Australia: Environmental activists plan to blockade Newcastle Port, New South Wales, Nov. 25-26

Environmental activists from the Rising Tide group plan to hold a blockade of Newcastle Port in New South Wales 10:00 Nov. 25 - 16:00 Nov. 26. Participants are calling for the government to cease approving new coal projects and impose taxes on fossil fuel exports. Newcastle Port is a key coal export facility. Protesters will gather at Horseshoe Beach and use kayaks to obstruct vessels from accessing the port through Hunter River. Organizers claim that around 3,000 people are expected to attend the event.

Heightened security and localized traffic disruptions are likely around Horseshoe Beach and Newcastle Port. The event will likely pass peacefully, but minor clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out, especially if officers attempt to forcibly disperse protesters. Maritime freight and shipping disruptions of coal are possible at Newcastle Port during the blockade.