Police are hunting for the perpetrator of an alleged gay hate attack which left a man with a crushed front tooth and facial injuries.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Paul - who does not want his surname published - was leaving a Crown Street nightclub just after 3.20am on Saturday with friends when a group of men started yelling at him.
"As we were walking away they started screaming out 'faggot' and things that were derogatory," he said.
"I ignored it but one of the guys I was with said: 'You shouldn't have to put up with this' and started telling them off."
Before he knew what was happening, Paul and his friend were attacked.
During the assault, Paul, was kicked in the face.
"I don't remember much of it," the 26-year-old said.
"One of my teeth had to be surgically removed, it shattered inside my gum. Another tooth was chipped. My top lip is swollen and bloodied, I have a black eye and it looks like it's full of blood, it's impaired my vision."
Except for medical appointments, Paul has not left his home since the weekend.
He has lived in Wollongong for three years and had never encountered the hate he endured last weekend.
"I never thought this type of [thing] would happen in Wollongong," he said.
Police were called following the attack and are now investigating the matter.
Paul appealed to anyone who could assist police with their inquiries as he is keen for his attacker to be brought to justice.
Anyone with information about the incident can contact Wollongong police on 4226 7899 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.