Police have arrested 141 people during a high-visibility operation at Newcastle Harbour, as tensions rise over a major climate protest. Officers say several boats entered an exclusion zone declared by Transport for NSW, prompting pursuits and one collision with a police jet ski. A woman was arrested following the incident, though no injuries were reported.
The crackdown comes after an assault at Foreshore Park allegedly involving event attendees. A 46-year-old man sustained lacerations to his back, arms, legs and head and was taken to Calvary Mater Hospital in a stable condition. A 17-year-old boy was also treated for minor injuries, while an 18-year-old man was arrested nearby.
Meanwhile, Greenpeace activists disrupted coal shipping at the Port of Newcastle, suspending themselves from the Yangze 16 coal carrier early Sunday morning. The action halted the vessel’s arrival and led to two arrests after police climbers boarded the ship by helicopter. Greenpeace says the protest is part of the People’s Blockade, calling on the Albanese government to set a timeline to phase out coal and gas.
Police say they support the right to peaceful protest but warn unlawful activity will attract substantial penalties. The exclusion zone remains in place until 7am Monday.
