Broncos PR Chief Melissa Telhia Mallet Charged with Drink Driving

Melissa Telhia Mallet, the public relations officer for the Brisbane Broncos, has admitted to high-range drink driving following an incident on June 2, 2025, where she crashed into multiple parked cars in the Paddington suburb of Brisbane. Mallet, who is 39 years old, appeared before the Brisbane Magistrates Court on July 8, 2025, where she pleaded guilty to the charge. At the time of the incident, her blood-alcohol concentration was measured at 0.156, which is more than three times the legal limit in Queensland, set at 0.05.

Mallet's case is particularly significant as it highlights a troubling trend within the Broncos organization, where multiple individuals have faced drink or drug driving charges in recent months. According to data from the Queensland Police Service, Mallet is the third person associated with the club to be charged with such offenses in the past ten months. In October 2024, Broncos player Ezra Mam was involved in a collision while driving under the influence of drugs, injuring a woman and a child. He subsequently received a fine and a six-month license suspension. Additionally, former Broncos player Steve Renouf faced charges for allegedly driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.197.

The Brisbane Magistrate, Joseph Pinder, expressed concern over Mallet's actions, stating that her behavior was 'very concerning' and that it was fortunate no one was injured in the crash. Mallet's defense attorney, Michael Kelly, noted that she had taken immediate responsibility for her actions by booking herself into rehabilitation and had expressed remorse for the incident. He indicated that Mallet had spoken to the owners of the cars she damaged and accepted personal liability for the costs incurred.

Magistrate Pinder acknowledged Mallet’s previously unblemished record, stating that her conduct was uncharacteristic. He ultimately fined her $1,000 and disqualified her from driving for nine months without recording a conviction. Mallet did not provide comments to the media after the court proceedings, reflecting the gravity of her situation.

This incident raises critical questions regarding accountability within professional sports organizations and the impact of alcohol-related offenses on public relations and team image. Experts stress the importance of proactive measures by teams to address the underlying issues related to substance abuse among athletes and staff.

Dr. Emily Carter, a sports psychologist at the University of Queensland, emphasizes the need for comprehensive support systems: 'It’s essential for organizations like the Broncos to implement robust behavioral health programs that not only address the consequences of substance abuse but also promote a culture of accountability and wellness.'

As the Broncos seek to move past this crisis, the implications of Mallet's case may resonate beyond the confines of the team, potentially influencing policies on substance use and public conduct in professional sports leagues across Australia. With growing public scrutiny, the Broncos and similar organizations face the challenge of restoring their reputations while ensuring the safety and well-being of their players and staff.

Moving forward, it will be crucial for the Broncos to take steps that demonstrate accountability and commitment to positive change, fostering an environment that prioritizes the health and safety of all individuals associated with the club.