Sport Confidential: Broncos prop Martin Taupau reveals details of Australia Day racist attack

A Brisbane Broncos veteran has revealed he was the victim of an Australia Day racist attack, joining the growing list of NRL players to speak publicly about racism. See the details in Sport Confidential.

Broncos prop Marty Taupau has revealed he was the victim of an Australia Day racist attack and has launched a crusade to tackle vilification.

Taupau has become the latest in a growing list of NRL players like Latrell Mitchell and Ezra Mam to speak publicly about racism.

A 255-game NRL veteran, Taupau has played Test football for New Zealand and Samoa and is preparing for his third season with the Broncos.

Taupau and wife Michelle have started speakers’ bureau and talent management agency DSRUPTRS, with the aim of tackling various issues in society.

Speaking on The Little Fish Podcast, Taupau said he had been racially abused on Australia Day.

“I still can’t believe it (racism) happens to this day,” he said.

Brisbane's Martin Taupau has revealed he was the victim of a racist attack. Picture: NRL Imagery

“I remember a couple of years ago, ironically on Australia Day, we had just got our puppy and went down to the park with the kids. We were having a nice stroll and there was this other dog that got a bit chirpy with our dog and I said (to the other dog owner) ‘can you please get your dog away?’

“We went back and forth and I said ‘look, relax, what the f**k is going on?’ and she said ‘go back to where you came from’.

“Why on all days, Australia Day, would you say that? I will never forget that and that really hurt.

“There were so many things I wanted to do, but what’s the point of reacting when you have your kids and family there? It’s not setting a good example.

“I believe I am pretty thick skinned, I have been in this game a long time, I have copped a lot of criticism.

Martin Taupau and his wife Michelle have started speakers’ bureau and talent management agency DSRUPTRS, with the aim of tackling various issues in society. Picture: Russell Freeman/Getty Images

“But when it came to that specific (racial) comment, it was like, it didn’t really hit me at first. I sat around and then mentioned it to Michelle and she lost her shit and I thought if I don’t say anything or act on this, that person will think it’s OK.”

The NRL has become embroiled in a number of racism scandals involving players, spectators and online trolls.

Taupau, 34, said he wanted to help victims of racism.

“For the people who get racial slurs thrown at them, the best thing is to surround yourself with good people and make you feel safe,” he said.

“It will help get that hate off your shoulder and you can express it to your safe group.

“I internalise a lot of that, but my wife is the safe person for me.

“You get comments of support to ease the pain and that can empower the next generation.”

Originally published as Sport Confidential: Broncos prop Martin Taupau reveals details of Australia Day racist attack