BREAKING: Former AFL star Nicky Winmar is facing serious assault charges after allegedly dragging a woman by her hair and twisting her arm. The incident occurred on May 14 in Cohuna, northwest of Echuca, just two months before he was accused of choking another individual on July 18.
Winmar, 59, appeared via video link at the Kerang Magistrates Court in northern Victoria on Thursday, where details surrounding the allegations were not disclosed in court. However, charge sheets revealed that he is accused of intentionally causing injury to the woman involved.
Police have stated that Winmar allegedly grabbed the woman’s arm, twisted it, and then dragged her by the hair during the assault. Prosecutor Annina Tropea informed the court that police seek an adjournment as new charges have recently been filed. This delay will also allow further inquiries to be conducted by the police informant.
Magistrate Sharon McRae granted the adjournment, with the case scheduled to return to court in November. Winmar has reportedly been engaging with a bail-mandated court integrated services program, and he briefly acknowledged his understanding of the court orders.
In addition to the assault charges, Winmar is set to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates Court later this month in connection with the choking allegations. The specifics of whether there are multiple victims across these incidents remain unclear, as the charge sheets are redacted.
Winmar remains a significant figure in Australian football history, being the first Aboriginal player to reach 200 games in the AFL, finishing his career with 230 games at St Kilda and 21 games for the Western Bulldogs. He is well-known for his courageous stand against racism, notably confronting a hostile Collingwood crowd in 1993 by lifting his jumper to proudly display his skin color.
In March, he was named a co-leader in a landmark racism class action in the Supreme Court, alongside other retired Indigenous players including Phil Krakouer.
The situation continues to develop, and many are watching closely as this case unfolds. Further updates are expected as Winmar returns to court later this month and in November.
This urgent news highlights the serious allegations against a celebrated sports figure, raising important conversations about accountability and the treatment of women. Stay tuned for more updates as they become available.
