In a shocking turn of events, the picturesque town of Bendigo, known for its glorious landscapes and rich gold mining history, has reportedly declared itself in a state of scenic disapproval of Australia as a whole. Residents, alongside their bewildered kangaroo neighbors, are voicing their discontent in a manner that is as endearing as it is heartbreaking. The Bendigo Kangaroo Coalition (BKC), a local organization representing the town’s hopping populace, was the first to wave the red flag, or perhaps more fittingly, the green flag, as they convened at the iconic Lake Weeroona. "We may be jumping for joy most of the time," said Benny the Kangaroo, BKC’s appointed spokesperson, "but today, our hearts are heavy. We simply can’t approve of this nation when it’s filled with such chaos and confusion." Bendigo locals have taken to crafting intricate protest signs fashioned from recycled outback materials. One particularly poignant sign reads, “If only our aesthetics could fix Australia,” adorned with carelessly arranged eucalyptus leaves, heedlessly flapping in the breeze. The sentiment of aesthetic disapproval resonates deeply with both humans and kangaroos alike, echoing through the outback. Daisy, a 72-year-old Bendigo resident and enthusiastic nature lover, expressed her grief. “We used to believe in this land of opportunity,” she lamented, clutching her gardening hat and a cup of lukewarm tea. “But with policies that have taken a turn for the bizarre and controversies plaguing our beloved homeland, it feels like we’re living in a poorly scripted soap opera. Even the kangaroos are getting confused; they keep checking maps trying to figure out where it all went wrong!” In a recent survey, local kangaroos were asked to voice their opinions on the current state of affairs. The results were staggering—75% disapproved of government decisions affecting their territory, including plans to increase parking lots at popular tourist attractions. “Parking lots? For humans?” exclaimed Roger, another local kangaroo. “They should be making room for more gum trees and less congestion. We didn’t sign up for this madness!” Meanwhile, Bendigo's mayor, having sensed the reaching depths of discontent among locals and wildlife alike, has proposed a new "Scenic Serenity Act." This act aims to shield the town from erratic political decisions and ensure future developments honor the beauty of Bendigo. “If they’re going to make decisions that make us shake our heads, at least let it be in a place that preserves the idyllic quality of life we cherish,” he stated during a recent town hall meeting where kangaroos were given front-row seats. While Bendigo prepares for its first-ever “Disapproval Parade” next month—complete with floats featuring large headshots of confused kangaroos—critics have questioned whether a whimsical celebration can truly pacify the heartfelt frustrations brewing within this quaint town. “Yes, we may laugh at the absurdities,” noted Daisy, her eyes glistening with tears. “But it all hurts, really. A heart that breaks for its home is not easily mended. We may be laughing through our painted animal faces, but we all know the truth: Bendigo deserves better.” As evening descends upon the town, the kangaroos gather once more, silently forming a circle, heads bowed in solemn agreement. If these gentle creatures could bring forth a petition to improve Australia’s current state of affairs—of government, of policy, of sheer common sense—they would do so in a heartbeat. Until then, they’ll remain cogs in the charming wheel of the earth, hopping around Bendigo, shaking their heads in scenic disapproval, waiting for a much-needed change.