Equality Tas: ‘Love wins’ after stolen pride flags replaced

Police have confirmed they are investigating the theft of pride flags in Hobart following the annual TasPride festival. However, an Equality Tas spokesperson said council’s move shows that “love wins”.

Hobart Town Hall. Flag raising ceremony at Town Hall flies the Pride Flag for the duration of the festival. Picture Eddie Safarik

Police are investigating the theft of three pride flags form outside the Hobart Town Hall last week, with council stepping in to replace them.

The flags were originally hoisted for the annual TasPride Festival, with Tasmania Police launching an investigation into the theft.

Hobart City Council hoisted the replaced flags on Monday, a move which Equality Tasmania spokesperson Rodney Croome said showed that “love wins”.

“The possibility the theft may have been hate-motivated highlights the need for public authorities to show their support for the LGBTIQA+ community and opposition to prejudice,” he said.

New pride flags hanging at Hobart Town Hall. Picture: supplied.

“The fact the flags are flying again shows that love wins.”

Police LGBTIQA+ Coordinator Inspector Scott Mackenzie said Tasmania Police are investigating the theft of the flags.

“We are taking this matter seriously and collaborating with the Hobart City Council to identify those responsible and bringing them to justice,” he said.

“I understand the impact this incident has on the LGBTIQA+ community.”

Equality Tasmania and TasPride are working with the Hobart City Council to ensure the new Pride Flags will be more secure and are cooperating with the Tasmania Police investigation.

Anyone with any information about the theft is urged to contact police directly, or through email at [e-mail], or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.