Man who allegedly killed neighbour because of dispute about feeding birds granted bail

New details have been heard about a man accused of killing his neighbour over a petty dispute about bird feeding as he was granted bail.

A Gold Coast man alleged to have become so enraged he killed his neighbour who had requested he stop feeding some birds will be released on bail.

Trevor Dale Wheeler, 48, will need to follow strict conditions that includes undergoing psychological treatment for his complex mental health issues, following a strict curfew and not consuming alcohol.

Mr Wheeler has been charged with the manslaughter of Bradley Ward, 60.

The fight, which allegedly occurred outside a Labrador home on November 18, claimed Mr Ward’s life after Mr Wheeler allegedly knocked him to the ground before setting upon him with a broom handle.

Mr Wheeler applied for bail earlier this month but proceedings were adjourned for the court to consider his mental health.

Bradley Ward’s death has been called a “homicide by heart attack” after Trevor Dale Wheeler allegedly assaulted him at his Labrador home in November. Picture: NIGEL HALLETT

During the last court appearance, crown prosecutor Rebecca Guppy-Coles said the medical evidence suggested it was a “homicide by heart attack” from Mr Wheeler’s alleged assault.

The court was told he had a history of anxiety and depression and had made concerning statements about wanting to die to watch house staff.

Mr Wheeler’s defence lawyer Damien Gates submitted his client would live in Rockhampton, more than 600km north of Brisbane, and seek treatment for his mental health issues.

On Friday, Justice David Boddice said there appeared to be a strong case against Mr Wheeler as much of the alleged incident was captured on video.

He said the proposed conditions could mitigate any unacceptable bail risks.

Police outside the Whiting St home in Labrador where Mr Ward was found dead. Picture: NIGEL HALLETT

Some of Mr Wheeler’s bail conditions include abstaining from alcohol and following a curfew.

He will also need to undergo psychological treatment within 14 days of his release.

Following his death, Mr Ward was remembered as a unique family man, with his niece, Jass Ward, paying tribute to his fatherly demeanour.

“He taught me so much within 22 years and never allowed gender stereotypes to stand in the way of teaching me how to fish, do things on the boat, pump yabbies, shoot, fight, play rugby, bowling, cricket and hockey, tie knots and box,” she said.

“He was always the first one there if I ever needed anything regardless of what it was and treated me like the daughter he never had.”

Jass Ward and her uncle Bradley Ward in 2000. Mr Ward has been remembered as a loving family man in the weeks since his death.