A single, devastating punch thrown in an Illawarra park has resulted in a lengthy prison sentence for a Berkeley man, while his victim grapples with permanent injuries and trauma.
Violent altercation at family gathering
On September 17, 2023, two separate family groups were present at Integral Energy Park on Darkes Road in Stream Hill, near Kembla Grange. The situation escalated when an argument broke out between Ian Palamara's heavily pregnant sister and the partner of Carissa Edwards concerning a child.
When Ms Edwards's partner called for help, she ran over to the scene. Palamara also rushed towards the commotion and, without warning, punched the then-27-year-old woman in the face. Wollongong District Court Judge Andrew Haesler noted that Ms Edwards was taken completely by surprise and had no chance to defend herself.
The single blow triggered a larger melee involving men from both groups, which continued for several minutes before the violence subsided.
Life-altering consequences for the victim
Paramedics rushed Carissa Edwards to hospital, and she was subsequently transferred to Sydney Eye Hospital for treatment of a serious injury to her left eye. Judge Haesler stated that the prognosis for her vision remains guarded, and she will likely require further operations after already undergoing surgery.
In a victim impact statement presented to the court, Ms Edwards described the profound and ongoing effects of the assault. She spoke of suffering flashbacks, fear, and overwhelming emotions, as well as a shattered sense of self-esteem. Even two years after the attack, she endures periods of unbearable physical pain and significant financial strain from ongoing medical appointments, specialist visits, and medication.
The court also heard that Ms Edwards's children witnessed the violent attack, adding another layer of trauma to the incident.
Sentencing and judge's remarks
Ian Palamara, who was serving an intensive correction order for a previous violent offence at the time of the park assault, was found guilty by a jury in August 2025 of recklessly causing grievous bodily harm and affray. The trial largely centred on the issue of identification, which the jury accepted.
During sentencing in December 2025, Judge Haesler condemned Palamara's unnecessary violence. He noted that while a protective instinct towards his sister may have been a factor, Palamara's actions only served to drastically aggravate the situation. The judge highlighted the disparity between Palamara, a fit man in his 30s, and Ms Edwards, a slight woman who will suffer lifelong consequences.
The judge did acknowledge Palamara's difficult childhood, marred by domestic violence and exposure to alcohol abuse, which reduced his moral culpability compared to someone without such a background.
Despite submissions from Palamara's mother and partner about his positive role in his children's lives, Judge Haesler imposed a sentence of five years and two months imprisonment, with a non-parole period of three years. This makes Palamara eligible for parole consideration in May 2028.
