RDFNL Tribunal Hearing Update - September 1st

The Riddell District Football Netball League (RDFNL) provides the following statement regarding the Independent Tribunal proceedings involving Wallan Football Netball Club player.

The RDFNL Independent Tribunal has considered the matter on two occasions this week.

At the initial hearing, the Wallan player was found guilty of misconduct and a penalty was imposed. Following consideration of that penalty, the RDFNL exercised its right to appeal the Tribunal’s decision on the basis that the penalty did not, in the League’s view, appropriately reflect the seriousness of the conduct before the Tribunal. 

The appeal hearing was scheduled to take place on Thursday, 3 September. However, the hearing was postponed following concerns raised by the independent tribunal regarding the timelines of the appeal notification and the conduct and approach of the Wallan FNC advocate during the proceedings.

The RDFNL is confident that it complied with the relevant requirements in relation to the lodging and notification of its appeal and that all parties were afforded appropriate procedural fairness and therefore the case will remain open.

The League respects the independence of the Tribunal process and will allow the Tribunal to determine the matter in accordance with its established procedures. The RDFNL will also continue to ensure that its own processes are conducted appropriately and fairly.

As a result of the postponement, the Wallan player is currently available to play this weekend. The matter remains before the Independent Tribunal and will be heard at the earliest available opportunity.

The original charge relates to an incident in which the Wallan player left the field of play and engaged with a spectator. The RDFNL is not condoning the actions of either party involved in that incident and considers the circumstances disappointing, particularly given the otherwise positive nature of the football match.

During the course of the matter, the RDFNL has been made aware of an allegation of racial vilification. That allegation is being treated as a separate matter, with the League awaiting a response from Wallan FNC before determining the appropriate next steps.

The RDFNL acknowledges that this has been a significant and challenging week for all involved. The League also recognises that Wallan FNC is preparing for an important preliminary final against Riddell this weekend and hopes the focus can return to the football.

The RDFNL reminds all players, officials, clubs and supporters that community football must be conducted in an environment of respect, accountability and appropriate behaviour.

The RDFNL has deliberately chosen not to further inflame the circumstances surrounding this matter through public commentary or media speculation. Given the sensitive nature of the allegations and the processes that remain ongoing, the League believes it is important that all parties, including clubs, players, officials and members of the media, approach the matter respectfully and responsibly.

The RDFNL encourages all involved to allow the appropriate processes to take place and to exercise care when discussing allegations that have not yet been determined.

The League will continue to follow its established processes and will provide further information when it is appropriate to do so.