Blockades organized by Rising Tide Australia have closed down the Port of Newcastle for the day. The Port of Newcastle, 100km north of Sydney on Australia’s east coast is the world’s largest coal port, transferring coal mined in the Hunter valley for export.
Over 500 protesters launched kayaks, canoes and small boats to blockade the harbor. Newcastle Port Corporation canceled all ships coming into the harbor for the day due to safety concerns.
Rising Tide spokeswoman Carly Phillips says restricting coal ship movements is a huge victory.
“We would like to show a strong message to the Government that everyday Australians are sick of politely asking for change,” she said.
“We’d like to see a just transition away from the coal industry towards a renewable energy future.”