170 Protestors Arrested in Port of Newcastle Blockade

On November 24, the New South Wales police reported arresting 170 individuals involved in a blockade near the Port of Newcastle, Australia. 

The demonstrators were demanding that the Australian government abandon plans for new coal and gas mines and implement a 78% tax on coal and gas exports.

The protest, organized by the environmental activist group "Rising Tide," aimed to disrupt coal operations due to their environmental consequences. Hundreds of participants used kayaks, surfboards, and boats to block the channel leading to the port, effectively halting access.

The blockade temporarily suspended shipping activities for several hours before police intervened and restored operations. During the disruption, one incoming vessel was reportedly forced to turn back and reschedule its arrival at the port.