Overview

• Noah Balta received an 18-month community corrections order, a $3,000 fine, a 10pm–6am curfew until July 22, 2025, and an alcohol ban after pleading guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
• The assault occurred on December 30, 2024, outside the Mulwala Water Ski Club, where Balta shoulder-charged and repeatedly punched Thomas Washbrook, causing head injuries and a fractured rib.
• Balta has paid $45,000 in compensation to Washbrook in an out-of-court settlement and completed an anger management course as part of his rehabilitation efforts.
• Richmond CEO Shane Dunne confirmed the club accepts the court's ruling, which will sideline Balta from at least four upcoming AFL matches, including Thursday's Anzac Eve clash with Melbourne.
• Magistrate Melissa Humphrey emphasized the curfew as a punitive measure, rejecting a request to modify it for Balta's professional commitments.