Thousands of climate activists have descended on Newcastle, New South Wales, for the annual Rising Tide protest, which includes a flotilla of kayaks and sailboats aiming to block the world’s largest coal port. Organizers expect up to 7,000 participants over the weekend, as protesters from across the country gather to demand stronger government action on climate change.
Protesters face arrest if they enter an exclusion zone imposed by the NSW government over most of Newcastle Harbour from Friday until Monday morning. Last year, 173 protesters were arrested, with 133 charged. Four were found not guilty, and cases for the remaining 129 are still pending. Police have adopted a zero-tolerance approach, warning that anyone entering the zone will be arrested.
The protest, described by organizers as a 'protestival,' features a waterfront concert, workshops, and panel discussions. Organizers are calling for an end to new coal developments, a fair transition for affected workers and communities, and a 78% tax on fossil fuel export profits, inspired by Norway's oil and gas taxes.
Organizer Alexa Stuart, 22, who has been protesting since age 15, said the event provides a sense of collective action for those feeling helpless about the climate crisis. June Norman, an 85-year-old great-grandmother from Queensland, said she participates to protect her grandchildren's future. Stuart criticized the Albanese government for passing new environmental laws without measures to limit coal and gas projects, accusing the state government of prioritizing silencing protesters over addressing climate science.
