A Dunedoo man was told that the pressures of the drought are unlikely to let up soon, when he was sentenced in Mudgee Local Court for a domestic incident - that he said was the culmination of those factors.
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Ian James Irvin of Avonside Road, Dunedoo, was convicted and placed on a 12-month Community Correction Order (CCO).
At about 7pm on Sunday, November 10, 2019, the 51-year-old - who had been drinking at home throughout the day - began badgering the victim to go and buy him cigarettes. However, she refused to do so and attempted to continued to feed animals at the property.
Later in the evening the victim had gone to bed, only to be woken by Irvin. He continued on the subject of cigarettes - asking why she hadn't bought them as requested - before punching her to the right eye.
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The incident was reported to Dunedoo Police Station in the days that followed.
Irvin - who represented himself in Mudgee court on Wednesday, December 4 - said that the ongoing drought and associated tensions were a factor, given that they now only have a fraction of their livestock of which they are now hand-feeding.
Magistrate David Day - while sympathetic to the defendant's circumstances, not imposing a financial penalty - warned him against lashing out again at those around him.
"Can you stay out of trouble for 12 months? I ask, because all of the stresses of the drought will likely still be there," he said.
- If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) for advice or support, this free, confidential service is open 24/7. In an emergency, call the police on 000, all incidents of violence should be reported. For urgent support call Lifeline 13 11 14.