Police in regional Victoria are conducting a major investigation following two reported sexual assaults at a popular camping and music event in Gippsland.
Assault in Portable Toilet Near Stage
The first and most serious incident occurred at the Heyfield Lumberjacks B&S Ball in Winnindoo on the night of November 15. According to Victoria Police, a 24-year-old woman entered a portable toilet approximately 50 metres from a stage at around 11pm.
Investigators state that a man followed her into the toilet and sexually assaulted her before fleeing the area. The victim subsequently reported the attack to first aid officers at the event, who then alerted police.
Second Incident on Dance Floor
In a separate development, police believe a second sexual assault took place on the event's dance floor in the early hours of the morning, at approximately 1.15am. Officers questioned a man in relation to this incident on the same night.
At this stage, authorities have not confirmed if the two assaults are connected. "A number of items have been seized in relation to the initial sexual assault and they have been forensically tested," a Victoria Police spokesperson said.
Police Appeal for Witnesses and Footage
The investigation faces a significant challenge due to a lack of CCTV coverage in the area where the first assault occurred. Detectives are now urgently appealing to the public for assistance.
They are working through a list of ticket purchasers and attendees from the night. Police are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed suspicious behaviour near the portable toilets or who might have captured relevant photos or video footage on their phones.
"Investigators are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed any strange or suspicious behaviour around the portable toilet area to come forward and speak to police," the statement reiterated.
Anyone with information, mobile phone footage, or photographs is urged to contact Crime Stoppers immediately to aid the ongoing investigation.
