Bunnings’ controversial Xmas decoration has customers fuming

The store's interpretation of Christmas cheer is being called into question with the release of a blow-up decoration inspired by one of Australia’s most controversial figures.

In Bunnings’ range of festive inflatables this year, there’s a cute range of everything from gingerbread men, reindeer - and even a cockatoo and a kiwi.

But there’s one product that is generating very opinionated responses from its customers - and it has well and truly divided the internet.

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The Xmas decoration features Ned Kelly on his horse dressed as Santa. Images: Supplied

Bunnings is currently selling a Lytworks inflatable outlaw Santa for $99. The blow-up in question bears a striking resemblance to Ned Kelly, an Australian bushranger, gang leader and outlaw who lived from 1854 to 1880, and known for his suit of bulletproof armour.

In the Bunnings decoration, the ‘outlaw’ is pictured riding a horse appearing to steal Christmas presents.

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Shoppers are torn over the Xmas decoration

On the Instagram page of the product’s manufacturer, Lytworx Lights, the controversial Australian figure is seen in a much more forgiving light than in the history books.

"Our Outlaw Inflatable (or Neddy as we like to call him!) has finally paid his dues and is free to roam your front yard!" it reads.

Members of the Christmas Australia group are divided over the unconventional Bunnings product.

“It's tacky and in very poor taste,” one wrote.

“Nah, it’s a no from me!” another commented. “That’s losing the goodness of Christmas.”

Customers hit Facebook to share their thoughts. Source: Facebook

More than one member has complained directly to the retailer, saying Ned Kelly was “a murderer” and “police killer” and that Bunnings has shown a lack of “cultural sensitivity” with the Christmas decoration.

Not everyone agrees, however, with some accepting it as an ordinary part of Australian culture.

“I hate blow-ups in general but this doesn’t really bother me,” one wrote, adding: “It’s called outlaw Santa and is part of Australian historical culture. The axe throwing Santa a few years ago rubbed me the wrong way because blow-ups are designed to be used outside and are therefore for children’s viewing.”

Another commenter was even more complimentary: “Having just seen the image of it, I think it’s funny. ‘Outlaw Santa’ - I like it. I find this in no way offensive or wrong. How is this any different to putting a koala or kangaroo in a Santa hat? It's good marketing trying to Australianise the season.”

Many were torn down the middle, seeing the argument on both sides of whether it’s an appropriate Christmas adornment.

“Each to their own with Christmas decor though,” they said. “It will always come down to personal beliefs and preferences.” 

One fuming customer wrote to Bunnings to encourage them to take the item off their shelves. Image: Supplied

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Bunnings responds to shopper feedback

Kidspot has contacted Bunnings, and the retailer has confirmed the outlaw inflatable will remain on sale but only in stores and not online because of “low stock” around the country.

“The inflatable Santa is part of our promotional items for Christmas that includes a wide range of festive inflatable designs this year,”  Bunnings General Manager of Merchandise, Adrian Pearce, says.

“We really value our customers' feedback and understand the concerns they’ve raised and our merchandise team will take this feedback into consideration when planning next year’s Christmas range.”

Originally published as Bunnings’ controversial Xmas decoration has customers fuming