Byron Man Could Face Up To Five Years In Jail After ‘Surf Rage’

Did you think Byron bay was all peace, love and good vibes? Full of Rasta types swapping old film cameras and talking about modern takes on traditional shapes? Well this news story out of the NSW surf hub might be about to shatter that image.

Last week police were called to (aptly named) Broken Head Beach after reports that a surfer had jabbed another in the face with the nose of his board after an altercation which began when they both attempted to catch the same wave. The victim exited the water immediately after the attack, which reportedly left him with a bleeding face, and called the police.

Be aware that if you’re not happy in the surf and you assault somebody we will take action

When they arrived the alleged assailant was still out in the line-up, however he was arrested on his arrival back to the beach and charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, which in NSW carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

Incidents such as this are ‘not common up here’ said Tweed-Byron chief inspector Luke Arthur, adding that ‘that type of behaviour is not acceptable. Police will take such matters seriously and investigate any claims. Be aware that if you’re not happy in the surf and you assault somebody we will take action and you will have to face the courts.”

Cover Photo Jared Yeh // Flickr