Collingwood settle wrongful dismissal claim with former First Nations strategist out of court
An out-of-court settlement has been reached between Collingwood and a former First Nations strategist who accused club CEO Craig Kelly of a series of racial slurs and attacks.
Court documents filed earlier this year claimed Kelly used a series of slurs on Indigenous people, Asians and Jews, as well as physical attacks.
They also accused the 58-year-old of joking about putting a “live f***ing possum” in a special room for Indigenous players and calling an Aboriginal elder a “dumb old bitch”.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The club confirmed the settlement with Mark Cleaver, a Palawa person, on Monday.
“Mark Cleaver and the Collingwood Football Club announce that the legal proceedings have been resolved,” a joint statement released by the club and Mr Cleaver said.
“It is requested that Mark’s privacy be respected and the parties have agreed not to make any further statements.”
The Herald Sun reported in June Cleaver had demanded at least $250,000 to drop his claim before Collingwood came back during mediation talks with an offer of about $20,000.
It is not known if the settlement included a payment.
The claims saw Dardi Munwurro, an Indigenous family violence group, dump the club as a partner.
Mr Kelly was cleared of any wrongdoing by the club after an internal investigation.
