Over the football Grand Final weekend (5-7 September 2025), a video that allegedly targeted and degraded Aboriginal people in a way that was offensive and harmful was shared on social media.
Gippsland & East Gippsland Aboriginal Co-operative (GEGAC), Moogji Aboriginal Council, Yoowinna Wurnalung Aboriginal Healing Service, Lakes Entrance Aboriginal Health Association (LEAHA), Lake Tyers Health and Children’s Service, Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC), Ramahyuck District Aboriginal Corporation, and the Lake Tyers Aboriginal Trust are calling out this behaviour.
In a meeting held this week, the Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and Traditional Owner Groups condemned the racism. These actions cause real harm and reinforce the ongoing discrimination experienced by First Nations Peoples.
While the behaviour appears to have involved only a few individuals, the impact has been widespread. Targeting and degrading Aboriginal people in this way is deeply offensive, harmful, and will never be tolerated.
This has caused hurt and anger. We encourage community members to support one another. Healing will come through unity, respect, and culturally safe, community-led supports.
“Today, on R U OK? Day, we say clearly: no, we as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are not okay,” said Kenton Winsley, CEO of GEGAC, speaking on behalf of the collective organisations. “The hurt caused by racism is ongoing in the region and across the country. The attacks against First Nations Peoples must stop.”
The organisations added: “We have sent a letter to the club’s leadership requesting a meeting to discuss constructive steps forward, including cultural education and greater accountability. As a collective, we will continue to work together to ensure racism is confronted wherever it occurs.”