MEMBER for Bega Andrew Constance on Thursday called for an independent investigation into ABC South East following an unauthorised gnome protest in Ayers Walkway organised by the NSW branch of the Bega Gnome Union.
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In the lead up to the Far South Coast National Show on the weekend and the Great Gnome Auction, the mayor and the state member have been the victims of an ongoing media campaign run by the ABC and Bega District News.
Both local media outlets have gnomes seeking to out bid the politicians.
"Brandishing placards 'Constance has something to answer' and 'Vote 1 Campbell' it is fairly obvious that an unhealthy alliance has formed between ABC South East's Ian Campbell and the NSW branch of the Bega Gnome Union headed up by Gnorman Talkalot," Mr Constance said on Thursday.
"I was shocked at such a large turnout on Wednesday in Ayers Walkway, as this unprecedented form of industrial action has never been seen before in our wonderful community," he said (see above photo).
"The tactics of the ABC's Ian Campbell to divert attention from his cleverly crafted bananas in pyjamas Gnome 1 (G1) will not fool anyone.
"Ian Campbell can take comfort in the fact that he will have the five-year-olds' vote at the show, but this doesn't mean he will attain top dollar for G1.
"I also want to congratulate Ben Smyth from the Bega District News for his efforts despite his gnome being slightly red-faced.
"I painted my gnome, yet I am disappointed at ongoing accusations that I didn't.
"Captain of the Wallabies and world-renowned Bega sportsman Jerome the Gnome, will show gnomercy when it comes to the Bega Show charity auction.
"I want to pay tribute to the organisers of this inaugural fundraising event and congratulate the show society on a wonderful show," Mr Constance said.
"I wish my opponents Gnome luck come the weekend."