Victoria Don't miss out on the headlines from Victoria. Followed categories will be added to My News. Beloved steam train Puffing Billy has weighed into the Australia Day debate , revealing it won’t celebrate the national public holiday.
In a weekly notice, published on Friday, Puffing Billy chief executive officer Stephanie Straub said the organisation’s “commitment to reconciliation guides how we engage with significant moments in our national calendar”. “As part of the ongoing work of our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Working Group, Puffing Billy Railway acknowledges that Australia Day holds a different meaning for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” she said in the note. “For many, this date is a painful reminder of colonisation and its lasting impacts.
With respect for the enduring history of First Nations Peoples, Puffing Billy Railway does not celebrate Australia Day. Puffing Billy will not acknowledge Australia Day. Picture: Supplied Ms Straub said the nation should spend Australia Day reflecting on “the values of inclusivity, understanding, and unity that are central to a multicultural Australia”.
“This day is an opportunity to learn, listen, and commit to building a future that embraces the rich diversity of our nation while honouring its First Peoples.” A News Corp online survey of more than 21,000 people found at least 87 per cent support Australia Day remaining on January 26 , with only 12 per cent backing calls to change the date and 1 per cent advocating no celebration. More Coverage ‘We’re trusted’: Our notable faces reveal why they love Australia Join the conversation Add your comment to this story To join the conversation, please log in.
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