Climate group wins court battle for Newcastle kayak protest
Justice Edward Muston ruled Rising Tide's kayak flotilla could proceed despite police objections.
Climate activist group Rising Tide won a court challenge hours before Saturday's planned protest in Newcastle Harbour. NSW Police had asked the Supreme Court to deem the event unlawful over safety concerns.
Justice Muston rejected that bid Friday afternoon, clearing nearly 700 registered participants to gather. The protest marks Rising Tide's first Paddle for the Planet flotilla.
Most of their 15 on-water protests since 2005 were approved by police. The group insists Saturday's rally will not block port operations or lead to arrests.
- nearly 700
- Registered participants
- 15 since 2005
- Prior on-water protests
- more than 150
- Arrests at December 2025 blockade
- 785 people
- Maximum permitted on water
Why it mattersThe ruling protects climate protesters' right to gather. It shows courts balancing public safety with free speech rights.
AustraliaSets precedent for Australian climate protest rights; Newcastle residents directly affected by the harbour event.
Corroborated byThe Nightly
