A man charged with the murder of his 74-year-old wife "made full and detailed admissions", police have told a Sydney court.
NSW Police allege Steven Barker, 74, murdered his wife, Christine Barker, following an alleged domestic violence-related incident in Bronte on Thursday night.
The accused made his first appearance in court today.
Sergeant Nicole McMahon told Waverley Court Mr Barker's alleged admissions were captured on police body-worn cameras.
Officers were called to a home on Bronte Road about 6pm on Thursday after receiving a report concerning the woman's welfare.
They arrived to find the 74-year-old woman outside with critical injuries.
Police and paramedics helped the woman before she was taken to St Vincent's Hospital, where she died shortly after.
Mr Barker was arrested and taken to Waverley Police Station, where he was charged with murder.
In court today, he appeared in a blue forensic jumpsuit with a large bruise under one eye.
Mr Barker's lawyer, Matthew Bogunovich, said that the charge apparently followed an "unravelling of the relationship at home" and sought release on bail for his client on two grounds, citing a lack of un unacceptable risks and the hardship Mr Barker would experience in prison.
Mr Bogunovich told the court his client had a long marriage to his wife and "is not a risk" to others.
He added that Mr Barker has no experience of the prison environment and is "vulnerable for that reason".
Mr Bogunovich conceded that the "injuries to himself" and "blood on his clothing" make it clear there is a "likelihood of full time imprisonment" for Mr Barker if he is convicted.
Magistrate Clare Farnan refused, stating "the case against him is extremely strong".
A neighbour who lives on the same street, David Bullock, walked past the scene this morning.
"We heard all the ambulances and sirens last night when we were getting ready to go to bed," he said.
Another neighbour Sarah Littman said she was in "pure shock".
"You don't expect to see this on your morning walk, it's just so sad. I'm a bit speechless to be honest," she said.
Mr Barker will next appear in court on November 8.
