Whitehorse Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating after a woman was seriously assaulted on a Burwood walking track this month, Victoria Police say.
Investigators have been told the 51-year-old woman was on the Gardiners Creek Trail about 4.10pm on 5 November when she passed an unknown man walking in the opposite direction.
As the man passed her, he allegedly forced her to the ground from behind, punching and scratching at her face several times.
A male and female passer-by who witnessed the incident came to the woman’s aid, pushing the man off her.
The offender backed away before running off along a side street and was briefly chased by the male passer-by.
Nothing was stolen from the victim.
The Box Hill South woman sustained a fractured nose and serious facial injuries and was taken to hospital.
Police have released a facial composite of a man who they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.
The man is perceived to be Southern European in appearance and about 188cm tall with short thick black hair and a muscular build.
He was wearing a blue t-shirt with light coloured pants and brown shoes.
Anyone with information or who may be able to help identify the man is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
