Newcastle lord mayor reports intimidation after banning Rising Tide protests
Newcastle lord mayor Gavin Morris used a casting vote to ban Rising Tide protests. He later reported intimidation.
Newcastle lord mayor Gavin Morris voted to ban all Rising Tide climate protests at a recent council meeting. That night, his phone rang repeatedly with calls from Bulgaria, Denmark and Germany, he claims.
Morris told the Newcastle Herald his contact details were shared with the activism group as retaliation. Morris called it intimidation and reported it to NSW Police.
Police confirmed they are investigating an incident with a government official. Rising Tide spokesman Zack Schofield denied the group shared Morris's number or encouraged contact.
He said Rising Tide discourages phone calls. He said it suggests members use social media or the mayor's public email.
Morris also reported being attacked online.
- Gavin Morris
- Lord mayor
- Rising Tide
- Protest group
- Bulgaria, Denmark, Germany
- Countries called from
- Zack Schofield
- Activist spokesman
Why it mattersThe incident raises questions about protest tactics and accountability for public officials. It also raises questions about the line between activism and harassment.
AustraliaNewcastle residents see a public clash over protest rights and whether climate activism crosses into intimidation.
