It was a case of ‘what might have bin’ for a gregarious Melbourne inmate who unsuccessfully attempted to escape by hiding amongst the prison’s rubbish.

Facing trial for theft charges relating to an antique stealing spree earlier this year, Warren Bridgewater told a Magistrate’s Court his daring ploy involved an eight-hour stint in a garbage bin.

But before wardens could take out the trash, Bridgewater was discovered by a search party and returned to his cell.

Later compared to zany Steve ‘The Crocodile Hunter’ Irwin by his defence lawyer, Bridgewater claimed the breakout attempt was made because he feared fellow inmates did not appreciate “happy people” in their midst.

“He comes across in personality as having a similar amount of energy as Steve Irwin,” the lawyer said. “He had a bit of trouble [in prison] in terms of being threatened by a couple of individuals.”

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