They were wrong and were, like his earlier offensive tirades on Twitter, offensive and embarrassing to Bendigo. But for some strange and unexplained reason, Mr Gibbons has not been condemned by the candidate imposed on Bendigo by Labor through a backroom deal that forced the withdrawal of a local candidate with the support of local ALP branches. 

Ms Chesters, when given the opportunity to condemn the sexist comments, went to Mr Gibbons’ defence. Surprisingy after only last week the Bendigo community held a number of events leading up to White Ribbon Day as part of a national effort against violence against women.

Mr Gibbons and now Ms Chesters have tested those motives and values. I believe it would be now totally inconsistent with those expressed community values for Mr Gibbons and Ms Chesters to be invited to local functions – a way for groups and institutions to send them a message that we do not tolerate these sexist comments. 

Any invitations already issued should be withdrawn in protest against Mr Gibbons’ latest outburst and Ms Chesters’ refusal to condemn them.

Frank Jones

?Bendigo