The death of Thomas Kelly is a tragedy that has hit home with many young people across the country. Unfortunately, random, unprovoked attacks are not confined to Kings Cross. They can happen anywhere – and aren't that uncommon, either.

In my past three years of being of legal drinking age I've had many brilliant times out with friends, other nights have been mediocre and some have been ruined by people whose sole agenda is to trash somebody else's night.

Step carefully ... Kings Cross at night. Credit:Tanya Lake

A couple of weeks ago I went to a "Christmas in July" party that an old work mate was having. After a few hours there and a couple of drinks, I made my way into the Canberra city for a pint of cider at my regular pub. As I walked past a swanky lounge bar I was shoulder-charged at full pace by some idiot. Caught off guard, I was knocked off my feet and hit the back of my head against the pavement. Luckily, I managed to soften the fall with my arms and escaped serious injury.

Getting up, I turned to see the guy walking backward so that he could see my reaction.