A speaking event featuring former AFL player Ben Cousins was axed at a Ballarat hotel. The decision came after local anger. It is the second time a scheduled appearance for Cousins has been scrapped in recent days. Widespread disapproval led to the decision to cancel. The venue cancelled the booking. This recent cancellation follows another cancellation earlier in the week. Cousins was due to speak at the venue. Event organizers said they acknowledged the anger from the community.