Kurtley Beale. Photo / Getty Images
Wallaby back Kurtley Beale has been fined A$45,000 (NZ$50,000) by the Australian Rugby Union (ARU), but has avoided suspension and having his contract terminated following a marathon code of conduct hearing on Friday.
The hearing at ARU headquarters in Sydney lasted almost four hours, but it was another two hours before the results were announced.
An independent tribunal found Beale guilty of a serious violation of the ARU code of conduct, and imposed the fine for sending an offensive photograph to an ARU employee. Beale admitted to sending the photo on June 9.
But, the tribunal ruled evidence did not establish a second more offensive text and photo had been sent by the playmaker.
The tribunal found while a serious violation had occurred, mitigating factors were taken into account to determine an appropriate sanction.
These included Beale's contrition, the unpleasant consequences the matter had created for the ARU employee and Beale, and the fact Beale had already effectively been suspended from recent matches.
ARU CEO Bill Pulver said the tribunal's findings and sanction would be accepted.
"This was a serious allegation and, like any business, when we received that complaint, we were compelled to investigate it and give Kurtley Beale an opportunity to present his case in relation to the matter in an independent forum," Pulver said.
"We have obligations to our fans and the broader community and we are committed to ensuring any behaviour that has the potential to breach our code of conduct or values is investigated and taken seriously.
"This was deemed a serious violation by the tribunal and, as such, we intend to donate the $45,000 collected through this fine to a suitable organisation that promotes the empowerment of women.
"Negotiations regarding Kurtley's contract beyond this year have been on hold in recent weeks. As a result of the independent tribunal's decision, we will re-open those contract discussions."
Rugby Union Players' Association CEO Greg Harris said it was a positive outcome that the tribunal found the more offensive text and photo had not been sent by Beale.
"We are pleased that Kurtley, having shown remorse and incurring the penalty, will now be in a position to continue his rugby career."
Following the decision, Beale apologised for breaching the code of conduct.
"I am satisfied with tonight's outcome. There was conjecture about my contract being terminated, however the tribunal agreed that - on the basis of the evidence - that a fine was appropriate.
"I'm relieved there is no termination and no suspension and I can now continue playing rugby.
"I'm also happy the evidence presented to the tribunal did not establish that I sent the second text and photograph. This is why I fought so hard to prove my innocence regarding that text.
"I'd like to apologise to (former Wallabies business and logistics manager) Di Patston and the broader community for my behaviour, particularly to rugby fans.
"I have had a fair hearing tonight and will work to regain the respect of my teammates, fans and the general Australian community.
"I am extremely proud to represent my country, and I will work hard to ensure my behaviour reflects the honour and privilege of playing for Australia at all times, on and off the field."
The decision means Beale will be eligible for selection for the Wallabies, effective immediately.
- AAP