Geraldton mayor Shane Van Styn pleads not guilty to pub assault

Geraldton mayor Shane Van Styn has appeared in court and pleaded not guilty to assault occasioning bodily harm.

The offence allegedly occurred at Kalbarri Motor Hotel on April 6.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Carey Owen told Geraldton Magistrate’s Court Mr Van Styn was drinking at the pub when he approached the victim in the smoking area and allegedly assaulted him.

Mr Van Styn will reappear in the same court on July 1 for a trial allocation date.

His bail was extended with protective conditions not to approach or be near the victim.

Outside court, Mr Van Styn said he was thankful for an outpouring of community support and looked forward to having his day in court.