Police to attend One Nation meeting in Caulfield, to be hosted by IDF Training’s Avi Yemini

UPDATE: A One Nation rally to be held in Melbourne’s southeast this weekend has been cancelled due to “security concerns”.

A ONE Nation rally to be held in Melbourne’s southeast this weekend has been cancelled due to “security concerns”.

Senators Pauline Hanson and Malcolm Roberts released a statement this afternoon stating they would cancel their visit to Caulfield this weekend.

“Instead of condemning the extreme left wing protesters, political leaders have instead condemned the Jewish community in daring to hear different political perspectives,” Senator Roberts said in the statement.

RELATED: Council denies anti-Semitic claims after refusing request for One Nation event

“The Jewish community have been intimidated by the horrid and vicious left wing, chased from their communities, and forced to hide by these vile extremists,” he said.

Senator Roberts called on all political leaders to condemn the extreme left wing for their “violent attacks on free speech and the right to gather peacefully”.

Ms Hanson said her concerns for the Jewish community’s safety were the primary reason for the event’s cancellation.

“We will review security arrangements and make another time to ensure the Melbourne Jewish community have their voice heard,” Ms Hanson said.

“We have been advised by security agencies that the community was not guaranteed their safety in attending this particular event,” she said.

One Nation senators Pauline Hanson and Malcolm Roberts.

Police had announced plans to be out in force in Caulfield this weekend, with hundreds of protesters set to rally at the Sunday event.

The conservative Jewish lobbyist who organised the event with One Nation senators Pauline Hanson and Malcolm Roberts said he was working with police to ensure a safe and peaceful community forum.

IDF Training gym owner Avi Yemini had earlier confirmed the event’s location as Caulfield Park Bowling Club this Sunday, and expected more than 150 people to attend.

Today Mr Yemini said police later confirmed they could not guarantee safety, due to theexpected protests. “The cancellation of this event is so disappointing,” Mr Yemini said.

“It’s an extremely sad day for democracy in Melbourne.”

Ms Hanson and Mr Roberts were invited to speak about Islamic immigration and other controversial topics such as changes to Freedom of Speech laws.

IDF training owner Avi Yemini. Picture: Chris Eastman

Victoria Police spokeswoman Danielle Fleeton earlier said they had been working closely with event organisers.

“We are preparing to have a police presence at the event to ensure a safe environment for all attending. We respect the right of the community to express their views peacefully and lawfully, but we will not tolerate people breaking the law,” Ms Fleeton said.

“Victoria Police is aware that similar events in the past have resulted in violence and would urge attendees to be aware and not bring vulnerable people or children.

“Urging violence and hatred within our community is not a form of free speech and will not be tolerated by Victoria Police.”

Caulfield state Liberal MP David Southwick said while he strongly disagreed with One Nation’s views, he believed elected representatives should be allowed to discuss their views in a democracy.

“I do, however, have security concerns about the event taking place,” Mr Southwick said.

“The safety of Glen Eira is paramount, which is why I am liaising with Victoria Police and other various bodies to ensure there are substantial measures in place to protect the community from any potential risk.”

Anti-fascist group Jews Against Fascism spokeswoman Dr Jordy Silverstein said concerned members of the Jewish community are organising a loud and peaceful protest in response to event.

“While Hanson and Roberts have been invited to speak about the “dangers” of Muslim migration to Australia, this protest will show that Jews and others stand in solidarity with Muslims against One Nation’s Islamophobia,” Dr Silverstein said.

Glen Eira Council chief executive Rebecca McKenzie said responsibility for the event lies with the club and the event organisers.

“Providing that they have ensured that they have appropriate insurance and security arrangements in place, and the event complies with their lease and permit conditions council has no role in approving the event,” Ms McKenzie said.

Originally published as Police to attend One Nation meeting in Caulfield, to be hosted by IDF Training’s Avi Yemini