Media Release
Monday February 17th 2025
“The fact the flags are flying again shows that love wins.”
– Rodney Croome
Equality Tasmania has praised Hobart City Council and Tasmanian Police for their response to the theft of three pride flags from outside Hobart Town Hall last week.
The flags, originally hoisted for the annual TasPride festival, were replaced by the Council today.
Meanwhile, Tasmanian Police has launched an investigation into the theft.
Equality Tasmanian spokesperson, Rodney Croome, said,
“We thank Hobart City Council, Tasmania Police and TasPride for their response to the theft of the three Pride Flags flying outside the Town Hall.”
“The possibility the theft may have been hate-motivated highlights the need for public authorities to show their support for the LGBTIQA+ community and opposition to prejudice.”
“The fact the flags are flying again shows that love wins.”
Police LGBTIQA+ Coordinator, Inspector Scott Mackenzie, said Tasmania Police are investigating the theft of the flags.
“We are taking this matter seriously and collaborating with the Hobart City Council to identify those responsible and bringing them to justice. I understand the impact this incident has on the LGBTIQA+ community.”
Equality Tasmania and TasPride are working with the Hobart City Council to ensure the new Pride Flags will be more secure and are cooperating with the Tasmania Police investigation.
If anyone has any information about the theft they can contact police directly, or through the LGBTIQA+ Liaison Network at LGBTIQA.Liaison@dpfem.tas.gov.au, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
A photo of the new flags hoisted today is attached.
For a copy of this statement on the web, click here
For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.