Recent Wheeler Centre guest Armistead Maupin has been subjected to the darker side of Australian hospitality. Maupin and his partner took some time out in central Australia following their visit to Melbourne, which included an appearance at the Wheeler Centre. While staying in Alice Springs, they visited the popular cowboy-themed Bojangles Saloon for some lunch. Both Maupin and his partner were subjected to homophobic derision when they asked a staff member for directions to the facilities. The couple objected immediately to the behaviour with the staff member involved and soon after lodged an official complaint at the tourism office.
In a later interview with local ABC radio’s Rohan Barwick, Maupin said he was gratified to receive an apology within 24 hours from the venue’s management via the tourism office. He added that otherwise he and his partner greatly enjoyed their visit to the centre. See here for a full report.