ISOBEL COLEMAN
One Punch Can Kill campaigners this week renewed their bid for government funding after an innocent man lost his life in Mooloolaba on Friday night.
Bruce Steensen, 53, a friend and mentor to many on the Coast, was simply trying to “do the right thing”, according to Ross Thompson, GM of the Queensland Homicide Victims’ Support Group (QHVSG).
“There have been too many of these cases lately but this one has really brought it home as Bruce was a much-loved member of the community,” Ross said.
“Having spoken with friends and family this week, we know Bruce was a totally innocent victim, just trying to calm the situation down.
“Because that was him, a giving, caring sort of guy.”
Bruce was walking with a friend along Mooloolaba Esplanade when the incident happened. He was rushed to Nambour Hospital in a critical condition and his life support was switched off on Saturday.
A 21-year-old Caloundra man has been charged with his murder.
Noosa Today was shocked to hear that QHVSG receives no funding.
“People are always surprised when they hear that because we are so proactive as a group,” Ross said.
“We have been lobbying State and Federal government for funding for the One Punch Can Kill campaign so that we can do more. This recent incident highlights the need to go a lot broader than we can do on our own.
“We desperately need funds so we can get out there and educate young adults, our future leaders, about how to behave in public,” Ross said.
“We go into schools across the state, and regularly on the Sunshine Coast, to spread the word and try and save lives.”
Mr Steensen was heavily involved with the AFL Masters Football Queensland and Ross said the club was devastated.
“People don’t believe just one punch can kill, but it can. Or it can maim and leave somebody with brain damage.
“We have started calling it the coward’s punch, instead of king-hit. It’s a coward who does this. It really is a low act.”
QHVSG offers emotional support, personal advocacy and information to all people affected by homicide throughout Queensland. Phone the 24-Hour Freecall Support Line: 1800 774 744.
