Player charged over on-field incident in Qld rugby league game

Queensland police have charged an amateur rugby league player with grievous bodily harm over an on-field incident during a preliminary final on the Sunshine Coast.

After a two-month investigation, police last week charged Noosa Pirates reserve-grade player Keegan John McKinnon, 22, over an alleged attack on a player from the rival Caloundra Sharks.

The Caloundra player left Sunshine Coast Stadium in an ambulance and was hospitalised for multiple operations. His jaw was broken in several places, leaving him not only unable to play but unable to work.

An amateur rugby league player with the Noosa Pirates has been charged with grievous bodily harm over an on-field incident with a player from another team.Credit: Monique Westermann

Footage of the incident appears to show several players from both teams standing in front of the goal posts during the game, which Caloundra went on to win 24-6.

McKinnon, wearing the number 21 jersey, as recorded on the official team sheet, appears to turn suddenly and punch the Caloundra player in an upward motion, striking him under the jaw.

In the footage, the Caloundra player – who appears to have been looking away from McKinnon at the time – falls to the ground. McKinnon is then seen leaning over the player, before one of his Noosa teammates gestures for him to move on.

Noosa supporters can be heard cheering after the incident, and as McKinnon is subsequently sent from the field by the referee. Police later deemed the incident serious enough to warrant investigation.

A Queensland Police Service spokeswoman confirmed a Kulangoor man was arrested on November 7 and charged with one count of grievous bodily harm.

“A man has been charged after allegedly punching another man in Bokarina on September 7,” the spokeswoman said.

“Police will allege the man punched the victim during a sports game at a facility on Sportsmans Parade around 4pm.”

McKinnon will appear in Maroochydore Magistrates Court on December 12.

Under the Queensland Criminal Code, grievous bodily harm is distinct from common assault in that it results in the loss of a body part or organ, serious disfigurement, or any injury that, if left untreated, would be likely to endanger life or cause permanent injury.

The offence carries a maximum penalty of 14 years in jail.

This masthead has chosen not to publish the footage. It is expected to be raised in evidence, along with testimony from players, spectators, staff and officials.

Asked about any disciplinary proceedings against McKinnon, a Queensland Rugby League spokesman confirmed a player had been given a 12-month ban for striking and a two-match ban for contrary conduct over the incident.

This masthead has been unable to contact McKinnon or his legal representatives.

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