Anzac Day Dawn Service in Melbourne disrupted by controversy as booing interrupts the Welcome to Country ceremony. During the traditional Welcome to Country ritual, which was led by Bunurong elder Mark Brown, several members of the crowd jeered, including a prominent neo-Nazi. Others immediately applauded this disturbance, denouncing the rude behavior.
Political Leaders Condemn the Disruption
The crowd quickly drowned out the booing that began when Brown started his Welcome to Country. However, it sparked heated reactions from political figures. Sunrise host Natalie Barr called the disruption “disgusting,” expressing her dismay that such behavior took place during a sacred ceremony. She emphasized, “Today is not the day to share that opinion.”
Opposition Leaders Speak Out
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton condemned the actions of the neo-Nazi group, stating that such ideology had no place in Australia, especially on a day meant to honor those who fought against such hateful forces. He pointed out that the Anzac spirit should unite Australians, not divide them with disrespectful behavior.
Veterans’ Affairs Minister Matt Keogh echoed this sentiment, linking the disruption to a broader issue of intolerance, particularly when the country commemorates those who fought against fascism during World War II.
Media and Veterans Trade Angry Words
Additionally, the event led to a discussion between a veteran and Mark Santomartino, a reporter for Channel 9. The veteran said in a heated debate that the Welcome to Country event was inappropriate because it disregarded the memories of those who fought for Australia. Santomartino, while acknowledging the veteran’s feelings, reminded him that booing during such a sacred ceremony was deeply disrespectful.
What Was Behind the Disruption?
Neo-Nazi sympathizers, including known figure Jacob Hersant, have been linked to the booing. He claimed the Welcome to Country politicized the event. He argued that the Anzac Day service should focus solely on those who served in wars, not on acknowledging the land’s original custodians.
Public Reactions and Police Involvement
The booing was condemned by both political leaders and members of the public, with Victoria’s Premier Jacinta Allan calling the disruption “beyond disappointing.” Police removed the 26-year-old man who reportedly led the booing, though authorities have not filed charges yet.
A Conflicted Reaction
Despite the resounding disapproval, several attendees thought the Welcome to Country event was held at the wrong time. Veterans who opposed the celebration argued that Anzac Day should be used to honor the fallen soldiers, not to pursue political demands for territorial recognition.
The continuous debate makes one thing clear: opinions on Australia’s recognition of its First Nations people and their historical significance remain split.
Source: News
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