Hundreds of people in Newcastle, Australia, called on the government for greater climate protection by closing a coal port over the weekend. More than 80 participants were arrested after participants continued to block the driveway after the approved demonstration period ended this afternoon (local time), according to New South Wales Police.
They include a 97-year-old priest, according to the protest organiser, the group RisingTide Australia. A video posted on X (Twitter) showed that two police officers and two protesters carefully escorted the man from a pink boat.
“How can you arrest a 97-year-old climate activist? Very cautious and worthy of a hero,” the organization commented on the footage. Police said no one was injured during the arrests and possible charges are being investigated.
It is unclear whether the 97-year-old will have to stand trial. If that happens, he would likely be the most senior person ever charged in Australia, RisingTide writes. The elderly churchman has been celebrated online as a climate hero.
“Food practitioner. Bacon guru. Infuriatingly humble zombie enthusiast. Total student.”
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