Sydney Swans star Isaac Heeney has made a public appearance in Hong Kong, marking his first known outing since allegations of sexual assault surfaced and he was stood down by his club. Heeney was present at Happy Valley racecourse on Wednesday, where his horse, Brownneedsfurther, secured a victory in the Gloucester Handicap.
With Australian jockey Zac Purton aboard, the five-year-old gelding won by half a length, contributing to its over $3 million in career prize money. Heeney, dressed in a black suit, was seen smiling and posing with the winning connections. Brownneedsfurther is trained by David Hall, known for training the mare Makybe Diva.
This event marks a rare public sighting for Heeney, who has maintained a low profile since being stood down by the Sydney Swans for the remainder of the season due to breaches of club standards. He was also absent from the club's recent award night, where he was recognized with his third consecutive Bob Skilton Medal as best and fairest.
Heeney, along with teammates Chad Warner, Nick Blakey, James Jordon, and Riley Bice, were suspended by the club. This action is separate from a Victoria Police investigation into allegations of sexual assault stemming from an incident in early August. It has been reported that two adult entertainers involved in the incident sent letters concerning potential civil action to several players, the club, and a former player. Heeney, Warner, Blakey, and Bice were reportedly among those who received these letters, along with retired player Taylor Adams.
All five players have denied the allegations. Victoria Police are expected to make a decision on whether to lay charges by the end of November, following a review by the Office of Public Prosecutions. A police spokeswoman stated last week that commenting further would be inappropriate as the investigation is ongoing.
Nick Blakey has since departed the Swans to join North Melbourne. Players are anticipated to return for pre-season training later this month. Heeney's appearance in Hong Kong occurred on the same day his fiancée, Steffie Waters, was reportedly back in Sydney after leaving the US following the allegations.