Two climbers have suspended themselves from the Yarra Bend bridge above the Eastern Freeway and unfurled a banner reading “#LetThemStay”. They are peacefully protesting the forced deportation of 267 refugees to Nauru, including 37 babies and 54 children.
Katherine Woskett, 25, an arborist, and Hannah Patchett, 22, a professional rope access worker, suspended themselves around 7.30am this morning and are not obstructing traffic.
Ms Patchett said, “It’s outrageous that we even have to protest torture against children. We’re calling on the Australian government to uphold their obligations to international human rights conventions.”
The deportations of refugees could happen at any moment, with the Department of Immigration and Border Protection secretary Michael Pezzullo telling senate estimates that some asylum seekers could be deported “within days.”
Ms Woskett added, “We’re here to raise awareness and encourage other Australians to take direct action and stand up for the rights of people who can’t.”
“Such a condemnable violation of human rights means the government should expect widespread protest.”
#LetThemStay
#CloseTheCamps
Helen War Spokesperson
