A visit to a Bunnings Warehouse by a controversial American social media star has sparked a fiery national debate, dividing Australians over their cherished weekend ritual.
The Viral Bunnings Visit That Stirred Controversy
James Charles, an American beauty influencer and former Covergirl model, is currently holidaying on the Gold Coast. During his trip, he heeded the calls of his Australian followers and made a pilgrimage to a Bunnings store to sample his first-ever sausage sizzle. The resulting video, posted to his audience of 40.7 million followers, has been viewed over 4.4 million times and ignited a storm of comments.
In the clip, Charles expressed visible confusion upon spotting the iconic green fundraising tent at the warehouse entrance. "Wait that’s literally it? It’s a f***ing little green tent... that’s it?" he said. "I’m so confused, I literally do not understand why they’re selling sausages at a hardware store."
A 'Hot Dog' Verdict That Offended a Nation
Undeterred, Charles ordered six snags with onion. His reaction upon taking the first bite was notably underwhelming. "It’s literally just a hot dog," he declared, adding that he wished the bread was thicker, though he conceded it was "pretty good." He later gave the experience a perfect 10 out of 10 rating, but the damage was already done.
The description of the classic Bunnings fundraiser as a mere "hotdog"—a term he also used in the video's caption—was seen as a grave cultural misstep by many Australians. The comment section erupted with a mix of outrage and defence.
"'That’s it?!’ the disrespect," wrote one viewer. Another demanded: "Put some RESPECT on Bunnings’ name." Others took particular issue with the terminology. "DUDE SHOW SOME RESPECT TO OUR NATIONAL DISH," one person replied, while another joked, "Your visa needs to be revoked."
Clapback and Cultural Defence
Charles was forced to defend his word choice in the comments, writing "I’m sorry but it literally is (a hotdog)," which only prompted hundreds of "no it’s not" replies from protective Aussies.
Not all feedback was negative. Some fans celebrated his effort to engage with local customs. "He came, he saw, he conquered the Aussie way of life," one supporter wrote. Another offered perspective: "Aussies need to realise we only think these are amazing because we grew up with them."
Even Australian celebrities weighed in. Influencer Sopha Dopha branded the sausage sizzle "an Aussie delicacy," while pop star Peach PRC educated Charles, explaining the stalls are "run by locals for charity."
More Than Just a Snag: A Staple of Australian Life
The humble sausage sizzle is deeply woven into Australia's social fabric. Its history as a community fundraiser dates back to the end of World War II, when sausages were exempt from meat rations. Bunnings has become its modern home, with most stores hosting charity barbecues every weekend.
The tradition has also become a critical part of Australian democracy, with the "democracy sausage" a staple for voters outside polling booths on election days. For many, it represents community, charity, and a shared national experience—far more than just a sausage in bread.
James Charles's viral review, posted on 2 December 2025, has highlighted just how passionately Australians feel about protecting their cultural icons, even when they're served from a little green tent.
