Climate activists disrupt coal conference

Two climate activists have been arrested after disputing the 2010 Victorian Coal and Energy Conference held in Traralgon in the La Trobe Valley and charged with trespass. The activists proceeded to the stage and interrupted the conference presentation given by Peter Bachelor, Minister for Energy and Resources. | Photos | Video | More on Coal Conference Protest

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Ellen elaborates; ‘We entered the room and disputed proceedings, telling everyone that they should go home, because despite their best efforts it was now clear that clean coal is a joke and coal is over.’ She continues ‘as I was shepherded from the room I suggested the attendees may instead wish to attend a renewable technology conference, where their talents could be better used. Mr Bachelor remained silent throughout our intervention.’

About a dozen climate activists made their colourful and vocal presence outside the conference felt.

The closed door industry conference charged attendees over $3000. No representatives from environmental NGOs, unions representing workers in the coal industries or representatives from the local community were invited to the conference.