A Sydney media report named Port Stephens as one local government area poised to pick a new day for Australia Day celebrations but mayor Ryan Palmer said it was “fake news”.
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“For some reason it was reported in the Sydney Telegraph that Port Stephens was changing Australia Day,” Cr Palmer said.
The report was based on comments the council’s general manager Wayne Wallis made a year ago that any change would have to come from the councillors.
“The story came as a surprise to all of us [Tuesday] morning,” Cr Palmer said.
“After a quick discussion with all of the councillors this morning, not one wants to change the date.”
Cr Palmer said the story had sent his phone into meltdown with call after call from fearful residents.
“We want to assure the community that Port Stephens Council supports Australia Day being celebrated on January 26,” he said.
