Judge Martin Blackmore yesterday described the attack on Mr Mandeville as “incredibly serious” after having a colour photograph of his horrific injuries tendered as part of the prosecution case against Zach-Michael Pendergast and two juveniles.

“They should carry that photo with them in their pockets,” Judge Blackmore said.

“You cannot get away from the fact they did it.

“I have no doubt they are all shocked by what they did.

“It led to this young man being maimed for life.”

Pendergast, 19, a youth, 17, and girl, 16, appeared in the District Court at Albury for sentencing on charges of recklessly causing grievous bodily harm in company.

The two juvenile offenders also face charges of affray, with Pendergast charged with assault and damage of property.

Judge Blackmore made his comments after ruling the girl would be dealt with according to law and receive a period in custody for her involvement despite being on bail since last year.

“In fact she is going into custody today,” Judge Blackmore said after the prosecution evidence was tendered over the attack on Mr Mandeville, 32, in South Albury on March 8 last year.

But there was no victim impact statement among the tendered material and Mr Mandeville did not attend court.

Crown prosecutor Gary Corr described the incident as “a continuing attack” and Mr Mandeville was trying to get away when attacked a second time.

There was considerable damage caused by Pendergast to a valuable bicycle which was then used to cause injuries to Mr Mandeville.

“In this case, the bicycle was converted into a weapon,” Mr Corr said.

He claimed there was no immediate remorse by them, saying: “They ran from the scene leaving the victim lying in his blood on the ground.”

Mr Corr said the offenders were fortunate Mr Mandeville was treated so quickly.

He had difficulty breathing and surgical intervention was needed to save him.

He suffered a broken nose, fractured cheekbone and facial reconstruction was required with permanent damage to his face.

Mr Corr said there was a requirement for general deterrence with the sentencing imposed and the youth was on parole when he committed the offence.

Judge Blackmore has adjourned sentencing until next Friday.