Majority of Novocastrians back Rising Tide's push for People's Blockade, poll shows
City of Newcastle councillors will decide whether to approve or deny the group's application for an event licence to hold its 2025 People's Blockade at Richardson Park and Camp Shortland at an extraordinary meeting next month.
The polling showed that of 310 Newcastle residents surveyed, 66 per cent supported the application, 21 per cent were opposed, and 13 per cent were undecided.
Rising Tide spokeswoman Alexa Stuart said they expect the council to listen to the community and approve the application.
"This polling shows that in a progressive town like Newcastle, people understand the role of protest in fighting for a better world, and see our protestival as an important cultural institution," she said.
Ms Stuart said Greens, Labor and independent voters "overwhelmingly" support the event.
"Even among Liberal voters, there is more support for our application than opposition," she said.
"We suggest that deputy lord mayor Callum Pull would be well served to engage more actively with his constituents rather than continuing to use his office to broadcast his personal views on this issue."
Liberal Cr Pull has been vocal in his opposition to the event, publicly urging the council to say no to what he has called "another series of damaging, dangerous and costly stunts".
Cr Pull said Newcastle residents should be sceptical of the reported results of the polling.
"The polling question that was put to respondents included absolutely no mention of the illegal activity, which has become the problem," he said.
"For two years in a row, they have defied police orders and affected their own credibility.
"I'll be keen to see what they have to say ... and whether they're going to try and con the councillors with the same false or empty promises that they promised the lord mayor last year."
NSW Police have told Newcastle council the 2024 event was the "most dangerous event to public safety" since the People's Blockade began, resulting in 170 arrests and "stretching" police resources across the state.
Participants in the poll were told Rising Tide conducts an annual protestival, which combines headline musical acts and non-violent protest at the port to pressure the government to fund local jobs as part of the transition away from coal.
The poll then asked whether participants thought the council should approve the application "subject to appropriate conditions that would apply to a similar event", if they thought it should be rejected, or if they were not sure.
The survey was conducted online between July 3 and July 10.
According to the poll report, a majority of voters of all parties in the 2025 federal election supported approval.
The report said that of those surveyed, 66 per cent of Labor, 49 per cent of Liberal, 86 per cent of Greens, and 64 per cent of others were in favour of the application being approved.
Rising Tide and NSW Police will go head-to-head at a public briefing today with an opportunity to state their cases for and against the event licence application before the council makes its decision next month.
A report to councillors ahead of the briefing said NSW Police and Transport for NSW opposed the council's decision to approve an event licence last year, seeing it as "inadvertently enabling illegal activity" and "contravening" a NSW Supreme Court ruling.
YOUGOV polling commissioned by Rising Tide shows an "overwhelming majority" of Novocastrians support its push to hold the 2025 People's Blockade.
City of Newcastle councillors will decide whether to approve or deny the group's application for an event licence to hold its 2025 People's Blockade at Richardson Park and Camp Shortland at an extraordinary meeting next month.
The polling showed that of 310 Newcastle residents surveyed, 66 per cent supported the application, 21 per cent were opposed, and 13 per cent were undecided.
Rising Tide spokeswoman Alexa Stuart said they expect the council to listen to the community and approve the application.
"This polling shows that in a progressive town like Newcastle, people understand the role of protest in fighting for a better world, and see our protestival as an important cultural institution," she said.
Ms Stuart said Greens, Labor and independent voters "overwhelmingly" support the event.
"Even among Liberal voters, there is more support for our application than opposition," she said.
"We suggest that deputy lord mayor Callum Pull would be well served to engage more actively with his constituents rather than continuing to use his office to broadcast his personal views on this issue."
Liberal Cr Pull has been vocal in his opposition to the event, publicly urging the council to say no to what he has called "another series of damaging, dangerous and costly stunts".
Cr Pull said Newcastle residents should be sceptical of the reported results of the polling.
"The polling question that was put to respondents included absolutely no mention of the illegal activity, which has become the problem," he said.
"For two years in a row, they have defied police orders and affected their own credibility.
"I'll be keen to see what they have to say ... and whether they're going to try and con the councillors with the same false or empty promises that they promised the lord mayor last year."
NSW Police have told Newcastle council the 2024 event was the "most dangerous event to public safety" since the People's Blockade began, resulting in 170 arrests and "stretching" police resources across the state.
Participants in the poll were told Rising Tide conducts an annual protestival, which combines headline musical acts and non-violent protest at the port to pressure the government to fund local jobs as part of the transition away from coal.
The poll then asked whether participants thought the council should approve the application "subject to appropriate conditions that would apply to a similar event", if they thought it should be rejected, or if they were not sure.
The survey was conducted online between July 3 and July 10.
According to the poll report, a majority of voters of all parties in the 2025 federal election supported approval.
The report said that of those surveyed, 66 per cent of Labor, 49 per cent of Liberal, 86 per cent of Greens, and 64 per cent of others were in favour of the application being approved.
