White Supremacist Rally Shocks Regional NSW Town? A regional town in New South Wales, recently the site of a white supremacist rally, remains a welcoming place for multicultural communities, according to a local leader. The rally, held in Corowa's central business district, saw around 50 masked individuals gathering under a neo-Nazi banner, prompting police to intervene. No arrests were made, but investigations are ongoing.
A Community Stands Strong Amid Hate.
Patrick Bourke, Federation Shire Councillor and former mayor, expressed shock and disappointment over the event, which occurred just as the town was preparing for the Corowa Show.
"It was disgusting," Bourke said. "There’s no place in Federation Council or Australia for that kind of behavior. I feel for the families, especially the younger ones, who had to witness it."
Bourke assured the community that both the council and residents would intensify efforts to maintain a safe and respectful environment.
Local Leaders Condemn Rally
Bourke wasn't alone in his condemnation. Both state and federal leaders voiced strong opposition to the rally's message and actions.
MP Justin Clancy: "Community Stands United Against Hate
Albury MP Justin Clancy denounced the event, calling it "cowardly and white supremacist activity." He commended the Corowa community for standing united against hate, emphasizing the importance of rejecting such abhorrent behavior.
Federal MP Sussan Ley Calls for Stronger Bans
Federal MP for Farrer, Sussan Ley, called for New South Wales to follow Victoria's lead in banning Nazi salutes and symbols.
"This is not free speech; it’s hate speech," Ley said. "These symbols should be banned, and we must not allow such groups to target our communities." She also pointed out that white supremacist groups are strategically targeting regional areas, calling for immediate and decisive action from authorities
Rally Near the Victorian Border Raises Concern
The rally occurred close to the Victoria border, where Nazi symbols and salutes are already outlawed. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan condemned the event, stressing the importance of continued unity to combat hate. Allan also mentioned that the Victorian government is looking to further strengthen its anti-vilification laws.
In a separate incident, a Victoria Police sergeant was suspended for allegedly performing a Nazi salute in front of colleagues. Victorian officials, including the Police Chief Commissioner, responded quickly to the allegations.
Leaders across both states continue to urge communities to stand firm against white supremacist activities. As investigations continue, authorities encourage anyone with information about the Corowa rally to contact CrimeStoppers.
The rally occurred close to the Victoria border, where Nazi symbols and salutes are already outlawed. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan condemned the event, stressing the importance of continued unity to combat hate. Allan also mentioned that the Victorian government is looking to further strengthen its anti-vilification laws.
Unrelated Police Incident Highlights Broader Issue
In a separate incident, a Victoria Police sergeant was suspended for allegedly performing a Nazi salute in front of colleagues. Victorian officials, including the Police Chief Commissioner, responded quickly to the allegations.
Call for Action
Leaders across both states continue to urge communities to stand firm against white supremacist activities. As investigations continue, authorities encourage anyone with information about the Corowa rally to contact CrimeStoppers.
