Gangland man fined

A MEMBER of an infamous gangland family has copped a massive fine after being found with steroids, four flick knives and two sets of knuckle dusters.

Harley Barbaro, the brother of murdered Sydney underworld boss Pasquale Barbaro, was fined $3600 after pleading guilty in the Southport Magistrates Court yesterday to two counts of possessing a weapon and one count each of possessing dangerous drugs and possessing tainted property.

Barbaro’s barrister Marty Longhurst, of Moloney MacCallum Abdelshahied Lawyers, said police found the items as they approached him “often” to conduct searches.

“No doubt because of his infectious personality,” he said.

Mr Longhurst said Barbaro had got the drugs at the gym due to his obsession with fitness and the Coast’s “vanity”.

Mr Longhurst said Barbaro worked between 50 and 60 hours a week in the transport industry.

The 26-year-old came to prominence after being the first person to challenge the state government’s new consorting laws.

Earlier this month Barbaro was found not guilty of consorting, raising questions about the future of the laws.

Barbaro will face court again on April 16 for refusing to give police access to his mobile phone.