Rising Tide and NSW Police will go head-to-head at a public briefing today with an opportunity to state their cases for and against the event licence application before the council makes its decision next month.
A report to councillors ahead of the briefing said NSW Police and Transport for NSW opposed the council's decision to approve an event licence last year, seeing it as "inadvertently enabling illegal activity" and "contravening" a NSW Supreme Court ruling.
YOUGOV polling commissioned by Rising Tide shows an "overwhelming majority" of Novocastrians support its push to hold the 2025 People's Blockade.
City of Newcastle councillors will decide whether to approve or deny the group's application for an event licence to hold its 2025 People's Blockade at Richardson Park and Camp Shortland at an extraordinary meeting next month.
The polling showed that of 310 Newcastle residents surveyed, 66 per cent supported the application, 21 per cent were opposed, and 13 per cent were undecided.
Rising Tide spokeswoman Alexa Stuart said they expect the council to listen to the community and approve the application.
"This polling shows that in a progressive town like Newcastle, people understand the role of protest in fighting for a better world, and see our protestival as an important cultural institution," she said.
Ms Stuart said Greens, Labor and independent voters "overwhelmingly" support the event.
"Even among Liberal voters, there is more support for our application than opposition," she said.
"We suggest that deputy lord mayor Callum Pull would be well served to engage more actively with his constituents rather than continuing to use his office to broadcast his personal views on this issue."
Liberal Cr Pull has been vocal in his opposition to the event, publicly urging the council to say no to what he has called "another series of damaging, dangerous and costly stunts".
Cr Pull said Newcastle residents should be sceptical of the reported results of the polling.
"The polling question that was put to respondents included absolutely no mention of the illegal activity, which has become the problem," he said.
"For two years in a row, they have defied police orders and affected their own credibility.
"I'll be keen to see what they have to say ... and whether they're going to try and con the councillors with the same false or empty promises that they promised the lord mayor last year."
NSW Police have told Newcastle council the 2024 event was the "most dangerous event to public safety" since the People's Blockade began, resulting in 170 arrests and "stretching" police resources across the state.
Participants in the poll were told Rising Tide conducts an annual protestival, which combines headline musical acts and non-violent protest at the port to pressure the government to fund local jobs as part of the transition away from coal.
The poll then asked whether participants thought the council should approve the application "subject to appropriate conditions that would apply to a similar event", if they thought it should be rejected, or if they were not sure.
The survey was conducted online between July 3 and July 10.
According to the poll report, a majority of voters of all parties in the 2025 federal election supported approval.
The report said that of those surveyed, 66 per cent of Labor, 49 per cent of Liberal, 86 per cent of Greens, and 64 per cent of others were in favour of the application being approved.
Rising Tide and NSW Police will go head-to-head at a public briefing today with an opportunity to state their cases for and against the event licence application before the council makes its decision next month.
A report to councillors ahead of the briefing said NSW Police and Transport for NSW opposed the council's decision to approve an event licence last year, seeing it as "inadvertently enabling illegal activity" and "contravening" a NSW Supreme Court ruling.
YOUGOV polling commissioned by Rising Tide shows an "overwhelming majority" of Novocastrians support its push to hold the 2025 People's Blockade.
City of Newcastle councillors will decide whether to approve or deny the group's application for an event licence to hold its 2025 People's Blockade at Richardson Park and Camp Shortland at an extraordinary meeting next month.
The polling showed that of 310 Newcastle residents surveyed, 66 per cent supported the application, 21 per cent were opposed, and 13 per cent were undecided.
Rising Tide spokeswoman Alexa Stuart said they expect the council to listen to the community and approve the application.
"This polling shows that in a progressive town like Newcastle, people understand the role of protest in fighting for a better world, and see our protestival as an important cultural institution," she said.
Ms Stuart said Greens, Labor and independent voters "overwhelmingly" support the event.
"Even among Liberal voters, there is more support for our application than opposition," she said.
"We suggest that deputy lord mayor Callum Pull would be well served to engage more actively with his constituents rather than continuing to use his office to broadcast his personal views on this issue."
Liberal Cr Pull has been vocal in his opposition to the event, publicly urging the council to say no to what he has called "another series of damaging, dangerous and costly stunts".
Cr Pull said Newcastle residents should be sceptical of the reported results of the polling.
"The polling question that was put to respondents included absolutely no mention of the illegal activity, which has become the problem," he said.
"For two years in a row, they have defied police orders and affected their own credibility.
"I'll be keen to see what they have to say ... and whether they're going to try and con the councillors with the same false or empty promises that they promised the lord mayor last year."
NSW Police have told Newcastle council the 2024 event was the "most dangerous event to public safety" since the People's Blockade began, resulting in 170 arrests and "stretching" police resources across the state.
Participants in the poll were told Rising Tide conducts an annual protestival, which combines headline musical acts and non-violent protest at the port to pressure the government to fund local jobs as part of the transition away from coal.
