Grant Alec Coleman pleads guilty to assault causing death at Kempsey court
The brother of the coach of the NSW Waratahs has pleaded guilty to the one-punch death of Chris Davidson on the Mid-North Coast. Here’s the latest.
Mid-North Coast
Don't miss out on the headlines from Mid-North Coast. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A man has pleaded guilty to the one-punch death of former professional surfer Chris Davidson at South West Rocks on the Mid-North Coast.
Grant Alec Coleman, the brother of NSW Waratahs coach Darren Coleman, faced Kempsey Local Court on Wednesday.
The 43-year-old pleaded guilty to assault causing death and common assault.
Coleman, of South West Rocks, is due to be sentenced at Newcastle District Court next month.
Mr Davidson died after he was struck with a single punch outside South West Rocks Country Club on September 24 last year.
The 45-year-old man, celebrated as one of the most talented surfers in the world, fell unconscious and was treated at the scene by paramedics.
He was taken to Kempsey Hospital for treatment, but pronounced dead a short time later.
Coleman was arrested at a nearby home about 30 minutes later.
On Wednesday, Kempsey Magistrate Scott Nash adjourned the case for sentencing in Newcastle District Court on September 7.
Coleman remains remanded in custody.
A charge of intentionally choking a person without consent has been dropped.
Both men are well known in the South West Rocks area.
Mr Davidson cut his teeth surfing at North Narrabeen and toured the globe.
His death rocked the surfing world, prompting tributes from the likes of American surfing pro Kelly Slater, who published an Instagram story.
“Lost another soldier yesterday. #RIPChrisDavo. Had many a good battle with this guy,” he wrote.
“One of the most naturally talented surfers I ever knew.”
A close friend said the collective grief after Mr Davidson’s death was “the worst thing in the world”.
Mr Davidson reached a World Surf League ranking of 14 on the Men’s Championship Tour in 2010.
The following year, he placed fifth at the famed Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach.
Friend Nathan Hedge summed up the shock in the surfing fraternity following Mr Davidson’s death.
“It’s just tragic. I mean, nobody wins. It‘s just the worst thing ever,” Mr Hedge said on The Today Show.
“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.”
Mr Hedge said: “I will miss his laugh, I will miss his practical jokes. I will just miss his passion.”
Mr Davidson’s life also had its lows and he was open about issues with drugs and alcohol.
The Daily Telegraph reported late last year Mr Davidson indecently assaulted a 15-year-old girl at her family home and was sentenced to a three-year good behaviour bond in 2017.
Documents obtained by the newspaper state Davidson touched the girl’s hand and kissed her.
‘Now it’s payback’: Cyclist destroys car in jealous rage
A champion Mid-North Coast cyclist who totally destroyed a car with a cricket bat in a jealous rage has had his charges dismissed under the mental health act in court.
Group 2 Rugby League: Vote for the Group 2 team of the year
After an exciting Group 2 season, it’s time to reflect on who shone in 2024. Have your say for who should be in the people’s choice team of the year.