Ethan Geebung, 23, of Commercial Road, unsuccessfully applied for bail in Warrnambool Magistrates Court again yesterday after being charged with drug trafficking, possession and use and dealing in the proceeds of crime. 

He was remanded in custody until June 11.

Senior Constable Ross Patton, of Warrnambool police, told the court yesterday that further investigations into the seized phone showed Mr Geebung had been trafficking drugs to between 30 and 40 people.

Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service solicitor Nick Button said it was alleged his client was involved in a high-level drug operation and he could be vulnerable in custody.

Mr Geebung’s mother Tracey Mahoney said her son had got caught up with the wrong crowd and he started drug dealing to support his ice habit.

She said she knew he was in trouble when he didn’t come to Christmas lunch and she saw her son smoke ice at her home. Ms Mahoney said her son missed his siblings and his four children, and his stepfather had committed suicide while in jail.

While saying she was willing to have him at her home, Ms Mahoney said her son last lived with her when he was 14 years old.

“I don’t think custody was a good thing for him at all. He’s depressed and suicidal.

“Twelve months ago he was a good dad. We can all help him,” she said.

Mr Geebung’s former partner Natalie Gilbert said she ended their relationship because of his behaviour and the people with whom he was associating.

“I was horrified with the danger he was bringing around his children and the choices he was making,” she said.

Mr Geebung has no prior convictions.

In opposing bail, police prosecutor Senior Constable Nathan Brown said Mr Geebung’s complete involvement in a drug ring was shown by his willingness to try to source a firearm.

He said the accused had lost almost $10,000 of the syndicate’s money and police had fears for his safety and that of his family members.

Magistrate John Lesser remanded Mr Geebung, saying the evidence against him was strong and the trafficking at a very high level.