The assault of two elderly people outside their home in the Upper Hunter was a "very low act", police say.
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The hunt was continuing on Tuesday for a woman who allegedly put Tom and Rosemary Lavelle, both aged in their 80s, in hospital on Australia Day night.
Police said the couple were taking rubbish to the bin outside their home in Guernsey Street, Scone, about 10pm on Sunday when a woman - not believed to be known to them - allegedly began verbally abusing them from across the road.
The woman then approached the pair and assaulted them in front of their home, police said.
She allegedly punched Mr Lavelle to the ground and kicked him in the head and body.
The attacker also allegedly pushed Mrs Lavelle to the ground.
Mr and Mrs Lavelle were treated at the scene before being taken to Maitland Hospital in a stable condition suffering cuts, grazes and bruising.
On Tuesday, investigators launched a public appeal for information that could lead to the arrest of the alleged culprit.
Read more: Police and court news
Hunter Valley Police District Inspector Justina Gorgievski told the Newcastle Herald investigators had not ruled anything in or out, including the prospect of the attacker being drug affected at the time.
And it was not yet clear whether the woman was local to Scone or was passing through town.
Inspector Gorgievski said the attack happened "very quickly" and the assailant fled the scene before any other witnesses arrived.
She said the couple were "shaken up" but seemed grateful to have escaped the ordeal without severe injuries.
"I think anybody should feel safe in their home," Inspector Gorgievski said.
"But I think particularly our older community members and vulnerable community members - we should be looking after them.
"It's a very low act to attack a couple in their 80s."
Anyone with information that could help police can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Scone Police Station.
Tips can be left anonymously using the Crime Stoppers phone line.
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