Protesters Chain Themselves to Machinery as Golf Course Showdown Intensifies
"I chained myself to a gate. I was prepared to be arrested for a good cause."
— Protester Hayley
Activists have escalated their tactics against the $45 million redevelopment of the North Adelaide Golf Course, with several demonstrators chaining themselves to machinery and gates on site.
Police Arrest 78-Year-Old Author at the Scene
Author and activist Mij Tanith, 78, was arrested after breaching the gates with her walker. She was escorted from the grounds by police and appeared to collapse following the incident.
The arrest comes amid a week of heightened tensions. Two people were already arrested for trespassing on Thursday.
"We Are Prepared to Be Cut Off"
Protester Naomi confirmed that several individuals used padlocks to attach themselves to the gates, requiring police to use cutters to free them. She described the action as "non-violent direct action" aimed at stopping the tree removal.
Adelaide Park Lands Association president Mat Monti defended the protest method, stating the chaining action was "appropriate as long as it is peaceful and non-violent."
Suspicious Fire Under Investigation
Police are currently investigating a suspicious fire at the redevelopment site. However, authorities have not confirmed any link between the blaze and the protests.
Monti expressed concern over suggestions connecting the fire to the demonstrators, emphasizing the group's commitment to peaceful protest.
Premier Condemns Potential Arson
"This is a serious escalation. Arson is a crime, not a protest."
— Premier Peter Malinauskas
Premier Peter Malinauskas condemned the potential arson attack and stated that he expected tree felling to be completed before the weekend.