Footy clubs cop huge bans after disgraceful brawl where spectators were forced to intervene – as ‘zero tolerance towards any type of violent behaviour’ is made abundantly clear

Two Northern Territory football clubs – Arnhem Crows and Eastside – have been hit with a combined 64-week ban and $12,000 in fines after an outrageous brawl in the Big Rivers AFL competition.

During the fiery clash between the two sides in May, players from both sides threw punches and attacked each other in chaotic scenes.

Footage taken by spectators showed teammates and supporters being forced to intervene as the off-field brawl continued at a ground in Katherine.

After the shocking incident, the match was stopped.

Following an AFLNT-led hearing, the Crows received $10,000 in fines, with $7500 suspended until the end of the 2026 Big Rivers Football League season.

Two Northern Territory football clubs – Arnhem Crows and Eastside – have been banned for a total of 64 weeks and fined $12,000 after an outrageous brawl in the Big Rivers AFL competition (pictured)

During the fiery clash between the two sides in May at a ground in Katherine, players from both sides threw punches and attacked each other in chaotic scenes (pictured)

By comparison, Eastside Football Club was assessed $2,000 in fines, with $1,500 suspended until the end of the 2025 season.

In addition to the club fines, five players from both clubs were found to have breached the codes of conduct and were suspended for a total of 64 weeks.

It is understood that the bigger player bans were for two players from the Arnhem Crows.

“In response to the incident, both clubs have agreed to undertake an education program on promoting a positive playing environment and leadership,” an AFLNT spokeswoman said News Corp.

“AFLNT commends each club for their proactive response to the incident and their commitment to improvement.

“AFLNT is committed to promoting a safe and respectful environment for all participants, ensuring that both players and fans in the Big Rivers Region can continue to enjoy AFL.

“We would like to emphasize that AFLNT strongly condemns and has zero tolerance for any form of violent behavior in our game.”

Arnhem has since apologized following the fight, saying the club ‘deeply regrets the involvement of a number of its players’.

“The club would like to apologize to the public, officials, sponsors and the Eastside Football Club for any inappropriate behavior or language during the incident,” the statement said.

‘The Arnhem Crows are a proud and passionate club who work hard to ensure that our players, officials and community uphold the values ​​of respect, sportsmanship and wellbeing.’

The Big Rivers Football League has seen similar shocking scenes before, with the 2022 AFL finals descending into chaos after the final siren with players from Katherine Camels and the Ngukurr Bulldogs – as well as referees – forced to flee the ground.

Tensions reached a boiling point when the Camels won and spectators invaded the field.

One spectator allegedly attacked two players with scissors.

After the match, the Bulldogs were fined $8,000, while several players were expelled.