Decision to ban MCG fireworks overturned on appeal, despite ‘some risk’

United Firefighters Union boss Peter Marshall says he’s seeking “urgent” clarification about a decision to overturn a ruling that banned fireworks at the MCG due to safety concerns.

A fireworks show at the AFL season opener was called off at the last minute in March after concerns were raised about the stadium’s cladding.

The Building Appeals Board of Victoria has since determined the majority of the MCG’s cladding met safety requirements, despite “some risk” involved in the use of pyrotechnics.

“In the context and backdrop of the Grenfell and the Lacrosse (tower) fires here in Melbourne and the flammability of this material, I just find that statement extraordinary,” Mr Marshall said.

He said union officials were hoping to meet with Fire Rescue Victoria as soon as possible.

“We are trying to get to the bottom of this,” he said.

Press PLAY below to hear Peter Marshall’s reaction

(Photo by Ross Land/Getty Images)