Coffs NBN journalist Alison Paul pleads not guilty to anti-logging protest charges

A high-profile Coffs Harbour journalist says she will “strenuously” challenge charges levelled against her following an anti-logging protest. Here’s the latest.

NBN Coffs Harbour journalist Alison Paul outside the court. Picture: Chris Knight

NBN television journalist Alison Paul is contesting charges stemming from an anti-logging protest in the Orara East State Forest.

Ms Paul, 49, of Coffs Harbour appeared briefly in Coffs Harbour Local Court on Wednesday morning.

Her defence lawyer appeared via audio visual link and entered pleas of not guilty to two charges on her client’s behalf – hindering or resisting police and failing to comply with a request made by police.

Speaking outside the court, Ms Paul said she went to the forest after hearing that a family member was there when an anti-logging protest was taking place on July 5.

Orara East Sate Forest near Coffs Harbour.

Ms Paul said she went to support the family member – not in a work capacity as a journalist or as a protester.

She said she was arrested after what she claims was a “miscommunication” with police.

“I was present at Orara East State Forest on Tuesday, 5th July after receiving information that (a family member) was caught up in a protest against logging,” Ms Paul said.

“Following some miscommunication with the police I was arrested, suffering a number of injuries as a result.

“I am extremely disappointed in the conduct of the police on this occasion and I intend to address this at a later stage.”

Ms Paul said she was “extremely concerned” for the family member’s welfare at the time.

She said her lawyer has made representations to police to dismiss the charges.

Magistrate Theresa Hamilton adjourned the case to October 4.

Ms Paul will be excused from personally appearing on the day if legally represented.

Originally published as Coffs NBN journalist Alison Paul pleads not guilty to anti-logging protest charges