The Australian Venue Co, which operates The Kenmore tavern, faced community backlash after saying it would ban Australia Day celebrations across its more than 200 venues nationwide, including 90 in Queensland, before backtracking within a day.
Controversy Surrounding Australia Day Policies
The Australian Venue Co (AVC) first asked its venues to refrain from staging particular Australia Day events on 26 January 2025, considering the day was divisive and would hurt some patrons. The decision covered popular local venues such as The Kenmore and was highly criticised by patrons, community leaders, and politicians.
Soon after announcing the ban, AVC apologised, stating that their intention was not to divide but to foster inclusivity. AVC clarified that their venues would remain open on Australia Day, allowing patrons to celebrate the day as they wished.
One of the major venues owned by AVC in Queensland, The Kenmore, has been at the center of debate. As a family-friendly venue and strong local identity, it has been a community hub in Kenmore for years. Residents have expressed hope that the venue will maintain its ability to cater to diverse views while respecting the day’s significance to all Australians.
AVC assured the public that it would not enforce any bans on celebrations and said that it was committed to serving all patrons regardless of their stance on Australia Day.
Mixed Reactions from the Community
Residents and community leaders expressed mixed reactions to the decision and subsequent apology. Some politicians criticised the company for dictating how Australians should celebrate their national day, while local businesses in Brisbane emphasised their commitment to traditional Australia Day events, including barbecues and live entertainment.
While some in the Kenmore community voiced disappointment at the change, saying local traditions should be preserved, others welcomed the change, considering it a step towards greater cultural sensitivity. The day marks an important historical milestone for Indigenous Australians.
National Debate Over Australia Day
This controversy is part of a wider national conversation about the future of Australia Day. Many establishments, including Woolworths and Aldi, have stopped promoting the day, and over 80 councils across Australia no longer hold citizenship ceremonies on 26 January. Indigenous leaders and activists have long described the date as a day of mourning due to its association with colonisation and its impact on First Nations peoples.
However, opponents of the movement to change or downplay the day argue that it is still a significant opportunity to celebrate Australia’s achievements and multicultural society.
Some have called for boycotts of AVC venues in protest against what they view as unnecessary politicisation of a national holiday.
Published 3-Dec-2024