The poll then asked whether participants thought the council should approve the application "subject to appropriate conditions that would apply to a similar event", if they thought it should be rejected, or if they were not sure.
The survey was conducted online between July 3 and July 10.
According to the poll report, a majority of voters of all parties in the 2025 federal election supported approval.
The report said that of those surveyed, 66 per cent of Labor, 49 per cent of Liberal, 86 per cent of Greens, and 64 per cent of others were in favour of the application being approved.
Rising Tide and NSW Police will go head-to-head at a public briefing today with an opportunity to state their cases for and against the event licence application before the council makes its decision next month.
A report to councillors ahead of the briefing said NSW Police and Transport for NSW opposed the council's decision to approve an event licence last year, seeing it as "inadvertently enabling illegal activity" and "contravening" a NSW Supreme Court ruling.
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Convicted MP rapist to oppose motion to expel him from state parliament
Lawyers for convicted rapist Gareth Ward have filed an injunction to stop his explusion from parliament, which means he will remain Kiama MP while he awaits his sentencing from behind bars. Parliament returned on Tuesday and it was expected a notice of motion to expel the disgraced politician would be put forward. However, NSW Premier Chris Minns confirmed Ward's lawyers sought the injunction against leader of the lower house Ron Hoenig, with an urgent hearing to occur in the Supreme Court on Wednesday. Mr Minns told 2GB radio on Tuesday morning that "most people would appreciate, it's an unconscionable situation to have someone who's currently sitting in Silverwater ... who is demanding to remain a member of parliament and continue to be paid". A vote the a motion to expel the former Liberal was to be delayed until Wednesday after lawyers raised concerns about procedural fairness. Ward, 44, has been in jail since last week after Judge Kara Shead SC granted a detention application to revoke his bail, after a jury found him guilty of sexual intercourse without consent and three counts of indecent assault. The Kiama MP since 2011 had faced a nine-week trial, which heard he sexually assaulted a 24-year-old man in Potts Point in 2015, and touched and massaged an 18-year-old man in Meroo Meadow in 2013. He met both men through political circles. On the morning parliament returned NSW Opposition leader Mark Speakman recommitted to supporting Ward's expulsion and working with the government "to get this done as quickly as possible" "However, Mr Ward's legal team should do whatever it takes to get a clear message to him - immediately resign," Mr Speakman said. "Every day he clings to his seat from a jail cell, taxpayers are footing the bill and the people of Kiama are left voiceless. It's not just wrong, it's offensive. "This is about decency, accountability, and basic respect for the community. Mr Ward should spare the Parliament, spare the courts, and above all, spare the people of NSW any further disgrace. "Step aside." Last week, Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig sent a letter to Ward via his legal team notifying him of the parliament's plans to consider his expulsion. "I am sure you would appreciate that in view of the verdict of the jury convicting you of serious criminal offences that the House needs to consider whether your continued membership of the House requires it to act to protect the high standing of the Parliament so that it may discharge with the confidence of the community the great responsibility that it bears," the letter stated. The letter, seen by the Mercury, noted that Ward was in custody and would be unable to attend parliament when the expulsion motion is being debated. "Accordingly, I invite you to submit to me yourself or anyone on your behalf any statement or material you would want the House to consider prior to making any determination," the letter stated. It gave a deadline for submissions of 9am on August 5. Under the NSW Constitution Act, an MPs seat is declared vacant if they are convicted of a crime punishable by five years or more imprisonment. Ward is facing a maximum penalty of 14 years' jail. However, changes to the law in 2000 state that a conviction is considered to mean "once you have reached the end of the appeals process ... and not had the conviction overturned". Ward confirmed his intention to appeal in a press release issued last Friday. "I am taking advice about next steps, but I can confirm that I have provided instructions to my legal team to prepare an appeal at the earliest opportunity," he said. Parliament also has the power to expel an MP for "unworthy conduct". If the expulsioon is passed a byelection will be called for the seat of Kiama. Despite being charged with the offences in 2022, Ward was re-elected to the seat as an independent in 2023. Lawyers for convicted rapist Gareth Ward have filed an injunction to stop his explusion from parliament, which means he will remain Kiama MP while he awaits his sentencing from behind bars. Parliament returned on Tuesday and it was expected a notice of motion to expel the disgraced politician would be put forward. However, NSW Premier Chris Minns confirmed Ward's lawyers sought the injunction against leader of the lower house Ron Hoenig, with an urgent hearing to occur in the Supreme Court on Wednesday. Mr