UPDATE
Cr Jack Medcraft has posted an apology on his personal Facebook page after being suspended from Hume council.
Cr Medcraft said he “sincerely” apologised for his comments.
“I never intended any hurt or malice towards others, nor did I appreciate that my comments did not reflect well in my role as a Councillor or a community representative,” the post read.
“But I appreciate how my comments may have offended some people and as a result, I have volunteered to undertake cultural diversity training and I will make every effort to be more understanding.
“I also accept the sanctions applied by Council and will abide by them.”
EARLIER
Sunbury councillor Jack Medcraft has been suspended from Hume council after a racist remark was posted on his personal Facebook page last week.
The Jacksons Creek ward councillor has also been removed as the council’s portfolio spokesperson for Indigenous support.
Mayor Geoff Porter issued a statement on the council’s Facebook page today amid backlash from community members.
In the statement, Cr Porter said he was “disappointed” by comments posted on Cr Medcraft’s personal social media.
“In a frank conversation, [Cr Medcraft] took responsibility for the comments and gave an immediate unreserved apology,” the statement read.
“Cr Medcraft has also informed me that he will undertake cultural diversity training and issue an apology to the community.”
It is believed the remark was posted on Cr Medcrafts Facebook page on Wednesday, April 4. The post has since been deleted.
Community members who took to Facebook and Twitter have expressed their “disgust” at the comment.
A number have questioned why Cr Medcraft has not been sacked and referred to his “racist history”.
Cr Medcraft came under fire from the community in September 2016 after sharing a series of racially inflammatory social media posts on his Facebook page.
At the time the council said any external complaint about a councillor would be investigated.
Cr Medcraft has been suspended for two council meetings in relation to the latest post.
Star Weekly attempted to contact Cr Medcraft.
