Hundreds of demonstrators were urgently evacuated from Perth's central business district on Monday amid serious concerns about a potential explosion. The incident occurred during an Invasion Day rally at Forrest Place, where reports emerged of an object being thrown into the crowded protest area.
Police Issue Immediate Safety Warning
Police used megaphones to urge the gathered crowd to disperse immediately, citing a significant safety risk. Authorities warned protesters that "there is something in the crowd that poses a risk to your safety" as they worked to clear the area. The evacuation created a tense atmosphere in what had begun as a peaceful demonstration against the celebration of Australia Day on January 26.
Invasion Day Rally Begins with Traditional Ceremonies
The demonstration had commenced at midday with a traditional smoking ceremony and welcome to country. Protesters carried signs with powerful messages including "always was, always will be Aboriginal land" and "stolen land, stolen babies, stolen wages, stolen lives." These visual statements highlighted the ongoing concerns about Indigenous rights and historical injustices that form the foundation of Invasion Day protests across Australia.
Noongar Elder Speaks on Historical Significance
Noongar elder Hedley Hayward addressed the crowd before the evacuation, emphasizing that January 26 represents a day of mourning rather than celebration. He spoke about remembering "the many who suffered under the heavy weight of invasion and ongoing settler colonialism." Mr. Hayward specifically noted that this year marks 200 years since the invasion of Menang Country in southwest Noongar Boodjar.
The elder made several powerful statements during his address:
- "Our story did not end 200 years ago, our story is not finished today"
- "All those who think they can stonewall, hide or think we will forget, you are on notice, we will never forget"
- "Not when our people are dying in custody, not when our children are being taken and locked away"
Specific Demands for Justice and Reform
Mr. Hayward presented several concrete demands during his speech, calling for systemic changes to address ongoing injustices faced by Aboriginal communities. His demands included:
- An independent investigation into Aboriginal deaths in custody
- The closure of Casuarina Prison's notorious Unit 18
- Mandated cultural awareness training for all justice workers
- Improved prison conditions meeting international standards
- Housing justice and an end to homelessness
The elder framed these demands as matters of survival rather than mere policy issues, stating "this is not about policy, this is about survival." He emphasized the importance of collective voice and action, declaring that "when we come together, when we speak together, when we refuse to be silent together, this country has no choice but to listen."
Evacuation Overshadows Planned Protest Activities
The forced evacuation disrupted what had been planned as a day of peaceful protest and remembrance. While the specific nature of the thrown object remains under investigation, the immediate police response demonstrates the heightened security concerns surrounding large public gatherings, particularly those involving politically charged demonstrations. The incident at Forrest Place serves as a reminder of the complex tensions surrounding Australia Day celebrations and the ongoing national conversation about Indigenous rights and historical recognition.