Minns told 2GB radio on Tuesday morning that "most people would appreciate, it's an unconscionable situation to have someone who's currently sitting in Silverwater ... who is demanding to remain a member of parliament and continue to be paid". A vote the a motion to expel the former Liberal was to be delayed until Wednesday after lawyers raised concerns about procedural fairness. Ward, 44, has been in jail since last week after Judge Kara Shead SC granted a detention application to revoke his bail, after a jury found him guilty of sexual intercourse without consent and three counts of indecent assault. The Kiama MP since 2011 had faced a nine-week trial, which heard he sexually assaulted a 24-year-old man in Potts Point in 2015, and touched and massaged an 18-year-old man in Meroo Meadow in 2013. He met both men through political circles. On the morning parliament returned NSW Opposition leader Mark Speakman recommitted to supporting Ward's expulsion and working with the government "to get this done as quickly as possible" "However, Mr Ward's legal team should do whatever it takes to get a clear message to him - immediately resign," Mr Speakman said. "Every day he clings to his seat from a jail cell, taxpayers are footing the bill and the people of Kiama are left voiceless. It's not just wrong, it's offensive. "This is about decency, accountability, and basic respect for the community. Mr Ward should spare the Parliament, spare the courts, and above all, spare the people of NSW any further disgrace. "Step aside." Last week, Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig sent a letter to Ward via his legal team notifying him of the parliament's plans to consider his expulsion. "I am sure you would appreciate that in view of the verdict of the jury convicting you of serious criminal offences that the House needs to consider whether your continued membership of the House requires it to act to protect the high standing of the Parliament so that it may discharge with the confidence of the community the great responsibility that it bears," the letter stated. The letter, seen by the Mercury, noted that Ward was in custody and would be unable to attend parliament when the expulsion motion is being debated. "Accordingly, I invite you to submit to me yourself or anyone on your behalf any statement or material you would want the House to consider prior to making any determination," the letter stated. It gave a deadline for submissions of 9am on August 5. Under the NSW Constitution Act, an MPs seat is declared vacant if they are convicted of a crime punishable by five years or more imprisonment. Ward is facing a maximum penalty of 14 years' jail. However, changes to the law in 2000 state that a conviction is considered to mean "once you have reached the end of the appeals process ... and not had the conviction overturned". Ward confirmed his intention to appeal in a press release issued last Friday. "I am taking advice about next steps, but I can confirm that I have provided instructions to my legal team to prepare an appeal at the earliest opportunity," he said. Parliament also has the power to expel an MP for "unworthy conduct". If the expulsioon is passed a byelection will be called for the seat of Kiama. Despite being charged with the offences in 2022, Ward was re-elected to the seat as an independent in 2023. Lawyers for convicted rapist Gareth Ward have filed an injunction to stop his explusion from parliament, which means he will remain Kiama MP while he awaits his sentencing from behind bars. Parliament returned on Tuesday and it was expected a notice of motion to expel the disgraced politician would be put forward. However, NSW Premier Chris Minns confirmed Ward's lawyers sought the injunction against leader of the lower house Ron Hoenig, with an urgent hearing to occur in the Supreme Court on Wednesday. Mr Minns told 2GB radio on Tuesday morning that "most people would appreciate, it's an unconscionable situation to have someone who's currently sitting in Silverwater ... who is demanding to remain a member of parliament and continue to be paid". A vote the a motion to expel the former Liberal was to be delayed until Wednesday after lawyers raised concerns about procedural fairness. Ward, 44, has been in jail since last week after Judge Kara Shead SC granted a detention application to revoke his bail, after a jury found him guilty of sexual intercourse without consent and three counts of indecent assault. The Kiama MP since 2011 had faced a nine-week trial, which heard he sexually assaulted a 24-year-old man in Potts Point in 2015, and touched and massaged an 18-year-old man in Meroo Meadow in 2013. He met both men through political circles. On the morning parliament returned NSW Opposition leader Mark Speakman recommitted to supporting Ward's expulsion and working with the government "to get this done as quickly as possible" "However, Mr Ward's legal team should do whatever it takes to get a clear message to him - immediately resign," Mr Speakman said. "Every day he clings to his seat from a jail cell, taxpayers are footing the bill and the people of Kiama are left voiceless. It's not just wrong, it's offensive. "This is about decency, accountability, and basic respect for the community. Mr Ward should spare the Parliament, spare the courts, and above all, spare the people of NSW any further disgrace. "Step aside." Last week, Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig sent a letter to Ward via his legal team notifying him of the parliament's