- Two commentators were suspended
- An alleged racist comment was made on air
- An investigation into the incident has been launched.
A pair of Toowoomba Rugby League commentators have been suspended pending an investigation into alleged racist comments made on air.
Commentator Andrew O’Brien has been accused of using a “mock Aboriginal accent” while commentating on the Premier League match between Dalby Diehards and Pittsworth Danes on June 30.
The comments have sparked an investigation into a possible breach of the code of conduct.
During the game, O’Brien was heard saying: “I’m fine, bro, you play the ball” before commentator Anthony Breeze asked: “Is that how he talks? He’s a white guy.”
O’Brien responds: “No, that’s how I talk.”
On TRL’s Facebook page, the game’s audio has been edited to mute the controversial moment.
The league confirmed it was investigating the matter after a report was submitted by the Queensland Rugby League Positive Environment Program.
‘The Toowoomba Rugby League (TRL) confirms that the organisation is investigating an incident which occurred during the A Grade match between Pittsworth and Dalby.
‘It has been alleged that the TRL call-in team’s broadcast violated the Code of Conduct, including that one commentator used a ‘mock Native American accent’ during the broadcast.
Two commentators were suspended after an alleged racist comment
Andrew O’Brien (left) reportedly used a ‘mock indigenous accent’ while commentating alongside Anthony Breeze (right)
‘A QRL Positive Environment Program Incident Report was filed, resulting in TRL initiating an investigation.
‘The commentators involved have been removed from the TRL call-in team pending the outcome of the investigation.
‘In addition, one of the commentators, who is also a director on TRL’s board of directors, has been removed from the TRL board of directors pending the outcome of the investigation.
‘The Queensland Rugby League (QRL) is cooperating with the TRL’s process.
‘While it is very disappointing to hear about this incident, we have robust procedures and policies in place to address these matters across the game.
‘There is no place for racist behaviour in sport or in society in general.
Racism in all its forms must be denounced.
‘While each individual brings their own views and behaviours to sporting environments, rugby league as a whole continues to make our expectations clear when you enter our environment.
“Where individuals or clubs fail to meet these expectations, we will be unequivocal in the sanctions we impose.”