Military veteran organisations in New South Wales have declared Anzac Day is “not for sale” after a rock concert close to where veterans would March in Sydney was approved for the sacred day.
Ben Fordham on 2GB revealed early today NSW Premier Chris Minns was being lobbied to intervene after the Pandemonium 2024 rock music festival was given the green light to be held in the Domain public space on April 25.
Performers including Placebo, Alice Cooper and Blondie are scheduled to play in the concert that begins late morning, around 11.30am.
But veteran groups are concerned it will clash with the traditional march by veterans through central Sydney, just 900 metres from the Domain. The march is due to end at 12.30 pm.
RSL NSW president Mick Bainbridge said holding a music festival on ANZAC Day was inappropriate.
“We all love to have fun and live music is fantastic for Sydney, but Anzac Day is not the day for a music festival,” he said.
“Anzac Day is a day to think of the sacrifices made by the approximately 120,000 people from NSW who served overseas during World War I, as well as all who have served since.
“It is a day for respect and quiet contemplation.”
There were reports the organiser of Pandemonium 2024 had offered to direct a portion of ticket sales to veteran charities.
But Bainbridge said while as a 37-year-old he understood the value of music for younger people, the honour and respect of Anzac Day should not be compromised.
“Anzac Day is not for sale,” he said.
“If the organiser sincerely wants to support veterans’ wellbeing, we would welcome the opportunity to discuss how they can donate to organisations, including RSL NSW and RSL LifeCare Veteran Services to do so – without compromising a day of honour and respect.”
“I love live music and the community it builds. But it has to be at the right time.
“We’ve seen through the Royal Commission’s hearings how important it is to protect and honour our community of veterans, and build opportunities to support each other, not tear them down.”
The organisers of Pandemonium 2024 have been contacted for comment.
