James Range Band frontman Caesar Dixon granted bail on DV charges before Alice Springs show

A Red Centre musician who allegedly struck his partner with a rock was bailed hours before he was due to play the first show of his band’s tour. Find out what happened in court.

James Range band with Caesar Dixon (right) performs at the Warm Up in Alice Springs. Picture: Supplied

A Red Centre musician who allegedly struck his partner with a rock was bailed hours before he was due to play the first show of his band’s tour.

James Range Band lead singer Caesar Dixon, 24, fronted Alice Springs Local Court on Thursday, hours before he was due to perform at the Gap View Hotel as part of the GUTS tour.

Mr Dixon is facing a single count of aggravated assault.

Police Prosecutor Seth McMahon told the court he opposed bail, arguing a band’s tour was “not a suitable reason for bail”.

Mr McMahon described the alleged offending as “serious”.

He told Judge Cary Ingles Mr Dixon had allegedly “grabbed a rock and struck the victim an unknown amount of times” in Alice Springs.

The court heard the victim was Mr Dixon’s partner of five years.

Mr Dixon did not enter a plea.

Defending Mr Dixon was Daniel Gorry, who stressed the importance of the upcoming tour for his client.

“He often saw violence at home and had quite a difficult upbringing,” Mr Gorry said.

The Gap View Hotel in Alice Springs. Picture: Kevin Farmer

“Participation in the James Range Band, where he is now the lead singer, has provided him with a massive impetus to turn his life around.”

The James Range Band is touring with Melbourne’s Floodlights as part of the GUTS tour, which follows the path of Midnight Oil’s 1986 Whitefella/Blackfella tour.

In granting Mr Dixon bail, Judge Ingles said the singer was “extremely fortunate” to be getting bail – noting his charge.

“I accept this is a very important tour, and you are an important part of that tour,” she said.

“But for you now to be in this court with serious allegations against your partner of five years is a very serious matter.”

As part of his bail conditions, Mr Dixon must not consume any alcohol.

He will return to Alice Springs Local Court on September 30.

Originally published as James Range Band frontman Caesar Dixon granted bail on DV charges before Alice Springs show