Published on 24 July 2026
Darebin City Council condemns the behaviour of a group of spectators at the South Melbourne FC versus Preston Lions FC match held at Lakeside Stadium on Saturday 18 July.
Darebin Mayor Cr Emily Dimitriadis said community sport should be a place where people come together in a spirit of respect, inclusion and shared participation.
"Council is deeply disappointed by the conduct of a group of spectators who displayed banners containing offensive, disrespectful and misogynistic messaging.”
"There is no place in sport, or in our community, for sexism, racism, discrimination, vilification or any behaviour that seeks to diminish our social cohesion.”
"Sport has the power to bring people together across diverse groups and communities. We strongly condemn conduct that seeks to divide, intimidate or humiliate others and undermines the inclusive values that make our community strong”.
Council welcomes Football Victoria's ongoing investigation and supports appropriate action being taken in accordance with its rules and processes.