A computer-generated image of a man who investigators would like to question in relation to an attempt to sabotage the race that stops the nation has been released by Victoria Police.
On November 1, a hooded intruder was filmed dumping 1000 litres of “oily sludge” on to the track at Flemington Racecourse in the hours leading up to the 2022 Melbourne Cup.
Footage of the incident was soon endorsed and shared by the Victorian branch of the global activism group Extinction Rebellion, along with a statement from the alleged activist detailing his motive.
“This morning, XR was contacted by friends who had dumped 1000 litres of sludge on to Flemington Racecourse ahead of today’s Melbourne Cup activities,” the group said on social media.
“We fully endorse the message of this person.
“The privileged in our society are on notice that as crises deepen and we do not see justice for communities, individuals and animals, ordinary people will be [driven] more and more to undertake these sorts of desperate actions.”
A statement from the alleged activist was released online by Extinction Rebellion, in which he said he was a “problem gambler” in opposition to the flood wall protecting Flemington, horse racing and wagering.
“The racing industry callously disregards the wellbeing of animals and the community, both local in the floods and those who have fallen victim to gambling,” the statement said.
While causing a brief moment of nervousness for racing fans, the incident ultimately proved futile as racing later that day was uninterrupted.
Racing Victoria stewards inspected the area and deemed it safe after some remedial work. “Cup Schedule remains unchanged despite the dumping. The track has been deemed safe for racing by RV stewards with no impact on the conduct of today’s meeting,” a spokesperson said at the time.
Today, Victoria Police has released two images.
One is a computer-generated image of a man they believe can assist with inquiries, while another shows a distinctive trailer with a large tank, hose and pump used during the incident.
Anyone who recognised the man is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The stunt was met with a mixed response online, with plenty of people both for and against the protester’s message.
“Probably should call the whole horse racing thing off, go home and watch a movie like the rest of us,” one person wrote.
“Clearly this … protester does not appreciate the irony of: a) pouring oil on the track; and b) engaging in an act that could potentially seriously harm horses and riders,” another responded.
Others were more blunt with their reaction.
“Worried about the animal cruelty but then makes conditions more dangerous. What a f***wit,” wrote one man.
“So dangerous to horses and [puts] jockeys’ lives at risk,” added another.
Despite claims the activist unloaded an “oily sludge” on to the track, Victoria Police have not identified the substance.