CATTERY LIFE BAN
Police warning ahead of home game: Play up at K-Park and there’s no coming back
DRUNK, abusive and violent footy fans could be banned from the Cattery for life as police launch a zero-tolerance crackdown at GMHBA stadium.
Officers have warned they will eject and ban violent fans at Kardinia Park after a spate of “unacceptable” altercations in the stands at the stadium last week.
Geelong Local Area Commander Acting Inspector Shane Madigan said police had met with stadium operators, security providers and the AFL to ensure strong public order enforcement at this Saturday’s clash between the Cats and the Brisbane Lions. Three violent incidents at last week’s Geelong versus Melbourne clash are still being investigated.
DRUNK, abusive and violent football fans could be banned from the Cattery for life as police launch a zero-tolerance crackdown on anti-social behaviour at GMHBA stadium.
Police have warned they will eject and ban violent fans at Kardinia Park after a spate of “unacceptable” altercations in stands at the stadium last week.
Geelong Local Area Commander Acting Inspector Shane Madigan said police had met with stadium operators, security providers and the AFL to ensure strong public order enforcement at this Sat- urday’s clash between the Cats and the Brisbane Lions.
Officers are still investigating three violent incidents that marred a cliffhanger match between Geelong and Melbourne last Saturday.
“There’s been a lot of work done with stadium management, security and Victoria Police to ensure there will be a stable environment for fans this weekend,” Inspector Madigan said.
“The vast majority of fans are there to support their team and enjoy themselves responsibly. “Those that do the wrong thing will be ejected and we will ban them from the stadium.
“Under the major events act anti-social spectators could be banned from Kardinia Park.”
In May, an AFL fan allegedly involved in a brawl at Etihad Stadium became the first person permanently banned from the sporting venue.
Inspector Madigan said police ejected one fan from Kardinia Park after poor behaviour on Saturday. Officers are investigating an alleged assault, while CIU detectives are probing a highly publicised post-siren brawl between Melbourne and Geelong supporters.
One man has handed himself in to a Melbourne police station on Monday after disturbing footage of a post- match brawl between Geelong and Melbourne fans was aired through media channels on Sunday.
While no charges have been laid, police will talk to the man and are appealing for anyone who witnessed the brawl, captured footage or was involved to come forward.
Kardinia Park Stadium Trust chief executive Michael Brown had floated the idea of segregating fans but AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan ruled out such a move.
Mr Brown said the trust was focused on ensuring a safe environment for all spectators.
He could not outline if Kardinia Park was introducing beefed-up security at this weekend’s match but said the trust fully supported the assistance of Victoria Police during “difficult times”.
“The primary objective of the trust is to ensure the safety and security of all at GMHBA Stadium,” Mr Brown said.
“We reiterate the behaviour that we saw from a small number of patrons at last Saturday night’s game was unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
“The Trust fully supports the Victorian police and everything they do for the stadium in difficult times.”
Anyone who has video footage of last weekend’s altercation is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.