Man denied bail over alleged Gold Coast pub assault that left victim fighting for life

A man charged over an alleged assault at a Gold Coast pub that left another man fighting for life has been denied bail.

Police allege 27-year-old Haami Makiroa Burns Prescott approached 36-year-old Ross Burckhardt in the car park of the Coomera Boathouse Tavern at about 1am on Sunday and punched him in the face.

Mr Burckhardt allegedly fell and suffered serious head injuries.

He was taken to Gold Coast University Hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.

Police further allege Mr Prescott fled the scene in a rideshare vehicle.

He was arrested at Ormeau on Monday and charged with one count of grievous bodily harm.

Mr Prescott appeared in Southport Magistrates Court on Wednesday, wearing a singlet and track pants, for a bail application.

His solicitor, Torik Dib, told the court his client had planned to surrender himself on Tuesday after receiving legal advice, but was arrested the day before.

Mr Dib also submitted that his client was acting in self-defence of another patron at the venue.

"At the time that they're leaving the venue, the complainant had a pool cue in his hand," Mr Dib said.

"He's arguing with the security guard while he's leaving the venue.

"There was a dispute between one of the other patrons, and that patron was with a female that was much smaller in size to the alleged complainant … he's being aggressive to two other people; that's the point where he allegedly assaults him."

Police prosecutor Ricky Tsoi opposed bail, telling the court CCTV footage captured the alleged incident, and witnesses had "failed to identify mitigating circumstances in relation to the defendant's actions."

The court also heard Mr Prescott has a criminal history in New South Wales and is subject to a two-year community corrections order from Newcastle, which expires on December 28, 2027.

Acting Magistrate Gary Finger refused Mr Prescott bail, finding he was an "unacceptable risk of reoffending".

Mr Prescott was remanded in custody and will return to court next month.

Victim's family 'devastated'

Mr Burckhardt's brother, Paul Burckhardt, told the ABC his family were "devastated" by what had happened.

"Ross is a disability support worker who has dedicated his career to helping others," he said.

"Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family and friends and loves playing pool."

Paul said his brother was in an induced coma in the intensive care unit.

"While we are incredibly grateful that his condition has remained stable, there is still significant swelling on his brain, and doctors continue to monitor him closely," he said.