Revving their Ferraris and family cars, dozens of Ellenbrook residents have rallied behind a 13-year-old boy who was allegedly bashed and threatened with a knife by a group of teenagers in the north-east Perth area.
More than 100 cars and 25 motorbikes took part in the “community cruise” motorcade, which started with a gathering at Coolamon Park late yesterday, followed by a drive down to a nearby retail outlet.
The rally began at the local park. (ABC News: Samantha Goerling)
The rally comes as a 14-year-old boy was charged over the group attack, which was filmed and shared on social media.
Police today said another five teenagers – aged between 13 and 17 – were also charged with causing bodily harm, and with aggravated armed robbery in relation to the attack. Investigations are continuing.
Cars for community
A graphic video shared on social media shows a group following a teenager asking, “where’s the vape?” before the alleged victim is pushed to the ground.
The Perth Children’s Court heard the boy was then allegedly dragged along the ground, punched and kicked and forced to say “derogatory things”, before his t-shirt and jumper were stolen.
The victim was allegedly punched, kicked and threatened with a knife. (Supplied)
He was able to walk home and later went to Midland Hospital with a concussion, multiple lumps on his head, black eyes and bruising to his upper and lower body.
Local resident Terry Mason organised the motorcade after hearing about the attack.
He said the news hit home after finding out his nephew had allegedly been harassed in the area.
Local Terry Mason (right) organised the rally. (ABC News: Samantha Goerling)
“I’ve dealt with the same situation when I was the same age, and it’s inappropriate. It’s disgusting.
“And then to see a young man out there with a knife, too, it’s unacceptable,” he said.
After organising the car meet in only 12 hours, Mr Mason said he was proud of how quickly the community rallied behind the alleged victim and his family.
The motorcade was held in Ellenbrook to show support for the teenage victim and his family. (ABC News: Samantha Goerling)
“I’m part of the car community here and I know how fast we can put things together and how much family means to us,” he said.
Local MP Tania Lawrence said the car meet was the community’s quirky way of coming together.
Tania Lawrence says the rally was the community’s “bit unique” way of showing support. (ABC News: Samantha Goerling)
“What Ellenbrook has chosen is a little bit unique but absolutely resonates by having a car and bike rally to demonstrate just how many people do care,” she said.
“We want to make sure that those people affected understand that we have their back, that we absolutely do support them, we’re with them, and we will not allow community to be anything but loving and supportive.”
Source: www.abc.net.au
