Footballer Charged Over Car Sale Dispute That Left Queensland Man Paraplegic
Ipswich Rugby Star Granted Bail After Alleged Balcony Push Leaves Man Paraplegic
(Image: Ramon Filipine in court; caption: Ramon Filipine faces charges after a confrontation left a man with life-changing injuries.)
Former Ipswich rugby league player and coach Ramon Steve Max Filipine, 40, was granted bail on August 15 following allegations he pushed Ashley Sabry, 52, from a balcony during a dispute over a car refund. The incident, which occurred on August 9 in Stapylton, Queensland, left Sabry with catastrophic spinal injuries, resulting in permanent paraplegia.
The Alleged Incident
Police claim Filipine and two others arrived at Sabry’s home seeking a refund for a 2013 Nissan Pulsar sold days earlier. A verbal dispute escalated, moving to the first-floor balcony. Prosecutors allege Filipine pushed Sabry over the railing, causing a 3-meter fall. Sabry was then reportedly struck with broken balustrade timber.
(Image: Damaged balcony; caption: The Stapylton home where Sabry fell from the balcony.)
Court Proceedings
Filipine faces charges of assault occasioning bodily harm and grievous bodily harm. His lawyer, Karl Brandon, argued the push was unintentional, stating the balustrade collapsed during the altercation. Prosecutors opposed bail, citing flight risk due to Filipine’s New Zealand birth, but Magistrate Mark Bamberry granted bail under strict conditions. Filipine must avoid contacting Sabry, his wife Mary, or others involved and cannot visit the property.
(Image: Filipine in sports gear; caption: The ex-rugby player’s career has been marked by past controversies.)
Victim’s Long Road Ahead
Sabry remains hospitalized, facing extensive rehabilitation. A GoFundMe organized by friend Tina Ibraheem aims to cover medical costs, home modifications, and lifelong care. “This uphill battle is bigger than any one person,” Ibraheem wrote, highlighting the couple’s sudden financial strain.
Filipine’s Troubled Past
The former Ipswich Jets player’s career has been overshadowed by disciplinary issues. In 2012, he was released after throwing a beer can at a spectator. Later, as Goodna Eagles captain, he led championship wins but received a 12-month ban in 2018 for misconduct. Recently coaching Redbank Bears, his future in the sport is now uncertain.
(Image: Rugby field; caption: Filipine coached the Redbank Bears before the incident.)
The case resumes September 17 at Beenleigh Magistrates Court. Meanwhile, the rugby community grapples with the fallout, and Sabry’s family seeks support to rebuild their lives.
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