The Alice Springs Mayor has reported receiving threats following an online controversy involving a discarded Alice Springs Town Council marquee that appeared at a protest event. Northern Territory Police are investigating the threats, while council officials have called for calm and condemned increasing hostility on social media.

The issue began after images circulated online showing a council-branded marquee being used during a three-day protest event at Pine Gap. The artwork and performance event attracted public attention because the marquee still displayed the Alice Springs Town Council logo, leading some people online to question whether the council had any involvement or supported the event.

Council representatives later clarified that the marquee had been discarded after flood damage in 2022 and was no longer owned or used by the council. Acting Chief Executive Officer Nicole Battle explained that the item had been removed from council property and apologised for the confusion caused by the remaining branding.

Mayor Asta Hill said the situation resulted in serious online abuse, including death threats directed towards her. She criticised the spread of extreme comments and misinformation through social media platforms and said public discussion should remain respectful even when people disagree on political or community issues.

The incident has highlighted broader concerns about the impact of online harassment on local government representatives. Councillors and mayors across Australia have increasingly reported facing aggressive behaviour connected to public debates, particularly when local issues become widely shared online.

Alice Springs Town Council has stated that it will review procedures around the disposal of old council equipment to help prevent similar misunderstandings in the future. The council continues to provide community services while managing public discussions about local issues.

Northern Territory Police are continuing their investigation into the threats. Authorities have reminded members of the public that threatening behaviour, whether online or offline, can have serious consequences and should be reported.

The controversy has generated discussion within the Alice Springs community about political debate, social media responsibility and the challenges faced by local leaders. While disagreement over community issues is common, officials have emphasised the importance of respectful communication.