Brothers Denied Bail After Newcastle Riot Involving Dirt Bikes

Two brothers accused of wreaking havoc during a riot in Newcastle have been refused bail. Mark Di Stefano, 25, and his younger brother Lochlan, 20, allegedly participated in a chaotic event at Dangar Park on June 14, which began as a clothing giveaway for Australian streetwear brand Bad Apples.

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Mark Di Stefano was involved in the assembly of a "significant number of people" at the park and was allegedly seen participating in wheelies and burnouts at the beginning of the event.

The gathering of about 200 people quickly devolved into disorder, with approximately 50 individuals on dirt bikes reportedly taunting police, running down pedestrians, and damaging park property. Three men were charged with offenses including rioting, which carries a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison.

During a bail hearing, the court was informed that Mark Di Stefano was allegedly involved in gathering a large crowd and performing stunts. Lochlan was described as playing a "very important role" in the riot. Police tracked the brothers for 13 kilometers as they rode through busy Newcastle streets, allegedly driving on the wrong side of the road, running red lights, and ignoring traffic signals.

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Lochlan was identified as allegedly playing a "very important role" in the commission of the riot, the court heard.

According to the prosecution, Lochlan was seen on CCTV removing his clothes, abandoning his motorbike, and jumping onto his brother's bike to evade police. Neither brother held a driver's license, and their actions were said to have endangered community safety. Lochlan was on parole at the time of the alleged offenses. Both brothers will face court again on July 15.

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The police prosecutor told the court both brothers were tracked by a police helicopter for 13 kilometres as they rode through the busy streets of Newcastle, causing havoc.

A third man, Noah Hewitt, 22, was arrested and charged with offenses including rioting and property damage. He was granted bail with strict conditions, including reporting to police regularly, not entering Dangar Park, and abstaining from alcohol and drugs without a prescription. He is also prohibited from contacting the other alleged offenders and is due back in court in July.

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Police body-worn cameras allegedly captured Mr Hewitt riding close to pedestrians during the event.