QC who represented AFL player over COVID-19 breach shares thoughts on Victorian duo
A Perth-based QC who represented Sydney Stack over a COVID breach in Western Australia says the Richmond footballer’s actions pale in comparison to what is alleged two Melburnians did to attend the AFL grand final.
Bar owner Hayden Burbank and financial planner Mark Babbage stand accused of allegedly entering the state via Darwin using false documents.
They’ve each been charged with three counts of failing to comply with a directive.
They each face a $50,000 fine and possible jail time.
Mr Burbank was pictured celebrating with Melbourne players in the rooms after their drought-breaking grand final, drinking beer, hugging players and shaking hands.
“If what is (alleged) is true, this would seem to be an elaborate plot, involving false documentation, flagrant flouting of the law and exposure to the biggest crowd Western Australia has ever seen,” Tom Percy QC told 3AW Mornings.
“There are some significant aggravating features to this, on face value.
“Again, I’m not predetermining what the court might find, but just on the reports I’ve read, it would seem to be in a whole new category.”
Press PLAY below to hear his thoughts on the matter
Picture: WA Police