Solidarity action with Hazelwood arrestees - Melbourne Magistrates' Court 21 May

All five of the Hazelwood Arrestee’s who faced court today charged with trespass at Hazelwood Power Station, received fines of $200 with no convictions recorded. The crime of trespass states that you enter a property without excuse or authorisation. Four of the cases were heard by the one magistrate who conceded that the accused had “an excuse” but not authorisation to enter the Hazelwood power plant. The fifth defendant’s case was heard as a Diversion. He was able to donate his $200 fine to Friends of the Earth and he also received a three month good behaviour bond. Earlier in the week another Hazelwood arrestee pleaded guilty and received a fine of $100 which they were able to donate to an environment group of their choice. They also elected to donate the money to Friends of the Earth. Thanks to all those who came along today to show solidarity in court, it made it a much more empowering day for all involved. On a different note, it is worth mentioning the relatively large police presence at today’s solidarity demonstration. There were at least 8 police officers and a number of other extra security. At least one member of the Security Intelligence Unit attended the demonstration and then the court hearing itself. Therefore there were at least as many members of the state security services as protestors

Another Hazelwood arrestee faced court on June 1st. Loki Campbell Type received a six month good behaviour bond and no fine. Another great result!