Shoalhaven Local Area Command

Charges laid over Australia Day brawl – Nowra

Police have charged four teenagers in relation to a large brawl on Australia Day that led to a teenager being knocked unconscious at Nowra on the State’s South Coast.

About 6pm on Tuesday (26 January 2010), three males and two females were allegedly confronted by a larger group of youths on Nowra Bridge. The smaller group sought refuge in a nearby shopping centre, however, the larger group followed the five teens and a brawl allegedly occurred.

The three males and two females then sought further refuge in a supermarket but were followed by up to 25 people and more violence ensued.

Officers entered the shopping centre and were confronted by five males, with Police forced to use capsicum spray to subdue them. They were taken to the Nowra Police Station and later released, pending further investigation.

On Thursday (28 January), a 16-year-old male and a 17-year-old male were arrested and taken to Nowra Police Station where they were charged with affray.

They were granted conditional bail to appear at Nowra Children’s Court on 4 March 2010.

Yesterday (Friday 29 January 2010), an 18-year-old male and a 16-year-old male were arrested and taken to Nowra Police Station where they were charged with affray and granted conditional bail.

The 18-year-old male will appear at Nowra Local Court on 22 February 2010, while the 16-year-old male will appear at Nowra Children’s Court on 18 February 2010.

Inquiries into the Australia Day incident are continuing, and anyone with information is urged to call Nowra Police Station on (02) 4421 9699 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Callers can remain anonymous if necessary.