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."

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