plans to consider his expulsion. "I am sure you would appreciate that in view of the verdict of the jury convicting you of serious criminal offences that the House needs to consider whether your continued membership of the House requires it to act to protect the high standing of the Parliament so that it may discharge with the confidence of the community the great responsibility that it bears," the letter stated. The letter, seen by the Mercury, noted that Ward was in custody and would be unable to attend parliament when the expulsion motion is being debated. "Accordingly, I invite you to submit to me yourself or anyone on your behalf any statement or material you would want the House to consider prior to making any determination," the letter stated. It gave a deadline for submissions of 9am on August 5. Under the NSW Constitution Act, an MPs seat is declared vacant if they are convicted of a crime punishable by five years or more imprisonment. Ward is facing a maximum penalty of 14 years' jail. However, changes to the law in 2000 state that a conviction is considered to mean "once you have reached the end of the appeals process ... and not had the conviction overturned". Ward confirmed his intention to appeal in a press release issued last Friday. "I am taking advice about next steps, but I can confirm that I have provided instructions to my legal team to prepare an appeal at the earliest opportunity," he said. Parliament also has the power to expel an MP for "unworthy conduct". If the expulsioon is passed a byelection will be called for the seat of Kiama. Despite being charged with the offences in 2022, Ward was re-elected to the seat as an independent in 2023. Lawyers for convicted rapist Gareth Ward have filed an injunction to stop his explusion from parliament, which means he will remain Kiama MP while he awaits his sentencing from behind bars. Parliament returned on Tuesday and it was expected a notice of motion to expel the disgraced politician would be put forward. However, NSW Premier Chris Minns confirmed Ward's lawyers sought the injunction against leader of the lower house Ron Hoenig, with an urgent hearing to occur in the Supreme Court on Wednesday. Mr Minns told 2GB radio on Tuesday morning that "most people would appreciate, it's an unconscionable situation to have someone who's currently sitting in Silverwater ... who is demanding to remain a member of parliament and continue to be paid". A vote the a motion to expel the former Liberal was to be delayed until Wednesday after lawyers raised concerns about procedural fairness. Ward, 44, has been in jail since last week after Judge Kara Shead SC granted a detention application to revoke his bail, after a jury found him guilty of sexual intercourse without consent and three counts of indecent assault. The Kiama MP since 2011 had faced a nine-week trial, which heard he sexually assaulted a 24-year-old man in Potts Point in 2015, and touched and massaged an 18-year-old man in Meroo Meadow in 2013. He met both men through political circles. On the morning parliament returned NSW Opposition leader Mark Speakman recommitted to supporting Ward's expulsion and working with the government "to get this done as quickly as possible" "However, Mr Ward's legal team should do whatever it takes to get a clear message to him - immediately resign," Mr Speakman said. "Every day he clings to his seat from a jail cell, taxpayers are footing the bill and the people of Kiama are left voiceless. It's not just wrong, it's offensive. "This is about decency, accountability, and basic respect for the community. Mr Ward should spare the Parliament, spare the courts, and above all, spare the people of NSW any further disgrace. "Step aside." Last week, Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig sent a letter to Ward via his legal team notifying him of the parliament's plans to consider his expulsion. "I am sure you would appreciate that in view of the verdict of the jury convicting you of serious criminal offences that the House needs to consider whether your continued membership of the House requires it to act to protect the high standing of the Parliament so that it may discharge with the confidence of the community the great responsibility that it bears," the letter stated. The letter, seen by the Mercury, noted that Ward was in custody and would be unable to attend parliament when the expulsion motion is being debated. "Accordingly, I invite you to submit to me yourself or anyone on your behalf any statement or material you would want the House to consider prior to making any determination," the letter stated. It gave a deadline for submissions of 9am on August 5. Under the NSW Constitution Act, an MPs seat is declared vacant if they are convicted of a crime punishable by five years or more imprisonment. Ward is facing a maximum penalty of 14 years' jail. However, changes to the law in 2000 state that a conviction is considered to mean "once you have reached the end of the appeals process ... and not had the conviction overturned". Ward confirmed his intention to appeal in a press release issued last Friday. "I am taking advice about next steps, but I can confirm that I have provided instructions to my legal team to prepare an appeal at the earliest opportunity," he said. Parliament also has the power to expel an MP for "unworthy conduct". If the expulsioon is passed a byelection will be called for the seat of Kiama. Despite being charged with the offences in 2022, Ward was re-elected to the seat as an independent in 2023.
