Rugby
Beale case goes to mediation
2013-02-20 09:00
Sydney - Rugby union star Kurtley Beale, who is accused of assaulting a
Brisbane bouncer, has agreed to participate justice mediation, a court
has heard.
According to the Rugby Heaven website, Beale’s case was mentioned in Brisbane Magistrates Court on
Wednesday morning, where his lawyer confirmed the Wallabies playmaker
would meet face-to-face with his alleged victim.
It is understood previous attempts at mediation have stalled and ultimately failed.
Beale, 23, was charged with one count of common assault after
he allegedly hit a bouncer at the Victory Hotel in Brisbane’s CBD on
the morning before an Australia-Wales Test on June 8 last year.
It’s alleged the assault occurred after Beale and teammate Quade Cooper were refused entry.
The Australian Rugby Union postponed a disciplinary process
concerning Beale until the police matter was resolved, meaning he
remained available for Super Rugby games, Tests and the Wallabies Spring
Tour of Europe.
The mediation process will afford Beale the opportunity to make amends for his alleged actions, including monetary compensation.
Under Queensland law, justice mediation is voluntary, confidential and free.
According to the Department of Justice, ‘‘justice mediation
gives you the opportunity to own up to what you have done, accept
responsibility for your actions and take steps to repair the harm or
damage you caused’’.
Offences including stealing, assault, wilful damage and unlawful use of a motor vehicle, can be referred to mediation.
Beale’s case has been set down for mediation on April 17.