Popular Fortitude Valley nightspot, Cloudland, sent a text message to its patrons concerning the ALP's early closing policy on the eve of the Queensland State Election. There has been a backlash on social media.
Katarzyna Group, which also operates Family Nightclub, The Press Club, Bincho, Birdees and Bunk Backpackers sent a text which read: "Be careful with your vote on Saturday. Labor want to shut pubs and clubs early. OPTOUT xxxxx".
The backlash on social media has been virulent. Mark O'Neill wrote on Cloudland's Facebook page "Thanks for letting us know what is important to you guys. It will help me spend my money more in keeping with my preferences". Matt McPhee was a little more direct: "How the fuck did you douchebags even get my phone number? Don't tell me how to vote".
The text message was germane to the company's business interests, but it's not clear from the feedback and abuse whether patrons are objecting on principle for being lobbied how to vote or whether they are objecting on personal bias for being lobbied to vote right.
Did you receive a Cloudland text? Should businesses lobby their customers with electronic commincation? Tell us what you think.
Sample posts from Cloudland's Facebook Page:
