The parent company of 200 pubs and bars has decided to cancel Australia Day celebrations next year. This decision addresses the “sadness” and “hurt” that the day can cause for some patrons and staff. Australian Venue Co apologised on Instagram for causing “concern and confusion” with their comments.
The affected venues include popular spots like The Cargo Bar in Darling Harbour, Sydney. The company stated, “It is not for us to tell anyone whether or how to celebrate Australia Day. We apologise for our comments.” They recognise that customers and employees have different views about the day.
Australian Venue Co. reassured that everyone is welcome in their pubs, regardless of whether they choose to celebrate Australia Day. They will continue to take bookings for January 26. The company, which operates around 90 venues in Queensland, including the Wickham Hotel and Regatta Hotel, may impact celebrations. They also run several well-known pubs in Sydney, such as Untied and Bungalow8.
In Melbourne, regulars at venues like the Esplanade Hotel and The Duke of Wellington may need to find other places to celebrate. Pubs in Adelaide, such as The Unley Hotel and The Colonist, are also affected.
An Australia Venue Co spokesperson explained, “Australia Day is a day that causes sadness for some members of our community. We have decided not to celebrate a day that causes hurt for some of our patrons and our team.”
This decision is part of a growing trend among businesses. Earlier this year, Woolworths and Aldi announced they would not sell Australia Day merchandise. In response, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton suggested people should “boycott Woolworths.” Several local councils have also stopped hosting Australia Day events as people’s attitudes change about January 26.
