Wollongong Court Frequent Flyer Headbutts Woman Weeks After Prison Release
A man labelled a court frequent flyer has been sentenced in Wollongong Local Court for headbutting a woman on two separate occasions, mere weeks after being released from prison. The assaults have been described by a magistrate as cowardly and serious in nature.
Details of the Assaults and Breaches
Nathan John Schnalz, aged 39 and from Claymore, appeared via audio-visual link from prison on January 22, dressed in prison greens. He pleaded guilty to two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and contravening an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO).
The court heard that Schnalz had been released from jail on November 25, 2025. Immediately upon his release, he was subject to an ADVO that prohibited him from contacting the victim or going within 500 metres of her Wollongong home.
Despite these strict conditions, police facts revealed that Schnalz visited the woman's home daily, often climbing over her balcony to gain access. The violence escalated on New Year's Eve during a drunken argument, when Schnalz headbutted the woman, causing an eye injury. She was forced to hide at a nearby service station for safety.
Weeks later, on the morning of January 16, another argument erupted at the woman's home. Schnalz headbutted the victim a second time, leaving a noticeable bump on her head. The woman fled to a friend's residence and contacted triple zero to report the breaches.
Schnalz was subsequently arrested the following day at Campbelltown Police Station.
Court Sentencing and Magistrate's Remarks
During the sentencing, solicitor Matthew Zappia informed the court that his client is highly likely to be institutionalised, having served a continuous period behind bars since 2017.
Magistrate B Robinson, describing Schnalz as a frequent flyer at court, stated that the assaults were serious and fell towards the mid-range in severity. Headbutting is a very cowardly thing to do, particularly for a woman you've been in a relationship with, Magistrate Robinson remarked.
Bound by sentencing limitations, Magistrate Robinson placed Schnalz on a three-year community correction order. This outcome highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing repeat offenders within the judicial system.
The case underscores the critical importance of adhering to court orders and the severe consequences of domestic violence, particularly in the Illawarra region where such incidents continue to be a pressing concern for local authorities and communities.
