Statement: QRL responds to junior incident

Queensland Rugby League managing director Robert Moore has today provided an update on Rugby League Brisbane’s (RLB) initial disciplinary outcomes following an incident in a junior match last Sunday.

Moore said due to the serious nature of the incident, a specialised local team was formed immediately to gather early reports and work with both the Logan Brothers and Wynnum Manly clubs, as well as the relevant authorities.

In addition, Moore confirmed the following:

• RLB this week appointed a three-person disciplinary tribunal to thoroughly investigate and respond to all aspects of the incident – this includes investigating aspects of the incident that are not relevant to police matters but relevant to QRL Rules and the Code of Conduct; these investigations are ongoing
• Logan Brothers agreed to stand down its Under 13 team this weekend, in the best interests of its members, while investigations are ongoing
• Four men are suspended indefinitely from attending rugby league matches while police charges are pending
• All reports indicate that the incident was not related to any activity conducted on the field by the participating teams

Moore also acknowledged the swift action taken by Queensland Police Service members, who were called to the Kitchener Park ground.

“Like many others who watched the video, we were appalled by the shocking scenes that unfolded,” Moore said.

“It’s just not good enough – and people need to be held to account for their actions which is why RLB, with ongoing support from the QRL, is devoting all of its available resources and many hours to the investigation in line with our rules and code of conduct.”

Moore commended both clubs for their co-operation to date in providing assistance with the RLB and police investigations.

Moore said the incident had thrust the behaviour of sporting parents and spectators into the spotlight, and reinforced the importance of the Play Well Triple P program which was launched last month.

The program provides parents with practical tips and strategies to help children enjoy their ongoing participation in rugby league, and is available to all parents in the south east, Queensland’s biggest participation base.

In RLB alone, there are more than 5200 fixtures per season and approximately 370 games each weekend.