The Advertiser
2 hours ago
- The Advertiser
Verdict is in: majority back Rising Tide protestival as council decision looms
AN OVERWHELMING majority have thrown their support behind Rising Tide's application to City of Newcastle to host its controversial protestival across two public parks later this year. A council report released on Monday showed 86 per cent of more than 1850 submissions were in favour of Rising Tide's bid to use Hamilton North's Richardson Park and Camp Shortland in November. Newcastle councillors will decide whether to approve or deny the group's application for an event licence at an extraordinary meeting next week. Broken trust might be one of the biggest hurdles Rising Tide has to overcome to convince councillors, after last year's blockade ended in 170 arrests as activists defied police orders on the last day and paddled into the shipping channel. Supporters of Rising Tide's application raised democratic freedoms, environmental concerns and community connections among key reasons for backing the event. Many expressed a strong desire to see action on climate change and see the event as a chance to increase awareness, champion global environmental justice and encourage positive change. "It is important in these uncertain global times, that we continue to enable public protest and discourse on matters relating to global health," one supporter said. "The Rising Tide blockade is a crucial event for raising awareness, action and advocating for climate action. Not only is it acting for better political change to a healthier community and planet, but it also encourages strength for the community and the bridging of gaps to come together to fight for a future we all believe in. Make this blockade happen!" Some respondents highlighted the importance of protecting and upholding democratic freedoms, while others viewed the event as a potential boost to Newcastle's visitor economy. A total of 458 paper-based submissions were received, 100 per cent of which were proforma responses coordinated, collected and submitted by Rising Tide in support of the event. Overall, support was strong across most Newcastle suburbs, including those closest to the proposed sites. Hamilton North, the location of the proposed Richardson Park event, was the only suburb to record more opposition than support, with 10 submissions against and eight in favour. While just 13 per cent of all submissions were against the People's Blockade, respondents did not mince words when it came to sharing their concerns. Issues raised included public safety, fears of potential illegal activity, perceived negative impacts on the local community and disruption to industries and businesses. Others objected to the proposed camping arrangements, spoke in support of the coal industry and against anti-coal sentiment and raised concerns about the use of public funds. Following last year's arrests, submissions focused on safety and potential unlawful actions saw protestors as unlikely to adhere to the law. "The idea of a council representing Newcastle approving the protest of coal, our biggest export and the lifeblood of our city is a perfect example of biting the hand that feeds you," one respondent said. Another said Rising Tide claim this year's event is set to be "even more disruptive". "There's a clear pattern of non-compliance, and granting the licence would set a troubling precedent," the submission said. One person, who identified themselves as a "member of the industry" said it was "offensive" that the council would encourage and facilitate protesting against employees and business in the electorate. "Our employees do not need to be harassed and ostracised by protesters for an extended period time, nor should the council be supporting the extension of the 'protestival'," they said. Concerns were raised about the financial burden put on ratepayers and state resources, particularly the cost of policing and traffic management. Some felt Rising Tide should bear the cost, not the public. The length of the event was seen as excessive by some, with members of the public indicating they might support a one-day protest but not a seven-day occupation. Those on the fence showed support for the cause or event in principle, while raising specific issues around logistics, safety and site suitability. No submissions were received from local, federal or state members of parliament. Submissions from industry and business sectors tended to focus on economic implications, freight logistics, operational impacts, public safety, and reputational considerations. A broad cross-section of local organisations, including community groups, faith-based institutions and environmental organisations expressed strong support for the application. A submission from Transport for NSW raised operational considerations, specifically concerning transport planning and public safety. Last month, Rising Tide representatives Zack Schofield and Shaun Murray went head-to-head with Newcastle police to plead their case to councillors. Councillors will vote on the event licence at an extraordinary meeting August 12. AN OVERWHELMING majority have thrown their support behind Rising Tide's application to City of Newcastle to host its controversial protestival across two public parks later this year. A council report released on Monday showed 86 per cent of more than 1850 submissions were in favour of Rising Tide's bid to use Hamilton North's Richardson Park and Camp Shortland in November. Newcastle councillors will decide whether to approve or deny the group's application for an event licence at an extraordinary meeting next week. Broken trust might be one of the biggest hurdles Rising Tide has to overcome to convince councillors, after last year's blockade ended in 170 arrests as activists defied police orders on the last day and paddled into the shipping channel. Supporters of Rising Tide's application raised democratic freedoms, environmental concerns and community connections among key reasons for backing the event. Many expressed a strong desire to see action on climate change and see the event as a chance to increase awareness, champion global environmental justice and encourage positive change. "It is important in these uncertain global times, that we continue to enable public protest and discourse on matters relating to global health," one supporter said. "The Rising Tide blockade is a crucial event for raising awareness, action and advocating for climate action. Not only is it acting for better political change to a healthier community and planet, but it also encourages strength for the community and the bridging of gaps to come together to fight for a future we all believe in. Make this blockade happen!" Some respondents highlighted the importance of protecting and upholding democratic freedoms, while others viewed the event as a potential boost to Newcastle's visitor economy. A total of 458 paper-based submissions were received, 100 per cent of which were proforma responses coordinated, collected and submitted by Rising Tide in support of the event. Overall, support was strong across most Newcastle suburbs, including those closest to the proposed sites. Hamilton North, the location of the proposed Richardson Park event, was the only suburb to record more opposition than support, with 