Before nine men detained in Malaysia over a budgie smuggler stunt learned they would avoid jail, their defence team painted a picture of the men as part-time lifesavers who stripped down by “second nature”.
The nine infamous swimming trunks emblazoned with the Malaysian flag were tendered as evidence in the Sepang Magistrates Court today.
READ MORE: Australians arrested in Malaysia issued with caution and walk free
During the hearing, which was also attended by the fathers of three of the men, a solicitor for the men apologised for his clients’ “ignorance”.
The solicitor argued it was “common to wear the Australian flag on various pieces of clothing” and unlike Malaysia, was not considered offensive.
https://twitter.com/AirlieWalsh/status/783891540934467584
https://twitter.com/AirlieWalsh/status/783892438838501376
https://twitter.com/AirlieWalsh/status/783892039255531520
https://twitter.com/AirlieWalsh/status/783891226198089732
https://twitter.com/AirlieWalsh/status/783883083581841408
The Australians, all volunteer lifesavers at the exclusive Palm Beach Surf Life Saving Club, were detained on Sunday for "public indecency" over their celebrations following countryman Daniel Ricciardo's win at the Sepang Formula One grand prix.
The group undressed to reveal swimwear bearing the Malaysian flag, and police allege the men were under the influence of alcohol.
Among them was Jack Walker, an adviser to federal Minister for Defence Industry Christopher Pyne.
All nine men this afternoon walked free after they were charged with public nuisance and cautioned. The matter has now been discharged.