Australian celebrities expressed contrasting views regarding Australia Day on January 26, highlighting the ongoing debate over the significance of the date. While some figures embraced the day as a celebration of national pride, others took a stand to acknowledge its painful history for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Abbie Chatfield, a noted media personality, shared a satirical video on Instagram where she humorously depicted herself buying ice cream and stickers for her Aboriginal friend. In her caption, she stated, “Paying for everything for my best friend on Invasion Day every year because he’s Aboriginal and I’m descended from convicts.” Chatfield clarified that her post was intended as a joke, emphasizing that such gestures are insufficient to address the historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities. She also promoted the initiative Pay The Rent, which aims to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Invasion Day Rallies and Celebrations
Brooke Blurton, another prominent figure from the Australian entertainment scene, joined Chatfield in expressing solidarity with the First Nations community. Blurton attended an Invasion Day rally in Melbourne, donning a T-shirt from the organization Clothing The Gaps, which read, “Not The Date To Celebrate.” She was visibly moved during the event, which included a minute of silence to honor those affected by colonization.
At the rally, 2024 MasterChef winner Nathale Thaipun also showed her support by wearing a hat featuring the colors of the Aboriginal flag. The protest was part of a larger movement advocating for a change in the date of Australia Day, which many view as a reminder of the violence and dispossession experienced by Indigenous peoples.
In contrast, Karl Stefanovic, a well-known television presenter, publicly defended the celebration of Australia Day. He and his family took to social media to showcase their patriotic spirit while enjoying a boat ride in Sydney Harbour. Stefanovic expressed his pride in Australia, stating that the country is a “f***ing great country,” and dismissed critics who label the day as problematic, referring to them as part of a “woke” culture.
Mixed Reactions from Other Celebrities
Other celebrities also weighed in on the debate. Former competitive swimmer Lisa Curry celebrated the day while traveling in Canada, sharing images of herself and her husband wearing Australia-themed attire. Curry encouraged her followers to “Celebrate what is great for you every day,” reflecting a sentiment of national pride.
Conversely, reality television star Hayley Vernon conveyed a more direct message on social media, contributing to the spectrum of opinions regarding Australia Day.
The differing perspectives among Australian celebrities illustrate the complexity of national identity and historical recognition in Australia. As the conversation continues, it is clear that Australia Day remains a divisive topic, prompting both celebrations and calls for reflection on the country’s past. This ongoing dialogue highlights the need for greater understanding and respect for the experiences of Indigenous Australians.
