A 42-year-old woman has been charged with using offensive language after allegedly directing antisemitic comments at a children's netball game in Sydney. The incident occurred at Heffron Park in Maroubra on Saturday morning during an under-12s match between the Maccabi and Saints netball clubs.
New South Wales police said they were called to the scene just after 10am following reports of offensive remarks made towards a group of people. Officers initially issued the woman a move-on direction, but after further inquiries, she was charged with using offensive language in or near a public place. She is due to appear before Waverley Local Court on 17 June.
The president of Maccabi Netball NSW, Adam Dinte, described the alleged incident as 'deeply distressing' in a statement to club members. He confirmed the club is liaising with police and the Community Security Group, and is submitting a formal complaint to the Randwick Netball Association and Saints netball club.
The Saints Netball Club issued a statement condemning antisemitism, saying it was aware of the alleged comments made by a supporter associated with the club. The Randwick Netball Association said it is working with Netball NSW to investigate the matter.
The incident comes amid the first week of public hearings of the royal commission into antisemitism. NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe expressed concern, stating, 'Kids should be able to play sports safely. Our Jewish community should be able to move around and live in this community free from fear and free from abuse.'
