Protesters gather at court for UPF leader’s appearance
THE LEADER of the United Patriots Front has scoffed at a rowdy protest outside Melbourne Magistrates’ Court that dubbed the group “racist”.
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THE LEADER of a patriot’s group dubbed “racist” by a rowdy mob has scoffed at their protest outside court.
United Patriots Front leader Blair Cottrell appeared in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court today where he faced minor charges.
“I don’t think the mafia would get this much attention,” he said.
The protesters converged on the William St building during this morning’s peak court rush, shouting slogans of protest.
Dozens of police created a human wall blocking entry to the court as bemused lawyers were herded into queues with others attending court to gain access.
Protesters, some draped in Australia flags and masks, shouted support for refugees and condemned racism.
They were led by a woman on a megaphone, who chanted loudly at those entering the court.
Chaos ensued inside, with only one diligent reporter gaining entry to the courtroom before it was locked.
Cottrell appeared only briefly in the court as the dozens of demonstrators continued shouting and waving placards outside.
Cottrell and co-accused Neil Erikson and Christopher Neil Shortis are each charged with defacing the footpath and wall of a garden bed outside Bendigo council offices and behaving in an offensive manner.
Magistrate Charlie Rozencwajg adjourned the matter for a contest mention in May.
Noisy anti racism protesters outside the Magistrates' Court, they're here as the UPF's Blair Cottrell is due to face a mention hearing. pic.twitter.com/qsOFXxiwLu
— Emma O'Sullivan (@emma_os) March 5, 2017