Police are investigating the sexual assault of a teenager celebrating Schoolies at Byron Bay on Sunday night.
About 9pm, an unknown man approached the 18-year-old woman while she was walking along Belongil Beach.
He pushed her to the ground and sexually assaulted her.
The man fled and the woman was taken to Byron Bay Hospital for treatment.
Detectives from Tweed/Byron Local Area Command are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or any suspicious behaviour in the area to come forward.
The man is described as being of Caucasian appearance, aged in his late teens and with blond hair.
Meanwhile, Tweed/Byron Local Area Commander, Detective Superintendent Stuart Wilkins, is reminding all school leavers to remain vigilant and look after each other.
‘This is a terrible incident and, while we don’t want to speculate on the circumstances, we really need to stress the importance of enjoying themselves while being sensible and responsible,’ Det Supt Wilkins said.
‘Stay with your friends and always look out for each other,’ said Det Supt Wilkins.
For more information about youth issues and safety tips, visit: www.youth.nsw.gov.au.