Police allege Yury Skrynnik, 53, attacked the 69-year-old frontman of band DV8, Greg Bryce, from behind near the entrance to Merewether Bowling Club on Sunday night, allegedly stabbing him with a knife five times in the chest and back while he packed up musical equipment.
The incident occurred on March 22 after Bryce finished his performance at the venue. A doctor at the club was able to render assistance while police and paramedics were alerted just after 7:30pm. Bryce was taken to hospital in a serious but stable condition.
Police allege Skrynnik left the scene before officers arrived, but was arrested at a home in Stockton, in Newcastle's north, early on Monday morning, and was arrested at Stockton just after 1:30am on Monday, March 23. He was charged with attempt murder related to domestic violence, and contravening a prohibition or restriction in an apprehended violence order.
Police allege Skrynnik's former partner was in a domestic relationship with Bryce at the time of the attack and there was an apprehended violence order in place. Defence solicitor Donna Smith said in bail court on Monday that Skrynnik would not make an application for release, and his matter was adjourned to Newcastle Local Court in May.
Bryce is the frontman of local band DV8 and also performs as a solo artist. He has been a popular performer on the Newcastle music scene for more than four decades and has performed in bands Zigzag, All Without a Spacesuit, Hot Yogis and Meccalissa.
Founding member of The Screaming Jets, Grant Walmsley, described Bryce as "like a big brother" and said "Greg is literally one of the most beautiful people in the world." Walmsley said he had spoken to Bryce and his family and said he was "doing okay", and that his family were grateful for well-wishes but asked for privacy.
Club Merewether confirmed that an incident took place outside the venue on Sunday night and said the club is cooperating fully with authorities.