A veteran will serve at least 18 months in gaol after being found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm over the assault of his neighbour at a Cairns veterans housing complex.

The incident occurred on 3 July, 2018, when the 73-year-old repeatedly assaulted a fellow veteran at the facility, causing multiple broken ribs and other injuries.

After two days of deliberation, the jury found the veteran guilty.

Judge Dean Morzone sentenced him to four years behind bars, with the possibility of parole in July 2022, but noted the man’s distinguished service prior.

“You were surely a hero but you returned to your home country broken,” Judge Morzone said.

“It’s time you do your darnedest, that you work through matters that have been too painful.”