Moomba madness shows breakdown between Melbourne’s governments

The Moomba backflip was a case of political whiplash, but it exposed serious government divisions at a time we need to be in this together.

Moomba madness.

In the space of 24 hours it was scrapped, then back on again.

It was political whiplash the likes of which we haven’t seen in some time.

Often the butt of jokes, Moomba is pure Melbourne, and has been since 1955, which is why the decision to scrap it upset so many, and took all by surprise.

None more so than Major Events Minister Martin Pakula who first read about the decision to dump it in the media.

There was much rumbling and finger pointing between Melbourne City Council and the state government on Friday over why and how the decision came to be made.

What is clear is that there are clearly communication issues between the two tiers of government if a decision of such significance can be made without the relevant minister’s consultation.

The Moomba Parade winds its way along Birdwood Ave. Moomba 2020 Queen Julia Morris Picture: Ian Currie

Which might be fine for a city festival.

But it’s not OK for a city decimated by coronavirus that is desperately trying to resuscitate itself.

Those in charge at Town Hall and Spring St must be on the same page if Melbourne stands a chance.

Never has there been a more urgent need for us to be all in this together.

Many of those angered by the original Moomba axing probably won’t attend this year’s festival, devoid of its iconic parade, Birdman rally and water skiing.

But that’s not the point.

The fact it’s going ahead signals things are getting back on track.

That 2021 is not 2020.

And there is still life left in our city.