UPDATE: Tens of thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters are preparing to march across the Sydney Harbour Bridge this Sunday, October 15, 2023, after the NSW Supreme Court dismissed a bid to block the rally. Organizers from the Palestine Action Group estimate that up to 50,000 people could participate, despite forecasts predicting 10 to 35mm of rain throughout the day.
The gathering is set to begin at 1:00 PM at Lang Park in the Sydney CBD, with protesters moving towards the bridge by 1:30 PM. The march aims to cross the bridge and conclude at Bradfield Park on the northern side. The event is expected to last around three hours.
Authorities have confirmed that traffic on the bridge will be halted from 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM, leading to significant disruptions for residents and motorists. Local traffic is expected to face severe delays, particularly at the entrance to the Sydney Harbour Tunnel. Commuters are advised to seek alternative routes and allow additional travel time.
Public transport will also be affected. While trains will continue to operate across the bridge, delays are anticipated due to the large influx of participants. Bus services will be rerouted, terminating in the CBD and at North Sydney and St Leonards.
The march has sparked controversy, with Premier Chris Minns expressing opposition to the event. Despite this, Justice Belinda Rigg of the NSW Supreme Court upheld the right to protest, stating that “significant inconvenience to residents” should not prevent assemblies from taking place.
Organizers, including Josh Lees, hailed the court’s decision as a “huge victory for the Palestine movement in this country.” In a passionate message posted on social media, the Palestine Action Group declared, “Tomorrow we are going to make history! We will hold a massive march over the Sydney Harbour Bridge, dedicated to using our people power to stop the genocide in Gaza.”
As the clock ticks down to the event, residents and visitors are urged to stay informed and plan accordingly. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation as Sydney braces for a pivotal moment in the ongoing global dialogue surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Stay tuned for live updates as this historic march unfolds.
