NEWS > Members
Posted by Equestrian SA on 24/10/2016.

Equestrian SA Media Release 24/10/2016 Disciplinary Decision

Independent Tribunal Hearing & Decision– Peter Oborn

ESA provide this Notice in accordance with its usual practice of informing members about Disciplinary Proceedings.

On 26 September 2016, an Independent Panel appointed by ESA, which consisted of three people recommended to ESA by Sports SA, heard allegations concerning whether Mr Oborn breached the ESA Constitution as a result of his Facebook publications and comments in the print media in October and November 2015.  Prior to 26 September 2016, there were a number of preliminary hearings which occurred at Mr Oborn’s request. At all times Mr Oborn was represented by Solicitors and Counsel.

At the hearing on 26 September 2016, both parties presented their evidence and made submissions. The Independent Panel indicated it would deliver its decision as soon as possible and it later informed the parties that a decision would be delivered at a hearing on 19 October 2016.

On 19 October 2016, the Independent Panel delivered its decision. The Independent Panel, after considering all the evidence, unanimously found that Peter Oborn:

  1. Brought the Board, or named members of the Board, into disrepute;
  2. Acted in a manner unbecoming of a member; and
  3. Acted in a manner prejudicial to the purposes and interest of ESA.

All the allegations made against Mr Oborn were unanimously found to be proven.

The Independent Panel delivered written reasons for its decision, which were as brief as possible. The Independent Panel has reserved the right to amend its reasons.  The reasons address Mr Oborn’s legal objections and they provide certain findings and comments about Mr Oborn’s conduct, particularly at paragraphs 179 and 180. A copy of the reasons is available via this link: http://www.sa.equestrian.org.au/sites/default/files/Decision.pdf).

It was intended by the Independent Panel that it would hear submissions on penalty on 19 October 2016 and perhaps deliver penalty at the same hearing. However, Mr Oborn did not attend that hearing. The Independent Panel therefore received written submissions on the penalty to be imposed.

Today, 24 October 2016, the Independent Panel delivered its decision on penalty. It imposed a suspension of Mr Oborn’s membership for 3 years. However, if Mr Oborn complies with certain conditions, the suspension of his membership will be limited to 18 months. The penalty commences forthwith. A copy of the Panel’s remarks on penalty are available via this link: (http://www.sa.equestrian.org.au/sites/default/files/Reasons%20For%20Deci...).

Equestrian South Australia

 

 

Other Top News
STATE BRANCHES