Paul Griffin, 55, was at the Ettamogah Pub in Kellyville Ridge with friends on Tuesday night when he was allegedly assaulted by another man around 8pm.

On arrival, police were told a man had allegedly punched Mr Griffin before leaving the scene.

Mr Griffin was treated by paramedics at the scene before being taken to Westmead Hospital with serious injuries where he continues to fight for his life.

The alleged attacker, a 43-year-old man, was arrested on Wednesday morning at a house in Glendenning, about 12km south-west of the pub.

During the search of a property in Plumpton, police allegedly discovered 36 cannabis plants and a hydroponic plant. The police confiscated a number of objects for forensic examination.

The 43-year-old man was taken to Riverstone Police Station where he was charged with grievous bodily harm and cultivation of a prohibited plant.

He is due to appear at Blacktown Local Court later on Thursday after being refused bail.

It had earlier been reported that the pair knew each other, however police are to say the two men did not know each other.

Mr Griffin was described as “a huge supporter of sport and local business” in the Hills district, with 2GB’s Ray Hadley revealing on Wednesday that he was in a “very serious” condition following the attack.

Aged 55, he is the senior football co-ordinator for the Hills Bulls Rugby League Club.

He was honored for his contribution to sport and recreation in the local community awards this year, The Daily Telegraph reported.

The man’s friends have reached out on his social media as they wish him a speedy recovery.

“Sending my prayers to you Paul and your family for a speedy and full recovery,” one posted.

“Paul please stop by. The news is awful. Every news channel. You are so loved by so many. I can’t imagine what your family is going through. Funniest fun loving guy,” said another.