10 submissions against and eight in favour. While just 13 per cent of all submissions were against the People's Blockade, respondents did not mince words when it came to sharing their concerns. Issues raised included public safety, fears of potential illegal activity, perceived negative impacts on the local community and disruption to industries and businesses. Others objected to the proposed camping arrangements, spoke in support of the coal industry and against anti-coal sentiment and raised concerns about the use of public funds. Following last year's arrests, submissions focused on safety and potential unlawful actions saw protestors as unlikely to adhere to the law. "The idea of a council representing Newcastle approving the protest of coal, our biggest export and the lifeblood of our city is a perfect example of biting the hand that feeds you," one respondent said. Another said Rising Tide claim this year's event is set to be "even more disruptive". "There's a clear pattern of non-compliance, and granting the licence would set a troubling precedent," the submission said. One person, who identified themselves as a "member of the industry" said it was "offensive" that the council would encourage and facilitate protesting against employees and business in the electorate. "Our employees do not need to be harassed and ostracised by protesters for an extended period time, nor should the council be supporting the extension of the 'protestival'," they said. Concerns were raised about the financial burden put on ratepayers and state resources, particularly the cost of policing and traffic management. Some felt Rising Tide should bear the cost, not the public. The length of the event was seen as excessive by some, with members of the public indicating they might support a one-day protest but not a seven-day occupation. Those on the fence showed support for the cause or event in principle, while raising specific issues around logistics, safety and site suitability. No submissions were received from local, federal or state members of parliament. Submissions from industry and business sectors tended to focus on economic implications, freight logistics, operational impacts, public safety, and reputational considerations. A broad cross-section of local organisations, including community groups, faith-based institutions and environmental organisations expressed strong support for the application. A submission from Transport for NSW raised operational considerations, specifically concerning transport planning and public safety. Last month, Rising Tide representatives Zack Schofield and Shaun Murray went head-to-head with Newcastle police to plead their case to councillors. Councillors will vote on the event licence at an extraordinary meeting August 12. AN OVERWHELMING majority have thrown their support behind Rising Tide's application to City of Newcastle to host its controversial protestival across two public parks later this year. A council report released on Monday showed 86 per cent of more than 1850 submissions were in favour of Rising Tide's bid to use Hamilton North's Richardson Park and Camp Shortland in November. Newcastle councillors will decide whether to approve or deny the group's application for an event licence at an extraordinary meeting next week. Broken trust might be one of the biggest hurdles Rising Tide has to overcome to convince councillors, after last year's blockade ended in 170 arrests as activists defied police orders on the last day and paddled into the shipping channel. Supporters of Rising Tide's application raised democratic freedoms, environmental concerns and community connections among key reasons for backing the event. Many expressed a strong desire to see action on climate change and see the event as a chance to increase awareness, champion global environmental justice and encourage positive change. "It is important in these uncertain global times, that we continue to enable public protest and discourse on matters relating to global health," one supporter said. "The Rising Tide blockade is a crucial event for raising awareness, action and advocating for climate action. Not only is it acting for better political change to a healthier community and planet, but it also encourages strength for the community and the bridging of gaps to come together to fight for a future we all believe in. Make this blockade happen!" Some respondents highlighted the importance of protecting and upholding democratic freedoms, while others viewed the event as a potential boost to Newcastle's visitor economy. A total of 458 paper-based submissions were received, 100 per cent of which were proforma responses coordinated, collected and submitted by Rising Tide in support of the event. Overall, support was strong across most Newcastle suburbs, including those closest to the proposed sites. Hamilton North, the location of the proposed Richardson Park event, was the only suburb to record more opposition than support, with 10 submissions against and eight in favour. While just 13 per cent of all submissions were against the People's Blockade, respondents did not mince words when it came to sharing their concerns. Issues raised included public safety, fears of potential illegal activity, perceived negative impacts on the local community and disruption to industries and businesses. Others objected to the proposed camping arrangements, spoke in support of the coal industry and against anti-coal sentiment and raised concerns about the use of public funds. Following last year's arrests, submissions focused on safety and potential unlawful actions saw protestors as unlikely to adhere to the law. "The idea of a council representing Newcastle approving the protest of coal, our biggest export and the lifeblood of our city is a perfect example of biting the hand that feeds you," one respondent said. Another said Rising Tide claim this year's event is set to be "even more disruptive". "There's a clear pattern of non-compliance, and granting the licence would set a troubling precedent," the submission said. One person, who identified themselves as a "member of the industry" said it was "offensive" that the council would encourage and facilitate protesting against employees and business in the electorate. "Our employees do not need to be harassed and ostracised by protesters for an extended period time, nor should the council be supporting the extension of the 'protestival'," they said. Concerns were raised about the financial burden put on ratepayers and state resources, particularly the cost of policing and traffic management. Some felt Rising Tide should bear the cost, not the public. The length of the event was seen as excessive by some, with members of the public indicating they might support a one-day protest but not a seven-day occupation. Those on the fence showed support for the cause or event in principle, while raising specific issues around logistics, safety and site suitability. No submissions were received from local, federal or state members of parliament. Submissions from industry and business sectors tended to focus on economic implications, freight logistics, operational impacts, public safety, and reputational considerations. A broad cross-section of local organisations, including community groups, faith-based