Feds hear claims of protest violence

Jessica Benton
FEDERAL Police could investigate an allegedly violent protest against a wind farm forum in Colac, according to MP Darren Cheeseman.
The federal member for Corangamite and Surf Coast councillors allege some protesters used physical violence and death threats at the Winds of Change forum on Friday.
The councillors, including Mayor Libby Mears, wrote to the Independent alleging a guest speaker was “punched” amid the “disgusting behaviour”.
Mr Cheeseman said he had given information about the protest to federal and state police.
“I have no problem with people protesting peacefully, but threats and this sort of behaviour is unacceptable,” Mr Cheeseman said.
“I’m shaken and disappointed that protestors would use violent ways of getting their point across, and it failed miserably as a consequence.”
Mr Cheeseman said State Energy and Resources Minister Peter Batchelor was a key target of the abuse.
“Minister Batchelor was abused and jostled on his way out and one protestor attempted to slam a car door on his leg.”
Mr Batchelor told the Independent the Government respected the rights to protest “peacefully and without threats”.
“It was disappointing a small group of people found it necessary to physically harass some people attending the forum,” Mr Batchelor said.
“Protesters need to understand that farmers who live in a windy area are entitled to install clean, renewable energy projects such as wind turbines on their land.
“The Government is taking action to support the renewable energy sector in Victoria and regional analysis suggests many of these projects and associated jobs will be created here in the south-west. It’s important the community, government and businesses work constructively together to ensure we can deliver these projects.”
Mr Cheeseman said Colac Police were called twice after being notified about the forum earlier in the day.
But Sergeant Martin Day said on Wednesday he was unaware of the alleged incidents.
Sgt Day said the three officers who attended were on leave or not working until later in the week.
The forum included industry guest speakers, academics from Deakin University and representatives from all levels of government.