Traffic chaos expected as protesters set up ‘fossil fuel free intersection’

Traffic chaos is expected over the weekend as Extinction Rebellion protesters from across the state target Viva Energy’s floating gas terminal proposal.

Climate protesters will target Viva Energy’s Corio Bay floating gas terminal proposal.

Extinction Rebellion groups from Geelong, Ballarat and Warrnambool announced plans to set up a “fossil fuel free crossing” at the intersection of Princes Hwy and Refinery Rd on Saturday afternoon.

The controversial proposal to ship gas to the terminal off Refinery Pier is currently undergoing a state government environmental assessment process.

“Fossil fuels are causing a climate and ecological crisis, the effects of which can already be seen through an increase in bushfires, floods and extreme heat conditions across the globe.

Extinction Rebellion protesters in Geelong in August. PHOTO: Matt Hrkac

Time has run out, and each new fossil fuel project takes us a step closer to mass extinction,” an Extinction Rebellion spokesperson told the Addy.

We must join together to stop projects like the Viva Gas Terminal before it is too late.”

The project was the subject of a seven week marathon state committee hearing which wound up in June.

A Viva Energy spokesman said the company “respected people’s right to protest” and “supported action to address climate change”.

“Gas has an important role to play to support the growing use of renewables as we transition to a zero-carbon energy system,” he said.

“The role of the proposed gas terminal isn’t to increase the amount of gas people use, it is to ensure that people who use gas today can continue to access a reliable supply of gas in the future.”

A report will be presented to the Planning Minister, with a decision due by mid-October.

Residents and environmental protesters have cited concerns with safety, the project’s proximity to residential estates, emissions and impact on local marine life.

Geelong Renewables Not Gas spokesman Darcy Dunn said in July local groups and experts felt the proposal was too close to homes.

“Viva’s proposal doesn’t ­include an adequate exclusion zone to reduce the risk if there’s a major safety incident,” he said at the time.

Originally published as Traffic chaos expected as protesters set up ‘fossil fuel free intersection’