Byron Shire Mayor Michael Lyon addresses domestic violence allegations in new video

Just weeks out from an election, Byron Mayor Michael Lyon has opened up after being accused of assaulting his wife – and revealed his next campaign move.

Embattled Byron Shire Mayor Michael Lyon has addressed domestic violence charges laid against him for allegedly assaulting his wife and says “family is my number one priority”.

It comes just weeks out from the local government elections in NSW on September 14.

Now, in a video statement released on social media, Mr Lyon has expressed his desire to forge on in his role as mayor, despite the personal turmoil. He is also chair of the board of the Northern Rivers Regional Organisation of Councils.

Mr Lyon has pleaded not guilty to common assault and stalking/intimidation following an “altercation” earlier this month. A notice of non-complaint has been filed by alleged victim Susan Lyon.

Byron Shire Mayor Michael Lyon. Picture: Supplied

Police were called to a home at The Pocket near Byron Bay following reports of a domestic incident about 10.30pm on August 1, according to NSW Police.

Tweed Byron Police officers arrived and were told Mr Lyon had allegedly assaulted Ms Lyon before leaving the scene. No injuries were reported.

On Tuesday, Mr Lyon lost an application in Tweed Local Court to suppress the media from reporting on the criminal proceedings.

Lawyers representing News Corp and other media organisations fought against non-publication on principles of open justice and the public interest.

Magistrate Geoff Dunlevy ruled a suppression or non-publication order could not be justified.

A visibly upset Mr Lyon told media outside the court a process designed to protect women had “cataclysmically failed” and declared his innocence.

On Wednesday afternoon, Mr Lyon uploaded a video to his Facebook page and spoke extensively about the hardships of recent weeks.

“Events of recent times have painted a particular picture of me, so I wanted to reach out and reassure you, my community, about who I am and what I stand for,” he said in the video.

“First and foremost, my family is my number one priority … creating and maintaining a happy, healthy home is a responsibility I take seriously.

Byron Shire Mayor Michael Lyon has addressed DV allegations against him in a new video. Picture: Facebook.

“It is a duty I seek to fulfil to the best of my abilities, every day.”

Mr Lyon said he was invested in a Byron Shire school as treasurer of a P & C and described himself as a “nurturer, protector and provider”.

“In my life I have always sought to de-escalate unhealthy conflict in any way I can,” he said.

“I would ask you to speak to someone who knows me if you want to get a measure of my character … or please reach out to me personally.

“You may be feeling confused about me. I understand that, so please get in touch. I’m around and I’m available.

“People rightly expect security and stability in their leaders. It is in moments of turmoil, however, that we find out our true character and who we really are.

“The past few weeks I have been challenged in a way I never imagined possible. It’s been a deeply emotional experience.”

In relation to his role as mayor, Mr Lyon said: “I absolutely love my job.”

“I’m not afraid to take on the issues that matter and represent our community’s best interests,” he said.

“I believe in myself and what I offer and that is why I’m running for mayor.

“I would be honoured to have the opportunity to continue to represent you (the community) and get us through challenging times.”

Mr Lyon’s court case has been adjourned and a hearing is due to be held in the Tweed court on March 11 next year.

Got a story tip? Email [e-mail]

Originally published as Byron Shire Mayor Michael Lyon addresses domestic violence allegations in new video