Simon Nuske, 28, was charged at Nhill Magistrates’ Court on December 11 with recklessly causing injury.

He appeared at Horsham Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, making an application to be taken off the prohibited persons list in order to possess firearms again.

He was supported by his father Gary Nuske, but did not have legal representation.

Police prosecutor, Senior Constable Helen Farmer of Horsham said the nature of the initial incident was serious. 

“He has no prior history and he was charged. The outcome of that was to undertake 140 hours of community service and have an alcohol exclusion order,” she said.

“Our information would indicate that the applicant has issues with alcohol and doesn’t think things through when he has been drinking.”

Magistrate Greg Robinson questioned why Mr Nuske needed a gun and a firearm licence.

Mr Nuske replied that he needed it for his farm.

“It’s essential for me to have a licence to euthanise animals and for vermin control. My firearms are at a different location to where I live,” Mr Nuske said.

Mr Robinson said he was wary of Mr Nuske’s past behaviour.

“I’m not suggesting you are going to get drunk and set out to shoot someone, but given how you have conducted yourself in the past, the police are being very risk wary,” he said.

“The way you have conducted yourself indicates that you have self control issues. You have smashed someone's head in. I am sympathetic to your needs on the farm, but if your application is opposed, you will then need to pursue the local police.”

Mr Nuske sought an adjournment so he was able to complete a two-month alcohol awareness program.

He will reappear at Horsham Magistrates’ Court on April 8.

While you’re with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox twice weekly from the Wimmera Mail-Times. To make sure you’re up-to-date with all the news from across the Wimmera, sign up below.