Fans of the ABC children’s cartoon series, Bluey, are up in arms after a popular episode was pulled off the network.
The episode, titled Hammerbarn and originally airing as part of season two of the show, has been removed from ABC’s on-demand streaming service, iView.
The episode was removed due to featuring a partnership with the Bunnings Warehouse hardware store chain, which is currently selling Bluey-themed garden gnomes and other Bluey merchandise.
An ABC representative explained to the Daily Telegraph that the government-funded network is prevented from partaking in commercial partnerships.
‘This campaign is a BBC Studios and Bunnings partnership. As the ABC cannot align with a commercial brand or partnership, the Bluey episode “Hammerbarn” will temporarily be unavailable on ABC iview while the Bunnings Hammerbarn campaign is live,’ the representative told the publication.
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Fans of the ABC children’s cartoon series, Bluey, are up in arms after a popular episode was pulled off the network. The episode, titled Hammerbarn (pictured) and originally airing as part of season two of the show, has been removed from ABC’s on-demand streaming service, iView
‘However “Hammerbarn” will return to ABC iview at a later date.’
The missing episode has upset a lot of fans, with Kate McMahon, host of the Bluey podcast Gotta Be Done, explaining that some parents ‘rely’ on the show.
‘Hammerbarn is one of the most iconic Bluey episodes and so to have it removed from the platform is a shame,’ she said.
‘A lot of parents rely on an episode of Bluey to get them through the day so to lose one like this is really tough.’
The temporary ban comes on the back of Bunnings Warehouse bringing back a wildly popular $19 item on Wednesday, after previously selling out within hours of hitting shelves.
The Bluey garden gnomes have made a comeback, along with three new additions – Gerald and Bride and Groom Gnomes – which are expected to fly off shelves.
After a huge success last year, fan-favourite characters Hecuba, Tony, Jeremy and Meditation Gnomes are back on shelves – with many shoppers eager to get their hands on the sought-after ceramics.
‘We’re thrilled to bring another slice of Bluey’s world into homes across Australia – this time with our Bluey-inspired kids’ homewares range, and of course, the much-loved Bluey gnomes,’ Bunnings general manager marketing Justine Mills said.
The episode was removed due to featuring a partnership with the Bunnings Warehouse hardware store chain, which is currently selling Bluey-themed garden gnomes and other Bluey merchandise
‘It’s clear how much fans connect with the show given how quickly last year’s Bluey gnomes flew off the shelves.
‘We know they will be eager to build on their collections, and we’re excited to see how customers respond to our new range and in-store activities… Bluey and Bunnings couldn’t stay apart – the duo just works.’
The gnomes sparked a frenzy last year – with shoppers revealing they missed out on them as they had already been snapped up by the time they got to the store.
They were so popular that Bunnings was forced to introduce a purchase limit, allowing customers to buy only four gnomes per transaction.
Fans have already expressed their excitement over the return of the gnomes, with one mum revealing: ‘Wow this is going to cost me a fortune – I want them all.’
For families looking for a mid-winter makeover, homewares from Bluey and Bingo’s bedroom will be available in real-life products in-store and online.
From the iconic watermelon rug to light-up paper lanterns and glow-in-the-dark stickers, Bunnings is stocking everything you need to transform your kid’s space with a Bluey twist.
The warehouse giant has joined forces with BBC Studios and Ludo Studio again to unveil an adorable Bluey range, with Hammerbarn branded socks, key rings, bucket hats and children’s tote bags available across all stores.
The temporary ban comes on the back of Bunnings Warehouse bringing back a wildly popular $19 item on Wednesday, after previously selling out within hours. The Bluey garden gnomes are back, along with three new additions – Gerald and Bride and Groom Gnomes
For families looking for a makeover, homewares from Bluey and Bingo’s bedroom will be available in real life products – including the iconic watermelon rug
‘Partnering with Bunnings once more allows us to deliver fresh, engaging experiences that celebrate Bluey’s quintessential Aussie-ness and connect deeply with fans,’ BBC Studios Australia & New Zealand, Director of Brands & Licensing, Scott Modra said.
‘This partnership continues to resonate so strongly with families, and it’s been incredible to see how Bluey has become part of the everyday language and play of kids across the country.
‘From the gnomes to the new bedroom range, this collaboration is all about sparking imagination and fun – and we can’t wait to see how fans embrace it this year.’
From Wednesday, July 30, Bunnings stores across Australia launched DIY activities and a scavenger hunt for families to enjoy – plus new Bluey products and Hammerbarn merchandise – inspired by the show’s much-loved hardware store.
