Wollongong Council apologises for Sun of Vergina flag-hoisting mistake

Wollongong Council quickly took down the "Sun of Vergina", an internationally-recognised Greek symbol. Photo; Supplied

6 August 2021 12:51pm

A flag bearing the Sun of Vergina was hoisted by Wollongong Council in NSW to commemorate the Ilinden Uprising, which was aimed at creating a so-called autonomous “Macedonia”.

The uprising kicked off on 20 July, 1903, and was named after Saint Elijah as it took place on his feast day.

There were complaints to the Council following the hoisting of the flag carrying an internationally-recognised Greek symbol.

Wollongong Council officials were quick to take down the flag and acknowledge their mistake.

“Thank you for your call this morning and for providing advice about the flag currently flying at Wollongong Council,” said the message on Facebook.

“We sincerely apologise that we were not aware of the sensitivities associated with the supplied flag. Council accepted the flag in good faith from a community member.”