Light up the night sky

Supporters have called for the councils to illuminate Wodonga’s water tower and Albury’s MAMA in rainbow lights.

In May, MAMA was coloured in support of the international day against homophobia, biphobia and transphobia.

Wodonga’s water tower has previously been illuminated to support causes such as autism and premature births. 

A Wodonga Council spokeswoman said community members must apply to council to light up the tower.

She said council had not received an application but it would be considered like all submissions.

Albury Marriage Equality’s Toni Johnson said people were being hurt by hateful messages leading up the the postal plebiscite.

She said the councils, who have come out in favour of same-sex marriage in the past, should take a stand to support their constituents. 

“It would be wonderful in the lead up to the vote,” Ms Johnson said

“They’ve lit up MAMA before and I’m hoping council will raise a  rainbow flag over their chambers.”

Albury mayor Kevin Mack could not be reached for comment.

Father Peter MacLeod-Miller said lighting up the monuments was the least the cities could do. 

“It’s amazing the affect something like that would have, it gives people courage to think differently,” he said.

“To give due credit to our local governments they have shown real leadership on the issue where state and federal representatives have failed.

“Action is eloquence.”

Former Wodonga councillor and president of the Wodonga Australian Labor Party branch Eric Kerr said in a time filled with negativity it was important the community and their representatives stood strong. 

Mr Kerr, who raised by two mothers on the Border, said both councils’ past support of same-sex marriage was very meaningful to LGBTIQ people and their families.

“It’s a very symbolic gesture but it’s a strong one to be sent to the community,” he said.

“It’s nice local councils do things to support local causes and they’d be doing their job to represent the community.

“It’s a fantastic idea.”