‘Reverse racism’: Fury as iconic Mount Warning hike closed forever

The decision to permanently close the iconic Mount Warning hike has prompted furious backlash and claims of ‘reverse racism’. JOIN THE CONVERSATION

It’s been labelled Australia’s “next Uluru” and the decision to permanently close the famous Wollumbin/Mount Warning hiking trail has drawn widespread backlash.

The Tweed Valley tourism Mecca and its 1100m-high peak is the first place in the country to catch the day’s sunrise.

However those picturesque views and challenging hours-long hike are a thing of the past for visitors after the NSW government revealed on Thursday it would permanently close the attraction and even ban images promoting the famous mountain.

The site will be handed back to its Aboriginal custodians.

Representatives from the Wollumbin Consultative Group, which represents a range of Aboriginal groups and families with a connection to the site, say public access is not “culturally appropriate or safe”.

READ ALL THE COMMENTS BELOW AND HAVE YOUR SAY

Despite already being closed since 2020, largely due to the Covid pandemic, the future of the Wollumbin/Mount Warning hiking trail remains a polarising issue.

Couriermail.com.au readers were torn over the future of the site, with 93 per cent voting they opposed its permanent closure, labelling it ‘reverse racism’ and a backwards steps toward inclusion.

Here is what both sides of the debate said:

Like Uluru, the future of Wollumbin/Mount Warning is up for debate. Picture: Bruce Westerlund

THE CASE FOR CLOSURE

Vanessa Alia said it’s time to respect the traditional owners of the land.

“Heaven forfend we should actually respect anything about the culture of the people whose land we stole … because we’re a bunch of toddlers who think we’re entitled to anything and everything,” she wrote on Facebook.

Monica Dixon added: “I climbed Wollumbin many years ago. I didn’t know the cultural significance of the site. I’m glad that I know now, and I wouldn’t do it again.”

While agreeing with the handover, David Layt questioned if it could still remain open.

“It is cultural land & should be with the indigenous custodians. But would be great if we can come to an understanding so all can enjoy.”

Tanique Brim used history in her case.

“People forget before colonisation, we had a lore! And many sacred areas aboriginal people can’t go to unless approved by elders. just because it’s beautiful, you don’t need to be there! We are spiritual people who have the right to close any sacred area, it’s been like that since dreamtime. Government tried to erase our lands, language and culture.”

James S. Doyle wrote: “Anyone actually from the Tweed valley understands very well why its closed. It’s been completely over run by half wits from the city.

Before everyone gets all opinionated speak to some of the rescue staff who were having to go up there every night of the week at 3am and rescue fitness camp people who got into “trouble”. Not to mention the trashing it has got with garbage.”

THE CASE AGAINST CLOSURE

Phillip Di Bella led the charge of those arguing that the closure would drive a wedge between communities.

“Totally disgusting and further building divide amongst all Australians! Woke taken to another level and unfortunately it won’t be the end!!!!”

Trish Jenkin agreed: “We are one. What utter rubbish. This is all division. We the white Australian has lost all rights to everything my Father fought for in WW2 and this is only the start. Australia Day and Anzac Day next. Watch this space.”

However Teresa said keeping it open would be the best way to produce a positive outcome: “Respect, yes. Close, no. By having it open, there are more opportunities to celebrate indigenous culture. I am pretty sure First Nations people climbed it for thousands of years.”

Brendan John backed her up.

“Surely keeping it open would allow visitors to become aware of the cultural significance closing it ensures the story is never told. Seems to defeat the purpose.”

John wrote that the time has come for unity: “We are all Australians and i am over all this first nation, voice to parliament crap and the handing back of significant sites to them only to find in the future we are all banned from going there. Enough is enough we are one i think the song goes.”

Matthew took a shot at officials: “Culturally safe? Give me a break, this is just another Government giving in to a noisy minority. How about you start honouring democracy and Govern for the majority.”

Doug wrote: “The great Christian cathedrals here and in Europe are open to visitors of all beliefs. Why is it suddenly “culturally unsafe” for white people to climb or even look at pictures of Mt Warning for the first time in two centuries?”

Ann wrote: “I wish people would stop using the term reverse racism, its just racism, it knows no boundaries.”

Originally published as ‘Reverse racism’: Fury as iconic Mount Warning hike closed forever