Climate change protester scales iconic Melbourne building – as the group threaten to shut down CBD street again
A climate activist has sparked peak morning chaos after scaling Australia’s biggest performing arts venue as fellow protesters threatens to shut down CBD streets.
An Extinction Rebellion member climbed up onto the spire of the Arts Centre Melbourne around 5am on Friday morning and is still three hours later.
The protester unfurled a giant banner promoting the controversial group’s Occupy for Climate campaign as he was watched on by supporters from below.
Channel Seven reported that the protester had spent at least 15 minutes trying to light a flare but had been unsuccessful so far.
Victoria Police is aware of the unfolding situation and has deployed officers to the scene
The banner promotes three days of climate rallies set to be held next month, which aims to have thousands of people gather in Melbourne
‘We call on our governments for urgent climate action, in line with the science, not the politics,’ the group tweeted during Friday’s protest.
‘No New Coal, No New Gas, Stop Logging Native Forests! If 1000 people committed would you be there?’
The Extinction Rebellion group is known for disruptive, high-profile protests staged around the world.
More to come.
