A regional Queensland council has vowed to reinstate the Australian flag to its airport after the national symbol was removed.
But mystery surrounds the flag’s sudden disappearance from Hervey Bay Airport on April 23, with many in the community upset at its removal so close to Anzac Day.
Concern started when an airport worker by the name of Scott Mason posted a statement on social media, saying the flag overlooking the passenger screening point had been ordered to be taken down by Fraser Coast Regional Council.
Mason, who identified himself as an ex-serviceman, termed the move a “slap in the face to having national pride and an insult to the flag we all live under.”
The worker claimed there had been one complaint lodged regarding the flag, but did not comment on the nature of the complaint.
“On the eve of Anzac Day I can only imagine how the diggers that protected this land and their families would turn in their grave at this disrespect.”
The removal of the flag led to some concerned locals calling for the community to “picket the airport” in protest.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour was quick to respond, denying claims the flag’s removal was on council orders.
“We are aware of an incident involving the removal of the Australian flag at the Hervey Bay Airport without approval from the council,” he said in a statement on social media.
“While this action was not authorised, we understand that it was not done with any ill intent and was in response to concerns about flag flying protocols.”
Seymour said the flag was being reinstated and the matter would be addressed internally to “ensure a clear understanding of procedures moving forward.”
“We thank our community for their understanding, and we reaffirm our respect for the Australian Flag and all it represents,” he said.
The council was contacted regarding who made the decision to remove the flag.
Hervey Bay region’s Division 9 councillor Sara Diana Faraj, who was voted deputy mayor on April 23, was also contacted for comment.
Hervey Bay’s airport is a major regional tourism hot spot with regular services to both Brisbane and Sydney.
The airport is serviced by Qantas, Jetstar, and Lady Elliott Island flights.
