O and M investigating alleged racial abuse of Jeff Garlett

It's believed the incident happened during the tense final quarter of last Saturday's game between Wodonga and Albury at the former's John Flower Oval.

The O and M announced on Wednesday night it was investigating an incident between a player and spectator.

"Incidents of this nature are taken seriously by the league and this type of misconduct is unacceptable and not welcome in our sport and more broadly, society," chairperson David Sinclair said in a statement.

As part of the league's by-laws, parties are strictly forbidden to discuss the issue publicly with the media during an investigation.

All parties have therefore 'shut up shop', but it's just emerged Garlett is the alleged victim.

Interestingly, the proud Noongar Ballardong man from Western Australia didn't hear the alleged racial slur, but was informed of it.

Ironically, Albury is hosting an Indigenous game against North Albury on Saturday, which coordinator Dean Heta is hoping will transform into a full round of celebration next year.

Naturally, Heta can't comment on the investigation, but he was asked generically about racial abuse.

"Certainly if I was to hear it, I would call it out," he revealed.

"It's an opportunity to educate people, that's the most important part.

"You can't fight fire with fire, so to speak, you can't be aggressive every time somebody says something, we have to bring people together and educate them and raise awareness."

Heta is an enormously respected figure in the league after stints with Wodonga Raiders and Albury.

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It's hoped his determination to highlight Indigenous history and culture in Saturday's game will mark a new era in the league's proud 128-year history.

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