Melbourne Nightclub Faces Fury Over Anzac Day Dance Party Plans
A prominent Melbourne nightclub has issued a defiant response to mounting criticism over its decision to host and actively promote a dance event scheduled for Anzac Day this Saturday. La Di Da, located in the central business district, has partnered with another city venue, Club W, to organise what they describe as a 'special event' commencing at 10:30 PM and continuing into the early morning hours.
Event Details and Legal Framework
The promotional flyer circulated online advertises top-tier DJs, MCs, and professional dancers, with ticket prices beginning at $19.99. 'Bigger Venue. Bigger Crowd. One Night Only,' the promotional material boldly declares. Under Victorian state regulations, licensed venues are permitted to conduct business on Anzac Day, though alcohol sales are prohibited between 3:00 AM and midday unless a specific exemption is granted, typically for authorised RSL events.
Broadcaster Sparks National Debate
The planned celebration ignited a fierce public debate after 3AW radio broadcaster Tom Elliott questioned the appropriateness of holding a nightclub event on April 25th. 'I don't think a night at a nightclub and Anzac Day go very well together,' Elliott told his audience on Wednesday. 'Anzac Day is a day of commemoration. It is a day to remember our war dead and to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice in war. It's not a day to dance the night away at a nightclub.' Elliott did acknowledge the longstanding Anzac Day tradition of the AFL match between Essendon and Collingwood at the MCG, suggesting societal norms might be evolving.
Nightclub's Angry Retort
Following Elliott's segment, La Di Da reported receiving a flood of abusive telephone calls. A spokesperson for the venue responded with frustration when contacted by media, stating, 'Every venue in Melbourne is permitted to trade on a Saturday night. Why single out our venue when every venue in Victoria is legally permitted to trade? It’s ok for the AFL to host matches and sell liquor but it’s not ok for a small business? Every venue is open, it’s legal.'
Divided Public Reaction
The controversy has provoked sharply contrasting opinions across social media platforms and community discussions.
- Critics: One commenter identifying as the Vice President of an RSL in New Zealand wrote, 'I'm 100 per cent behind Tom Elliott on this issue. Anzac Day is a day to remember those who served both our countries in global conflict. Never have so many owed so much to those brave men and women of our armed services.' Others labelled the event 'Disrespectful' and a third added, 'When the world is ‘at war’, we need a reminder of the consequences - human life.'
- Supporters: Conversely, many defended the nightclub's right to operate. One person commented, 'After a hard day marching, they will need a cold beer. Getting a bit precious I’m thinking.' Another noted, 'Nightclubs have been running Anzac Day events for as long as I can remember. This isn't a new thing.' A third asked pragmatically, 'Does it matter what you do if you are at least acknowledging the day?'
Broader Context and Similar Incidents
Anzac Day is a national day of remembrance observed in Australia and New Zealand, originally marking the anniversary of the Gallipoli campaign during World War I. It has since expanded to honour all military veterans from both nations who have served in various conflicts. This incident follows a similar controversy in Far North Queensland, where a Townsville nightclub, FLNDRS Bar & Nightclub, faced online outrage for planning an X-rated event featuring explicit content on Anzac Day. That venue encouraged sexy attire, offered R-rated gifts, and provided free entry with VIP perks for Australian Defence Force members.
Daily Mail has reached out to RSL Victoria and Club W for further comment on the Melbourne situation, as the debate continues to highlight tensions between commercial activities, personal freedoms, and traditional commemorative practices on this solemn national day.
