https://www.change.org/p/request-for-investigation-racist-threats-and-intimidation-at-ballarat-community-centre
Cover: Cronulla race riot, 11 December 2005
Dear Minister King, Mayor of Ballarat, and Ballarat Police,
I am writing to raise a very serious concern following a deeply disturbing incident that occurred last night at a small private gathering of local medical professionals in Ballarat.
Fourteen of us, all doctors and long-term residents of Ballarat, were attending a quiet dinner gathering at a community hall when an extremist man, partially undressed, suddenly forced his way into the venue. At the entrance he began threatening children who were present, before proceeding inside the hall where he became aggressive and confrontational.
When he was asked to leave, he began shouting aggressively, raising his fists, and behaving in a threatening manner. What followed was even more distressing. He repeatedly directed hateful and racist language toward us as immigrants and made deeply offensive remarks targeting our religion, Islam. He shouted slogans against God (Allah) in a way that was clearly intended to intimidate and humiliate those present.
We were shocked, heartbroken, and deeply hurt by this incident. Many of us have dedicated years of our lives to serving the people of Ballarat through our work in the local health system. To experience such hostility in the community we proudly call home is profoundly distressing.
Thirteen of the doctors present represent approximately five percent of the Muslim medical workforce serving Ballarat. As you know, regional healthcare already faces immense pressures and workforce shortages. Incidents like this create genuine fear for the safety of our families and our children.
However, we also believe strongly that everyone has the fundamental right to feel safe, respected, and protected from racism and intimidation.
We respectfully request that this incident be thoroughly investigated and that appropriate legal action be taken against the individual responsible, including the laying of charges where applicable. Behaviour involving threats, intimidation, and racist abuse—particularly in the presence of children—must not be tolerated.
We would also welcome reassurance from local leadership and law enforcement that steps will be taken to ensure the safety of community gatherings and to reinforce Ballarat’s commitment to inclusivity, mutual respect, and zero tolerance for racism or religious hatred.
Ballarat has long been known as a welcoming and inclusive community. We sincerely hope that decisive action and leadership will reaffirm those values and ensure that incidents like this are not tolerated.
We remain committed to serving the people of Ballarat and contributing to this community. In return, we ask for reassurance that our families, our children, and our community will be protected from intimidation and hate.
Thank you for your attention to this serious matter.
Yours sincerely,
Sana Usman , Emergency department senior registrar, ACEM trainee.
On behalf of concerned medical professionals in Ballarat
