George Calombaris conviction overturned

MasterChef judge George Calombaris has had an assault conviction overturned, following an appeal.

In October he was fined $1000 following a post A-League incident with a fan at Moore Park in May.

Judge Andrew Scotting found the offence was proven, but Calombaris’ “exceptional” character, lack of criminal record and punishment outside the court – including being dropped from an ambassadorial role – meant he could be discharged without a conviction.

Although the offence was not “trivial”, Judge Scotting found Calombaris’ actions were “spontaneous”, he had apologised and he was unlikely to reoffend.

“The appellant was provoked by the victim,” Judge Scotting said. “[Mr Calombaris] had a genuine belief his mother had been seriously denigrated.

“From reading the facts and my view of the video evidence it is clear the appellant approached the victim angrily. On reaching the victim he was verbally abusive as well as throwing a punch or a push to the stomach area of the victim … the blow was not very forceful.

“To my mind, he is largely rehabilitated already in respect of this particular incident.”

Calombaris told media, “I still remain deeply remorseful for my actions,” he said. “As I previously stated, I sincerely apologise to everyone involved.”

Source: Fairfax