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'One punch can change everyone's lives': Attack accused's family say sorry

The family of the man accused of coward-punching surfer Jake Sylvester in Newcastle says they are heartbroken and sorry.

Billy Clay handed himself in to police on Sunday and was charged with recklessly inflicting grievous bodily harm.

On Monday, Clay’s sister Candice said it was time everyone realised one punch can change lives in an instant.

Victim Jake Sylvester. Picture: AAP
Victim Jake Sylvester. Picture: AAP
Candice Clay, the sister of attack accused Billy Clay. Picture: 7 News
Candice Clay, the sister of attack accused Billy Clay. Picture: 7 News

“I do feel sorry for Jake with everything that has happened, but I can say that Billy is very sorry for everything that has happened,” Candice Clay said.

“You don’t realise one second, one punch can change everyone’s lives just like that.”

Attack accused Billy Clay. Picture: 7 News
Attack accused Billy Clay. Picture: 7 News
Victim Jake Sylvester. Picture: 7 News
Victim Jake Sylvester. Picture: 7 News

Jake Sylvester suffered a fractured skull and bleeding on the brain after he was punched outside Newcastle’s Family Hotel on Friday night.

Sylvester had been drinking with friends when he was ejected by staff.

Sylvester was asked to leave the Family Hotel. Picture: 7 News
Sylvester was asked to leave the Family Hotel. Picture: 7 News

Security footage allegedly shows a scuffle break out on the footpath before Jake is clearly punched from behind and falls to the ground.

“It is absolutely heartbreaking for both sides,” Ms Clay said.

Surfer Jake Sylvester. Picture: 7 News
Surfer Jake Sylvester. Picture: 7 News

“Like not trying to blame anyone or blame Jake for this but [my brother] was just defending a mate.”

Remarkably, doctors don’t believe Jake has suffered any permanent brain damage, which is a huge relief for his family.

Billy Clay was granted conditional bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court on March 16.