The author of Hawthorn’s review into cultural safety that led to an AFL investigation about the treatment of several First Nations players and their families says he looks forward to responding to police questions as they investigate allegations of fraud at an organisation in Robinvale where he once worked.
Phil Egan, who played for both Richmond and Melbourne, was a manager at the Murray Valley Aboriginal Cooperative (MVAC) in Robinvale, which is at the centre of the police investigation. He is now the managing director at consulting firm, Binmada.
Former Richmond player Phil Egan (right) conducted the recent review into cultural safety at Hawthorn.Credit:Fairfax
“I categorically deny that I have stolen from the Murray Valley Aboriginal Cooperative (MVAC) in any way whatsoever. At all times I have acted with honesty, integrity and in the best interests of the MVAC,” Egan wrote in a statement.
He claimed the emergence of such allegations were an attempt to undermine the integrity of the ongoing AFL investigation into allegations of racism at the Hawks between 2008-2016, which is based on information in the report he provided to Hawthorn.
Phil Egan pictured in 2005.Credit:Ray Kennedy
“Regardless of these slurs against my name, I am extremely confident that this dog whistling will in no way diminish or discredit the entirely separate and independent investigation commissioned by the AFL and led by Mr Bernard Quinn, KC, and which I have no involvement,” Egan wrote. “To try to dismantle that process by destroying my reputation will, I suspect, be as futile as it is outrageous.”
Egan also said he was contemplating legal action regarding earlier media reports connecting him to the investigation.
Victoria Police confirmed to The Age via a statement that the investigation was ongoing but that no one had been charged and appealed for anyone with additional information to assist them.
“Detectives from the Financial Crime Squad are investigating into a number of allegations of fraud relating to the management of a Robinvale-based organisation. No one has been charged in relation to the matter and the investigation remains ongoing.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppers.com.au