institutions and environmental organisations expressed strong support for the application. A submission from Transport for NSW raised operational considerations, specifically concerning transport planning and public safety. Last month, Rising Tide representatives Zack Schofield and Shaun Murray went head-to-head with Newcastle police to plead their case to councillors. Councillors will vote on the event licence at an extraordinary meeting August 12. AN OVERWHELMING majority have thrown their support behind Rising Tide's application to City of Newcastle to host its controversial protestival across two public parks later this year. A council report released on Monday showed 86 per cent of more than 1850 submissions were in favour of Rising Tide's bid to use Hamilton North's Richardson Park and Camp Shortland in November. Newcastle councillors will decide whether to approve or deny the group's application for an event licence at an extraordinary meeting next week. Broken trust might be one of the biggest hurdles Rising Tide has to overcome to convince councillors, after last year's blockade ended in 170 arrests as activists defied police orders on the last day and paddled into the shipping channel. Supporters of Rising Tide's application raised democratic freedoms, environmental concerns and community connections among key reasons for backing the event. Many expressed a strong desire to see action on climate change and see the event as a chance to increase awareness, champion global environmental justice and encourage positive change. "It is important in these uncertain global times, that we continue to enable public protest and discourse on matters relating to global health," one supporter said. "The Rising Tide blockade is a crucial event for raising awareness, action and advocating for climate action. Not only is it acting for better political change to a healthier community and planet, but it also encourages strength for the community and the bridging of gaps to come together to fight for a future we all believe in. Make this blockade happen!" Some respondents highlighted the importance of protecting and upholding democratic freedoms, while others viewed the event as a potential boost to Newcastle's visitor economy. A total of 458 paper-based submissions were received, 100 per cent of which were proforma responses coordinated, collected and submitted by Rising Tide in support of the event. Overall, support was strong across most Newcastle suburbs, including those closest to the proposed sites. Hamilton North, the location of the proposed Richardson Park event, was the only suburb to record more opposition than support, with 10 submissions against and eight in favour. While just 13 per cent of all submissions were against the People's Blockade, respondents did not mince words when it came to sharing their concerns. Issues raised included public safety, fears of potential illegal activity, perceived negative impacts on the local community and disruption to industries and businesses. Others objected to the proposed camping arrangements, spoke in support of the coal industry and against anti-coal sentiment and raised concerns about the use of public funds. Following last year's arrests, submissions focused on safety and potential unlawful actions saw protestors as unlikely to adhere to the law. "The idea of a council representing Newcastle approving the protest of coal, our biggest export and the lifeblood of our city is a perfect example of biting the hand that feeds you," one respondent said. Another said Rising Tide claim this year's event is set to be "even more disruptive". "There's a clear pattern of non-compliance, and granting the licence would set a troubling precedent," the submission said. One person, who identified themselves as a "member of the industry" said it was "offensive" that the council would encourage and facilitate protesting against employees and business in the electorate. "Our employees do not need to be harassed and ostracised by protesters for an extended period time, nor should the council be supporting the extension of the 'protestival'," they said. Concerns were raised about the financial burden put on ratepayers and state resources, particularly the cost of policing and traffic management. Some felt Rising Tide should bear the cost, not the public. The length of the event was seen as excessive by some, with members of the public indicating they might support a one-day protest but not a seven-day occupation. Those on the fence showed support for the cause or event in principle, while raising specific issues around logistics, safety and site suitability. No submissions were received from local, federal or state members of parliament. Submissions from industry and business sectors tended to focus on economic implications, freight logistics, operational impacts, public safety, and reputational considerations. A broad cross-section of local organisations, including community groups, faith-based institutions and environmental organisations expressed strong support for the application. A submission from Transport for NSW raised operational considerations, specifically concerning transport planning and public safety. Last month, Rising Tide representatives Zack Schofield and Shaun Murray went head-to-head with Newcastle police to plead their case to councillors. Councillors will vote on the event licence at an extraordinary meeting August 12.
Perth Now
4 hours ago
- Perth Now
‘Cautious': Visa crackdown sparks worry
Senior Liberal MP Tim Wilson says he is 'cautious' after Anthony Albanese's immigration chief revealed he had blocked dozens of visas to protect 'social cohesion'. Tony Burke holds a suite of powerful portfolios in the Albanese government, including home affairs and immigration. This gives him direct oversight of intelligence and policing concerns as well as the means to curb foreign threats, such as by rejecting visa applications. Immigration Minister Tony Burke says he has blocked dozens of visas to protect 'social cohesion'. NewsWire / Martin Ollman Credit: News Corp Australia With deteriorating social cohesion keeping the terror threat level high, Mr Burke has not hesitated to refuse entry to high-profile figures, including rapper Kanye West and conservative conspiracy theorist Candace Owens – both highly publicised ordeals. But in a recent interview, Mr Burke revealed he had refused many more that had not reached headlines. Mr Wilson said on Tuesday he was worried not everyone was being held to the same standard. Senior Liberal MP Tim Wilson says visa approval standards 'should be consistent'. NewsWire / Martin Ollman Credit: News Corp Australia 'I'm cautious because what it does is empower the minister,' the opposition industry and workplace relations spokesman told Nine's Today. He went on to say Mr Burke 'in 2018 advocated for a visa for somebody who believed in the enslavement and the punishment of homosexuals and the subjugation of women'. 'You need to make sure that there are clear guidelines that are broadly, equally applicable,' Mr Wilson said. 'If people are going to advocate for harm against Australians, the standard should be consistent, not based on what the minister simply decides based on the whim of the day or his political considerations.' More to come.
