Town Council majority for January 26 changes?

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Comments by councillors at the end of Tuesday's council meeting suggest a majority is in favour of changes to Australia Day.

Larissa Ellis made a statement expressing her support for Asta in not officiating at the Citizenship Ceremony, and for her leadership and commending the qualities she demonstrated in doing so.

Then Alison Bitar made a statement acknowledging what a privilege it was to host the citizenship ceremony. She then stated that she recognises that the 26th is not a day of celebration for many First Nations people and supports changing the date of Australia Day.

While acknowledging that this is not something the council can do, she said we can advocate to the Federal Government to make that change.

Then Cherisse Buzzacott spoke and expressed that her community respects her decision (in not officiating), and spoke highly of Asta's position for standing strong in her values.

So it would seem there would now be five of the nine members of council (including Aia Newport who would also be in support) who support changing council’s approach to January 26.

Interesting times!

Jonathan Pilbrow

PHOTO: Part of the crowd of more than 100 at the meeting.