NSW Government Declares Exclusion Zone Ahead of Rising Tide’s Planned Port Blockade

16 November 2024

Zac Schofield and Frankie from Rising Tide

The New South Wales government has issued an exclusion zone around Newcastle Harbour in anticipation of a planned three-day protest by climate action group Rising Tide next weekend.

Effective from 5pm Thursday, 21 November until 8am Monday, 25 November, the exclusion zone covers waters around the Port of Newcastle, including Stockton Beach, Horseshoe Beach, Nobbys Beach, and Newcastle Beach. It extends offshore within a one-nautical-mile radius from Nobbys Head lighthouse. The declaration was made under the Marine Safety Act 1998.

Police and NSW Maritime vessels will patrol the area throughout this period. Individuals entering the waters within the zone without authorisation may face fines of up to $1,100. Vessel operators must seek approval from NSW Maritime or police to transit the exclusion zone via specified lanes.

Rising Tide’s planned “port blockade” aims to disrupt vessel movements in and out of the world’s largest coal port. The event, scheduled from Friday to Sunday, includes demonstrations on both land and water. Last year’s protest saw over 100 participants arrested after entering the harbour to block coal ships.

Rising Tide organiser Zack Schofield expressed shock at the government’s decision. “We met with senior police in Newcastle on Thursday who actually promised us that they would be letting us get into the water; they’d just be protecting the shipping channel,” he said. Mr Schofield called on Premier Chris Minns to rescind the exclusion zone, stating that peaceful protest is a fundamental part of democracy.

NSW Maritime director north, Darren Wood, explained that the exclusion zone was implemented for safety and navigational reasons. He cited concerns over a large number of kayakers entering the shipping channel, which could pose significant risks.

Despite the restrictions, Rising Tide members have indicated that the protest will proceed as planned. Twelve-year-old supporter Frankie Kelly voiced her disappointment: “I was excited about getting out on the water, going for a paddle with my friends, and most importantly just making my voice heard.”

Transport for NSW has been approached for comment on the exclusion zone’s implications for both the protest and the local community.

Rising Tide is urging the government to reconsider the decision, arguing that it infringes on the right to peaceful protest and affects residents who use the harbour and surrounding beaches. The group maintains that their demonstrations are crucial for advocating action against climate change and supporting a transition to sustainable jobs in the Hunter region.