A NSW man accused of a "coward punch" outside a Civic nightclub said he was "just looking out for a mate".
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Jade McFeeters, 28, was released on strict bail conditions after appearing before the ACT Magistrates Court on Saturday morning charged with affray.
The Yass man was arrested on Saturday morning after an altercation outside Mooseheads Pub and Nightclub on London Circuit just before 3am.
Police allege McFeeters punched another man who was walking away from him, with officers intervening.
When asked whether he understood the charge, McFeeters replied that "I was just looking out for a mate".
The question was repeated to him, after which the defendant replied he did understand the nature of the affray charge against him.
The prosecution indicated the charge could be upgraded from affray to assault and opposed bail, pointing to a number of charges for violent offences against McFeeters in the late 2000s.
The most recent violent incident happened in 2008, but prosecutors argued the history "shows disregard for any of the allegations against him".
But magistrate Peter Dingwall said none of the relevant charges were recent, noting the latest alleged offence was a drug driving charge last year.
"[The bail consideration report] gives the impression there's a recent offence... there are none," he said.
Mr Dingwall granted McFeeters bail on the condition he stay out of the area encompassing Braddon, Reid and Acton during night-time hours and provide a $2000 surety.
The defendant is also barred from being intoxicated anywhere in the ACT as part of his bail conditions.
The matter returns to court on May 16. McFeeters has not yet entered a plea.
