Rising Tide Event Relocated to Foreshore Park at Request of Transport for NSW

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge has confirmed that the upcoming Rising Tide Protestival will no longer take place at Camp Shortland, citing access and safety issues. The event, which had been planned for this week, will now be held at Foreshore Park following a negotiated compromise between the City of Newcastle and event organisers.

Transport for NSW (TfNSW) advised that unhindered access to Horseshoe Beach via the carpark is essential, prompting the decision to shift the event. The beach and carpark, owned by the NSW Government, fall outside the council’s direct control. TfNSW also prohibited any activities on the northern section of Camp Shortland adjoining Horseshoe Beach, further constraining the available space.

With limited capacity in the remaining council-managed areas of Camp Shortland, safety concerns were raised about hosting the event during its peak concert days on Friday and Saturday. This lead to the Rising Tide organisers moving the event to Foreshore Park and to enforce attendance limits of 5,000 people at any given time, with no more than 500 participants camping overnight. Restrictions on the use of marine vessels such as kayaks or canoes in the park were also agreed upon.

Lord Mayor Kerridge stated that organisers committed to discouraging disruptive activities, including stopping coal trains, and pledged to ensure participants follow police directions. Attendees will be informed of the legal risks associated with non-compliance.

In a letter to nearby residents, Kerridge explained the rationale behind the location change, acknowledging community concerns. He said that the event would proceed regardless of council approval, he highlighted the importance of providing a licensed, well-managed space to ensure public safety.

The Lord Mayor said he supports the cause of climate action, describing it as a widely endorsed issue within Newcastle. He said there is a need to balance public safety with the right to peaceful protest, reflecting the city’s values and commitment to addressing climate concerns.

Join the discussion on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/newy878/posts/pfbid02KyCyiar4Ub2n2Brwo2ePxhoNPj4Yx6Nz5axPg42aiuvXuPkdmrPeomzhjQ3T6jeul