Mass Arrests at Port of Newcastle: Climate Change Protest Sparks Major Crackdown

Authorities have detained numerous climate change activists following ongoing protests at the world’s largest coal port.

Today, demonstrators from the group Rising Tide intensified their efforts by obstructing coal ships from entering the Port of Newcastle. Using kayaks and other small watercraft, they demanded taxes on fossil fuel export profits and called for a halt to new coal development projects.

By 4:30 p.m., police reported the arrest of 141 individuals, including 18 minors, all linked to the multi-day protest.

The majority of the 123 adults taken into custody face charges related to various offenses under the Crimes and Marine Safety legislation. Investigations are ongoing concerning two women apprehended onboard a ship.

Video footage from the protest depicted two individuals unfurling a banner from the side of a vessel, emblazoned with the message: “phase out coal and gas.”

The Port Authority of NSW reportedly said four ships were disrupted on Sunday, including two not linked to coal. 

“Our intention was to stop coal ships from entering or leaving the Port of Newcastle and we’ve succeeded in doing this today,” Rising Tide organiser Zack Schofield said.

“By continuing to approve new coal and gas mines, the Albanese government is failing to protect us from the worst impacts of climate change and when the government fails us, the people must rise.”

Police alleged one boat, driven by a 26-year-old protester collided with a police jet ski that gave chase after the larger vessel refused to stop as it entered an exclusion zone. 

About 11.20am, a fight “allegedly involving attendees of the event” was reported at Foreshore Park. 

Police said a 46-year-old man was taken to Calvary Mater Hospital in a stable condition after suffering lacerations to his back, arms, legs, and head, and a 17-year-old boy who intervened was also injured. 

An 18-year-old was charged with two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm (DV) and other offences. 

“The NSW Police Force recognises and supports the rights of individuals and groups to exercise their rights of free speech and peaceful assembly,” Police said, in a statement.

“However, the priority for NSW Police is always the safety of the wider community and there will be zero tolerance for illegal and dangerous behaviour.

Organisers say they are looking to stall new coal developments and tax fossil fuel export profits.

Newcastle sends 150 million tonnes of coal offshore annually.