A long-standing dispute between two Redfern neighbours over a laneway easement erupted into a physical altercation, captured on video and drawing community concern.
Years of Tension Over Laneway Access
The altercation occurred in a small easement between terrace homes in Redfern, an inner-Sydney suburb. The conflict began when homeowner Garnet Mae, 52, attempted to move a fence he claimed encroached on his property, sparking a heated confrontation with neighbour Grayson, 63, a long-time resident of the area.
According to Garnet, the dispute has been ongoing since he and his brother purchased the property in 2019. Grayson allegedly claimed exclusive rights to the laneway, despite the unclear ownership common with these types of properties.
Garnet stated that Grayson often told him they must “obey [his] rules” when using the space.
Physical Altercation Caught on Camera
Tensions escalated between the residents when the elderly neighbour reportedly obstructed access to Garnet’s bin with a temporary fence. In response, Garnet recorded himself removing the wire fencing and cutting a rosebush on his property using a circular saw.
The situation escalated when Grayson confronted Garnet as he worked on the fence. Video footage shows Grayson threatening to use a circular saw against Garnet, before kicking and punching him in the groin.
Garnet described the attack as surprising and troubling, though he said the physical harm was minimal.
The footage has since gone viral, sparking widespread commentary about property disputes and neighbourly relationships in Sydney’s inner suburbs.
Legal Ambiguity Fuels Conflict
The ownership of the disputed easement remains unclear, a common issue in older areas like Redfern, where laneways and easements date back over a century. Some terrace properties have easement rights listed on their titles, while others do not.
Garnet explained that his property’s title includes a small section of the laneway, but Grayson’s does not. However, Grayson is accused of using the space as if it were his own for decades, leading to multiple disputes over access and usage.
The City of Sydney has refused to take sides, maintaining that the laneway should be shared among all residents. This neutral stance has left the neighbours to resolve their differences on their own.
Legal Consequences and Community Impact
Following the altercation, officials from the South Sydney Police Area Command responded to the location. Grayson has been charged with common assault and has appeared at the Downing Centre Local Court. He has not been reachable for comment since the incident. Garnet expressed hope for a resolution but noted that the ongoing tension has made cohabitation difficult.
Published 14-January-2025
