"I detest violence in any way, but particularly violence against women," Mr Cias has previously said.

"And no one should be doing that (abusing people) regardless of race or gender or religious creed."

Police on Thursday afternoon released images from the train's security cameras of three men involved, one of whom intervened to try to separate Mr Cias from the men after the assault occurred.

Flemington police called for the public's help to identity the men, saying the second man who stepped in to help who was wearing a checkered jacket could assist with their investigation.

The images of the other two men - one in a fluorescent shirt and the other in a blue jumper - are believed to be involved with the racially-motivated taunts and the assault that ensued.