Former Australian Football League (AFL) player Nicky Winmar has been released on bail as he prepares to appeal a six-month prison sentence handed down for an assault conviction. The 60-year-old appeared at Bendigo Magistrates Court on Friday morning, entering the building through a side door and avoiding media attention.

Winmar was found guilty in July of three assault charges related to an incident at a northern Victoria motel in May last year. The allegations involved attacking a woman, whose identity remains suppressed, during which he reportedly yelled at and spat on her. Prosecutors said Winmar twisted her arm, dragged her by the hair, and repeatedly struck her face against a door. The victim escaped and sought refuge in a motel room for about an hour while Winmar remained outside until police arrived.

Although acquitted of a more serious charge of intentionally causing injury, Winmar faced significant legal consequences following his conviction. During the recent sentencing hearing, prosecutors advocated for imprisonment, describing the assault as prolonged, violent, and persistent. In contrast, the defense urged the court to consider a non-custodial community-based order.

Magistrate Trecia Huynh acknowledged Winmar’s efforts towards rehabilitation, citing his engagement with counselling and efforts to maintain sobriety. However, she emphasised the gravity of his actions and their impact on the victim, stating that a custodial sentence was warranted. Winmar was sentenced to six months in prison, to be followed by a 12-month community corrections order.

Following sentencing, Winmar’s legal team immediately announced their intention to appeal both the conviction and sentence. His solicitor filed the necessary paperwork promptly, and the former AFL star was released on bail after prosecutors did not oppose the request. Winmar declined to comment as he left the courthouse.

The victim described the lasting effects of the attack during court proceedings last month, revealing that she frequently experiences panic attacks and has endured emotional trauma severe enough to disrupt her sleep. “I’m not the same person I once was due to the trauma I have experienced,” she said.

Winmar has consistently maintained his innocence regarding the charges.

In the wake of his conviction, public and institutional reactions included the removal of a statue commemorating Winmar from Optus Stadium in July. West Australian Premier Roger Cook condemned violence against women and asserted that the statue’s removal was necessary to send a clear community message. Additionally, Winmar’s AFL Hall of Fame status was revoked, a decision the former player strongly criticised.

Winmar’s AFL career spanned 13 seasons, during which he played 251 games.