Aussies started to pack pubs and clubs for a drink and game of two-up to commemorate Anzac Day after dawn services, according to multiple reports. Queues began to form outside pubs from as early as 8.30am on Saturday. There was a massive line of pub-goers waiting to get into Sydney pub The London in Paddington, and the venue was forced to cordon off Underwood Street as thousands of patrons invaded. Lines outside the Clovelly Hotel stretched more than 100 metres down the street. Instagram page Bondi Lines said it was the 'longest it's ever been' for Clovelly Hotel queues. Attendees said it took up to 45 minutes to get into the Harbord Hotel. Anzac Day crowds at pubs generally start to lessen after 3pm, multiple reports said.
British influencer Allegra Phipps sparked controversy by calling Anzac Day the 'best day of the year' and posting a video alluding to drinking at 7am, according to social media users. Phipps posted a now-deleted video with caption 'Pres (pre-drinks) at 7am?!!!!', multiple reports said. Social media users criticized Phipps, with one saying 'Referring to ANZAC Day as the best day of the year is just extremely out of touch.'
Two-up at capacity, one in one out. Insane.
Two-up is a coin toss betting game, illegal in most parts of Australia, but permitted on 25 April, major media reported. Venues don't need a permit to host two-up on Anzac Day, but must ensure the game is played in traditional format with crowd management measures, according to multiple reports.
Pres (pre-drinks) at 7am?!!!!