RAC set up a grieving site outside Melbourne Central from 5pm on Wednesday 24 October where people could light a candle to show their respect for the 360 refugees who died on Australia's doorstep while hoping to be let in. Many passers-by expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to express their sorrow at this tragedy, and many also signed the grieving list:
The rally on Southbank began with a group of refugees being herded across the footbridge over the Yarra by a couple of evil-looking characters in army gear. The detention centre was waiting for them, and there they had to stay for the duration of the speeches. The gathering observed a one minute silence as a mark of respect for the 360 refugees who drowned off Java (see above)and others who have lost their lives on the way to seek refuge in Australia, and a wreath was cast into the Yarra. Then a popular uprising forced the release of the detainees, and everyone marched off along the river, through the tourists and the craft market, to join an anti-war rally in the City Square.
As always there was a good showing of banners, including some new ones ...
(Click on thumbnails for larger image)
| On the bridge | The detention centre |
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| The contingent from RAC Gippsland | One image ... |
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| View over the rally | Why am I locked up in here? |
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| Wreath commemorationg the 360 dead | The refugees are set free |
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