Climate activists have converged on the city of Newcastle, launching a major blockade of the world's largest coal port in a dramatic demonstration for urgent climate action.
Live Updates from the 'Protestival'
The environmental group Rising Tide has organised what they're calling a 'protestival' at the Port of Newcastle, bringing together hundreds of demonstrators to disrupt coal shipments. The live event began in the early hours of November 29, 2025, with participants using both water and land-based tactics to prevent coal carriers from accessing the facility.
Newcastle Herald journalists Sage Swinton, Simon McCarthy, and Marina Neil are providing continuous coverage from the scene, documenting the unfolding protest as authorities and port operators respond to the coordinated action. The blockade represents one of the most significant climate protests in the region's history, targeting the heart of Australia's coal export industry.
The Rising Tide Movement
Rising Tide has a long history of climate activism in the Hunter region, but today's action marks their most ambitious attempt to physically halt operations at the massive coal export terminal. The group argues that Australia must immediately transition away from fossil fuels to address the climate crisis.
The protest comes at a time of increasing global pressure on developed nations to accelerate their emissions reduction targets. Organisers have promised that today's action will be peaceful but determined, with participants prepared to maintain their position for an extended period.
Impact and Community Response
The blockade is expected to cause significant disruption to shipping schedules at the port, which normally sees multiple coal carriers arriving and departing daily. Port authorities have acknowledged the protest and are monitoring the situation closely, though the full operational impact remains unclear in the early hours of the demonstration.
Local community response has been mixed, with some residents expressing support for the climate action while others have raised concerns about economic impacts on the region. The Newcastle area has long been economically dependent on the coal industry, creating complex tensions around environmental protests.
As the day progresses, additional protesters are expected to join the action, with organisers promising a festival-like atmosphere combined with serious civil disobedience. The event features live music, speeches, and workshops alongside the direct action targeting coal exports.
Police presence has been noted around the port area, though no major confrontations had been reported in the initial hours of the protest. Authorities are likely balancing the right to peaceful protest against the need to maintain port operations and safety.
