Justen Far, 28, had been in the gaming room of the Hotel Canobolas when his behaviour attracted the attention of the worker, who was doing a walk-through of the gaming area at 9.50pm on December 3.

According to police, Far was on the phone and having a heated discussion with someone else when, during the conversation, he punched a poker machine without causing damage.

The male worker saw him punch the machine so he approached Far and tried to speak to him.

Far was holding his phone to his ear with his right hand with his elbow at an angle and struck the worker in the chest causing pain.

He then pushed the worker up against a wall with his elbow and said, "what are you going to to? If you want a go, I'll hit you".

The hotel worker managed to get away and notified another staff member to stay away from Far and contacted police who arrived shortly afterwards and arrested Far who appeared to be moderately affected by alcohol, and was combative and aggressive.

The police handcuffed him and escorted him outside but contacted an ambulance when he complained of chest pain.

Far was taken to Orange Hospital before police could interview him and get his address. Far appeared in court on Wednesday.

Magistrate David Day said being intoxicated was no excuse for the behaviour and he convicted Far and fined him $550 for the assault noting there was no battery.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: