Man sues Bondi pub for negligence after fight and wins $200,000

Bodybuilder and Only Fans influencer Clinton Chadwick has won a lawsuit against Bondi venue the Bucket List and is now $200,000 richer.

Chadwick sued the Bondi bar for negligence after he was knocked unconscious during a fight with another man.

Owner of the bar Bondi Beach Food and Crossguard Group, which provided security services, faced the NSW Supreme Court following the incident in which Chadwick was struck down by Stephen Martin.

Chadwick claimed that since he was knocked unconscious he has suffered from depression and headaches.

CCTV footage shows Chadwick attempting to punch Martin, who responds by striking him with a stool.

Justice Michael Elkaim said of the December 2017 incident, "I think there was contributory negligence on the part of the plaintiff, but I think it is far exceeded by that of the defendants in allowing abusive, aggressive and obviously intoxicated persons to be on the premises.

"The plaintiff should have ignored whatever taunting was aimed at him, but he chose to remain and take part."

Martin had already pleaded guilty to assault.

Chadwick told the court he was "in the prime of my life, physically and mentally".

"I had the energy of an Energiser Bunny and worked long hours each week to build up my business, attended the gym, and had many friends that I socialised with when I had time to do so."

Chadwick claimed he was invited by Martin to go outside and fight and while he did  perform "the first physical act of aggression" by shoving Martin, he was deemed not to be the instigator.

Justice Elkaim heard and agreed that if the venue was properly staffed, there was a "real possibility" the fight could have been avoided.

Chadwick was awarded total damages of $200,706.

Jonathan Jackson - 13-3-23