‘Every weekend’: Paramedic issues warning over footy violence

A drastic plan to segregate footy fans is being considered after another nasty brawl, as paramedics warn the violence is increasing.

The extreme measures are one of many being considered by Kardinia Park after a dozen men were captured on video kicking and punching each other following Saturday night’s thriller between Geelong and Melbourne at Kardinia Park.

The incident was the seventh of its kind this season reported this year.

However, a volunteer paramedic with St John’s told Ross and John footy violence was far more common than that.

“I see it every weekend, people fighting,” said James, who has been working at the footy for nearly three years.

“The other day we were at the MCG and (there were) two guys fist-fighting. We ended up having to call police, we couldn’t get near them.

“It’s gotten worse, and it’s going to get worse.”

Many are blaming alcohol, but when asked why he thought crowd violence was becoming worse, James responded: “Drugs.”

“That’s my point. Booze has always been at the footy, so my mind goes to drugs.”
– Ross Stevenson

“I reckon what they need to do is take their name, take their photograph, and ban them from the football for life,” James continued.

Click PLAY to hear from James