Dozens of protesters blocked three entry points to the Wallum development in Brunswick Heads this morning as fencing contractors moved in to section off the cul-de-sacs leading into the site.
Protesters said they had information that there would be fencing going in today.
One local women, Sherrie, parked her car on the road blocking a fencing contractor from leaving the site on Torakia Road.
Sherrie said she was protesting as the fencing contractor, on behalf of the developer, had fenced several vehicles inside the development area, locking them up from access by their owners.
At one point security got the vehicle open and attempted to move it physically but they were unable to budge it.
The contractor who was working for ReadyFence, was very annoyed and said he just wanted to get on with his work. Sherrie and the others on the site said they were getting on with their work – saving Wallum.
This morning’s work on behalf of the developer was to fence off three areas, at the terminus of Torakina Road, Omega Circuit and Kingsford Drive.
The plan was a three-pronged effort at partitioning off what security said were private roads. Protesters said they were under the impression the area was all on public roads.
One security guard said that police had been called but as there was a lot happening this morning with the floods, he wasn’t sure if they would be able to attend.
Sherrie said her action today was part of a plan by protesters to protect Wallum. ‘I’m a passionate planet connector and stand up for human and animal and environmental rights.
‘We’re trying to prolong any works happening here because there’s work going on in the background on our side, to stop any works happening here full stop. And until that happens we don’t want any fences or any other works going on here. We’re trying to slow the process.’
Though the discussion between protesters and security was tense, it was peaceable and Sherrie said she was happy with the exchanges with security. ‘They’ve been really good. Really, really good. This morning they’ve been straightforward and honest.’
Sherrie said she had no plans to move her vehicle. ‘I’ll stay here until I’ve discussed with the other crew here on site and when I and they feel comfortable, I’ll move the van on – but I strongly feel leaving the van here is holding up the process for the fencing company and they won’t be back here in a big hurry.’
Sherrie said this morning’s blockade was also a message to any other businesses who would support the developer at Wallum. ‘Hold off – don’t do it. You are going to be money out of pocket.’
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