Elderly Walkers Attacked in Point Cook

A group of elderly residents has reported an alarming series of incidents in Point Cook, where a regular morning routine at Sanctuary Lakes Shopping Centre allegedly escalated from repeated verbal abuse into a violent confrontation.

It is understood around a dozen Indian-Australian seniors regularly gather at the shopping centre car park for morning walks, coffee and social time — a routine built around companionship and community.

According to those involved, tensions had been building over several days, with a woman allegedly approaching the group on multiple occasions and directing racial abuse toward them. The comments allegedly included telling the group to “go back to your country” and that they “don’t belong here”.

Family members say the situation escalated when the woman allegedly returned and again confronted the group. A man, who had arrived to support his father and others, intervened during the exchange.

It is alleged the woman then threw a bag of rubbish at the group before getting into a vehicle and driving toward those present. During the incident, two men claim they were struck by the car.

One of the men described the moment as chaotic and confronting, later stating he felt “lucky to be alive” following the incident.

Emergency services attended the scene, and one of the injured men was transported to hospital for treatment. The extent of injuries has not been publicly detailed.

Victoria Police attended the incident and a report has been made. At this stage, no arrests have been announced and enquiries remain ongoing.

The incident is understood to have been witnessed by multiple people, including an off-duty police officer, with additional witnesses also coming forward.

For those involved, the situation has raised serious concerns about safety in public spaces, particularly for elderly members of the community who gather for routine activities.

What began as a simple daily walk has now become the centre of broader concern among families in Melbourne’s west, with some questioning whether vulnerable members of the community are being adequately protected in shared public areas.

Those connected to the group say the incident was not isolated, but rather the culmination of repeated behaviour over several days.

The man injured in the incident said he is speaking out to raise awareness, stating no elderly person should feel unsafe going for a walk in their own neighbourhood.

As concerns circulate through local community networks, there are growing calls for the matter to be thoroughly investigated, including speaking with witnesses who were present at the scene.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has footage is urged to contact police. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers.