A spectator from a Toowoomba Rugby League (TRL) game has been handed a 10-year ban from rugby league after a racial slur was caught on camera at a match west of Toowoomba.
The TRL disciplinary tribunal convened in relation to the complaint, which was directed at a player from the opposing team during an A-Grade Pittsworth versus Gatton match on August 7.
An individual was charged with conduct "which is or is likely to bring the game into disrepute" and "breaching any material terms of the National Rugby League (NRL) code of conduct".
The individual pleaded guilty to both charges and read a prepared statement where he made an unreserved apology to the clubs, the TRL, the Queensland Rugby League (QRL), and the game of rugby league, as well as offering his regret to those who have been offended by his comment.
Chairman of the TRL Joe Hannant said the game would not tolerate any discriminatory behaviour.
"We can't walk away from racial content; we just don't tolerate anything like that. It was a long tribunal meeting, everything was taken into account and that was the decision that came about," Mr Hannant said.
"This does set a benchmark, and it's a bit of a warning out there if anyone's thinking about doing this at any games or any sport or anywhere in the community, no-one's going to tolerate this anymore.
"It has been distressing and there's been a lot of time and effort put in with regards to the TRL and everyone trying to look at this and try and make something better."
Education needed
The judiciary, which was made up of several members of the wider rugby league community, took into consideration the person's previous involvement in rugby league, their "general good standing in their local community" and their remorse.
He will be required to complete a cultural awareness program nominated by the QRL Indigenous Advisory Committee prior to returning to the game.
Co-chair of the QRL's Indigenous Advisory Committee Eddie Monaei said education was key in moving forward.
"In terms of how we advocate for change, it starts from within, and we'll lead that from a QRL perspective, to ensure that our clubs and regional localities have that education and are well supported, and well grounded within our game moving forward," Mr Monaei said.
"We are the leaders of that reconciliation chain. Any sort of training, any sort of support that we can do internally to build the capability of our clubs at a regional level, is what we will do.
"If racism is illegal, which it is, then why is it everywhere?"
Players react
When local player Anna Dingley — who is of Torres Strait Island heritage — heard the remark, she was unsurprised.
After experiencing racism on the football field herself, she said the penalty handed down was reasonable.
"To be honest, most people probably won't think it's a fair penalty, but I hope that person can take the consequences. You reap what you sow," Ms Dingley said.
"Words do hurt, even if you don't hear it firsthand.
"I hope the person can take it more positively, just to have time to recognise the actions and obviously the consequences with it."
She said further education about the Indigenous culture would benefit the community, on and off the field.
"I think it's never too late to learn about the Indigenous culture, and just taking that step towards closing the gap by having an open mind.
"I think we can look into it and see what the best way is to move forward.
"It doesn't have to be in a footy environment, just in your every day-to-day life, because you never know what someone else is going through."
