John Reginald Wright: Former elite swim coach fronts court on historic child abuse charges

A former elite swimming coach accused of indecently dealing with children in the 1980s will remain behind bars on remand.

A former elite swimming coach charged with historic child abuse offences will seek taxpayer-funded legal aid to represent him, a court has been told

Lengthy delays plagued Brisbane Arrests Court on Monday morning as John Reginald Wright, 78, was scheduled to appear.

Police allege Mr Wright – who trained elite swimmers across Australia and overseas for decades – indecently dealt with children on multiple occasions between 1980 and 1986 in the Brisbane and Rockhampton areas.

Former swimming coach John Reginald Wright was extradited from Western Australia to face historic child abuse charges in Brisbane.

A duty lawyer appeared on his behalf, asking for an adjournment until next month.

The court was told Mr Wright was seeking funding from Legal Aid for his next appearance.

Mr Wright did not apply for bail and it was formally refused.

He will return to court on November 15.

Mr Wright was arrested in Western Australia last Wednesday following a police investigation into the alleged abuse.

Mr Wright (wearing a red shirt and face mask) arrives in Brisbane. Picture: Annette Dew

He was due to face court on Saturday but was taken to hospital suffering medical issues.

Monday’s proceedings were delayed due to issues with his scheduled video link appearance, with Mr Wright’s matter not being mentioned for several hours.

Police allege Mr Wright indecently dealt with children in the 1980s.

Mr Wright is charged with nine counts of indecent treatment of boys under the age of 17 and one count of common assault.