Victorian Opposition Leader Matthew Guy says the resignation of Essendon CEO Andrew Thorburn because of his involvement in a controversial church group is “ridiculous”. | lachieabbott
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has defended his criticism of Essendon’s short-lived appointment of Andrew Thorburn, after Opposition Leader Matthew Guy said the Bombers chief executive’s resignation because of his involvement in a controversial church group was “ridiculous”.
“Football clubs can hire who they choose. I don’t see, if I was the premier, why I would be telling people who they can hire and fire; why would you?” “What’s more, when it comes to rampant homophobia, when I lead the Pride March every year, I do that with a sense of genuine concern and support and commitment to make sure that every LGBTQ+ Victorian is safe, protected and valued. If I’m to be criticised for that, well, so be it.”
When asked whether Thorburn’s resignation showed people with conservative religious beliefs needed to hide their opinions in a public role, Andrews said: “No. They might want to have a think about whether they want to be a bit more kind-hearted. A bit more inclusive. Aren’t we all God’s children?” “As soon as the comments relating to a 2013 sermon from a pastor, at the City of the Hill church came to light this morning, we acted immediately to clarify the publicly espoused views on the organisation’s official website, which are in direct contradiction to our values as a club,” Barham said.
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