Rodeo Ruckus: Assaults and Arrests

Police are currently investigating a series of anti-social incidents and assaults that took place during a rodeo event and subsequent camping at the Imbil Showgrounds over the weekend. The events unfolded in the early hours of Sunday, September 28, prompting emergency services to respond swiftly.

At approximately 1 a.m., authorities were alerted to an assault at the campground where a 19-year-old man from Coolum Beach suffered head injuries. He was promptly transported to Gympie Hospital for medical care. Investigators are urging witnesses or anyone with relevant footage to come forward.

In a separate incident, a 27-year-old man from Minyama was apprehended and charged with serious assault on a police officer while pretending to be armed. This altercation occurred shortly after the initial assault, around 1:10 a.m. The suspect has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear in Gympie Magistrates Court on November 4.

Authorities also reported another assault on the night of Saturday, September 27. Throughout the weekend, law enforcement issued multiple move-on directions and public nuisance fines, conducted over 800 random breath tests, and charged eight individuals with various traffic offences, including drink driving.

Sergeant Andrew White emphasized the police’s zero-tolerance policy towards violence and anti-social behavior. “Police will work with event organizers and security to implement changes ensuring public safety at future events,” he stated. Community members are encouraged to report any information to Policelink or Crime Stoppers.