Man repeatedly punched in face after leaving Collingwood bar

A MAN who was repeatedly punched in the face in a vicious homophobic attack by a gang of men has bravely spoken of his terror after he was assaulted and left in a pool of blood.

A Carrum Downs man was attacked by three men after leaving bar in Collingwood. Picture: Supplied

A MAN who was repeatedly punched in the face in a vicious homophobic attack by a gang of men has bravely spoken of his terror.

Victim Brendan said he was targeted by three men after leaving Sircuit Bar on Smith St in Fitzroy, in the city’s inner northeast, about 2.45am on January 27.

Considered one of Melbourne’s most LGBTQI-friendly areas, the 36-year-old had been out celebrating ­Australia Day with friends when he was set upon while walking along Smith St.

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“I remember hosting a huge Australia Day party with some friends at home before heading out,” he said.

“I left the club to take myself home. I exited and crossed the road before walking up the street.

“Next, I remember I was picking myself up off the ground.”

Senior Constable Shane Flannery, from Yarra Crime Investigation Unit, said the offenders had potentially waited for a target.

“It appears he has been followed for a short distance,” Sen-Constable Flannery said.

Investigators allege the group made comments to the victim about his sexuality before launching the violent ­attack between Victoria ­Parade and Mason St. Brendan said one of the men swung a “giant punch” that hit his left eye which knocked him ­unconscious.

Friends found him in a pool of blood and rushed to his aid.

The Brighton man suffered cracked ribs, skull fractures and serious eye injuries in the savage attack.

The thugs fled the scene.

Police are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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