A high-profile Geelong footballer should apologise for posting a selfie on social media of himself at the wheel of a car in Victoria, police say.
Geelong footballer Billie Smedts fitted a camera to a pole to snap a photo of himself while driving, posting the photo to his 10,000 followers on Instagram on Monday.
The photo appears to show Smedts steering his vehicle with his knees while he posted the caption: “Driving back to warrnambool for Christmas #goproselfie.”
Police Superintendent Neville Taylor says the photo is disappointing and says Smedts should say sorry.
“It’s absolutely stupid behaviour it’s the kind of behaviour that can cost lives on the road,” Supt Taylor said.
“It would be great to see some type of apology.”
Supt Taylor said Smedts could face fines and loose demerit points for his risky behaviour.
“Whether he was driving at the time or not, it sends a really bad message to all road users particularly young people to think it’s okay to do this kind of behaviour,” he said.
Supt Taylor said it is yet to be determined whether the vehicle was moving at the time and that police have spoken to Geelong Football Club, who plan to take action.
Transport Accident Commission (TAC) chief executive officer Janet Dore says she is astounded by the image.
It’s so disappointing to see players behaving this way, she told Fairfax radio.
“When so many of his colleagues have been really good role models. I wonder what his parents would think if he had lost control of the car driven off the road into a tree and died.”
One follower of Smedts commented: “Hmmm. Seriously hope the cops or footy club don’t see this. TAC would not be too happy. A cousinly tip – take it down.”
Geelong Football Club has been approached for comment.