Ray White Redland Bay principal Jesse James in drink driving prang

The principal of a well-known real estate agency claims his accident, which followed a session on the turps, was a result of swerving to avoid a kangaroo.

The principal of a well-known southeast Queensland real estate agency intends to apply for a work license after police found him in a crashed vehicle at 4am after a night on the turps.

Redland Bay man Colin David Jesse James, 46, known locally as Jesse through his work as principal and co-owner of Ray White Redland Bay and founder of Grass Roots Bull Riding, was charged with mid-range drink driving following the incident in the early hours of December 24 last year.

Redlands Magistrates Court heard on Monday police were patrolling Serpentine Creek Rd heading towards Redland Bay when they saw a Ram 1500 utility pulled over at the side of the road with its curtain airbags deployed and “considerable” damage to the vehicle’s front left bumper.

Ray White Redland Bay principal/co-owner Colin David Jesse James, 46. Picture: Alex Treacy

The vehicle also appeared to be leaking coolant.

Mr James told officers he had swerved into a ditch to avoid striking a kangaroo and had continued driving for about 4km following the accident before pulling over.

A breath test revealed he had a BAC of 0.086 per cent.

He informed officers he had been “drinking earlier and believed he would be under” the legal limit.

Mr James told the court he was “embarrassed” to be before the magistrate and noted he was going through a separation currently, which added to his stress levels.

The court heard he did intend to plead guilty but was unaware he needed to pre-fill a form and swear an affidavit prior to his sentencing hearing.

His charge was adjourned to January 24.

According to Mr James’ Ray White Redland Bay profile, he “has been a leading sales consultant in the Redlands for over 12 years” and has won several industry awards.