Melbourne’s Federation Square has been axed as a live site for the remainder of the Women’s World Cup after dozens of flares were let off among a crowd at maximum capacity during Wednesday night’s semifinal.
Key points:
- Flares were thrown above the crowds above Federation Square on Wednesday
- There was 12,000 punters in attendance, 2,000 more than capacity
- Games will not be shown at the site for the remainder of the Women’s World Cup
Families could be seen fleeing the venue during the Matildas’ match against England after rowdy fans erupted following Sam Kerr’s equaliser and sparks flew above the 12,000 punters.
A spokesperson for Federation Square said a repeat of Wednesday night would be unsafe.
“During the Women’s World Cup, Federation Square has hosted 140,000 people and there have been many memorable scenes, with thousands throwing their support behind the Matildas,” the spokesperson said.
“However, as a result of disappointing behaviour by a small group of people, Federation Square management has made the decision that there will no longer be a live site at Federation Square, due to safety concerns.
“It is clear that if there was a repeat of last night’s behaviour it would be unsafe for families, fans and staff.”
The decision follows discussions this morning between event organisers and in consultation with Victoria Police.
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Young men were seen being escorted from the site on Wednesday as young families made a swift exit before the end of the match.
Victoria Police said more than 50 flares were discharged and some of them were thrown.
There were no reports of injuries.
Four men aged from 16 to 23 were issued $962 fines for possessing flares, and a 16-year-old male was cautioned for throwing a flare.
An investigation is ongoing and police have not ruled out laying more charges against people who may be identified in CCTV.
Acting Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police Wendy Steendam said flares posed a risk to personal safety and the potential for fires.
Barriers were also broken down after security guards advised attendees that the site had reached maximum capacity an hour prior to kick-off.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said the behaviour was inappropriate and disappointing.
“I don’t reckon any member of the Matildas squad would want people behaving that way. I certainly don’t,” he said.
“Like it wasn’t the night people wanted, but there’s no excuse.”
The Melbourne live site will now be at AAMI Park and those arrangements remain unaffected.
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