Jail for assaults on Fraser Coast community rangers

Two men have been sentenced to jail following separate assaults on Fraser Coast Regional Council community rangers earlier this year, in what Council says is a clear reminder that violence against staff will not be tolerated.

The offenders appeared in the Hervey Bay Magistrates Court in recent weeks, receiving sentences of 18 months and 9 months in jail respectively for the assaults, which occurred while the rangers were performing their duties.

Fraser Coast Regional Council CEO Ken Diehm said the jail terms were a strong outcome and sent a clear message that violent behaviour towards Council staff has serious consequences.

“Our community rangers were just out there doing their jobs. These assaults were completely unacceptable. No one should be subjected to abuse or violence at work,” he said.

Mr Diehm said Council had taken steps following the incidents to review safety procedures and provide additional support for frontline workers.

“We’ve enhanced security at key Council facilities, introduced more training for staff, and are continuing to work closely with police to ensure the safety of our team,” he said.

“These court outcomes reinforce that abuse and violence will not be tolerated—not towards Council staff, not towards Councillors, and not in our community.”

Mr Diehm also thanked the Queensland Police Service for their swift action and ongoing support.

“We will always stand by our staff and continue to take a zero-tolerance approach to aggression and abuse,” he said.