A COMMUNITY petition calling on Redland City Council to fly the rainbow flag or light up a local landmark in recognition of the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) has resulted in a win for the community.
Redland City Council had initially refused to fly the rainbow flag on May 17, citing “operational concerns” and flag protocol red tape.
That decision sparked public outrage, with many accusing the Council of failing to support the queer community and other minorities on such a significant day.
A petition, initiated by community advocate Callen Sorensen Karklis, gathered nearly 200 signatures.
It urged Council to show public support for the LGBTQ+ community by either flying the pride flag or illuminating a civic space in rainbow colours.
In response, the Council confirmed that the iconic Cleveland Lighthouse would be lit in rainbow colours to mark the occasion.
“Redland City Council is committed to diversity and inclusion,” a council spokesperson said.
Redland City Councillor Paul Golle had earlier rejected the proposal to fly the flag.
“The rainbow flag is not recognised under the Flags Act 1953 or any Queensland legislation as an official flag,” Cr Golle said.
“That legal status is reserved for the Australian National Flag, the Aboriginal Flag, the Torres Strait Islander Flag, and a few specific ensigns. Flying any other memento on public infrastructure – especially one that represents a particular identity or movement – requires careful consideration to avoid politicising Council spaces.
“Council officers suggested that lighting up a civic space would be a more inclusive way to acknowledge such days without breaching flag protocols or compromising the neutrality expected of public institutions.
“Many find it frustrating – and frankly ludicrous – that symbolic issues like flying an unofficial memento are being treated as a civic priority,” he said.
“People expect us to focus on what matters most.”
