The man hailed as the Bondi Beach hero has pleaded not guilty. A sharp contrast to the US system. The Commonwealth justice machine grinds slowly but deliberately.
Sources say the plea was expected. The defence is building a case around context. The prosecution?
They're sticking to the letter of the law. This is a test of Australia's judicial independence from American-style populism. Backroom whispers suggest pressure from certain quarters to make an example.
But the DPP is holding firm. The accused's legal team is playing the long game. They know the burden of proof is heavy.
The gallery is packed with journalists and curious onlookers. The judge's body language suggests a no-nonsense approach. This will be a marathon, not a sprint.
The contrast with the US cannot be overstated. Here, due process is sacred. No grandstanding.
No cameras in the courtroom. The verdict will be delivered with a straight face. Political fallout?
Minimal for now. But the opposition is sharpening its knives. If the verdict surprises, expect questions about the Attorney-General's discretion.
For now, the system holds. The hero remains on bail. His next court date is set for late March.
