Werrimull facing allegations of sexual harassment and misogynistic behaviour

A Victorian country footy club is under investigation over alleged sexual harassment and misogynistic behaviour claims including allegations one parent was told her daughter was a “s**”.

Werrimull is under investigation from the AFL.

A country footy club in northwest Victoria has been rocked by allegations of sexual harassment and misogynistic behaviour.

Werrimull Football Netball Club, which competes in the Millewa Football Netball League, outside of Mildura, saw its centenary celebrations overshadowed by the allegations which saw its women’s team forfeit its game on the weekend.

It’s alleged during a club function last month, a heavily intoxicated men’s player inappropriately touched two females without their consent.

One of the women, a teenager, is believed to have reported the incident to members of the Werrimull club community.

This masthead has been told the alleged victim’s mother confronted the man in question at a later date.

It’s understood the player then told a committee member of the discussion.

The committee member is then alleged to have told the mother “your daughter is a sl***”.

In protest, Werrimull’s women forfeited the weekend’s game against Meringur while the senior men’s game to celebrate the club’s centenary went ahead.

It’s understood members of the women’s team told Werrimull they would not play if the men’s player was not suspended by the club.

An AFL Victoria spokesperson confirmed to this masthead on Thursday “the matter has been referred to the AFL Integrity Unit”.

“AFL Victoria has been made aware of an alleged incident involving a member of the Werrimull Football Netball Club, which is being investigated by the Millewa Football Netball League and AFL Sunraysia,” the spokesperson said.

Millewa Football Netball League chair Emily Harlock-Knights confirmed an “internal investigation has been launched by the league”.

“The Millewa Football Netball League (MFNL) confirms it has been made aware of allegations of sexual harassment involving a male footballer and a female participant from one of our member clubs,” Harlock-Knights said in a statement to this masthead.

“These allegations are being treated with the highest level of seriousness, and the MFNL remains committed to upholding the standards of safety, respect, and integrity across all levels of the game.

“The MFNL unequivocally condemns any form of inappropriate, abusive, or disrespectful behaviour. This kind of conduct has no place in our sport or in the broader community.

“While the league addresses this matter through appropriate internal processes, we also take this opportunity to remind all members of the community that if they witness or experience disrespectful or harmful behaviour—whether in a sporting context or elsewhere—they are strongly encouraged to report it to the relevant authorities or support services.

“The league urges everyone to engage responsibly and avoid speculation, public accusations, or commentary that could compromise the wellbeing of those involved. Our focus remains on ensuring fair process and meaningful action.

“This incident reinforces the importance of ongoing education, cultural awareness, and strong leadership at all levels of sport. The MFNL will continue working with clubs and community partners to strengthen standards, review policies, and build an inclusive environment that prioritises the safety and dignity of all participants.”

A spokesperson for Werrimull said the club had no comment to make as AFL Victoria was investigating the alleged incident.

Werrimull is a powerhouse of the competition winning six of seven premierships since the women’s competition started.

AFL Victoria have been contacted for comment.