Jaye Lee Walton, aged 42, appeared in Ipswich Magistrates Court today after being accused of domestic violence-related manslaughter regarding the death of seven-month-old Reef Hunter Walton.

The baby boy drowned on July 12 at a campsite near Gympie, north of Brisbane.

Police said Walton failed to provide a breath sample for alcohol testing.

Read said he opposed bail due to Walton’s alleged actions in custody.

“Remanding him would be for his own protection … when he was told the child was deceased he said ‘there is nothing else left’,” Read said.

Read said Walton had performed an act of self-harm while in the police interview room.

Butler said Walton had been described as a “loving father” and the alleged incident could be related to alcohol use or lack of sleep.

“(His partner) described his relationship with his son as amazing. He was his first son, he was his little mate,” Butler said.

Walker refused bail and ordered the case next be mentioned on August 4 at Gympie Magistrates Court.