Reports of women being maliciously targeted on Mount Coot-tha walking trails has led to security cameras being installed in the area. Image source: Kgbo, via Wikimedia Commons.
Brisbane City Council has installed security cameras at Mount Coot-tha after multiple women reported being maliciously targeted on walking trails.
The cameras are part of the Suburban Safety Cameras program and will provide 24/7 surveillance to deter anti-social behaviour in the area.
Footage from the cameras will be directly relayed to the Council’s security room, where officers will monitor and respond to each incident accordingly.
The Council said the site of each camera was selected in consultation with the Queensland Police Service (QPS).
The heightened surveillance follows several reports of attempted sexual assault and wilful exposure on Mount Coot-tha’s walking trails between May and June.
On 13 May, emergency services were called to Cockatoo Trail after a man attempted to assault a 25-year-old woman before fleeing on foot — the complaint was later dropped.
On 7 June, a woman reported that she was attacked and held down while jogging on the Maculata Track by an unknown male assailant who fled after hearing the footsteps of another jogger.
On 11 June, a woman told police that an older man had “exposed himself” at her and her young child while walking on a trail near Creekside Street.
The latest incident occurred in late June, where police confirmed they were investigating a man loitering on the Litchfield Track and Mahogany trail who had allegedly intimidated a group of women.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said he and his council members were shocked by the reported incidents and that, “this behaviour will not be tolerated in a safe and friendly city like Brisbane.”
“Brisbane’s walking tracks are a key part of our incredible lifestyle and I want everyone to be able to enjoy them without fear of harassment and intimidation,” said Schrinner.
“These reports have been incredibly concerning and while crime is a state government issue, the installation of new safety cameras is one way our council can help.”
Police confirmed they were investigating these incidents and had increased patrols, but previously told media they “didn’t have much to go on”.
