Veterans were displeased when some clubs and pubs announced that they would ban the traditional " Two-Up " game because of brawls and damage caused by young people.
They were even more horrified when it was revealed after the event that many venues stopped serving alcohol and closed early because of crowd behaviour.
ANZAC day is the one day of the year when veterans attend the dawn service, take part in the march through the streets and remember comrades who did not return from war. Following the ceremonies it is traditional for old mates to have a few quiet drinks, wager a few dollars on " Two-Up " - and remember days gone by.
It is certainly not vets who cause trouble in the clubs and pubs. The problem can be sheeted home to young men who have no interest in this country's past and hold those veterans in contempt. They see ANZAC day as just another holiday - and an opportunity to get drunk and have what they consider a good time.
Perhaps the time has come for venues to make hard decisions. Perhaps clubs and pubs need to be closed to the public on ANZAC day and only welcome veterans wearing their campaign medals and present members of the armed services. Those that decline to make this commitment would be welcome to the hoons and yahoos !
No comments:
Post a Comment