mmg.com.au

Seymour Acting Sergeant Steve Carden said police were called to the racecourse on Kobyboyn Rd just after 5.30pm where about 30 to 40 people were involved.

‘‘Four men were arrested at the scene,’’ he said.

‘‘About 15 calls were made to triple zero ... the investigation is ongoing.’’

A 31-year-old Knoxfield man, a 42-year-old Ferntree Gully man, a 44-year-old Ringwood man and a 21-year-old Mooroolbark man have all been charged with affray.

All have been bailed to appear at Seymour Magistrates’ Court on April 4.

Sgt Carden said the behaviour of those involved in the brawl was ‘‘absolutely appalling’’.

‘‘We responded with eight members and six cars.

‘‘Nagambie, Kilmore and Euroa backed us up.

‘‘The fight had already fizzled out by the time we arrived.

‘‘It’s hard to say how the fight started.

‘‘There were a lot of work groups having their Christmas parties out there.

‘‘We’ve never had any trouble (at the event) in years before.

‘‘It’s meant to be a family day. There were lots of women and children around.

‘‘We know there were some people who did take footage (of the fight) and have come forward. Anyone who took footage on their mobile phones — and we know there were quite a few who did — are asked to come in (to the Seymour Police Station) so we can review it; this will help with our investigation.

‘‘Drunken and violent behaviour over the summer holiday period won’t be tolerated.’’

Police are appealing for anyone with information to contact Seymour Police Station on 57350200.