Remembering Luke … Shane Mitchell has welcomed a Good Samaritans Day after his brother was slain for protecting another. 37635 Picture: DAMJAN JANEVSKI
By Bridie Byrne
FOR Shane Mitchell the pain of losing his brother five months ago will not end in vain.
His younger brother, Luke, was stabbed multiple times after trying to prevent an assault in Brunswick.
The 29-year-old from Sanctuary Lakes had intervened to protect a man who was being bashed but was later set upon by the attackers.
Luke died in hospital, while the culprits are believed to have fled to Thailand.
Shane had tirelessly fought for a Good Samaritans Day to remember those who have risked their lives to save others.
The State Government granted the request last week to recognise heroic actions following a spate of violent attacks.
Premier John Brumby said he would want the day to form part of the government’s respect agenda.
“We all have a role in taking a stand and creating a community where people respect themselves, respect others and respect our community,” he said.
“This day would honour people who have made a stand to create a better and safer community.”
Shane said he would work alongside the government in the planning process.
He is pushing for the day to be held on 25 January.
“A lot of the qualities of a Good Samaritan are quintessentially Australian as far as helping out your mates and not standing by while other people do the wrong thing and we think it is a nice lead into Australia Day,” Shane said.
Shane is also campaigning for a complete overhaul of the judiciary system to meet community attitudes and expectations.
“We are calling for statutory minimal sentencing for gang attacks on individuals and people carrying weapons in public places,” he said.
“Police resources are stretched to the limit and any increase will be welcome in any community.”
Shane said his family was still completely devastated.
“Luke was the Good Samaritan…whether it was helping someone who was being attacked by a group of thugs or buying a helicopter ride for someone because they had never been on one,” he said.
“He did things for people because he thought they needed to be done.”
Luke’s family, friends and community members honoured his life in August with a memorial plaque on the beach at the Sanctuary Lakes Resort.
