. Cressell, a newsreader with LGBTQIA+ community radio station JOY FM, recorded the incident and reported it to police.
In response, Cressell has organised a “Stand Up To Homophobia” picnic at the same park, aiming to reclaim the space and promote unity and community support.
Speaking to media , Cressell said incidents of random hate speech are unacceptable and deeply personal for him, recalling past experiences of physical attacks. He emphasised that bringing people together peacefully and positively is the strongest response to hatred.
The picnic, scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. on Sunday, is open to everyone. Participants are encouraged to bring a blanket and join the LGBTQIA+ community in a peaceful show of support.
Meanwhile, Victoria Police are continuing their search for the suspect. Senior Sergeant Nick Mullen said police and society will not tolerate such behaviour and urged the public to assist in identifying the individual responsible.
