Arrests as teachers protest vaccine mandate

Police arrested three people and issued 121 fines as Victorian teachers joined workers from other industries in rallying against vaccine mandates.

Teachers and workers from other industries gathered at various locations in Victoria to protest against jab mandates on Friday.

A small group of protesters wearing white T-shirts labelled “#reclaimtheline” gathered at Maribyrnong Park in Moonee Ponds and other locations across the state including Knox Shopping Centre and Cherry Park in Altona.

Three people were arrested for failing to state their name and 121 penalty notices for breach of the chief health officer’s directions were issued.

Victoria Police said in a statement they would “continue to have a highly visible presence to maintain public safety, and to ensure any protest activity that breaches the CHO directions does not impact on the broader community’s right to go about their daily lives”.

A woman is forcibly taken away by police for questioning. @theheraldsunpic.twitter.com/krAHEJH7pW

— Suzan Delibasic (@suzandelibasic) October 1, 2021

Reclaim the Line protesters gather at Maribyrnong Park. Picture: Ian Currie

A protester attends the rally with her children. Picture: Alex Coppel

Police take a women into custody. Picture: Alex Coppel

Police approach the protesters. Picture: Ian Currie

Police arrested two protesters at Maribyrnong Park, with one seen arguing with police saying it was his “right” to attend and stand against the mandates.

One protester, Irene, who is not a teacher, said she came out on Friday to march for “human rights”.

“There are more police than protesters here. This is Australia – we have the right to march peacefully,” she said.

Protesters quickly dispersed from the park, with police soon outnumbering the small group.

At Knox Shopping Centre, dozens of protesters — many appearing to be healthcare workers donning white T-shirts — quickly dispersed to their cars.

Police tackle a protester. Picture: Ian Currie

A Reclaim the Line protester is lead away by police at Maribyrnong Park. Picture: Ian Currie

A protester is held by police. Picture: Ian Currie

Police remained on scene patrolling the car park.

Many were seen sitting inside their cars, while small groups could be heard discussing their motives.

One man was heard congratulating protesters saying: “Well done all. Stand up for Australia. Stand up for our rights.”

Another woman was saying: “They’re trying to scare us.”

Police said three people were arrested in protests across the state and 121 penalty notices were issued for breaching the chief health officer’s directions.

They said they will continue to have “a highly visible presence to maintain public safety, and to ensure any protest activity that breaches the CHO directions does not impact on the broader community’s right to go about their daily lives”.

Police said they “are well prepared to respond to any unlawful activity and will not hesitate to fine those in clear and blatant breach of CHO directions”.