Revealed: Why Mark Quentin Sargent attempted to export gun parts, bullets at Gold Coast Airport

A New Zealand national who attempted to get gun parts and 200 bullets out of Gold Coast Airport earlier this year made no attempt to conceal any of it, a court has heard. Full story.

Mark Quentin Sargent (right) is questioned by media as he is leaving court in Southport with his lawyer Tom Gardiner. Picture: Jessica Paul

A man who was charged with trying to smuggle firearm parts and hundreds of bullets out of the country did not do so with ill intent, a court was told earlier this month.

It was alleged 62-year-old Mark Quentin Sargent produced a taped-up parcel containing 200 bullets and 65 shotgun shells after a short discussion with Australian Border Force (ABF) officers on September 4 at Gold Coast Airport.

The New Zealand national was charged with attempted exportation of tier two goods, namely firearm parts and accessories.

The Southport Magistrates Court was told on Monday, December 2, that Mr Sargent was a professional hunter and intended to use the firearm parts for hunting only.

The court was told Mr Sargent made no attempt to obtain an export permit nor did he make inquiries with ABF to ascertain whether it was an offence to export firearm parts.

Magistrate Smith granted Mr Sargent a good behaviour bond for the period of one year as there was no attempt on Mr Sargent’s behalf to conceal the items.

“I accept that had you been aware of the requirements at the time that you would have made those efforts to obtain those permits required,” Magistrate Smith said.

Mark Quentin Sargent (right) leaving court with his lawyer Tom Gardiner. Picture: Jessica Paul