‘Don’t be a dropkick’: WA Premier’s strong words as state enforces proof of vaccinations

One state leader has labelled some people ‘dropkicks’ for giving venues a hard time instead of producing proof of vaccination against Covid-19.

West Australian Premier Mark McGowan has urged people not to be “dropkicks” by giving venue staff a hard time when asked to show proof of their Covid-19 vaccination.

But while his sentiment was met with support for workers, others criticised his choice of words.

In a social media post, Mr McGowan said the aim of the vaccination proof was to ensure everyone stayed safe during the pandemic.

“If you’re asked to show your proof of vaccination, don’t be a dropkick,” he wrote.

“There is never an excuse to be rude to staff – not now, not ever. It’s not the Western Australian way.

“Requiring proof of vaccination for higher risk venues means that everyone in attendance is safer.

“It’s already been rolled out in some other states and there is no reason WA can’t do it to.”

WA Premier Mark McGowan has urged people not to be ‘dropkicks’. Picture: Matt Jelonek/Getty Images

Mr McGowan further urged people to be prepared when they left home.

“Make sure you’ve downloaded what you need to on your phone or printed it off. Make sure you’ve got a form of ID too,” he said.

“Take the time to help a loved one or a friend if they’re a little less tech savvy.

“Most importantly, have a little patience as venues put their procedures in place.

“Remember, this is to keep you and everyone else in attendance safe. So please, don’t be a dropkick.”

Thousands of people have commented on the post, including some who laughed at his use of the word “dropkick”.

One person wrote: “My laugh out loud moment for the morning. Love how real you are, Mark McGowan. Totally agree with you.”

Someone else commented: “I support you bringing back the term dropkick.”

Another joked: “Just here to see all the ‘dropkicks’ losing their minds in the comment section.”

The Premier was even given a backhanded compliment, with one person saying: “I really am not a fan of you, but I do agree with you on this. These people are just doing their jobs, which might mean they have to ask for this. Treat them with respect, whether you agree with vaccinations or not.”

People already have to scan QR codes at places across WA and now they also have to show proof of vaccination at many venues. Picture: Stefan Gosatti/Getty Images

But others have expressed disappointment at Mr McGowan’s language.

“This is totally unprofessional and I’m disappointed that a premier of this state and members of his parliament are repeatedly resorting to name calling to convince people to act in a certain way,” one person wrote.

“For example, the repeated use of labelling people selfish and now dropkicks is unacceptable.

“I am imploring the WA government to refrain from such language and act more professionally in their communications please. Lead by example.”

Another person wrote: “Mandating vaccines and threatening family’s with loss of incomes. That’s the real West Australian way. Only one dropkick, Mark McGowan.”

The WA government this week announced that proof of vaccination would now be required at the following venues:

• Nightclubs;
• Music festivals and major events with more than 500 people;
• Pubs, taverns, hospitality hotels and special facility licenses with a capacity of more than 500 people or venues that trade after midnight;
• Events with an occasional liquor licence; and
• The Crown gaming floor.

People must show proof of vaccination either in a digital or paper form, along with identification.

A mobile app will be available next week to make the process easier.