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A poster mimicking the style of renowned street artist Peter Drew’s “Aussie” series has been discovered in over 40 locations throughout the city, stirring significant controversy.
Lord Mayor Nick Reece has condemned the imitation posters, emphasizing that Drew’s original works are a celebration of Australia’s rich national identity and multicultural roots. He described the unauthorized copies as “absolutely abhorrent.”
In an official statement, Reece highlighted the importance of contemporary street art in political and social discourse. “Drew’s posters exemplify how street art can serve as a powerful tool for social activism,” he stated.
However, Reece expressed outrage at the misuse of Drew’s style for harmful messages. “The appropriation of his work to spread images of hatred and division is utterly appalling,” he remarked.
Furthermore, Reece criticized the use of imagery related to the Bondi shooter, calling it “sick.” He noted the ongoing pain felt by grieving families and the wider community.
“There is no possible universe in which this can be seen as an artistic response to the original series.”
Reece said his team has worked around the clock to remove the posters.
Racist and hateful material will be removed in Melbourne within one hour of being reported under a new city policy, the mayor added.
”Our approach is ‘whatever it takes’: we are not going to tolerate hateful, racist material on the streets of our city, for even one hour,” Reece said.
“The Bondi terrorists will fade into history and their names will be forgotten,” Aghion said.
“The people who will be remembered are the victims, the survivors, and the heroes who rushed in to help. They represent the true Aussie spirit.”
Fifteen innocent people were killed and dozens more were injured when two gunmen opened fire from a footbridge overlooking the park in Bondi on December 14.
Akram has been charged with 59 offences.
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