A Basin View man has been sentenced following a chaotic street brawl in Huskisson that forced local restaurants to shut their doors and left diners and residents in a state of fear. The violent altercation, which unfolded on a Saturday evening, has now seen legal consequences for several of those involved.
Violent Altercation on Owen Street
Graeme Anthony McGilvray, aged 38, was one of eight men charged in connection with a public fight that spilled across Owen Street on the evening of Saturday, August 9, 2025. The incident prompted multiple emergency calls to triple-zero, drawing a swift police response to the popular coastal town.
McGilvray appeared before Nowra Local Court on Tuesday, February 4, where he faced sentencing for affray and an unrelated charge of driving while disqualified, marking his second offence of that nature.
Magistrate's Description of the Brawl
Magistrate Julie Zaki characterised the confrontation as a "large and violent display" involving two groups on Huskisson's main street. She noted that the disturbance was so severe that several restaurants chose to close their doors to protect patrons from the unfolding chaos.
"The brawl caused a number of restaurants to close their doors in order to shield their patrons," Ms Zaki stated during the proceedings, underscoring the impact on the local community and businesses.
Defence Arguments and Sentencing Considerations
Defence lawyer Emma Harrison highlighted that McGilvray was initially punched and had attempted to leave the altercation before being pursued by others. She argued that her client had demonstrated "significant insight" into his actions and acknowledged the trauma experienced by members of the public caught in the incident.
Magistrate Zaki acknowledged McGilvray's stable accommodation, employment, strong family ties in the area, and a largely positive sentencing assessment report. However, she emphasised that a custodial penalty was deemed appropriate, albeit to be served in the community.
Penalties Imposed
In her sentencing, Ms Zaki imposed a nine-month imprisonment term to be served via an Intensive Corrections Order, allowing McGilvray to remain in the community under strict conditions. Additional penalties included:
- Completion of 200 hours of community service
- Mandatory participation in drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs
Regarding the driving while disqualified charge, Ms Zaki noted that McGilvray was detected driving on the Princes Highway at Gerringong on January 18. As this was not his first such offence, she disqualified him from driving for an additional eight months and issued a $1000 fine.
Co-Accused and Ongoing Proceedings
The legal outcomes for others involved in the brawl are progressing at varying stages:
- Two co-accused have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing in the coming weeks.
- Two others have already been sentenced, receiving a 12-month Community Corrections Order and a Conditional Release Order.
- The remaining three co-accused, whose matters are yet to be finalised, are scheduled to return to court for hearings in April.
This case highlights the broader consequences of public disturbances in regional communities, where such incidents can disrupt local businesses and undermine public safety. The sentencing reflects the judiciary's effort to balance rehabilitation with accountability for actions that terrorise residents and visitors alike.
