Brett Haylock: Brunswick Theatre owner pleads guilty to assaulting partner

An argument between business owners, who were also in a de facto relationship at the time, turned to violence resulting in the victim presenting to hospital.

An argument over marketing at a Byron shire theatre escalated to violence resulting in one man being hospitalised according to court documents.

Brett Haylock pleaded guilty in Murwillumbah Local Court on Monday to one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

He was not required to appear.

According to court papers Haylock and his business and de facto partner Chris Chen had been under substantial stress operating the Brunswick Picture House during the pandemic due to cancellation of shows.

An argument over marketing of upcoming shows became heated on January 8 when Mr Chen slapped Haylock over the head with an open hand.

The argument was taken outside.

Brett Haylock with Chris Chen outside the Brunswick Picture House.

Mr Chen picked up a tin of paint and threw it at Haylock causing the paint to drop over freshly laid concrete.

Haylock then pushed him to the ground and kicked him twice in the torso, causing immediate pain to the ribs.

Mr Chen left and presented to Byron Bay Hospital where a nurse reported the injuries to police.

The next day police spoke to him in hospital but he declined to be interviewed. He told police Haylock wasn’t a “violent offender” and said it was a one-off event.

Haylock attended Tweed Heads Police Station and said Mr Chen instigated the fight and that he had a moment of “white rage” but denied kicking him.

According to the police facts a search of his phone revealed the pair had colluded to attempt to provide an account saying Mr Chen had lost his balance.

The matter was adjourned to Byron Bay Local Court on March 21 where a sentencing assessment report has been requested.

Both men have applied for apprehended violence orders against each other. Mr Chen is not facing criminal charges.