Dad tells of son’s fight for life

THE devastated father of a teenager left in a coma after a single blow to the head says he wouldn’t wish his family’s anguish on anyone.

THE devastated father of a teenager left in a coma after a single blow to the head says he wouldn’t wish his family’s anguish on anyone.

Joshua Waite, 17, was critically injured when he was allegedly kicked once in the head by 18-year-old Jake Law-Cobbo during an argument in a car park at McDonalds fast food branch in Redcliffe on Friday night.

His family has kept a bedside vigil at Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital where Joshua is in a critical condition on life support.

Dad Andy Waite said his son’s situation was “tragic”.

“I would never wish that on any person, any dad, any family, no one,” he said.

“The last few days have probably been the hardest days of our lives, sitting beside his bed. He’s a battler. We’re just sat there patiently waiting and hoping my boy will come through.”

Aunt Raiha Hooker said Joshua “means the world” to his family.

Joshua Waite is in hospital on life support.

A supporter of the accused at Redcliffe Court.

“It’s an absolute nightmare, just to experience this. It’s a waiting game. All we can do is support each other and just keep telling Josh we love him,” she said.

Ms Hooker has started a fundraising page so his parents can afford to remain by his side. “All proceeds will be going to assist his immediate family to be by his bedside every day and night to encourage him to keep on fighting,” she said.

Ms Hooker said Joshua was a “protective and loving” big brother and son.

“Joshy has always put everyone else’s needs before his own and has a passion for helping other kids in need.

“We want him to use all of his energy to get stronger and recover,” she said.

Law-Cobbo, of Kippa-Ring, is charged with causing grievous bodily harm. He did not apply for bail when the case was mentioned in Redcliffe Magistrates Court yesterday. His supporters clashed with the media outside the court.

CCTV cameras captured the alleged bashing incident and legal proceedings have been postponed until tomorrow so lawyers can review footage.

Law-Cobbo, who was not brought into the court, will be held in the Redcliffe Watchhouse until tomorrow.

Magistrate Mark Bucknall ordered a brief of evidence to be provided to the defence by June 26 and the case to return to court for a committal mention on July 5.