James Packer, friend hauled up for punch-up

Australian billionaire and gaming baron James Packer and a childhood friend have been issued with criminal infringement notices following a punch-up at Bondi Beach here, media reported Friday.

Packer and David Gyngell, chief executive officer of Channel Nine, were captured by a photographer physically attacking each other outside Packer's beachside mansion Sunday morning following escalating tensions between the two long-time friends, the Sydney Morning Herald reported Friday.

Police have launched an investigation.

Neither Packer nor Gyngell has made a formal complaint.

Gyngell, however, admitted this week that he was the instigator and had waited outside Packer's house for the billionaire to arrive home from Sydney airport, the report said.

The fight was allegedly sparked by a text message over a Channel Nine van which was parked outside Packer's house.

Packer wrongly believed there was a news crew in the van.

Police said Friday they had issued the two men with a criminal infringement notices for offensive behaviour.

The penalty carries a maximum of three months in jail. If uncontested, the fine is $500 and no conviction will be recorded.