‘Fill those vacant poles’: Flag plan put forward by Geelong mayor and federal MPs

Filling empty flag poles across the region is the latest part of a plan by the new mayor to “revitalise civic pride”.

Mayor Stretch Kontelj and Senator Sarah Henderson want to see flag poles filled with the Australian flag. Picture: Supplied.

The patriotic push by Geelong’s new mayor shows no sign of slowing down as upping the number of Australian flags being flown throughout the city is added to the agenda.

Little more than a month after City Hall controversially commenced the process of reinstating Australia Day celebrations and citizenship ceremonies, Mayor Stretch Kontelj said more flags formed part of his vision to “revitalise civic pride”.

The City of Greater Geelong has partnered with local federal MPs – Richard Marles, Libby Coker and Sarah Henderson – to encourage businesses and organisations to take up an offer of free Australian flags.

“As I move around Greater Geelong, I’ve noticed numerous flag poles standing empty, particularly on historic buildings,” Mr Kontelj said.

“These flag poles are reminders of a time when national pride was proudly displayed.”

Mr Kontelj said the region could reignite that sense of community and national pride by increasing the use of these poles.

“Working with our local federal politicians, I’m proud to be encouraging businesses and organisations to take advantage of the free Australian flags available from the offices of members of parliament,” he said.

Mr Kontelj emphasised the positive impact the program could have on the community.

“Flying the Australian flag is a way to show our unity and national pride,” he said.

“I’m grateful to our federal MPs for their support in making free Australian flags available.

“Together, we can fill those vacant poles with symbol a of national pride and celebrate what is good and great about Australia.”

Ahoy, empty pole, you may now be filled. Picture: NewsWire / John Gass.

Senator Henderson said she supported Mr Kontelj’s push “to build pride in our local community” through the flying of more Australian flags.

“This initiative also supports council’s decision to reinstate Australia Day celebrations and citizenship ceremonies which is a big win for our region,” she said.

Earlier this week, Mr Kontelj’s brother and fellow councillor, Eddy, outlined his plan to bring back Australia Day celebrations.

The centrepiece was to keep Geelong’s “much-loved” floating Christmas in place until the end of January so it could be transformed into an “Australia Day icon”.

“The tree would have great Australian music projecting from it for the week,” he said.

Other ideas being considered are the introduction of Australia Day community awards, a waterski stunt show on Corio Bay, fireworks, street parade, an aerobatic display by the Air Force Roulettes, and an outdoor concert involving local schools and choirs.

Originally published as ‘Fill those vacant poles’: Flag plan put forward by Geelong mayor and federal MPs