Listen to Gina Field’s interview with host Doug Townsend, who discusses the recent security breach at the MCG, where two individuals managed to enter the stadium with firearms. Despite the presence of AI-based security screening technology designed to detect weapons and contraband, the suspects were allowed through by human security personnel and were only apprehended later by police due to suspicious behaviour.
Gina highlights that the AI system functioned correctly by identifying anomalies, but the failure occurred during the manual screening process. She draws parallels to airport security and emphasises how easy it is for staff to become complacent, likening the situation to ignoring a beeping alarm in a store.
The incident raises concerns about over-reliance on technology, lack of adequate training, and possible complacency among security staff. Gina stresses the need for venue managers to leave the boardroom and assess real-world conditions on-site, identifying blind spots and shortfalls rather than relying solely on technology or standard protocols.
She also points out that one of the offenders had a significant criminal history and was on bail, underlining the potential severity of the situation. Gina criticises the reactive nature of many event organisers, who often implement stronger security measures only after an incident occurs.
When discussing event security more broadly, she notes that decisions are often made based on crowd size rather than event type, entertainment, or risk factors like alcohol service. She urges a move away from “tick-box” security planning and toward more thoughtful, proactive risk assessments.
The interview concludes with a call for well-trained, alert, and confident security personnel—not just for major venues like the MCG but for smaller events and venues as well.
