Climate Change Activists Close Down Operations at Port of Newcastle
On Tuesday night, two female protestors named Hannah (21) and Zianna (28) entered the Port of Newcastle, climbed to the top of machinery, and suspended themselves out of reach using an intricate set of ropes. This led to the operations at the world’s largest coal exporting facility coming to a halt. The protestors were seeking to draw attention towards their concern that Australia was not doing enough to combat climate change. In the live demonstration on Facebook, one of the protestors hanging high above the ground said that Australia’s perpetuation of the climate crisis is killing people.
This stunt was part of the ongoing climate change protest in Australia by the organization named Blockade Australia. The random demonstrations by the group have now entered the second week and there have been incidents of train lines disruption around Port of Newcastle. Matt Kean, Environment Minister has said that this stunt at New Castle port was completely out of line.
He added that there are hundreds of ways to highlight and voice one’s concerns and advocate views but risking the lives of workers is not one of them. Coal mining is among the largest industries of Australia and brings in a significant source of export income to the country. The coal trade adds approximately US$19 billion annually to the Australian economy.
Soon after the Facebook live streaming, Zianna and Hannah were arrested by the police. Mick Fuller, NSW Police Commissioner has said that these climate activists have risked charges which could lead to jail sentences of up to 25 years. However, the court has given Zianna community service along with a fine. The court has ordered Zianna to not associate with her fellow demonstrators for the next two years. Hannah remains in jail with other protestors awaiting their court appearance.
