Yesterday, on a chilly afternoon, I decided to visit the IGA at the end of Victoria Avenue in Albert Park to grab a few supplies. As I was browsing the aisles, a man who appeared to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol entered the store and began to take items without any intention of paying.

The store owner, who was working at the counter, said to the man “‘Hey you, stop that, please put it back”. Instead of complying, the man became aggressive and verbally abused the owner, with “I will take what I like because I am a hard bastard and you will do nothing about, as your people are weak”. Punched in the head no less.   The shopkeeper tried to get him out of the store, and a full on punch up ensued, with both of them ending up on the ground outside the IGA.

So, racially abused, verbally abused, then physically abused.

Concerned for the safety of everyone involved, I suggested that the store owner call the police for assistance. To my surprise, he told me that the police and local authorities often did not respond to such incidents and seemed to have little interest in helping small businesses like his. This revelation was both disheartening and worrisome. This hard-working shop owner is trying hard to make a living, and is not safe in his own business. Neither was I, to be frank.

Another bystander mentioned that incidents like this were becoming increasingly common and that many people causing trouble in the area would simply claim to have mental health issues as an excuse for their behaviour.  All they need to say is “I have mental issues”.

Truth be known, I now have mental issues. It is now unsafe to go the shops in Albert Park. 

As a resident of Albert Park, I am deeply troubled by this experience. It is essential that our community remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone, and I believe that more needs to be done to support those who are struggling with mental health issues, as well as to protect local businesses and their patrons.

I urge the local authorities to take these concerns seriously and to take action to ensure that everyone in Albert Park can feel secure in their surroundings. It is outrageous to pay premium rates in Albert Park and not be safe at the shops.

Yours truly

Frightened in Albert Park Albert Park