Friends mourn late surfer Chris Davidson after Waratahs coach’s brother’s alleged assault

Former pro surfer Chris Davidson has been remembered as “the most kind-hearted, charismatic, incredible person”, as the brother of NSW Waratahs coach Darren Coleman, who is charged with assault causing his death, was mentioned in court.

Chris Davidson started surfing at North Narrabeen Beach (pictured) and died on the NSW north coast.

The brother of NSW Waratahs coach Darren Coleman has appeared in Kempsey Court on Monday charged with assault causing death after an alleged one-punch attack killed former pro surfer Chris Davidson on the weekend.

Lawyer James Janke appeared via video link on behalf of the accused, Grant Alec Coleman, 42, and did not apply for bail. Coleman has been remanded to Silverwater jail and the matter adjourned to November 23.

Meanwhile, the surfing world is mourning the loss of Chris Davidson with fellow Australian pro-surfer Kelly Slater paying a touching tribute to Davidson on his Instagram story.

“Lost another soldier yesterday. #RIPChrisDavo. Had many a good battle with this guy. One of the most naturally talented surfers I ever knew,” he wrote.

A close friend said the collective grief was “the worst thing in the world”.

Former pro-surfer Chris Davidson took part in the Dripping Wet Pro.

“It‘s just tragic. I mean, nobody wins. It‘s just the worst thing ever,” Nathan Hedge told the Today show on Monday.

“Not only has Chris’ life been taken from us, the other person’s life is shattered and ruined as well. Nothing positive can come out of this. It’s the worst thing in the world.”

Davidson in South Africa.

Mr Hedge said he would miss the passion and humorous side of “the most kind-hearted, charismatic, incredible person” who was “robbed (of life) too early”.

“(I was) fortunate to have an incredible life with Chris and he was such an asset to myself and the surf community,” he continued.

“He lived such a large life. (He) just did everything with passion and commitment, (and) full conviction. He was such a unique character.

“I’ll miss surfing with Chris. I will miss him hanging out with our daughters. Had so much more life to give, enjoy and cherish. I will miss his laugh … practical jokes … hugs.”

A 42-year-old man was arrested at a home in South West Rocks about 12.40am and was taken to Kempsey Police Station.

Davidson died after allegedly being the victim of a one-punch assault outside South West Rocks Country Club, in the beachside town of the same name, about 11pm on Saturday.

The 45-year-old was allegedly knocked unconscious. He was treated at the scene by paramedics and taken to Kempsey Hospital but was pronounced dead a short time later.

Grant Coleman, 42, was arrested about 30 minutes after the alleged attack at a nearby address and charged with assault causing death. He was refused bail.

Both men were well known in the area.

A picture of Davidson from his Instagram.

Davidson at a photo shot looking happy and content.

“Grant was nicknamed Grub and was a very good footballer back in the day. In fact, his brothers are involved in top level sport,’’ said a local, who knew them both.

Davidson was considered one of the most talented surfers going around more than a decade ago.

As a boy he cut his teeth surfing at North Narrabeen before touring the world.

Police have not released details of what they believe sparked the incident leading to Davidson’s death.

A crime scene was established at the location and was being examined by specialist forensic officers on Sunday.