Phillip Derek James West frightens Cherbourg street while armed

Residents of the Burnett township were frightened about what was happening in their community after a ‘free for all’ brawl spiralled into a terrifying pursuit.

Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council employee Phillip Derek James West pleaded guilty to being armed in public as to cause fear, on January 11, 2023.

A Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council employee faced Murgon Magistrates on Tuesday after chasing his neighbour down the street armed with a pick.

Phillip Derek James West pleaded guilty to being armed in public as to cause fear, on January 11, 2023, at Barber Street, Cherbourg.

Police prosecutor Barry Stevens said at 3.10pm there was a physical altercation between 43-year-old West and his neighbour.

“There was a fist fight,” Sgt Stevens said.

“West picked up a pick and pursued the man for 10-15m down Barber Street; he was holding the weapon.

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“The victim’s mother had to intervene and after being confronted (West) turned back around and walked back inside,” he said.

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Murgon Magistrates Court.

Sgt Stevens told the court when police arrived West was “in a state of rage” and intended to hurt the man.

“There were several neighbours present,” Sgt Stevens said.

“Police later recovered the weapon and to his credit he declared the weapon and made full admissions,” he said.

Defence lawyer Babu Singh said it is a nasty and terrifying incident for the residents of Cherbourg.

“It was an altercation that was more or less a free for all fight,” Mr Singh said.

“His family are here (in court) and are all very concerned about what’s happening on the streets of Cherbourg.

“He has a good working history and hasn’t been before the court since 2009,” he said.

Magistrate Andrew Sinclair told West he didn’t have to take the law into his own hands.

“It is frightening for people to see,” Mr Sinclair said.

“I recommend anger management counselling,” he said.

West was sentenced to a 12 month probationary period and to serve 120 hours of community service.

A conviction was recorded.