Essendon players told to ‘keep quiet’ about supplements program

Essendon players who complained about the club’s controversial doping program were told by the club to keep it secret. 

The Bombers pleaded guilty to two charges after a lengthy investigation by WorkSafe Victoria found they had failed to proved a safe working environment and system of work.

The court heard a process of approving supplements was set up after players and club doctor Bruce Reid raised concerns in early 2012.

It involved players being told not to speak about the program to maintain their competitive advantage.

Club lawyer Garry Livermore said Stephen Dank and Dean Robinson were able to get away with ignoring that process because the lines of reporting were blurred at that time, and they had the drugs administered off-site.

The QC representing WorkSafe said the breaches involved a significant measure of disregard for player safety.

The maximum fine for each charge is $305,000.

The club will learn its fate in late January.