AN ALLEGED racial incident at Ian Walton Rugby Park, Crescent Head, on July 17 is under investigation after Port Macquarie Pirates player Corey Tutt said he was called a "half-caste ****" by an unidentified spectator.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Mr Tutt is a Kamilaroi man and former NSW Young Australian of the Year, who said he has worn Indigenous designed headgear for the past three years.
"It happened before (my game) whilst I was on my own," he told NITV News.
"There were players around but they didn't hear it and I trust them on that."
He also said he'd quit rugby union the next day, in response to the incident.
The Kempsey Cannonballs rugby union football club said they were advised yesterday evening by the Port Macquarie Pirates about the alleged racial abuse.
In a statement, the club said they'd contacted Mr Tutt and apologised.
"We are continuing to investigate the incident and have escalated to NSW Rugby and await advice," they stated.
The club believes the individual responsible has no connection to the Cannonballs.
Mr Tutt said he had nothing but love and respect for Kempsey.
"I want to make it clear it's not a reflection on the Kempsey Cannonballs or their club, they're really great guys and I love playing against them," he told the Argus.
"They're always welcome at my place anytime, I love them to bits."
Also making the news
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content:
- Bookmark our website
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines newsletters
- Follow us on Twitter: @macleayargus
- Follow us on Instagram: @macleayargus