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Street Confrontations at Melbourne G20 Protest

Takver | 18.11.2006 12:52 | Globalisation | World

Protestors were on the offensive again today against the G20 meeting in Melbourne with some of the most confrontational protest actions of recent times in Australia.

You are 20, we are 6 billion
You are 20, we are 6 billion

Contesting the Barricade
Contesting the Barricade

The police barricade on Russell Street from above
The police barricade on Russell Street from above

Riot Police Lines
Riot Police Lines


The day started at 3.45am when the police moved the christian embassy for the poor and the environment out of sight of the Hyatt Hotel and the visibility of the G20 ministers and bureaucrats. Reverend Simon Moyle said "Pushed from place to place, refused representation and ignored, it reveals the bullying nature of the state's tactics against even peaceful protest."

A rally at the State Library drew thousands of people. After speeches the crowd marched to the police barricades in Russell street. The crowd was festive, loud, and raucus, wanting to be heard by those meeting in the Hyatt Hotel. After sometime at the Russell Street Barricades, many people left this location for other barricades around the Hotel. There was little mainstream media coverage given to the rally and march.

With an Indymedia van with a wireless connection, on the ground reports were able to be done. And later photos were quickly loaded up to Melbourne Indymedia from the van.

The Police launched a running attack down Collins St with baton wielding and attacks on people. Police then organised to move on protestors from Exhibition St, quoting that they are facing an "insurrection" with a police riot truck suffering damage.

At least two people are reported to be arrested. One police officer is in hospital with a broken wrist. Surprisingly few arrests on the day, although police will use their camcorder footage to attempt to identify people. Many people wore surgical masks or bandannas when interacting with the police.

By 8pm a few hundred people were still at the barricades in Russell Street enjoying a strong party vibe with music.

Sunday Events feature a Virtual sit-in, any Jail Solidarity required, Innoculation Day G20, an Alternative and Creating Community forum, ending with a Celebration in the evening

Photos and videos can be accessed from Melbourne Indymedia
 http://melbourne.indymedia.org

Takver
- Homepage: http://melbourne.indymedia.org