An investigation is underway after an antisemitic message was discovered written on a popular Gold Coast beach. Police were called at approximately 6:25am on Wednesday following a report from a member of the public who alerted them to an offensive message in the sand off the Esplanade. The message is believed to have been written shortly after midnight.
Police Reviewing CCTV
Officers attended the scene and are currently making further enquiries, police said. They will review the extensive CCTV network in the area as part of the investigation. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any relevant vision is urged to come forward.
New Queensland Laws Against Hate Speech
Earlier this year, the Queensland government introduced new laws and tougher measures to combat antisemitism and hate speech. The bill banned the public use of hate symbols and specific phrases, and established severe penalties of up to seven years in prison for willful damage to places of worship.
First Charge Under New Laws
Last month, a man in Brisbane's north is believed to be the first to be charged under the new laws after allegedly storming a mosque and threatening people. The 33-year-old man entered the Masjid Taqwa mosque on Telegraph Road in Bald Hills before making verbal threats to worshippers inside the religious building. He was arrested and charged with one count each of creating a public nuisance and disturbing a place of worship.
