A hot-air balloon has been banned from Canberra for its racist and offensive name and appearance. Her master said she had never intended to offend anyone.
The balloon, called Black Magic, also known as "Golly," is a smiling black face similar to Golliwog. The character is regarded by many as a racist cartoon.
Capital Territory government announced a ban on the balloon because it could offend people from all walks of life in the community.
Kay Turnbull, the owner of the balloon, said it had not had any problems flying at the event for decades.
"We never meant to offend anyone. In fact, in the 20 years since the balloon was designed, we have never received a complaint from anyone. "
Jo Verden, director of activities at ACT, said it was not until the balloon`s nickname "Golly" was proposed that staff began to question the balloon`s meaning.
"it is mainly `Golly` that has attracted our attention and may be considered racist and offensive by many in the community."
"the appearance of the balloon is interesting because it visually depicts Golliwog, `s eyes, mouth, bow tie, and obvious."
Ms. Verden said that prior to the decision, the event organizers had consulted with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Electoral College, ACT government and others.
But Ms. Turnbull said she had never heard any complaints about balloon design-but understood that some might be offended by the design.
"I do respect the fact that it might offend them, even though I have never done so," she said.
"as far as we are concerned, we have no intention of offending anyone."
She said she would continue to fly the balloon at other events, but now she will rent one to fly the Canberra Hot Balloon Festival.
