50 Charged Over New Coal Protest at Sandgate

BY OLIVIA DILLON

All 50 people involved in an anti-coal protest which stopped a train at Sandgate yesterday have now been charged. 

Around 20 people scaled the train which was heading to the Port of Newcastle, and used shovels to unload coal from its carriages. 

Others surrounded the carriage, chanting and waving signs and banners. 

Police say two people damaged property, and a third assaulted a security officer while attempting to gain entry into the rail corridor. 

The protestors were reportedly linked to the Rising Tide climate group. 

The action shut down the line to Kooragang Island for at least three hours.  

Image: Rail Express

Police Vow To Crack Down On Anti-Coal Protesters

 BY IAN CROUCH

Police have vowed to crack down on protesters who disrupt coal trains on the Hunter and Newcastle rail lines.

Police Commissioner, Mick Fuller has released a statement this morning (Tuesday 16 November) warning anyone involved in disrupting coal trains will be charged with offences under the Crimes Act which carry a maximum penalty of 25 years in gaol.

Strike Force Touhy has been formed to continue proactive operations to prevent illegal protests on our rail network.

Police are patrolling the rail line this morning following 8 consecutive days of protests.

17 people have been arrested since November 5. 

Police are stepping up patrols to prevent demonstrators from disrupting the Hunter valley coal chain Picture: newcastleherald.com.au