Penrith Panthers fined $10,000 for Grand Final COVID-19 breach
The Penrith Panthers have been fined $10,000 after fans breached COVID-19 safety protocols during last weekend’s NRL Grand Final.
NRL
Don't miss out on the headlines from NRL. Followed categories will be added to My News.
The Penrith Panthers have been fined $10,000 after fans breached COVID-19 safety protocols during last weekend’s NRL Grand Final.
During the Melbourne Storm’s 26-20 victory in Sydney, patrons at the Penrith Panthers League Club were spotted mingling and drinking while standing, which is currently banned under strict NSW liquor licencing laws.
Liquor and Gaming director of compliance Dimitri Argeres said: “It’s not fair on the club, its staff or the community and we expect better behaviour from patrons who need to be aware of the rules when attending a venue.
“At the same time, venues need to make sure they are adequately implementing their safety plans, particularly when higher patron numbers are expected due to special events.”
ANZ Stadium also received a $5000 fine for a similar breach, with bar patrons congregating across a balcony to watch the Grand Final.
The Brewery at the Novotel and the Locker Room — both located in Sydney Olympic Park — also received $5000 fines for COVID breaches.
“Sporting events build up anticipation and create lots of excitement, we get that. But they also create exactly the types of situation we’re trying to avoid – crowds that mingle and turn into one big group of close contacts,” Argeres said.
“We’re just about to get full swing into party season with sports finals, the races, school formals and Christmas and New Year’s functions.
“These are all events where caution can be forgotten, but don’t forget life isn’t quite back to normal yet and if we want to enjoy summer with our friends and families, we need to keep COVID transmission low.”
Originally published as Penrith Panthers fined $10,000 for Grand Final COVID-19 breach