Peregian Beach Hotel boss Samuel McGrath sentenced over teen assault

A Peregian Beach pub boss has been dealt his punishment after facing court in Noosa for assaulting two teenagers during a Christmas party.

A Noosa magistrate has handed down his decision over a Peregian Beach pub boss who assaulted two teenage girls during a Christmas party. Picture: Geoff Potter

A Peregian Beach pub boss who pleaded guilty to assaulting two teenage girls during a Christmas party has been sentenced.

Samuel McGrath, 42, appeared in the Noosa Magistrates Court on November 29 on one charge each of common assault and sexual assault following a Christmas party on November 10, 2021.

McGrath was in a managerial position at the Peregian Beach Hotel at the time of the incidents that involved two teenagers, aged 19 and 16.

The Peregian Beach man pleaded guilty to the two charges.

The court was told on November 29 that the pub boss first put his arm around the 19-year-old’s waist without her consent.

Samuel McGrath leaving Noosa Magistrates Court.

He later squeezed her bottom without her consent and, later, when she was bent over helping two drunk people she felt McGrath put his hand between her legs and touch her inappropriately outside her clothing.

He slapped the 16-year-old on the bottom, the court was told.

On December 6, Magistrate Haydn Stjernqvist handed down his decision after adjourning the matter for a week.

According to court documents, McGrath was sentenced to 15 months’ probation and 100 hours of community service.

He was also ordered to pay compensation of $1500 for the sexual assault and $500 for the common assault.

Convictions were not recorded.