Rising Tide protest: climate activists stop three ships from entering world's largest coal port in Newcastle

"The Australian musicians Oli and Louis Leimbach, who had earlier performed at the protest as part of the band Lime Cordiale, were joined by Dr Elen O'Donnell, a doctor and Greenpeace activist, who boarded the vessel, Greenpeace said. The activists unfurled a banner that stated Phase out coal and gas and painted the words Timeline now! on the ship. We are taking action today, alongside thousands of people who have joined Rising Tide's blockade, to show Australia's leaders that if the government won't act, the people will, O'Donnell said."

"Australia is the world's third-largest fossil fuel exporter, and its outsized role in the climate crisis calls for serious action. Every shipment of coal that leaves this port contributes to more devastating bushfires, floods and cyclones. Rising Tide said it stopped a second ship from entering the port on Sunday. The Port Authority of New South Wales confirmed three ships had been blocked."

Activists blocked two more coal ships on the fourth day of the Rising Tide protests, bringing the total turned around this weekend to three. Thousands gathered at the Port of Newcastle as the blockade, which began on Thursday, continued toward Tuesday. Hundreds kayaked into the port while many watched from the beach. Three activists secured themselves to a ship's anchor chain and sides during a Greenpeace action. Musicians Oli and Louis Leimbach and Dr Elen O'Donnell boarded a vessel, unfurled a "Phase out coal and gas" banner and painted "Timeline now!". Organisers linked coal exports to worsening bushfires, floods and cyclones. The Port Authority confirmed the blockades and said safety remained the highest priority, with shipping movements coordinated with NSW police.

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