Yangon expats are facing the end of barbecues at the Australian Embassy Staff Club as the organisation makes good on its name and closes its doors to everyone but employees and their families.
New membership rules brought in to mirror regulations at other diplomatic posts will start June 30, Crikey reported.
The decision comes just weeks after the appointment of ambassador Nicholas Coppel. His predecessor, Bronte Moules, reportedly campaigned for wider membership of the club, which hosts popular Friday night barbecues.
“I am writing to advise you the Australian Embassy Staff Club Yangon (AESCY) will be closing to all Associate and Reciprocal club members at the end of the financial year (30 June 2015)”, Coppell was quoted as saying in a letter to Australians in Yangon obtained by Crikey.
“I have been asked by head office to bring membership rules for the AESYC into line with other Australian diplomatic posts that have similar facilities. In essence, this means membership of the AESCY will be restricted to staff members and their families.”
As one Australian told Crikey “the ambassador’s decision is a kick in the guts to the Australian expat community.” Some are reportedly staging a ‘Save the BBQ’ campaign.
If all fails, there’s still the British Club. And the American Center. And many places for people who don’t need clubs.
The Australian embassy did not immediately return a request for comment.
UPDATE: The embassy got back to us, saying they did not wish to comment on media reports.
Photo: Wikicommons
