By Luke Voogt
Police have fined two men over an ugly brawl allegedly involving a glassing at GMHBA Stadium during Saturday night’s Cats game.
Children cried as a man bled from the alleged glassing attack in Stella Artois Lounge, according to reports earlier this week.
Police confirmed Geelong Crime Investigation Unit was investigating an incident involving a number of males at the licensed premises but declined to provide further details.
Police issued a 27-year-old man from Bannockburn and 37-year-old man from Armstrong Creek with penalty notices for riotous behaviour, a spokesperson said.
Witnesses also reported disorderly fans punching and kicking a car after the game.
Police investigated the incident but “upon attending the scene no offence was detected,” a spokesperson said.
Geelong Football Club warned fans they could lose their membership for violent or inappropriate behaviour.
The club had revoked or suspended memberships in the past where appropriate under its constitution, a spokesperson said.
“Once these incidents have been reviewed, our club will determine what, if any, further action is appropriate.”
Kardinia Park Stadium Trust was also investigating the incidents, acting chief executive officer Natalie Valentine said.
“The Kardinia Park Stadium Trust’s primary objective is to ensure the safety and security of all patrons and therefore, we take unacceptable crowd behaviour very seriously.”
Ms Valentine said the trust would continue to work with the licensees to uphold strict rules and regulations.
The trust was working with Victoria Police and the AFL’s Integrity Unit to review the stadium’s security arrangements and procedures, she added.
North West Metro Region Acting Commander David Clayton on Sunday said police would bolster their presence at football games this weekend.
He warned violent fans could face not only criminal charges but also bans of two years from licenced premises.
“The vast majority (of fans) support their teams and enjoy themselves in an atmosphere of safety and responsibly,” he said.
“Unfortunately on occasion there are a few individuals who choose to do the wrong thing, and that’s what we’ve seen take place in recent weeks.
“Let it be clear – police will not tolerate any poor behaviour at sporting matches and people will be held accountable for their actions.”
