Police allegedly attacked during ‘violent’ arrest at Rick’s Garage

Police officers say they had blood and saliva spat in their faces when they tried to restrain a “violent” man at a Sunshine Coast hinterland restaurant.

Police were allegedly assaulted at Rick's Garage in Palmwoods on Sunday afternoon. Picture: Patrick Woods.

Police officers say they had blood and saliva spat on them as they tried to restrain a man who had been denied service at a popular Sunshine Coast restaurant.

A 31-year-old Brisbane man was taken to Sunshine Coast University Hospital after the incident on Sunday afternoon at Rick’s Garage in Palmwoods.

Emergency services attended the Margaret Street diner about 2.41pm after reports of staff and patrons allegedly being attacked.

Sippy Downs police officer-in-charge Todd Maguire said the man “violently” resisted arrest.

Sergeant Maguire said police allege two officers had saliva and blood spat in their faces.

He said one of the officers sustained a cut to the head and the other a broken thumb.

“They are fairly shaken up, the physical injuries are minor but the exposure to bodily fluids is a concern,” Sergeant Maguire said.

He said they would undergo disease testing.

“It’s a three month wait for them now,” he said.

Sergeant Maguire said police would allege the man had been cut off from the bar and had snuck behind it to pour a beer from the tap himself.

He said the bartenders tried to stop the man who allegedly raised his glass to strike a barman.

Police were then called.

No charges have been laid.

The man is expected to remain in hospital.

Sergeant Maguire said police were investigating whether or not staff or patrons at the venue were hurt from the incident.

“It’s believed some staff and patrons helped restrain him,” he said.

“There was a fair bit going on, it was busy.”

The diner was closed until 4pm.

Management at the diner declined to comment.

Anyone experiencing issues is urged to call Lifeline on 13114 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.