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Two men employed by a third-party contractor for the Forestry Corporation of New South Wales have pleaded not guilty to charges of assault against two environmentalists on the state's mid north coast.
Key points:
- Michael Luigi Vitali and Rodney James Hearfield are facing assault charges against local environmentalists in June 2020
- The two men were employed by a third-party contractor for Forestry Corporation of NSW at the time
- In a statement, Forestry Corporation of NSW said it was aware of the incident
Court documents state the alleged offences occurred on June 25, 2020 at Wild Cattle Creek State Forest, west of Coffs Harbour, between the two contractors — Michael Luigi Vitali, 55, and Rodney James Hearfield, 59, — and two environmentalists.
Mr Vitali, from South Grafton, is charged with common assault against local ecologist Mark Graham.
Grafton man Mr Hearfield is charged with common assault and assault occasioning bodily harm, against Andre Johnston.
In a brief appearance at Coffs Harbour Local Court, both men were represented by defence lawyer Monique Hannigan.
Supporters for Mr Graham and Mr Johnston observed proceedings, including City of Coffs Harbour councillor Jonathan Cassell.
In a statement, a Forestry Corporation of NSW spokesperson said the organisation knew of the incident and confirmed it involved third-party contractors.
The matter will next be heard on August 16 in Coffs Harbour.