In a shocking incident that has gripped the Queanbeyan community, eight alleged members of a biker gang were involved in a violent attack inside a local hair salon on August 8, 2025. The attack, described by police as a “calculated hit,” resulted in two men being stabbed in the chest. This week, the NSW Supreme Court granted bail to one of the accused, shedding new light on the case.
The accused, aged between 20 and 33, face charges of wounding with intent to murder. According to court documents, the group arrived at the Crawford Street salon in a five-car convoy shortly after midday, locking the front door and trapping several customers, including women and children, inside. The incident has raised concerns about public safety and the audacity of such a brazen attack.
Details of the Attack
Police allege that one of the men stood guard outside, awaiting their target. Inside, another produced a machete, reportedly exclaiming, “Oh f*** there’s kids here,” while a second man brandished a shotgun. The group then sat in the salon’s vacant chairs, waiting for their intended victim.
When the target entered the shop, he was reportedly taken to a back room by five men. Witnesses described hearing noises akin to “punches and hitting the walls.” An employee who attempted to intervene sustained a “penetrating stab wound to the chest.” The chaos lasted just four minutes before the attackers fled, leaving the victims and traumatized customers behind.
“You wanted this b****,” one of the accused allegedly shouted as he left the scene.
Impact on the Community
The attack not only endangered those inside the salon but also put the wider community at risk. Court documents revealed that a group of preschoolers was walking past the salon on an excursion when the incident occurred, highlighting the potential for even greater tragedy.
The first victim was critically injured, with his lungs filling with blood, necessitating surgery. The second victim also required hospital treatment for his chest wound. The incident has left the community in shock and raised questions about the presence and influence of biker gangs in the area.
Bail Granted Under Strict Conditions
Despite the severity of the charges, one of the accused, 28-year-old Nick Lawrence, was granted bail. Police identified Lawrence as a “known member” of the Finks outlaw motorcycle group’s Canberra chapter, with a “longstanding and operational” role in biker activities. They alleged that he participated in the organized attack and had a personal connection to one of the victims through a rugby league team.
Lawrence’s defense argued that he merely stood watch and was unaware of any intent to inflict serious harm. Justice Michael Walton granted bail under strict conditions, including daily police reporting, home detention, a $2.2 million surety, and a prohibition on contacting anyone associated with the Finks.
None of the eight accused have entered pleas.
Broader Implications and Community Response
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in curbing biker gang violence. The brazen nature of the attack, occurring in broad daylight in a public space, has heightened community fears and prompted calls for increased police presence and tougher measures against organized crime.
Experts suggest that such incidents are indicative of broader issues within the region, where biker gangs have historically exerted influence. The community’s response has been one of resilience, with local leaders urging calm and cooperation with authorities to ensure safety and justice.
As the legal proceedings continue, the case will likely serve as a critical test of the judicial system’s ability to address organized crime and protect public safety. The outcome may also influence future policies and strategies in dealing with similar threats.
The community now awaits the next steps in the legal process, hoping for a resolution that will restore a sense of security and justice in Queanbeyan.
