Council backflip over high-five ban

A council has apologised for a snap decision to ban a primary school lollipop man from high-fiving the children who use his crossing.

Bayside Council told Graham Sanderson he was no longer allowed to touch the children after a parent complained about the high-five greeting.

The 60-year-old has been the St Mary's School crossing supervisor for seven years.

But the decision sparked a fierce response from parents, who described the decision as absurd.

"We thought it was outrageous," said parent Augusta Benveneto. "I asked my children how they felt about it, and my little girl said it was cruel.

"Graham is part of our community and we want to make sure our community is taken care of.

"Graham is a delight. He's the beginning and end of the kids' day. He's a lovely gentleman and he's done his job well."

After a week of petitioning by angry parents, the council finally agreed to overturn its decision this morning.

"It's a victory for common sense," said another parent, Sharon Burleigh.

Ms Benveneto added: "I think it should be a parents' decision whether they want their child to be high-fived or not. I don't think any council should be able to tell me what my children can or can't do."

Bayside Council spokeswoman Fran Duiker said the decision to overturn the ban came after an overwhelming show of support for Graham from the school community.

"We had a parent from the school contact us in regards to Graham high-fiving their child. We took the parent's concern fairly seriously and perhaps we did react fairly quickly, and possibly too quickly.

"We have had an overwhelming response and support for Graham from the school community."

The back flip has delighted Graham who says he is extremely happy that he can continue to high-five the children on their way to and from school.

"I think the kids will be happy now," he said.

"It's wonderful to be a part of this community."