Living in Geelong, I know first hand of the issues the city has had with criminal activity over the last few years. Much of it is alcohol-fueled, and despite the best intentions of the “powers-that-be” – particularly politicians looking to shore up a few votes for the upcoming state and federal elections, not a lot is being done. Honestly, not a lot CAN be done. <\/p>\n
You can tighten up the liquor licensing laws, and penalise licensees for breaching the rules, but people will always find alcohol. Even without alcohol, people with socio-economic problems (such as the unemployed), or simply people who’ve just “had a bad day” can react with violence to what some might see as trivial triggers.<\/p>\n
Nobody can ever understand the personal situation of every person on the planet. Depression is a major factor in the day-to-day lives of many people. Crime is often the resort of desperation. Bullying across all parts of the community – schools, workplaces, and online in particular – is a common manifestation of this desperation and frustration.<\/p>\n
The local major media outlet – The Geelong Advertiser<\/a> – has in the last couple of years mounted and supported a strong campaign against bullying in all its forms, especially after a number of incidences of suicide amongst the teen population in the city, after they had suffered prolonged bouts of bullying from peers. <\/p>\n The campaign has had many successes, and has gained a national profile. The plight of Elijah Vetmah is a particularly heartening message to come out of the campaign.<\/p>\n