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Vandals attacked a Melbourne gay pub this week causing
damage estimated at $2,000.
Graffiti at DT's Hotel in Richmond on Thursday. Photo: MRW.
DT’s Hotel in Richmond was vandalised sometime between Tuesday evening
and Wednesday morning.
The word ‘fag’ was sprayed a number of times over the exterior
of the building in silver paint.
It is the first time the popular pub has been targeted with graffiti
in its 13-year history.
Owner Dale Smedley told Evolution Online the incident had
been reported to police.
He said because of the nature of the crime, Yarra City Council paid for removal of the damage.
“I have to give 100 marks to the police, 100 marks to council,
and 100 marks to the people in the area,” Smedley said.
“They have been incredibly supportive.”
Although this is the first time DT’s has been textually
assaulted, Smedley said there had been acts of what he called “puberty anger”.
“You know, young boys reach puberty and before they can get
a root the worst thing they can think of is to smash a window and have a go at
the poofters.”
He dismisses the view that the vandalism reflects local attitudes
towards gays and lesbians.
“A lady stopped me in the shopping plaza and she said she
couldn’t believe it, people are horrified.
“The negative in some ways has been outweighed by the
positive reaction of people. The residents say we keep the place looking so
beautiful.”
For Smedley, the support of the public and his dealings with the council have made him determined to become active in local politics.
“I’ve been thinking about running for council, and this has
made me decide to do it,” he said.
“I’ll begin campaigning later this year, probably as an
independent candidate for Yarra.”
Smedley said the 'fag' vandal was likely to be “someone who doesn’t think
clearly”.
“Someone who’s not particularly bright and hates minority groups.”
Richmond police are treating the incident as an act of
criminal damage involving homophobic slurs.
Anyone who has information about the incident should contact
Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Evolution Online: www.eevolution.com.au
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