Statement from Cr Ross Ebbels, Mayor of the Borough of Queenscliffe

Published on 27 May 2021

Mayor Cr Ross Ebbels wearing mayoral robes and addressing a crowd

This morning I was made aware that racist graffiti vilifying one of our younger residents had appeared in the Borough. To say I am shocked and appalled is an understatement.

Although the graffiti has already been removed and the incident reported to the police for investigation, the fact that it was written in the first place requires a robust response.

Racism of any kind is deplorable and will not be tolerated in our community. All of us, whenever we encounter racist behaviour and attitudes, have an obligation to call it out and condemn it.

I have spoken to the family of the young person targeted by the graffiti and reassured them that we will not accept this behaviour in the Borough. I hope everyone in our community will join me in letting them know that they are welcome, and that we are proud to stand with them against this appalling and criminal act.

Anyone who has information about the incident is encouraged to share those details with police. For more information about how to call out racist behaviour, visit the Australian Human Rights Commission’s website at https://itstopswithme.humanrights.gov.au/learn-about-racism/respond-racism.

Our Borough must be a welcoming place for everyone – calling out racism will help make it so.