UPDATE: Tens of thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters are gearing up for a massive march across the Sydney Harbour Bridge on October 15, 2023, after the NSW Supreme Court rejected attempts to block the rally. Organizers from the Palestine Action Group anticipate up to 50,000 participants despite predicted rain, with 10 to 35mm expected on the day.
The march will kick off at 1:00 PM at Lang Park in the Sydney CBD, with protesters beginning to cross the bridge at 1:30 PM. The procession will conclude at Bradfield Park on the northern side of the bridge. Authorities have confirmed that bridge traffic will be shut down from 11:30 AM until approximately 4:00 PM, creating significant disruptions for residents and motorists.
Authorities are warning of extensive traffic delays, particularly at the entrance to the Sydney Harbour Tunnel. Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes and expect lengthy wait times as the city prepares for the influx of people. Public transport will also be affected; bus services will terminate in the CBD and at North Sydney, while trains will operate but with anticipated delays due to the expected crowds.
The Palestine Action Group expressed their excitement, with organizer Josh Lees calling the court’s decision a “huge victory for the Palestine movement in this country.” Despite Premier Chris Minns‘ public opposition to the event, Justice Belinda Rigg ruled that the potential inconvenience caused to residents did not warrant blocking the assembly.
In her judgment, Justice Rigg stated, “If matters such as this were to be determinative, no assembly involving inconvenience to others would be permitted.” Residents are urged to stay informed and plan their day accordingly, as the march is expected to last approximately three hours.
The Palestine Action Group is committed to ensuring the event is safe and family-friendly, emphasizing the importance of their message against the backdrop of the ongoing crisis in Gaza. They announced on social media, “Tomorrow we are going to make history! We are working with police and NSW transport to ensure a safe, family-friendly event for everyone.”
As the city braces for this unprecedented event, the march promises to be not only a significant demonstration of solidarity but also a major logistical challenge for Sydney’s transport network. Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
