A Walgett Shire councillor has been charged with allegedly assaulting a female staff member at a bowling club.

Shortly after 9pm on August 22, 2025, police attended the Lightning Ridge Bowling Club following reports a 72-year-old man had allegedly assaulted a 31-year-old woman working at the premises.

Alf Seaton was charged on October 27 with common assault and behaviour in an offensive manner in a public place.

Cr Seaton was first elected to Walgett Shire Council in 2021 and re-elected last year.

Cr Seaton's solicitor Paul McGirr said his client would be stepping down from his duties as a councillor while investigations into the incident continued.

"In procedural fairness, he's chosen to stand down until the matter is finalised," Mr McGirr said.

"He'll be vigorously defending the ch

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