Melbourne ‘freedom’ protests to cause chaos near Parliament House, Carlton Gardens

Tensions at a “freedom” protest in the CBD ran high with a police officer assaulted and number of frustrated Melburnians lashing out at demonstrators.

Protesters march in Melbourne CBD on Sunday.

“Freedom” protesters have been abused in Melbourne CBD, with onlookers turning on them during a march along the city’s busiest streets.

Onlookers were seen screaming at protesters as they made their way down La Trobe St on Sunday afternoon.

“Why are you even protesting,” one member of the public screamed at the group.

In response, one protester shoved the onlooker and told him to “go to hell”.

Police have revealed an officer was assaulted at Sunday’s “freedom” protest.

Only one person was arrested at the rally attended by about 4000 people.

A 59-year-old woman is expected to be charged on summons with unlawful assault after a police officer was allegedly set upon.

Police confirmed the officer was not seriously injured.

People in high-rise apartments were also seen pouring water on the demonstrators during their march down the street.

Thousands of protesters earlier swarmed the steps of Parliament House, where they were met with a barricade of police officers.

Mounted police have positioned themselves at key intersections on Swanston and Bourke streets, barricading the large group from the general public.

Thousands of protesters marched to Carlton Gardens.

Reclaim The Line protesters were urged to wear white.

The group is holding signs reading “let’s go ban Dan” and “protect our children” as well as Australian, Eureka and Trump flags.

Demonstrators gathered at midday, planning to march to Carlton Gardens.

They continued to blow horns and beat drums as more people joined the crowd from neighbouring streets.

The growing crowd seemed to be peaceful in their protest, in light of a heavy police presence.

Protesters were originally scheduled to march to Flagstaff Gardens, but changed route earlier this week due to a clash with the Melbourne Marathon.

On an encrypted Telegram group that boasts more than 16,000 members, members are encouraged to “wear white to unite”.

Parents were also urged to bring their kids along to the rally, with face painting stands set up at the gardens.

A list of musicians and speakers are scheduled for the event, including former Victoria Police officer Krystle Mitchell, who quit the force in October after going public with criticism of how police had enforced the chief health officer directions.

Parents were encouraged to bring their children.

Prominent anti-vaxxer Monica Smit. Picture: Mark Wilson

Prominent anti-vaxxer Monica Smit, who was charged with two counts of incitement in relation to protests held in August this year, addressed the crowd via audio link just before 3pm.

“I am always watching and supporting you guys from afar,” she said.

“The enemy is an evil beast — we will get there together.

“This fight is long but justice will be served.

“Together we will and can save our children.”

Independent MP Catherine Cumming, who is notorious for attending protests, could be be seen wearing a top that said “free hugs” as she worked her way through the crowd.

Meanwhile, government minister Richard Wynne on Sunday said there was no logic behind the protests.

“You have to wonder what people are protesting about,” he said.

“They suggested they’re protesting about freedom, well here we are, we’re free.”

The group has vowed to march “every week” against vaccine mandates, particularly any enforced on children.

Last Saturday’s rally, which shut down city traffic and public transport, was advertised by the same group, Melbourne Freedom Rally.