Wait and see on Australia Day poser

SURF Coast Shire is yet to consider a proposal to shift Australia Day, but says it will adhere to official public holidays when planning events.

It follows support from the Greens leader, Richard di Natale, to fly the national flag at half-mast on Australia Day.

Surf Coast Shire Mayor David Bell said council used the official gazetted public holidays to plan events, including those on Australia Day.

“When planning our calendar of events we use the official gazetted public holidays, including the date nominated for Australia Day,” Cr Bell said.

“We’re aware of discussions around a change of date for Australia Day but this matter has not yet been considered by council.”

Surf Coast Shire councillors spent much of 2017 embroiled in debate over the flying of the LGBTI rainbow ensign outside its Torquay headquarters.

Senator Di Natale has backed a proposal from state Greens MP Lidia Thorpe to fly the Australian flag at half-mast on January 26.

It followed his call for Australia Day to be moved from January 26 given its recognition of European settlement.

The call was echoed by Geelong’s lone Greens councillor, Sarah Mansfield, who expressed her misgivings about Australia Day celebrations and indicated she may boycott civic events on January 26.

Ratepayers Geelong president Andrew Senia said it was disappointing to hear Cr Mansfield was “ambivalent” about the national day commemorations.

“Cr Mansfield is entitled to her personal view. However, her duty as a councillor is to work in the interests of ratepayers,” Mr Senia said.

“The view of Ratepayers Geelong is that councillors should stay out of party politics, as the mayor indicated in his comments (on Monday).”