Canberrans are used to their city being confused with federal parliament, but the recent protesters didn't understand the capital at all
ABCContrary to those who believe in the myth of the "Canberra bubble", residents of the national capital are a diverse, eclectic, curious, caring and outward-looking bunch. Asked if they'd lost friends due to their views, almost all protesters put up their hands ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said protesters actions failed to win over the "hearts and minds" of Canberrans. As ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr pointed out, while Canberrans are used to their city being the site of federal political debate and demonstrations on a range of topics, its people overwhelmingly accept rational science and health guidance. "Canberra is one of the most vaccinated cities on Earth, so the message from these protesters is really not gelling with Canberrans, who are educated who understand the value of vaccinations as a way of protecting themselves, their families, friends and indeed their fellow citizens." It was also this sense of community that has left many Canberrans feeling a mixture of frustration and sadness for the protesters who gathered in their city this week.
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