Australia’s colonial history is once again in the spotlight as protesters targeted two monuments in Melbourne. The incidents occurred just days before Australia Day, a national holiday that commemorates the anniversary of British settlement in 1788.
The first monument to suffer damage was a statue of British naval officer James Cook, who famously charted Sydney’s coast in 1770. Protesters sawed off the statue at the ankles and left behind a defiant message: “The colony will fall.” Meanwhile, a Queen Victoria monument in Queen Victoria Gardens was doused in red paint.
Australia Day has long been a controversial holiday, with arguments over how the country should remember the arrival of British convicts on January 26, 1788. For many Indigenous activists, the day is known as “Invasion Day,” as it marks the beginning of a period of discrimination and dispossession without the negotiation of a treaty.
The vandalism of these monuments highlights the ongoing debate surrounding Australia’s colonial past. While some argue for the preservation of these historical symbols, others believe they represent a painful legacy of colonization. The lack of a treaty, unlike comparable countries such as the United States, Canada, and New Zealand, has further fueled the controversy.
Port Phillip Council Mayor Heather Cunsolo acknowledged the complexity of views surrounding Australia Day. However, she condemned the vandalism, noting that the costs of repairs would ultimately be borne by ratepayers. The authorities have already removed the damaged Captain Cook statue and workers have taken steps to repair the plinth.
Victorian state premier Jacinta Allan has pledged government support to repair and reinstate the statue. Meanwhile, the police are investigating both incidents of vandalism.
Australia’s colonial past remains a contentious subject, and these recent events only serve to highlight the deep divisions within the country. As debates continue, it is crucial to listen to diverse perspectives and work towards a more inclusive and respectful understanding of history.